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Summary

This case concerns a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen, originally from Greece, who sought a security clearance. The Statement of Reasons raised concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) due to the applicant's ties to Greece. Specifically, allegations included having a brother and a friend who are Greek citizens and residents, and possessing substantial financial interests in Greece, including a house and a savings account.

However, the judge determined that the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns. The foreign financial interests were deemed minimal and insufficient to affect the applicant's security responsibilities. Furthermore, the applicant's family ties in Greece did not present an unacceptable security risk, considering the nature of the Greek government and society.

Ultimately, there was no evidence of sinister intentions or activities from the applicant's family members that could compromise classified information. Based on these mitigating factors, the security clearance was GRANTED.

Why the Applicant Prevailed

• The applicant's foreign financial interests were deemed minimal and not sufficient to affect his security responsibilities.
• The applicant's family ties in Greece did not present an unacceptable security risk due to the nature of the Greek government and society.
• There was no evidence of sinister intentions or activities from the applicant's family members that could compromise classified information.

Conditions Referenced

Key Rule Quoted

“The mere possession of family ties with a person in a foreign country is not, as a matter of law, disqualifying under Guideline B.”

Procedural Posture

• SOR issuedJul 10, 2003
• Answer filedAug 1, 2003
• Hearing held—Decided on the written record.
• Decision dateApr 26, 2004

Cite For

• Mitigation of Foreign Influence Concerns Under Guideline B
• Evaluation of Foreign Financial Interests in Security Clearance Cases
• Consideration of the Nature of Foreign Governments in Security Risk Assessments