Summary
A 69-year-old president and CEO of a defense contracting company had his security clearance GRANTED despite allegations under Guideline E (Personal Conduct). The allegations stemmed from his company's past criminal conduct involving false statements to the government.
Specifically, the company, where the applicant served as president and chief operating officer, was investigated by the IG DoD for failing to disclose accurate cost and pricing data and for engaging in defective pricing and labor mischarging. In July 2000, the company pled guilty to one count of making a false statement, resulting in 24 months probation and a $40,000 fine. Concurrently, the company entered a civil settlement, agreeing to pay $2,500,000 to the United States for violations of the Truth in Negotiations Act and the False Claims Act, with the applicant personally liable for $100,000 as a guarantor. The applicant was aware of complaints regarding inaccurate labor hours and incorrect pricing prior to the investigation.
Despite these issues, the judge found that the applicant was not personally charged with any criminal conduct. He took significant steps to acknowledge the company's wrongdoing and comply with penalties, and the company subsequently implemented ethical standards and compliance measures. These mitigating factors led to the decision to grant the security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant was not personally charged with any criminal conduct or wrongdoing.
- He took strong steps to admit the company's wrongdoing and comply with penalties.
- The company implemented ethical standards and compliance measures after the incidents.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A5.1.1raisedPersonal Conduct
- E2.A5.2.1appliedAbsence of Intentional Wrongdoing
- E2.A5.2.2appliedRemedial Action
- E2.A5.2.3appliedGood Character References
Key Rule Quoted
“The decision to deny an individual a security clearance is not necessarily a determination as to the loyalty of the applicant.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedDec 17, 2003
- Answer filedJan 23, 2004
- Hearing heldOct 5, 2005
- Decision dateDec 19, 2005
Cite For
- Mitigating Factors Under Guideline E for Personal Conduct
- Remedial Actions Taken After Disqualifying Conduct
- Absence of Personal Wrongdoing in a Corporate Context