Summary
A 30-year-old machinist with a high school diploma was denied a DoD security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline H (Drug Involvement), and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from the applicant's history of illegal drug use and repeated falsification of information during the clearance screening process.
Specifically, the applicant used marijuana from 1984 to at least July 1996, cocaine on three occasions, methamphetamine twice, and hashish once. He also purchased marijuana for personal use and to share, and sold marijuana on one occasion for $35.00. During the clearance process, the applicant provided false answers on two security clearance applications regarding his drug use and intentionally failed to reveal methamphetamine use during interviews with the Defense Investigative Service.
The judge found that the applicant's intentional falsification of material information on applications and during interviews, coupled with his admitted abuse of illegal substances, demonstrated a lack of trustworthiness. These significant security concerns outweighed any mitigating factors, leading to the denial of the security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to abusing illegal substances, including marijuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine, over a period of years.
- The applicant intentionally falsified material information on two security clearance applications and during interviews with the Defense Investigative Service.
- The applicant's repeated dishonesty demonstrated a lack of trustworthiness necessary for a security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A5.2.2raisedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant and Material Facts
- E2.A5.2.3raisedDeliberately Providing False or Misleading Information
- E2.A6.1raisedAny Criminal Conduct
- E2.A5.2.1rejectedThe Drug Involvement Was Not RecentThe applicant's drug use was ongoing until July 1996.
- E2.A6.2notedNone
Key Rule Quoted
“The Government relies heavily upon the integrity and honesty of clearance holders.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedNov 8, 1996
- Answer filedNov 20, 1996
- Hearing heldMay 15, 1997
- Decision dateAug 12, 1997
Cite For
- Denial Based on Falsification of Security Clearance Applications
- Impact of Illegal Drug Use on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Importance of Honesty in Security Clearance Determinations