Summary
A 70-year-old defense contractor manager with a history of security clearances was denied a security clearance under Guidelines E (Personal Conduct) and K (Handling Protected Information). The denial stemmed from a pattern of security violations and a lack of candor.
Specifically, the applicant committed multiple security infractions between 2010 and 2013. These included failing to properly secure classified areas in June 2010 and March 2011, and admitting to a security infraction in August 2012 involving a data spill from an improperly marked classified email. Further violations in March and April 2013 involved transmitting classified information over unapproved secure networks.
Additionally, the applicant provided false information on his November 21, 2012 e-QIP by failing to disclose the August 2012 verbal reprimand related to the data spill. He also deliberately provided false information to a U.S. Defense Department investigator in August 2013 regarding security infractions. The judge found a consistent pattern of negligence in handling classified information and a lack of candor, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant committed multiple security violations over several years, demonstrating a pattern of negligence in handling classified information.
- The applicant failed to disclose a verbal reprimand on his e-QIP, which was deemed a lack of candor.
- The applicant's explanations for his actions were not credible and did not mitigate the security concerns.
Conditions Referenced
- K.1.aappliedDeliberate or Negligent Disclosure of Classified or Other Protected Information to Unauthorized Persons
- K.1.cappliedLoading, Drafting, Editing, Modifying, Storing, Transmitting, or Otherwise Handling Classified Reports, Data, or Other Information on Any Unapproved Equipment
- K.1.gappliedAny Failure to Comply with Rules for the Protection of Classified or Other Sensitive Information
- K.1.happliedNegligence or Lax Security Habits That Persist Despite Counseling by Management
- E.2.aappliedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant Facts From Any Personnel Security Questionnaire
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 issuedJun 12, 2015
- Answer filedJul 12, 2015
- Hearing heldDec 8, 2015
- Decision dateJun 8, 2016
Cite For
- Pattern of Negligence in Handling Classified Information Under Guideline K
- Lack of Candor in Security Clearance Applications Under Guideline E
- Importance of Full Disclosure in E-qip Responses