Summary
A 27-year-old defense contractor seeking a Confidential-level security clearance was denied due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline H (Drug Involvement), and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The applicant's past illegal drug use, which ended in 1991, was a factor, as was her intentional falsification of material aspects of her personal background during the clearance screening process.
Specifically, the government alleged the applicant abused illegal substances and intentionally falsified her drug history on her security clearance application. This included knowingly and willfully violating the felony provisions of 18 USC 1001. While some mitigating conditions were applied regarding her drug use, the primary reasons for denial centered on her intentional falsification of information and lack of candor during the hearing, which undermined her credibility.
Ultimately, the applicant was denied a security clearance because she intentionally falsified material information on her application, her past illegal drug use raised security concerns, and her lack of candor during the hearing undermined her credibility.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant intentionally falsified material information on her security clearance application.
- The applicant's past illegal drug use raised significant security concerns.
- The applicant's lack of candor during the hearing undermined her credibility.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A5.2.raisedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant and Material Facts.
- J1.raisedAny Criminal Conduct, Regardless of Whether the Person Was Formally Charged.
- H2.appliedThe Drug Abuse Was Not Recent.
- H3.appliedA Demonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Any Drugs in the Future.
- E2.A5.2.rejectedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant and Material Facts.The applicant's explanation for her omissions was not credible.
- J2.rejectedA Single Serious Crime or Multiple Lesser Offenses.The applicant's criminal conduct was significant and indicative of poor judgment.
Key Rule Quoted
“The Government relies heavily upon the integrity and honesty of clearance holders, and it is a negative factor for security clearance purposes where an Applicant has deliberately provided false information about the material aspects of his or her personal background.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 12, 1996
- Answer filedMar 7, 1996
- Hearing heldAug 20, 1996
- Decision dateNov 8, 1996
Cite For
- Intentional Falsification of Security Clearance Application Under Guideline E
- Impact of Past Drug Use on Security Clearance Eligibility Under Guideline H
- Criminal Conduct Related to Falsification Under Guideline J