Whoever told you that likely gave their interpretation of a particular scenario...with limited aggravating and/or mitigating circumstances weighed in the path to their conclusion.I have been told a top security clearance is where they can call your references; as of rught now i just need a security clearance where i have been told based on the job i get they wont call references. if say i have to do a top security clearance in the future, can i then admit to trying marijuana two times before joining rotc?
Bottom line...if you require a clearance, you're required to fill out specific, detailed, accurate information. Lying on that documentation is no bueno. Omitting information is equally no bueno.
References are part of that paperwork exercise, as well. The government can...and most often WILL...exhaust all avenues to get a full picture of the clearance applicant. You very well might not know, however, if they've talked ONLY to the ones you listed...or if they added additional interviews to their list, "due to information obtained through the course of their investigation. "
Be smart...be honest...be all you can be.
I promise you...the risk far outweighs your perceived reward by failure to declare. And again...it's not like you killed Jimmy Hoffa (did you???????)...so nobody is gonna take away you birthday, for being honest.