Summary
A 35-year-old defense contractor technician was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a prolonged history of excessive alcohol use and two alcohol-related convictions. His alcohol consumption began around 1991, when he was 16, and continued until at least May 2009, often to the point of intoxication. Specific incidents included charges for public intoxication and criminal trespassing in September 2000, and operating a vehicle while intoxicated in September 2005.
Although the applicant received alcohol treatment and counseling from September 2006 to February 2007, he continues to consume alcohol. He also denied driving after consuming alcohol. The decision cited disqualifying conditions related to a pattern of excessive consumption, alcohol-related incidents, and a diagnosis of alcohol dependency.
While mitigating conditions were considered, the clearance was denied because the applicant's lengthy history of excessive consumption, including convictions, and his continued alcohol use despite a 2007 diagnosis of alcohol dependence, raised significant concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness. The applicant also did not fully acknowledge his alcohol problems, believing he could drink responsibly despite his diagnosis.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a lengthy history of excessive alcohol consumption, including two alcohol-related incidents resulting in convictions.
- He was diagnosed as alcohol dependent in 2007 and continues to consume alcohol, which raises concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness.
- The applicant does not fully acknowledge his alcohol consumption problems and believes he can drink responsibly despite his diagnosis.
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 Dependence
- AG ¶ 23(d)appliedSuccessful Completion of TreatmentThe applicant attended an alcohol-treatment program and received counseling.
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcohol IssuesThe applicant does not fully acknowledge his alcohol consumption problems.
Key Rule Quoted
“"Once a concern arises regarding an applicant’s security clearance eligibility, there is a strong presumption against the grant or maintenance of a security clearance."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 30, 2010
- Answer filedJun 22, 2010Applicant requested a decision without a hearing.
- Hearing held—
- Decision dateSep 29, 2010
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Ongoing Alcohol Dependence
- Impact of Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation in Alcohol Consumption Cases