Summary
This case involved a 55-year-old facilities manager for a defense contractor whose security clearance was initially questioned under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons cited six specific debts in collection, including a $7,579 apartment rental debt, a $755 television service debt, a $593 telephone service debt, two traffic violation debts of $300 and $200, and a $131 home gas service debt. Additionally, the applicant had used a company credit card for personal expenses.
The judge ultimately granted the security clearance, finding that the applicant had successfully mitigated the initial concerns. The applicant demonstrated a consistent effort to resolve her financial issues, providing evidence that she was current on all debts by the time of the hearing. She also presented documentation showing that several of the debts listed in the Statement of Reasons had been disputed and subsequently resolved.
The decision highlighted the applicant's commitment to financial responsibility and adherence to regulations. Her actions, including the resolution of outstanding debts and the proactive management of her finances, indicated a lack of intent to conceal information and a dedication to compliance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a history of resolving financial issues and was current on her debts at the time of the hearing.
- She provided evidence of disputing and resolving several debts listed in the Statement of Reasons (SOR).
- The applicant's actions indicated a commitment to financial responsibility and compliance with rules.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 16(a)raisedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant Facts
- AG ¶ 16(d)raisedCredible Adverse Information
- AG ¶ 20(a)appliedThe Behavior Happened so Long Ago, Was so Infrequent, or Occurred Under Such Circumstances That It Is Unlikely to Recur
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Financial Problems Were Largely Beyond the Person’s Control
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedThe Individual Has Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay the Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
- AG ¶ 20(e)appliedThe Individual Has a Reasonable Basis to Dispute the Legitimacy of the Past Due Debt
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 22, 2014
- Answer filedMay 22, 2014
- Hearing heldOct 23, 2014
- Decision dateNov 3, 2014
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Concerns Under Guideline F
- Resolution of Debts Through Proactive Measures
- Consideration of Personal Conduct in the Context of Financial Responsibility