Summary
A 42-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guidelines E (Personal Conduct), F (Financial Considerations), H (Drug Involvement), and J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a history of drug use, criminal behavior, and unresolved financial issues.
Specifically, the applicant admitted to using cocaine from 1987 to 1989 and again from April 2005 to July 2006, as well as marijuana during those periods. He was arrested multiple times between 1987 and 1989 on drug charges, resulting in convictions for possession of a hypodermic needle and jail time. In February 2006, he was arrested on four charges, including possession of narcotic and controlled drugs, though some counts were dismissed. Additionally, the applicant failed to disclose the discovery of a pipe and hypodermic syringe during his 2006 arrest to an OPM interviewer in 2007.
Financially, the applicant filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2002 and currently has delinquent debts totaling $26,000, with no documentation provided to show payments. Despite claims of rehabilitation and efforts to address debts, the judge found insufficient evidence of change or reliability, leading to doubts about the applicant's trustworthiness, and the clearance was DENIED.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to a history of drug use and criminal conduct, including multiple arrests and convictions.
- The applicant has unresolved financial issues, including delinquent debts totaling $10,500 and a prior bankruptcy.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate successful rehabilitation or provide credible evidence of efforts to address his financial obligations.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 16appliedPersonal ConductThe applicant provided misleading information regarding his drug-related arrests.
- AG ¶ 19(a)appliedFinancial ConsiderationsThe applicant has a history of not meeting financial obligations.
- AG ¶ 31(a)appliedCriminal ConductThe applicant has multiple arrests and convictions that raise security concerns.
- AG ¶ 25(a)appliedDrug InvolvementThe applicant admitted to drug abuse and has a history of illegal drug use.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 14, 2010
- Answer filed—Applicant requested an administrative determination.
- Hearing held—No hearing was held; decision based on written submissions.
- Decision dateNov 22, 2010
Cite For
- Denial Based on History of Drug Involvement and Criminal Conduct
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation and Financial Responsibility
- Lack of Candor in Personal Conduct Affecting Security Clearance Eligibility