Summary
A 50-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance due to significant financial and criminal conduct concerns, specifically under Guidelines E (Personal Conduct), F (Financial Considerations), and J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a history of financial irresponsibility and tax violations.
The applicant had 14 outstanding debts totaling approximately $20,000, including a $6,602 federal tax lien from the IRS for the years 1990, 1991, and 1992. These debts included various creditors such as Arrow Financial Service, Cap One Bank, Midland Credit Management, and RJM Acq LLC. Additionally, the applicant failed to file federal income tax returns from 1990 to 1999 and state income tax returns for five to seven years, which was attributed to carelessness and irresponsibility. This failure to file federal returns also constituted a violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7203.
The judge found insufficient evidence to mitigate the negative implications of these issues. The applicant provided no proof of a good faith effort to repay the debts or resolve the outstanding tax issues. Consequently, the security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The Applicant owed 14 debts totaling approximately $20,000, which were unpaid and included a federal tax lien.
- The Applicant failed to file federal income tax returns for nine years and state returns for over five years, demonstrating a pattern of financial irresponsibility.
- The Applicant provided no evidence of a good faith effort to repay debts or resolve tax issues.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A6.1.2.1raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations.
- E2.A6.1.2.3raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts.
- E2.A5.1.2.5raisedA Pattern of Dishonesty or Rule Violations.
- E2.A6.1.2.1raisedAllegations or Admission of Criminal Conduct.
- E2.A6.1.2.2raisedA Single Serious Crime or Multiple Lesser Offenses.
Key Rule Quoted
“"Security clearances are granted only when 'it is clearly consistent with the national interest to do so.'"”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJun 3, 2003
- Answer filedJul 2, 2003Applicant elected to have the case decided on the written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing was held.
- Decision dateMar 15, 2004
Cite For
- Denial Based on Significant Financial Issues Under Guideline F
- Failure to File Tax Returns as a Disqualifying Factor Under Guideline J
- Pattern of Dishonesty Impacting Security Clearance Under Guideline E