State and federal guidelines both indicate that engaging in criminal activity raises significant concerns regarding an individual’s judgment, reliability, and trustworthiness, which directly impact their eligibility for roles that require security clearances. At the federal level, various conditions may give rise to security concerns and potentially disqualify an individual, including a pattern of minor offenses that, when viewed together, cast doubt on their overall character.

Additionally, the presence of credible evidence of criminal conduct, irrespective of formal charges or convictions, can trigger security concerns. Being on parole or probation, violating the terms of probation or parole or having either revoked, and the failure to complete court-mandated rehabilitation programs are also disqualifying factors, as is a less than “Honorable” discharge from the Armed Forces. However, security concerns that can prevent a person from obtaining security clearances may be mitigated under certain circumstances, such as the passage of time since the criminal behavior, the absence of ongoing triggers that may have compelled the criminal conduct, the lack of reliable evidence supporting the offense, and clear signs of successful rehabilitation, including compliance with parole or probation terms, job training, education, and positive community involvement.

At the state level, disqualifying factors include felony convictions related to violence or larceny within the last decade, any other felony conviction within the past five years, and sex offense convictions. It can also include recent misdemeanor convictions involving violence, larceny, or violation of protective orders within the previous three years, outstanding warrants, pending charges, active protective orders, and any other circumstance found to be security risks.