Summary
A 33-year-old software engineer was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline H (Drug Involvement), Guideline J (Criminal Conduct), and Guideline E (Personal Conduct). The Statement of Reasons detailed a history of illegal drug use, including methamphetamine use about 20 times from 1999 to 2000, and multiple uses of methamphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy, and marijuana from 2006 to 2008. The applicant also used marijuana daily from February to June 2010 and methamphetamine about 12 times from April 2010 to May 2012.
Further allegations included purchasing methamphetamine and marijuana from 1999 to 2012, and receiving treatment for drug abuse in hospitals in 2000 and 2007, as well as inpatient treatment in 2000 and 2008. Treatment for paranoia and anxiety resulting from methamphetamine use began in May 2011. The applicant's numerous drug purchases and use were also cited as criminal conduct.
The denial was based on the applicant's extensive history of drug use and criminal conduct, with recent drug use occurring after the security clearance application was submitted, which undermined claims of rehabilitation. Past relapses into drug use also raised doubts about the applicant's current reliability and trustworthiness.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant's extensive history of drug use and criminal conduct raised significant security concerns.
- Recent drug use occurred after the applicant applied for a security clearance, undermining claims of rehabilitation.
- The applicant's past relapses into drug use cast doubt on his current reliability and trustworthiness.
Conditions Referenced
- H.25(a)appliedAny Drug Abuse
- H.25(c)appliedIllegal Drug Possession
- J.30appliedCriminal Activity Creates Doubt About an Applicant’s Judgment
- E.16(e)appliedPersonal Conduct That Creates a Vulnerability to Exploitation
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 issuedOct 2, 2012
- Answer filedOct 25, 2012
- Hearing heldMar 13, 2013
- Decision dateMay 16, 2013
Cite For
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation Under Guideline H
- Impact of Recent Drug Use on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Vulnerability to Exploitation Due to Personal Conduct Under Guideline E