Summary
A 37-year-old pipefitter employed by a defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline H (Drug Involvement). The Statement of Reasons alleged that the applicant snorted cocaine at a party in September 2001 while holding a security clearance for a nuclear power facility, and subsequently tested positive for cocaine during a random drug test upon returning to work. This incident led to the revocation of her previous clearance and job loss.
Disqualifying conditions related to drug involvement and personal conduct were raised. However, the decision highlighted several mitigating factors. The applicant's cocaine use was determined to be an isolated incident that occurred over fifteen months before the clearance decision. She demonstrated genuine remorse and a firm commitment to abstain from future drug use.
Furthermore, the applicant's current lifestyle and social circle were found not to involve illegal drug use. Based on these factors, including her commitment to abstain and the isolated nature of the incident, the security clearance was granted.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant's cocaine use was an isolated incident occurring over fifteen months prior to the decision.
- She expressed genuine remorse and a commitment to avoid future drug use.
- The applicant's current lifestyle and social circle do not involve illegal drug use.
Conditions Referenced
- H.a.raisedAny Drug Abuse
- H.e.raisedRecent Drug Involvement
- E2.A5.1.2.4raisedPersonal Conduct Increasing Vulnerability to Coercion
- H.a.appliedThe Drug Involvement Was Not Recent
- H.b.appliedThe Drug Involvement Was an Isolated or Aberrational Event
- H.c.appliedA Demonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Any Drugs in the Future
- E2.A5.1.3.5appliedPositive Steps to Reduce Vulnerability to Coercion
Key Rule Quoted
“A person who seeks access to classified information enters into a fiduciary relationship with the Government predicated upon trust and confidence.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedNov 14, 2002
- Answer filedNov 25, 2002
- Hearing heldFeb 26, 2003
- Decision dateApr 15, 2003
Cite For
- Mitigating Conditions for Isolated Drug Use Under Guideline H
- Consideration of Remorse and Intent to Abstain From Drugs
- Impact of Personal Conduct on Security Clearance Eligibility Under Guideline E