PSH-23-0079 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On July 31, 2023, an Administrative Judge found that an Individual's security clearance should be granted. The Individual had used three types of illegal drugs about two years prior to the hearing while in an unhealthy relationship and had reported her use on her QNSP. A DOE Psychologist diagnosed her with several psychological conditions and opined that she had a submissive personality that could affect her judgment, reliability, and trustworthiness. At the hearing, the Individual presented evidence of personal growth and maturity stemming from therapy, appropriate psychiatric medications, and --as she was quite young when the precipitating events occurred --growing up and learning from her mistakes. The Psychologist opined that the Individual's conditions were under control and gave the Individual a good prognosis. The Individual had no desire to use illegal drugs in the future and intended to remain abstinent from them indefinitely. The Administrative Judge found that the security concerns were mitigated under the Adjudicative Guidelines and found that the Individual's security clearance should be granted. (OHA Case No. PSH-23-0079, Martin)