Summary
A 57-year-old electronic test engineer, who had held a security clearance since 2005, was denied a continued security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The Statement of Reasons detailed five arrests between August 2008 and June 2012, including two for driving while impaired and three for retail theft or damaging store property.
The decision highlighted the applicant's repeated criminal conduct as demonstrating poor judgment and a lack of integrity. Furthermore, the applicant failed to disclose all relevant arrests on his e-QIP, which raised significant concerns about his candor and reliability.
Despite evidence of good character from colleagues, the judge found that the applicant's repeated poor judgment and lack of candor regarding his criminal history undermined the trust placed in him by the Government. Consequently, the applicant's security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant's repeated criminal conduct, including multiple arrests for driving while impaired and retail theft, demonstrated poor judgment and a lack of integrity.
- The applicant failed to disclose all relevant arrests on his e-QIP, raising concerns about his candor and reliability.
- The applicant's conduct was deemed to violate the trust placed in him by the Government, undermining his eligibility for a security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 31(a)raisedCriminal Conduct
- AG ¶ 31(c)raisedAllegation or Admission of Criminal Conduct
- AG ¶ 32(a)appliedTime Elapsed Since Criminal BehaviorThe last DWI occurred more than three and one-half years ago, and the applicant has changed his work schedule to avoid future incidents.
- AG ¶ 32(d)appliedEvidence of Successful RehabilitationThe applicant completed probation for his last arrest and has not had further incidents.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 2, 2014
- Answer filedMay 14, 2014
- Hearing heldSep 29, 2014
- Decision dateNov 21, 2014
Cite For
- Evaluation of Criminal Conduct Under Guideline J
- Impact of Personal Conduct on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Consideration of Mitigating Factors in Criminal Behavior Cases