Summary
A 27-year-old material handler was denied security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of excessive alcohol use and multiple alcohol-related incidents. The Statement of Reasons detailed a pattern of excessive consumption both on and off duty. Specific incidents included a DUI arrest in March 2012, another DUI and speeding arrest in March 2015, and an arrest for public intoxication and resisting an officer in September 2017.
The decision cited disqualifying conditions related to a pattern of excessive consumption, alcohol-related incidents, and diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence. While mitigating conditions concerning the passage of time and a demonstrated intent to change were considered, they were ultimately insufficient.
The denial was based on the applicant's admitted pattern of excessive alcohol consumption and the multiple related incidents. Crucially, the applicant's assertions of changed behavior lacked supporting evidence of a clear and sustained pattern of modified consumption. The recency of alcohol-related incidents raised significant doubts regarding the applicant's reliability and trustworthiness, leading to the denial of the security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to a pattern of excessive alcohol consumption and multiple alcohol-related incidents.
- The applicant's claims of changed behavior were not supported by evidence of a clear pattern of modified consumption.
- Recent alcohol-related incidents raised significant doubts about the applicant's reliability and trustworthiness.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(b)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents at Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Passed or Unusual CircumstancesThe applicant's alcohol-related incidents were recent and did not occur under unusual circumstances.
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment and Evidence of Modified ConsumptionThe applicant did not demonstrate a clear pattern of modified consumption.
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for national security eligibility will be resolved in favor of the national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 26, 2018
- Answer filedMar 13, 2018Applicant elected for a written record decision.
- Hearing held—Case decided on the written record.
- Decision dateFeb 28, 2019
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Excessive Alcohol Consumption Under Guideline G
- Failure to Demonstrate a Clear Pattern of Modified Consumption as a Mitigating Factor
- Significant Doubts About Reliability and Trustworthiness Due to Recent Alcohol-related Incidents