Summary
A 34-year-old former Marine was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline H (Drug Involvement), and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from two primary issues: documented illegal drug use and the falsification of information on his Security Clearance Application (SCA).
Specifically, the applicant tested positive for marijuana in February 2006 during a mandatory U.S. Marine Corps drug test, and admitted to using MDMA (Ecstasy) in September 2005. The Statement of Reasons alleged that the applicant failed to disclose both instances of drug use when completing Question #24a of his SCA on April 11, 2006, which asked about illegal controlled substance use since age 16 or within the previous seven years.
The judge found the positive drug tests reliable and the applicant's denials unconvincing. This led to a determination that the applicant had engaged in illegal drug use and had falsified material facts on his application, demonstrating questionable judgment and a lack of candor. Consequently, the security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- Applicant tested positive for THC and MDMA, indicating illegal drug use.
- Applicant falsified material facts on his Security Clearance Application regarding drug use.
- Applicant's conduct exhibited questionable judgment and a lack of candor.
Conditions Referenced
- H1raisedDrug Involvement
- E2raisedPersonal Conduct
- J1raisedCriminal Conduct
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 issuedOct 14, 2008
- Answer filedNov 12, 2008
- Hearing heldJun 2, 2009in Las Vegas, Nevada
- Decision dateSep 18, 2009
Cite For
- Reliability of Military Drug Testing Procedures
- Importance of Candor in Security Clearance Applications
- Impact of Illegal Drug Use on Security Clearance Eligibility