FAM Loses Security Clearance Due to False Financial Reports

ProPublica reports that a Federal Air Marshal (FAM) has lost her security clearance because she allegedly falsified financial reimbursement information, claiming, on two occasions, a full day’s per diem despite not being in that city for a full day.

The Transportation Security Administrations says this called into question her “trustworthiness, reliability, and judgment,” all prerequisites for retaining a security clearance.

A five-page letter she received informing her of the revocation is interesting for several reasons, including the amount of detail provided on justification for the revocation. The letter also specifies a seemingly generous appeals process. First, the Marshal may appeal the revocation determination. If the revocation is upheld, she can then appeal to a “DHS [Department of Homeland Security] Security Appeals Panel.” Such extensive appeal rights are rare among agencies issuing security clearances.

Filed Under: Procedures, Adverse Actions