Summary
A 33-year-old federal contractor was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) and Guideline E (Personal Conduct). The Statement of Reasons cited past marijuana use ceasing around 2003, an arrest for controlled substance possession in July 2003, and the improper use of a prescribed substance believed to be synthetic heroin. These issues raised disqualifying conditions H.1 and E.2.
However, the judge found that the applicant had successfully mitigated these concerns. Key mitigating factors included a significant period of abstinence from illegal drug use since 2007, demonstrating over a decade without drug involvement. The applicant also provided credible testimony about his past drug use and the surrounding circumstances, indicating a lack of intent to conceal information.
Furthermore, the applicant's current stable and productive lifestyle supported his eligibility. Based on these mitigating conditions (H.2, H.3, H.4, E.2), the applicant's security clearance was granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a significant period of abstinence from illegal drug use since 2007.
- The applicant provided credible testimony regarding his past drug use and the circumstances surrounding it.
- The applicant's current stable and productive environment supported his eligibility for a security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- H.1raisedDrug Involvement
- E.2raisedPersonal Conduct
- H.2appliedPast Drug Involvement Was Infrequent and Occurred Under Circumstances Unlikely to Recur
- H.3appliedDemonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Drugs in the Future
- H.4appliedAbuse of Prescription Drugs Occurred After a Severe and Prolonged Illness
- E.2appliedNo Deliberate Omission or Concealment of Relevant Facts
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJan 4, 2011
- Answer filedMar 9, 2011
- Hearing heldMay 23, 2011
- Decision dateJul 29, 2011
Cite For
- Mitigation of Drug Involvement Under Guideline H
- Consideration of Personal Conduct in Light of Learning Disabilities
- Whole-person Concept in Security Clearance Evaluations