Summary
A 28-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to a history of illegal drug use spanning from 1987 to 1996. The Statement of Reasons detailed allegations including the use and purchase of marijuana, at times daily, from 1987 to March 1996. Additionally, the applicant was alleged to have used and purchased cocaine, including marijuana laced with cocaine and crack cocaine, with varying frequency, at times two to three times weekly, from May 1995 to March 1996.
The applicant was arrested in February 1994 in State A, charged with Misdemeanor Affray and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to 60 days in jail. Disqualifying conditions H.1, H.2, and H.4 were raised, while mitigating condition H.3 was applied.
Despite the applicant's claims of rehabilitation and commitment to a drug-free lifestyle, the judge found insufficient evidence of sustained recovery. The denial was based on the long history of drug use, inadequate past rehabilitation efforts where drug use continued during treatment, and a lack of demonstrated commitment to a drug-free lifestyle, evidenced by only two years of abstinence and limited involvement in support groups.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a long history of illegal drug use, including daily marijuana use and frequent cocaine use until March 1996.
- The applicant's past rehabilitation efforts were deemed inadequate, as he continued to use drugs during treatment and only recently sought help again.
- The applicant had not demonstrated a sufficient commitment to a drug-free lifestyle, with only two years of abstinence and limited involvement in support groups.
Conditions Referenced
- H.1raisedAny Drug Abuse.
- H.2raisedIllegal Drug Possession, Including Cultivation, Processing, Manufacture, Purchase, Sale, or Distribution.
- H.4raisedFailure to Successfully Complete a Drug Treatment Program Prescribed by a Credentialed Medical Professional.
- H.3rejectedA Demonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Any Drugs in the Future.The applicant's claims of turning his life around were not supported by sufficient evidence of sustained recovery.
Key Rule Quoted
“A decision to grant or continue an Applicant's request for security clearance may be made only upon a threshold finding that to do so is clearly consistent with the national interest.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJan 26, 1998
- Answer filedFeb 4, 1998
- Hearing heldMar 26, 1998
- Decision dateMay 15, 1998
Cite For
- Denial Based on Extensive History of Drug Abuse Under Guideline H
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation Efforts
- Lack of Demonstrated Intent to Avoid Future Drug Use