Summary
A 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen, originally from Turkey, was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline C (Foreign Preference). The Statement of Reasons cited his dual citizenship, specifically his renewal of a Turkish identification card in 1995 and 2005, and his use of this card to purchase property in Turkey in 2005, after becoming a U.S. citizen in May 2000. These actions raised disqualifying conditions under AG ¶ 10(a)(5) and AG ¶ 10(b), as well as AG ¶ 7(b) and AG ¶ 7(e).
However, the judge found that the applicant's strong ties to the U.S. and his significant contributions to national security mitigated these concerns. Mitigating conditions AG ¶ 8(b) and AG ¶ 8(f) were applied. The applicant demonstrated a strong commitment to the U.S. through his military service and work as a linguist in Iraq.
Furthermore, he has no derogatory information in his police or financial records and has consistently complied with security procedures. His immediate family members are also naturalized U.S. citizens, reinforcing his loyalty to the U.S. Based on these factors, the security clearance was granted.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a strong commitment to the U.S. through his military service and work as a linguist in Iraq.
- He has no derogatory information in his police or financial records and has consistently complied with security procedures.
- The applicant's immediate family members are naturalized U.S. citizens, reinforcing his loyalty to the U.S.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 10(a) (5)raisedUsing Foreign Citizenship to Protect Financial or Business Interest in Another Country
- AG ¶ 10(b)raisedAction to Acquire or Obtain Recognition of a Foreign Citizenship by an American Citizen
- AG ¶ 7(b)raisedConnections to a Foreign Person, Group, Government, or Country That Create a Potential Conflict of Interest
- AG ¶ 7(e)raisedA Substantial Business, Financial, or Property Interest in a Foreign Country
- AG ¶ 8(b)appliedNo Conflict of Interest Due to Strong U.S. Ties
- AG ¶ 8(f)appliedValue or Routine Nature of Foreign Interests Unlikely to Result in Conflict
Key rule quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedJan 9, 2009
- Answer filedJan 23, 2009
- Hearing held—Applicant waived his right to a hearing.
- Decision date—Decision issued after review of the case file.
Cite for
- Mitigating Factors for Foreign Influence Under Guideline B
- Considerations for Foreign Preference Under Guideline C
- Whole Person Concept in Security Clearance Evaluations