PSH-24-0185 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On November 20, 2024, an Administrative Judge determined that an individual's access authorization under 10 C.F.R. Part 710 should be granted. The Individual is a prospective employee of a Department of Energy (DOE) contractor for a position that requires him to hold a security clearance . In a Questionnaire for National Security Positions, the Individual reported past conduct related to downloading pirated materials, illegal drug use and distribution, and foreign travel. He also reported relationships with foreign citizens. The Individual provided additional information in a subsequent Enhanced Subject Interview and Letter of Interrogatory. The Individual's disclosures raised security concerns pursuant to Guidelines B, E, J and M. At the hearing, the Individual testified regarding his foreign contacts, past conduct, and discrepancies in his reporting. Ultimately, the Administrative Judge determined that the Individual mitigated the Guideline B, E, J, and M security concerns, and she concluded that the Individual's access authorization should be granted. (OHA Case No. PSH-24-0185, Quintana)