Summary
A 29-year-old information technology consultant was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to a history of illegal drug use and credibility concerns. The applicant admitted to using marijuana approximately 186 times between 1998 and September 2006, cocaine about four times between 2002 and 2004, and ecstasy once in 1999. These admissions raised disqualifying conditions under Adjudicative Guideline Paragraph 25(a).
While the applicant claimed abstinence from illegal drugs since September 2006 and presented a supportive witness, the judge found this insufficient to demonstrate a permanent change in behavior. Mitigating conditions under Adjudicative Guideline Paragraphs 26(a) and 26(b) were considered but ultimately not persuasive enough.
The denial was primarily based on the applicant's admitted long-term drug use, which raised doubts about reliability and trustworthiness. Crucially, the applicant's falsification of his SF-85 security clearance application created significant credibility issues, further contributing to the decision to deny the security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to using illegal drugs over an extended period, raising concerns about reliability and trustworthiness.
- The applicant's recent cessation of drug use was deemed insufficient to demonstrate a permanent change in behavior.
- The applicant's falsification of his SF-85 raised significant credibility issues.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedDrug Involvement
- AG ¶ 26(a)rejectedLong Time Since Drug UseThe applicant's drug use was not recent but was of sufficient duration to demonstrate a consistent lifestyle choice.
- AG ¶ 26(b)rejectedIntent Not to Abuse Drugs in the FutureThe applicant failed to provide corroborating evidence of his abstinence from drug-using associates.
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 issuedJun 5, 2008
- Answer filedJun 30, 2008
- Hearing heldSep 24, 2008
- Decision dateOct 30, 2008
Cite For
- Evaluation of Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Consideration of Credibility Issues in Security Clearance Cases
- Impact of Falsification on Security Clearance Eligibility