Summary
A 56-year-old avionics analyst was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a pattern of alcohol-related driving offenses. The Statement of Reasons cited four incidents: driving under the influence (DUI) in March 2007, August 2009, and March 2013, followed by operating a vehicle while under the influence (OUI) in May 2017. These allegations raised disqualifying conditions related to a pattern of excessive alcohol consumption and alcohol-related incidents.
While the applicant acknowledged his alcohol issues and attended classes, the judge found insufficient evidence of rehabilitation. Mitigating conditions, such as the passage of time since the last incident and the applicant's efforts to address the problem, were considered. However, the judge ultimately determined that these were not sufficient to overcome the security concerns.
The denial was based on the applicant's consistent pattern of excessive alcohol consumption over a decade, the lack of credible and corroborated evidence regarding his claims of responsible alcohol use, and his failure to participate in a current alcohol counseling or treatment program or provide a favorable professional prognosis. Consequently, the applicant was denied eligibility for access to classified information.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had four alcohol-related driving offenses between 2007 and 2017, demonstrating a pattern of excessive alcohol consumption.
- The applicant's claims of responsible alcohol consumption were not corroborated and lacked credibility due to inconsistencies in his statements.
- The applicant did not participate in a current alcohol counseling or treatment program, nor did he provide a favorable prognosis from a qualified professional.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Issues and Actions TakenWhile the applicant acknowledged his alcohol issues, he did not establish a pattern of responsible use.
- AG ¶ 23(c)rejectedParticipation in a Counseling or Treatment ProgramThe applicant was not currently participating in a counseling or treatment program.
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedCompletion of Counseling or Rehabilitation with Favorable PrognosisThe applicant did not provide a written favorable prognosis from a qualified professional.
Key Rule Quoted
“"Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to classified information will be resolved in favor of the national security."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 2, 2021
- Answer filedAug 27, 2021
- Hearing heldJun 9, 2022
- Decision dateJul 22, 2022
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Multiple Alcohol-related Offenses
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation Under Guideline G
- Credibility Issues Regarding Applicant's Claims of Responsible Alcohol Consumption