Summary
A 33-year-old data collector for a defense contractor was denied a security clearance due to unresolved financial obligations, two DUI convictions, and ongoing alcohol consumption issues. The denial was based on Guideline F (Financial Considerations), Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct).
The applicant had over $16,000 in delinquent financial obligations, including a $7,737 debt to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, an $1,879 apartment debt, and $3,186 in past-due child support. Other debts included amounts owed for cell phone services, a second apartment, a loan for an ex-wife's attorney, cable equipment, overdraft fees, a bank debt, medical debt, and gym fees.
Additionally, the applicant had two DUI convictions, one in 2009 for driving while intoxicated and another in 2012 for driving under the influence and driving on a suspended license. The judge found that the applicant failed to mitigate concerns related to financial irresponsibility and criminal conduct, specifically by not demonstrating rehabilitation or a change in behavior regarding alcohol consumption, and by not providing sufficient documentation to support claims of addressing his financial issues.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has unresolved delinquent financial obligations totaling over $16,000.
- The applicant has two DUI convictions and has not demonstrated rehabilitation or responsible behavior regarding alcohol consumption.
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient documentation to support claims of addressing his financial issues.
Conditions Referenced
- F.19.araisedInability to Satisfy Debts
- F.19.braisedUnwillingness to Satisfy Debts Regardless of the Ability to Do So
- F.19.craisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- G.20raisedCriminal Conduct
- J.22raisedAlcohol Consumption
- F.20.brejectedConditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person's ControlWhile the applicant faced circumstances beyond his control, the judge found that the majority of his debts were not incurred under unusual conditions.
- F.20.drejectedGood-faith Effort to Repay Overdue CreditorsThe applicant's claims of making payments were not substantiated with documentation.
- F.20.erejectedReasonable Basis to Dispute the Legitimacy of the Past-due DebtThe applicant did not provide evidence to support his disputes regarding the debts.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 24, 2016
- Answer filedApr 1, 2016
- Hearing heldJun 9, 2016
- Decision dateJul 31, 2017
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Unresolved Financial Obligations Under Guideline F
- Impact of Criminal Conduct on Security Clearance Eligibility Under Guideline J
- Consideration of Alcohol Consumption Issues in Security Clearance Determinations Under Guideline G