Summary
A 27-year-old Communications System Engineer with dual U.S. and Greek citizenship was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence) and Guideline C (Foreign Preference). The Statement of Reasons cited several allegations, including the applicant's exercise of dual citizenship, his vote in Greek national elections in 1999, and his retention of Greek identification and a driver's license. Additionally, he pays Greek property taxes for a rental apartment.
These actions raised disqualifying conditions related to foreign preference and influence. Specifically, the applicant's vote in a Greek election and his retention of Greek identification were seen as indicators of a preference for Greece over the United States. His ownership of rental property and payment of associated taxes in Greece further raised foreign influence concerns.
While mitigating conditions were considered, the judge concluded that the applicant did not sufficiently address these issues. His failure to take steps to renounce his Greek citizenship was a significant factor, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant voted in a Greek national election, indicating a preference for Greece over the United States.
- He retained Greek identification and driver's license, which are indicative of foreign preference.
- The applicant owns rental property in Greece and pays property taxes, raising foreign influence concerns.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A3.1.2.1.raisedDual Citizenship
- E2.A3.1.2.6.raisedUsing Foreign Citizenship for Financial Interests
- E2.A3.1.2.8.raisedVoting in Foreign Elections
- E2.A2.1.2.1.raisedImmediate Family in Foreign Country
- E2.A2.1.2.8.raisedSubstantial Financial Interest in Foreign Country
- E2.A3.1.3.4.rejectedWillingness to Renounce Dual CitizenshipThe applicant failed to take any action to renounce his Greek citizenship after the hearing.
- E2.A2.1.3.1.appliedNo Undue Influence From Foreign Family MembersThere was no evidence of undue influence from the applicant's family members.
Key Rule Quoted
“Any determination under this order...shall be a determination in terms of the national interest and shall in no sense be a determination as to the loyalty of the applicant concerned.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 6, 2004
- Answer filedMar 3, 2004Notarized response to SOR allegations.
- Hearing heldOct 26, 2004Hearing conducted with both parties present.
- Decision dateNov 23, 2004
Cite For
- Foreign Preference Concerns Due to Dual Citizenship Under Guideline C
- Foreign Influence Due to Family Ties and Property Ownership Under Guideline B
- Failure to Demonstrate Mitigation of Foreign Preference and Influence Concerns