Summary
A 54-year-old defense contractor employee was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to a history of marijuana and hashish use spanning from 1967 to the present. The Statement of Reasons detailed his use of approximately one joint two to three times per month, multiple purchases of marijuana, and an stated intent to continue use.
Disqualifying conditions under Guideline H were raised, specifically concerning the frequency and recency of drug use, and the applicant's involvement in drug transactions. A key factor in the denial was that the applicant's drug use occurred while he already held a security clearance.
The judge found the applicant's statements regarding his drug use and intent to cease use to be inconsistent and not credible. Despite claims of reduced use and an intent to stop, the judge concluded that the applicant's denial of intent to continue drug use was not believable given his long-term history. Consequently, the security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- Applicant's drug use occurred while holding a security clearance.
- Applicant provided inconsistent statements regarding his drug use and intent to continue using drugs.
- The judge found the applicant's denial of intent to continue drug use not credible given his history.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 25.araisedAny Drug Abuse
- AG ¶ 25.craisedIllegal Drug Possession
- AG ¶ 25.hraisedExpressed Intent to Continue Illegal Drug Use
Key Rule Quoted
“The decision to deny an individual a security clearance is not a determination as to the loyalty of the applicant.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMay 22, 2008
- Answer filedJun 10, 2008
- Hearing held—Applicant represented himself.
- Decision dateFeb 18, 2009
Cite For
- Disqualifying Conditions Related to Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Credibility of Applicant's Statements Regarding Drug Use
- Whole Person Analysis in Security Clearance Determinations