Summary
A 54-year-old security officer for a defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite allegations under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline M (Use of Information Technology). The Statement of Reasons cited the applicant's use of a company computer to access adult and sex-related websites.
However, the Administrative Judge determined that the applicant ceased this conduct prior to the company issuing a specific policy prohibiting such use. Furthermore, the government did not establish that the accessed websites were legally pornographic or obscene.
Crucially, the applicant's supervisors were aware of his computer use, did not impose disciplinary action, and subsequently promoted him. Based on these mitigating factors, the judge concluded that the applicant's actions did not violate the Personal Conduct guidelines, leading to the granting of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant stopped accessing adult websites before the issuance of a specific company policy prohibiting such use.
- The government failed to establish that the websites accessed were legally considered pornographic or obscene.
- The applicant's conduct was known to supervisors, who did not impose disciplinary action and promoted him afterward.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A5.1.2.1raisedReliable, Unfavorable Information Provided by Associates, Employers, Coworkers, Neighbors, and Other Acquaintances.
- E2.A51.2.1appliedThe Information Was Unsubstantiated or Not Pertinent to a Determination of Judgment, Trustworthiness, or Reliability.
Key Rule Quoted
“Conduct involving questionable judgment, untrustworthiness, lack of candor, dishonesty, or unwillingness to comply with rules and regulations could indicate that the person may not properly safeguard classified information.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 25, 2001
- Answer filedJun 20, 2001
- Hearing held—Decision made based on written record.
- Decision dateSep 13, 2002Remand decision.
Cite For
- Evaluation of Personal Conduct Under Guideline E
- Mitigating Factors Related to Unsubstantiated Allegations
- Impact of Company Policy on Employee Conduct