Summary
This case concerns a 28-year-old married woman, a former U.S. Navy intelligence specialist, whose security clearance was reviewed under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). Concerns arose from her history of problematic alcohol consumption, which often coincided with periods of depression and suicidal ideation. Specific allegations included her history of suicidal ideation, a diagnosis of depressive disorder, and multiple hospitalizations.
Disqualifying conditions under both guidelines were raised, including AG ¶ 22(a), AG ¶ 22(c), AG ¶ 22(d), AG ¶ 28(a), AG ¶ 28(b), and AG ¶ 28(c). However, the applicant demonstrated significant mitigating factors. She maintained sobriety for over three years, showcasing substantial rehabilitation.
Furthermore, she successfully completed her college education, graduating cum laude, and a psychologist evaluated her mental health condition as in full remission. These mitigating conditions, specifically AG ¶ 23(a), AG ¶ 23(b), AG ¶ 23(d), AG ¶ 29(d), and AG ¶ 29(e), led to the decision to grant her security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant maintained sobriety for over three years, demonstrating significant rehabilitation.
- She successfully completed her college education, graduating cum laude while managing her responsibilities.
- The applicant's mental health condition was evaluated as in full remission by a psychologist.
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 ¶ 28(a)raisedBehavior That Casts Doubt on Judgment
- AG ¶ 28(b)raisedOpinion by a Mental Health Professional Indicating Impairment
- AG ¶ 28(c)raisedInpatient Hospitalization for Psychological Conditions
- AG ¶ 23(a)appliedTime Has Passed Since the Behavior
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Use Pattern and Actions Taken
- AG ¶ 23(d)appliedSuccessful Completion of Treatment Program
- AG ¶ 29(d)appliedPast Psychological Condition Was Temporary and Resolved
- AG ¶ 29(e)appliedNo Indication of Current Psychological Problems
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 19, 2023
- Answer filedNov 14, 2023
- Hearing heldAug 6, 2024via video-teleconference
- Decision dateMar 27, 2025
Cite For
- Mitigation of Alcohol Consumption Issues Under Guideline G
- Mitigation of Psychological Conditions Under Guideline I
- Successful Rehabilitation and Stability in Personal and Professional Life as Factors in Security Clearance Decisions.