Summary
A 43-year-old systems administrator for a Department of Defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons detailed eleven allegations, including multiple medical bills, two credit card debts, an auto loan, a cell phone bill, a bank account issue, and child support arrears. These issues raised disqualifying conditions under Adjudicative Guidelines Paragraphs 19(a) and 19(c).
However, the judge applied mitigating conditions under Adjudicative Guidelines Paragraphs 20(a), 20(b), 20(c), 20(d), and 20(e). The applicant demonstrated a significant change in attitude and behavior regarding his financial responsibilities. Notably, a recent court order eliminated his child support arrears, resolving a major financial burden.
The applicant also provided evidence of ongoing efforts to manage and pay off his remaining debts. Based on these actions and the resolution of his child support obligations, the judge determined that the security clearance should be granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a change in attitude and behavior regarding his financial responsibilities.
- He resolved his child support arrears through a court order, eliminating the financial burden.
- The applicant provided evidence of ongoing efforts to manage and pay off his debts.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 20(a)appliedThe Behavior Happened so Long Ago, Was so Infrequent, or Occurred Under Such Circumstances That It Is Unlikely to Recur
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Financial Problem Were Largely Beyond the Person’s Control
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedThe Person Has Received or Is Receiving Counseling for the Problem And/or There Are Clear Indications That the Problem Is Being Resolved or Is Under Control
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
- AG ¶ 20(e)appliedThe Individual Has a Reasonable Basis to Dispute the Legitimacy of the Past-due Debt
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 14, 2010
- Answer filedApr 28, 2010
- Hearing heldAug 2, 2010
- Decision dateOct 15, 2010
Cite For
- Resolution of Child Support Arrears as a Mitigating Factor Under Guideline F
- Demonstration of Changed Financial Behavior Leading to a Favorable Decision
- Consideration of External Factors Impacting Financial Stability