Summary
A 53-year-old defense contractor with a long history of security clearance was denied his clearance due to deliberate violations of security regulations and personal conduct issues, specifically under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline K (Handling Protected Information).
The denial stemmed from incidents in 2000 when the applicant received a classified NATO CD-ROM via regular mail from a Greek marketing representative. He then failed to report its receipt to his Facility Security Officer and shared its contents with colleagues. Specifically, he had another employee copy the CD without disclosing its classified nature, printed portions on a non-accredited printer connected to his company's LAN, and improperly stored copies in his desk. He also failed to physically mark the CDs with the appropriate NATO Confidential classification.
The judge found that these actions demonstrated a willful disregard for security requirements. The applicant deliberately violated multiple security regulations by failing to report and by making a conscious decision to retain and share classified information without proper authorization. Despite his previously unblemished record, the seriousness of these violations raised ongoing security concerns, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant deliberately violated multiple security regulations by failing to report the receipt of classified NATO information.
- He made a conscious decision to retain and share classified information without proper authorization, demonstrating a lack of trustworthiness.
- Despite a previously unblemished record, the seriousness of his violations raised ongoing security concerns.
Conditions Referenced
- K.2raisedSecurity ViolationsThe applicant's deliberate violations of security regulations raised doubts about his trustworthiness.
- E.5raisedPersonal ConductThe applicant's pattern of dishonesty and rule violations indicated untrustworthiness.
Key Rule Quoted
“Noncompliance with security regulations raises doubt about an individual's trustworthiness, willingness, and ability to safeguard classified information.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJul 19, 2002
- Answer filedAug 12, 2002Notarized response admitting some allegations.
- Hearing heldDec 12, 2002Applicant represented himself.
- Decision dateMar 28, 2003
Cite For
- Deliberate Violations of Security Regulations Under Guideline K
- Lack of Trustworthiness Due to Personal Conduct Under Guideline E
- Impact of Prior Good Record on Security Clearance Decisions.