Summary
A 29-year-old federal contractor was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline F (Financial Considerations), Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), and Guideline H (Drug Involvement). The applicant admitted to 15 delinquent debts totaling approximately $49,889, which he attributed to overspending and failing to pay bills.
Regarding alcohol, the applicant had an alcohol-related incident in 2001 and a DUI conviction in 2007, for which he remained on probation until 2012. He continued to consume alcohol, and the judge found insufficient information to determine if he had overcome his alcohol-related issues or established a pattern of responsible use.
The applicant also had a history of illegal drug involvement, including marijuana use from 1997 to September 2009, during which he also purchased and sold the drug. He used cocaine on two occasions around 2000-2001 and used Adderall and Ritalin without a prescription weekly between 2000 and 2003. Notably, he used marijuana while on probation and stated an intent to continue casual marijuana consumption. The judge concluded there was insufficient evidence of rehabilitation or responsible behavior, leading to doubts about the applicant's reliability and trustworthiness, and the clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has 15 delinquent debts totaling approximately $49,889, which he admitted were due to overspending and failure to pay bills.
- The applicant has a history of illegal drug use, including marijuana and cocaine, and expressed intent to continue casual marijuana use in the future.
- The applicant has two alcohol-related convictions, including a DUI, and continues to consume alcohol excessively, raising concerns about his judgment.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 25(a)raisedAny Drug Abuse
- AG ¶ 25(c)raisedIllegal Drug Possession, Including Cultivation, Processing, Manufacture, Purchase, Sale, or Distribution
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
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 issuedJul 19, 2010
- Answer filedAug 13, 2010
- Hearing held—Decided on written record
- Decision dateJan 31, 2011
Cite For
- Insufficient Evidence of Financial Responsibility Under Guideline F
- Recent Illegal Drug Use and Intent to Continue Under Guideline H
- Ongoing Alcohol Consumption Despite Prior Convictions Under Guideline G