Summary
A 33-year-old information assurance manager was evaluated for a security clearance, facing concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons cited his wife's Ukrainian citizenship and her family residing in Ukraine, specifically her mother and two sisters. It also noted that while the applicant had no contact with these in-laws since his wedding, his wife previously had weekly contact with her mother, which ceased after the applicant advised her to restrict contact.
Financial concerns stemmed from the applicant filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. However, the judge found that the applicant had mitigated these issues. He demonstrated responsible financial management by consistently making payments under his approved bankruptcy plan.
Regarding foreign influence, the applicant's wife is actively pursuing U.S. citizenship and has reduced contact with her Ukrainian relatives. The applicant also demonstrated strong ties to the U.S., including combat service, indicating loyalty. Based on these mitigating factors, the applicant was granted eligibility for a security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy and has been making payments under the approved plan, demonstrating responsible financial management.
- The applicant's wife is in the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship and has distanced herself from her Ukrainian relatives, reducing potential foreign influence.
- The applicant has strong ties to the U.S. and has served in combat, indicating loyalty to the country.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 19(a)raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- AG ¶ 19(c)raisedHistory of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- AG ¶ 7(a)raisedContact with a Foreign Family Member
- AG ¶ 7(b)raisedConnections to a Foreign Person
- AG ¶ 7(d)raisedSharing Living Quarters with a Foreign Person
- AG ¶ 20(a)appliedBehavior Unlikely to Recur
- AG ¶ 20(b)appliedConditions Beyond the Person's Control
- AG ¶ 20(c)appliedReceived Counseling and Problem Is Under Control
- AG ¶ 20(d)appliedGood-faith Effort to Repay Debts
- AG ¶ 8(a)appliedNature of Relationships with Foreign Persons Unlikely to Create Conflict
- AG ¶ 8(b)appliedMinimal Conflict of Interest Due to Strong U.S. Ties
- AG ¶ 8(c)appliedCasual and Infrequent Contact with Foreign Citizens
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 26, 2014
- Answer filedJun 19, 2014
- Hearing heldOct 7, 2014
- Decision dateNov 21, 2014
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Considerations Under Guideline F
- Foreign Influence Concerns Mitigated by Limited Contact with Foreign Relatives
- Whole-person Analysis in Security Clearance Determinations