Summary
A 27-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline F (Financial Considerations), and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The applicant admitted to 27 delinquent debts totaling approximately $37,000, which included two vehicle repossessions in 2005 and 2009, and student loans that led to wage garnishment in late 2007 or 2008. Despite steady employment since 2004, the applicant's September 2011 budget showed a negative monthly balance and did not include payments for student loans that came out of forbearance in April 2011. No information was provided regarding payments on these debts, a repayment plan, or financial counseling.
Additionally, the applicant had a history of criminal conduct, with three arrests and convictions between 2005 and 2007. At the time of the decision, the applicant was on probation for a felony conviction until May 2012. One week after being placed on probation for the felony in May 2007, the applicant was arrested and charged with theft.
The judge determined that the applicant's financial irresponsibility and criminal history raised significant doubts about his judgment, reliability, and trustworthiness. No mitigating factors were established, and no evidence of rehabilitation or a structured plan to address the financial issues was presented.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- Applicant admitted to 27 delinquent debts totaling approximately $37,000, indicating financial irresponsibility.
- Applicant has a history of criminal conduct, including three arrests and convictions from 2005 to 2007, and is currently on probation for a felony conviction.
- No evidence was presented to demonstrate rehabilitation or a structured plan to address financial issues.
Conditions Referenced
- F.19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- F.19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- J.31(a)raisedA Single Serious Crime or Multiple Lesser Offenses
- J.31(c)raisedAllegation or Admission of Criminal Conduct
- J.31(d)raisedIndividual Is Currently on Parole or Probation
- E.16(d)raisedCredible Adverse Information in Several Adjudicative Issue Areas
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 issued—
- Answer filed—
- Hearing held—Decided on the record in lieu of a hearing.
- Decision dateJan 30, 2012
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Financial Irresponsibility Under Guideline F
- Impact of Criminal Conduct on Security Clearance Eligibility Under Guideline J
- Assessment of Personal Conduct Concerns Under Guideline E