Summary
A 40-year-old employee of a U.S. Government contractor was denied a Secret security clearance under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a pattern of deliberate falsification regarding his drug history on multiple official documents and during interviews.
Specifically, the applicant falsified his drug history on his National Agency Questionnaire (NAQ) on October 27, 1992, and again on April 5, 1995. He also provided false information in sworn statements to a Defense Investigative Service (DIS) agent on March 2, 1993, and August 31, 1995. Additionally, he failed to disclose marijuana use from December 1993 during a DIS interview on October 31, 1995. These actions led to the conclusion that he knowingly and willfully concealed his involvement with an illegal drug.
The denial was based on the applicant's repeated dishonesty, which demonstrated a lack of trustworthiness and reliability essential for a security clearance. A previous denial for a security clearance due to similar issues was also a significant factor in the decision.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant deliberately falsified his drug history on multiple occasions, demonstrating a pattern of dishonesty.
- The applicant's admissions indicated a lack of trustworthiness and reliability, which are critical for security clearance.
- The applicant's previous denial for a security clearance due to similar issues was considered a significant factor.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A2raisedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant and Material Facts
- E2.A3raisedDeliberately Providing False or Misleading Information
- J1raisedAny Criminal Conduct, Regardless of Whether the Person Was Formally Charged
- J2raisedA Single Serious Crime or Multiple Lesser Offenses
Key Rule Quoted
“Security-clearance determinations should err, if they must, on the side of denials.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedDec 12, 1996
- Answer filedFeb 12, 1997Applicant elected to proceed without a hearing.
- Hearing held—No hearing was requested.
- Decision dateJun 27, 1997
Cite For
- Pattern of Dishonesty Impacting Security Clearance Eligibility
- Significance of Prior Clearance Denial in Current Evaluations
- Criteria for Evaluating Personal Conduct Under Guideline E and Criminal Conduct Under Guideline J