Summary
A 57-year-old electronic assembler specialist was denied an updated security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of alcohol-related incidents. The Statement of Reasons cited three arrests for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), a pattern of habitual or binge alcohol consumption leading to impaired judgment, and reported absences from work due to alcohol use.
The applicant acknowledged his alcohol issues and attended Alcoholics Anonymous. However, the decision highlighted his self-description as a "functional alcoholic" and admission of heavy drinking that impacted his work attendance. Disqualifying conditions AC DC ¶ 22(a) and AC DC ¶ 22(c) were raised, while mitigating conditions AC MC ¶ 23(a), AC MC ¶ 23(b), AC MC ¶ 23(c), and AC MC ¶ 23(d) were applied.
Ultimately, the clearance was denied because the applicant failed to establish a pattern of abstinence or responsible alcohol use following his last DWI, despite his efforts to address the problem. His history included two DWIs in 2003 and 2006.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a history of three alcohol-related arrests, including two DWIs in 2003 and 2006.
- He described himself as a 'functional alcoholic' and admitted to heavy drinking, which affected his work attendance.
- The applicant failed to establish a pattern of abstinence or responsible alcohol use after his last DWI.
Conditions Referenced
- AC DC ¶ 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AC DC ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AC MC ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Passed or Infrequent Behavior Unlikely to RecurThe applicant continues to drink alcohol occasionally.
- AC MC ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcoholism and Evidence of Actions TakenThe applicant has not established a pattern of abstinence.
- AC MC ¶ 23(c)rejectedParticipation in Counseling or Treatment ProgramThe applicant has not participated in a comprehensive treatment program.
- AC MC ¶ 23(d)rejectedSuccessful Completion of Treatment and Established Pattern of Modified ConsumptionThe applicant has not demonstrated a clear pattern of modified consumption.
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 issuedMar 21, 2008
- Answer filedApr 1, 2008Requested determination without a hearing.
- Hearing held—No hearing was conducted.
- Decision dateSep 9, 2008
Cite For
- Disqualifying Conditions Related to Alcohol Consumption Under Guideline G
- Failure to Establish a Pattern of Responsible Alcohol Use
- Impact of Repeated Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility