Summary
A 55-year-old software engineer for a defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline K (Handling Protected Information) due to the mishandling of classified material. The Statement of Reasons detailed two primary allegations: first, that the applicant knowingly stored a CD containing secret classified information in an unauthorized location for approximately one year starting in October 2008, and then unknowingly stored it in another unauthorized location for about six months. Second, the applicant knowingly disposed of this classified CD in an unclassified container in September 2009.
The judge found that the applicant's actions demonstrated negligence and poor judgment, raising significant security concerns. Specifically, the denial was based on the applicant's failure to report the mishandling of classified information to her security officer, the knowing storage of classified material in an unauthorized location for an extended period, and the disposal of classified material in an unapproved manner without proper notification.
These actions triggered Disqualifying Conditions AG ¶ 34(b) and AG ¶ 34(g), ultimately leading to the denial of the applicant's security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant failed to report the mishandling of classified information to her security officer.
- The applicant knowingly stored classified material in an unauthorized location for an extended period.
- The applicant disposed of classified material in an unapproved manner without proper notification.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 34(b)raisedCollecting or Storing Classified or Other Protected Information at Home or in Any Other Unauthorized Location
- AG ¶ 34(g)raisedAny Failure to Comply with Rules for the Protection of Classified or Other Sensitive Information
Key Rule Quoted
“The importance of safeguarding classified information cannot be overemphasized.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedDec 21, 2012
- Answer filedJan 17, 2013Applicant requested a hearing.
- Hearing heldSep 26, 2013Applicant appeared pro se.
- Decision dateNov 29, 2013
Cite For
- Negligent Mishandling of Classified Information Under Guideline K
- Failure to Report Security Violations
- Importance of Compliance with NISPOM Guidelines for Classified Information Handling