Summary
A 26-year-old male applicant, holding a bachelor's degree in biology and pursuing a master's in biotechnology, was evaluated for a security clearance. Concerns were raised under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) and Guideline E (Personal Conduct). The applicant admitted to illegal drug use, including marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, and GHB, between 2001 and 2007. His marijuana use ranged from two to three times per week in 2001-2002, decreasing to once or twice per month until 2004, then increasing to almost daily until May 2007. He used cocaine three times in August 2007, and GHB approximately six times and ecstasy twice during a weekend in Fall 2005.
Additionally, the applicant's personal conduct was questioned due to job terminations between 2001 and 2006. These terminations resulted from failing to appear for work, falsely reporting illness, unauthorized beverage consumption at a coffee bar, and drinking alcohol on employer premises.
Despite these issues, the judge found that the applicant had successfully mitigated the security concerns. He demonstrated a commitment to abstaining from illegal drugs for over two years, provided evidence of positive job performance and reliability in his current employment, and completed therapy for depression, which supported his decision to cease drug use. Consequently, the applicant was GRANTED a security clearance.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a commitment to abstaining from illegal drugs for over two years.
- He provided evidence of positive job performance and reliability in his current employment.
- The applicant completed therapy for depression, which contributed to his decision to stop using drugs.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedDrug Abuse
- AG ¶ 25(c)raisedIllegal Drug Possession
- AG ¶ 16(d)raisedCredible Adverse Information
- AG ¶ 26(a)appliedBehavior Happened Long Ago
- AG ¶ 26(b)appliedDemonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Drugs
- AG ¶ 17(c)appliedMinor Offense or Time Passed
Key rule quoted
“A security clearance decision is intended only to resolve the questions of whether it is clearly consistent with the national interest for an Applicant to either receive or continue to have access to classified information.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedJun 23, 2009
- Answer filedJul 13, 2009Notarized and undated.
- Hearing heldOct 6, 2009
- Decision dateDec 16, 2009
Cite for
- Mitigation of Drug Involvement Under Guideline H Due to Demonstrated Abstinence and Rehabilitation
- Consideration of Personal Conduct Issues in Light of Significant Time Elapsed Since Incidents
- Whole Person Analysis in Security Clearance Determinations.