Summary
A 31-year-old engineer technician was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The denial stemmed from significant financial debts and a history of poor judgment.
Specifically, the applicant owed approximately $21,035.61 in past due debts, including $18,176 to a former employer, $865 for military housing in collection, $3,012 in delinquent consumer credit, and other delinquent utility, wireless phone ($25), and credit card debts. Beyond financial issues, the applicant was terminated from a previous job for substandard performance and creating a hostile work environment. His security clearance was also suspended in May 2006 while on active duty in the U.S. military following a charge of marijuana possession.
The judge concluded that the applicant's substantial unpaid debts indicated an inability to manage financial obligations, while his employment termination and prior drug-related incident reflected poor judgment and raised concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness. These factors led to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has significant unpaid debts totaling approximately $21,035.61, indicating an inability to manage financial obligations.
- The applicant was terminated from his previous employment for creating a hostile work environment and substandard performance, reflecting poor judgment.
- The applicant's security clearance was suspended due to a drug-related incident, raising concerns about his associations and judgment.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)appliedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)appliedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 19(f)appliedFinancial Problems That Are Linked to Drug Abuse, Alcoholism, Gambling Problems, or Other Issues of Security Concern
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedConditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person’s ControlThe applicant's divorce and associated financial obligations contributed to his financial difficulties.
- AG ¶ 20(d)rejectedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve DebtsThe applicant had not made any payments to creditors as of mid-December 2008, and his repayment offers were rejected by creditors.
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 issuedSep 24, 2008
- Answer filedOct 13, 2008
- Hearing heldDec 18, 2008
- Decision dateMar 23, 2009
Cite For
- Financial Irresponsibility and Its Impact on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Poor Judgment in Personal Conduct Affecting Employment and Security Status
- The Relationship Between Financial Issues and Personal Conduct in Security Clearance Determinations