Summary
A 33-year-old applicant was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a documented history of alcohol abuse and related incidents. From approximately 1987 to at least October 2003, the applicant consumed alcohol, often to excess and intoxication. This history included a 1994 charge for Driving Under the Influence and an October 2003 arrest for Domestic Assault, Risk of Injury to a Minor, and Public Disturbance. Although the charges from the 2003 incident were dropped, the applicant spent about a week in custody and missed two weeks of work.
Following the 2003 arrest, the applicant began treatment with a psychotherapist specializing in addictive disorders and abstained from alcohol for three to four months. However, he subsequently resumed alcohol consumption and continues to drink. He also stopped attending Alcoholics Anonymous in February 2004, stating it was unhelpful.
The denial was based on the applicant's extensive history of excessive alcohol use, a diagnosis of Alcohol Dependence Disorder, and his continued alcohol consumption post-treatment. Concerns were also raised regarding his unwillingness to participate in recommended rehabilitation programs, which impacted the assessment of his reliability and trustworthiness.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a long history of excessive alcohol consumption and alcohol-related incidents.
- He was diagnosed with Alcohol Dependence Disorder and continued to consume alcohol after treatment.
- The applicant's unwillingness to participate in recommended rehabilitation programs raised concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness.
Conditions Referenced
- G.22.araisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G.22.craisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- G.22.draisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- G.23.arejectedTime Passed Since Last IncidentDespite over four years since the last incident, the applicant's long history of alcohol abuse and continued consumption precluded a finding of unlikely recurrence.
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt as to whether access to classified information is clearly consistent with national security will be resolved in favor of the national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 28, 2008
- Answer filedApr 24, 2008
- Hearing held—Applicant represented himself (Pro Se) and did not respond to the FORM.
- Decision dateSep 29, 2008
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to History of Alcohol Abuse Under Guideline G
- Impact of Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Consideration of Rehabilitation Efforts in Security Clearance Decisions