Summary
This case involves a 41-year-old defense contractor whose security clearance was denied under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The Statement of Reasons alleged the applicant abused intoxicants, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, suffered from depression and anxiety, and had a current diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder, Moderate.
The judge found against the applicant on the alcohol consumption allegations, citing a history of excessive use and the Alcohol Use Disorder diagnosis. Disqualifying conditions related to alcohol abuse were raised, including AG ¶ 21, AG ¶ 22(c), AG ¶ 22(d), AG ¶ 28(a), and AG ¶ 28(b). While mitigating conditions AG ¶ 23(a) and AG ¶ 23(b) were applied, they were insufficient to overcome the concerns.
Conversely, the judge found for the applicant regarding the bipolar disorder allegation, acknowledging ongoing treatment for depression and anxiety, and applying mitigating conditions AG ¶ 29(a), AG ¶ 29(b), and AG ¶ 29(c). However, the security clearance was ultimately DENIED due to unresolved concerns about the applicant's alcohol use, specifically a history of excessive use including binge drinking through November 2022, the Alcohol Use Disorder diagnosis, and insufficient time having passed since he stopped drinking to mitigate security risks.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a history of excessive alcohol use, including binge drinking, which continued through November 2022.
- The applicant was diagnosed with Alcohol Use Disorder, Moderate, by a DoD mental health consultant.
- Insufficient time has passed since the applicant stopped drinking to mitigate security concerns.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 21raisedExcessive Alcohol Consumption
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)raisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder
- AG ¶ 28(a)appliedBehavior That Casts Doubt on Judgment
- AG ¶ 28(b)appliedOpinion by a Mental Health Professional
- AG ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Has Passed or Behavior Was InfrequentInsufficient time has passed since the applicant stopped drinking.
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Use and Actions TakenThe applicant did not demonstrate a clear and established pattern of modified consumption or abstinence.
- AG ¶ 29(a)rejectedCondition Is Controllable with TreatmentThe applicant's alcohol use disorder is still current and has not been sufficiently mitigated.
- AG ¶ 29(b)appliedVoluntary Counseling or TreatmentThe applicant is participating in a recovery program.
- AG ¶ 29(c)rejectedCondition Is Under Control or in RemissionThere is no current mental health finding that the previous condition is under control.
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 issuedSep 14, 2022
- Answer filedSep 20, 2022
- Hearing heldJan 18, 2023
- Decision dateSep 14, 2023
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Unresolved Alcohol Use Issues
- Impact of Alcohol Use Disorder on Judgment and Reliability
- Mitigating Conditions for Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I