Summary
A 47-year-old male applicant was denied security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The Statement of Reasons alleged that the applicant abused intoxicants to excess, including binge drinking that continued through early 2022. It also stated that he had an emotional, mental, or personality condition that could impair his judgment, reliability, or trustworthiness.
The applicant had a history of mental health treatment, including hospitalization in 1996 after a suicide attempt. He also had a history of suicidal ideation and multiple suicide attempts, with ideation continuing until at least 2020, though no suicide gestures had occurred since 2014.
The denial was based on the applicant's long history of severe and chronic depression, including suicidal ideation and attempts. His alcohol consumption was linked to impaired judgment and previous suicide attempts, and he had not consistently followed treatment recommendations for his mental health and alcohol use disorders. Despite some demonstrated improvement in mental health, the judge found ongoing concerns regarding his mental stability and alcohol use.
Why the applicant was denied
- The applicant has a long history of severe and chronic depression, including suicidal ideation and attempts.
- The applicant's alcohol consumption has been linked to impaired judgment and previous suicide attempts.
- The applicant has not consistently followed treatment recommendations for his mental health and alcohol use disorders.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 28(a)appliedBehavior That Casts Doubt on an Individual's Judgment, Stability, Reliability, or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 28(b)appliedAn Opinion by a Duly Qualified Mental Health Professional That the Individual Has a Condition That May Impair Judgment, Stability, Reliability or Trustworthiness
- AG ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- AG ¶ 22(d)appliedDiagnosis by a Duly Qualified Medical or Mental Health Professional of Alcohol Use Disorder
- AG ¶ 22(e)appliedFailure to Follow Treatment Advice Once Diagnosed
- AG ¶ 29(e)appliedThere Is No Indication of a Current Problem
Key rule quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedJul 16, 2021
- Answer filedAug 24, 2021
- Hearing heldJul 28, 2022
- Decision dateFeb 15, 2023
Cite for
- Evaluation of Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Assessment of Alcohol Consumption Issues Under Guideline G
- Consideration of Ongoing Treatment Compliance in Security Clearance Determinations