Summary
A 46-year-old inspector with a history of major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorder was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The applicant's psychological evaluation in July 2022 confirmed diagnoses of major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorder, consistent with his treating physicians. His history included five suicide attempts since age 16, with incidents in 1993, 2005 (discharging a weapon into the ceiling during a domestic disturbance), and 2018 (intentional overdose after a domestic disturbance).
Despite psychiatric treatment following his 2018 suicide attempt, the applicant admitted to continued alcohol use, contrary to medical advice. He attributed his alcohol consumption to various personal issues, including missing work, his suicide attempts, a second divorce, and financial problems. In July 2022, he reported consuming alcohol approximately four times weekly, typically two to five drinks per setting. His record also included a 2004 DUI arrest, a 2009 arrest for fourth-degree assault and disorderly conduct, and a 2015 fourth-degree assault charge.
The administrative judge determined that the applicant's continued alcohol consumption undermined his depression treatment. Insufficient time had passed to demonstrate that his psychological issues were under control or that he had made satisfactory progress in treatment, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the applicant was denied
- The applicant admitted to a history of major depressive disorder and alcohol use disorder, including multiple suicide attempts.
- The applicant's continued alcohol consumption undermined the effectiveness of his treatment for depression.
- Insufficient time had passed to demonstrate that the applicant's psychological issues were under control or that he had made satisfactory progress in treatment.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)appliedDiagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder
- AG ¶ 28(a)appliedBehavior That Casts Doubt on Judgment
- AG ¶ 28(b)appliedOpinion by a Qualified Mental Health Professional
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedNov 23, 2022
- Answer filed—Applicant requested a decision on the written record without a hearing.
- Hearing held—Decision made on the written record.
- Decision dateJun 15, 2023
Cite for
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Alcohol Consumption Under Guideline G
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation or Compliance with Treatment Plans