Summary
A 32-year-old defense contractor employee was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The applicant had an extensive history of criminal arrests and motor vehicle violations, which raised questions about his judgment.
Additionally, the applicant had approximately $8,588 in delinquent debts, which he admitted owing. The largest of these debts, totaling $4,527, was for child support arrearages. While the applicant attributed his financial difficulties to child support obligations and fines, and his wages were being garnished for child support and arrearages, there was no evidence that any of the debts had been paid.
The applicant reported his criminal record and financial problems on his August 2014 SF 86 and discussed these matters with an OPM investigator in September 2014. However, the judge found that the applicant did not mitigate the concerns related to his personal conduct or financial considerations, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has an extensive record of criminal arrests and motor vehicle violations, reflecting questionable judgment.
- The applicant has delinquent debts totaling approximately $8,588, which he admitted owing, with no evidence of repayment.
- The applicant's financial problems were attributed to child support and fines, but garnishment of wages was insufficient to mitigate concerns.
Conditions Referenced
- F.19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- F.19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- E.16(c)appliedCredible Adverse Information in Several Adjudicative Issue Areas
- E.16(d)appliedCredible Adverse Information That Is Not Explicitly Covered Under Any Other Guideline
- E.16(e)appliedPersonal Conduct That Creates a Vulnerability to Exploitation
- F.20(c)rejectedThe Individual Has Received Counseling for the ProblemThe applicant's financial issues were not resolved despite acknowledgment.
- E.17(c)rejectedThe Offense Is so Minor or Infrequent That It Is Unlikely to RecurThe applicant's criminal record is extensive and recent.
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to classified information will be resolved in favor of national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedNov 9, 2015
- Answer filedDec 18, 2015Applicant elected to proceed without a hearing.
- Hearing held—Case decided on written record.
- Decision dateOct 25, 2016
Cite For
- Denial Based on Extensive Criminal History Under Guideline E
- Financial Irresponsibility and Delinquent Debts Under Guideline F
- Whole-person Assessment in Security Clearance Determinations