Summary
A 50-year-old senior engineer for a defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons detailed multiple financial delinquencies, including medical bills, utility charges, telecommunications bills, and bank debts. Specific allegations included a $13 medical bill paid without proof, a $197 medical bill in dispute, a $994 utility delinquency disputed and removed, a $211 telecommunications bill satisfied, a $423 cable bill in dispute, a $250 telecommunications bill paid, an unpaid $1,781 Bank "C" debt, a paid $1,735 Bank "C" debt, a $2,755 Bank "P" debt in dispute, a $2,441 collection agent debt in dispute, a $279 utilities account paid, and a $211 city utility bill paid.
The judge found that the applicant had taken significant steps to address these issues. He demonstrated a substantial improvement in his financial situation, having resolved most delinquencies and maintained current obligations.
Mitigating circumstances included his wife's unexpected medical emergencies, which contributed to his financial difficulties. The applicant's proactive approach to disputing erroneous credit entries and managing his finances was persuasive, leading to the granting of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a significant improvement in his financial situation, having resolved most of his delinquencies and maintained current obligations.
- He provided evidence of mitigating circumstances, including his wife's unexpected medical emergencies that contributed to his financial difficulties.
- The applicant's proactive approach to disputing erroneous credit entries and managing his finances was persuasive.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A6.1.2.1raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- E2.A6.1.2.3raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- E2.A6.1.3.3appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Behavior Were Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- E2.A6.1.3.6appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
Key Rule Quoted
“The sole purpose of a security clearance determination is to decide if it is clearly consistent with the national interest to grant or continue a security clearance for an applicant.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedSep 30, 2005
- Answer filedOct 19, 2005Applicant responded to SOR allegations.
- Hearing heldOct 19, 2006Hearing conducted as scheduled.
- Decision dateNov 30, 2006
Cite For
- Mitigating Circumstances Related to Financial Difficulties Due to Medical Emergencies
- Proactive Measures Taken to Resolve Financial Delinquencies
- Demonstrating Financial Responsibility After a Period of Instability