Summary
A 39-year-old senior information technology technician and former Air Force member was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline F (Financial Considerations). The Statement of Reasons cited multiple outstanding debts, including medical bills, a cable bill, a personal services debt, a credit card, an automobile loan, a telephone bill, a store bill, and a bank card. These issues were primarily linked to financial difficulties during his first marriage and periods of sporadic employment.
Disqualifying conditions related to financial considerations were raised, but several mitigating conditions were applied. The applicant demonstrated significant efforts to address his financial obligations. He took control of his debts, making substantial payments, and reduced his child support arrearage by 85%, while also paying current debts in a timely manner.
The decision to grant the clearance was based on the finding that the applicant's financial issues were largely due to circumstances beyond his control, such as a large family and limited income. His proactive steps to manage and reduce his debts, including child support, effectively mitigated the government's concerns.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant took control of his debts and made significant payments towards them.
- He reduced his child support arrearage by 85% and pays current debts timely.
- The applicant's financial issues were largely due to circumstances beyond his control, including a large family and limited income.
Conditions Referenced
- FC DC E2.A6.1.2.1raisedA History of Not Meeting Financial Obligations
- FC DC E2.A6.1.2.3raisedInability or Unwillingness to Satisfy Debts
- FC MC E2.A6.1.3.3appliedThe Conditions That Resulted in the Behavior Were Largely Beyond the Person's Control
- FC MC E2.A6.1.3.4appliedThe Person Has Received or Is Receiving Counseling for the Problem and There Are Clear Indications That the Problem Is Being Resolved or Is Under Control
- FC MC E2.A6.1.3.6appliedThe Individual Initiated a Good-faith Effort to Repay Overdue Creditors or Otherwise Resolve Debts
- PC MC E2.A5.1.3.1appliedThe Information Was Unsubstantiated or Not Pertinent to a Determination of Judgment, Trustworthiness, or Reliability
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 issuedJan 26, 2005
- Answer filedFeb 22, 2005
- Hearing heldDec 16, 2005
- Decision dateFeb 13, 2006
Cite For
- Mitigation of Financial Issues Under Guideline F Due to Proactive Debt Management
- Consideration of Personal Circumstances Affecting Financial Conduct
- Evaluation of Personal Conduct Allegations in Light of Applicant's Overall Honesty and Transparency