Summary
A 54-year-old senior systems engineer was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a long history of alcohol-related offenses. The Statement of Reasons detailed multiple incidents, including DUI convictions in 1980, 1987, 2009, 2011, and 2014, as well as a public intoxication charge in 1992. Additionally, the applicant was diagnosed with alcohol abuse in 1989 and failed to follow court orders regarding alcohol treatment.
Disqualifying conditions under Guideline G were raised, specifically concerning habitual or binge consumption of alcohol, alcohol-related incidents, and a diagnosis of alcohol abuse. While the applicant demonstrated efforts toward sobriety and attended Alcoholics Anonymous, the judge applied only one mitigating condition, acknowledging the applicant's participation in a counseling or treatment program.
Ultimately, the clearance was denied because the applicant's extensive history of alcohol abuse, including five DUI charges and two prison sentences, was not sufficiently mitigated. The judge noted that previous attempts at sobriety were interrupted by relapses, indicating a lack of sustained recovery, and the applicant did not provide a positive prognosis from a qualified medical professional or licensed clinical social worker.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a long history of alcohol-related offenses, including five DUI charges and two sentences to imprisonment.
- The applicant's previous attempts at sobriety were interrupted by relapses, indicating a lack of sustained recovery.
- The applicant did not provide a positive prognosis from a qualified medical professional or licensed clinical social worker.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(f)appliedRelapse After Diagnosis of Alcohol Abuse
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Issues and Actions Taken to Overcome Them
Key Rule Quoted
“Any doubt concerning personnel being considered for access to classified information will be resolved in favor of national security.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 23, 2016
- Answer filedMar 15, 2016Requested determination based on written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing; decision based on written record.
- Decision dateMar 28, 2017
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to a Long History of Alcohol-related Offenses
- Insufficient Mitigation of Alcohol Consumption Concerns Despite Evidence of Sobriety Efforts
- Importance of a Positive Prognosis From Qualified Professionals in Alcohol-related Cases.