Summary
A 47-year-old retired U.S. Air Force officer and defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of severe alcohol use disorder and a DUI arrest. The Statement of Reasons detailed his arrest for DUI and reckless driving, a diagnosis of severe alcohol use disorder (meeting 8 of 11 DSM-V criteria), and a letter of reprimand from his commanding officer. He subsequently transitioned to the aftercare phase of the ADAPT program following two months of continuing care.
However, the applicant resumed drinking approximately one year after his inpatient treatment and diagnosis. This action, contrary to clinical recommendations, raised significant security concerns. The judge found that the applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence of compliance with treatment recommendations or ongoing counseling after leaving the military.
Ultimately, the applicant's resumed alcohol consumption and lack of demonstrated adherence to treatment protocols undermined the favorable prognosis established during his initial treatment. This pattern raised concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant resumed drinking alcohol after treatment for severe alcohol use disorder, contrary to clinical recommendations.
- The applicant did not provide sufficient evidence of compliance with treatment recommendations or ongoing counseling after leaving the military.
- The applicant's drinking pattern raised concerns about reliability and trustworthiness, undermining the favorable prognosis established during treatment.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)raisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder
- AG ¶ 22(e)appliedFailure to Follow Treatment Advice
- AG ¶ 22(f)appliedAlcohol Consumption Not in Accordance with Treatment Recommendations
Key Rule Quoted
“A person who seeks access to classified information enters into a fiduciary relationship with the Government predicated upon trust and confidence.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJun 7, 2018
- Answer filedAug 14, 2018
- Hearing heldDec 12, 2018
- Decision dateMay 3, 2019
Cite For
- Resumed Drinking After Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder Raises Security Concerns Under Guideline G
- Insufficient Evidence of Compliance with Treatment Recommendations Can Lead to Denial of Security Clearance
- The Importance of Maintaining a Safety Net for Managing Stress and Preventing Relapse in Alcohol Use Disorder Cases