Summary
A 48-year-old former U.S. Air Force helicopter pilot was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a documented history of alcohol-related incidents, including multiple DUIs.
A significant factor in the denial was the applicant's failure to disclose an alcohol-related arrest from 2002 on his security clearance application. This omission raised disqualifying conditions related to personal conduct and alcohol consumption, specifically concerning deliberate misrepresentation and a pattern of irresponsible alcohol use. While mitigating conditions were considered, the judge found the applicant's explanations for the omissions lacked credibility.
Ultimately, the judge determined that the applicant's past alcohol abuse and the deliberate omission of a DWI arrest undermined his trustworthiness. Despite evidence of rehabilitation and support from colleagues and clergy, the security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a documented history of alcohol-related incidents, including multiple DUIs.
- He deliberately omitted a DWI arrest from his security clearance application, raising concerns about his honesty and reliability.
- The applicant's explanations for his omissions were not deemed credible, leading to doubts about his trustworthiness.
Conditions Referenced
- G.22.araisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G.22.craisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- E.16.araisedDeliberate Omission of Relevant Facts
- E.16.braisedDeliberately Providing False or Misleading Information
- G.23.brejectedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Issues and Evidence of Actions TakenThe applicant acknowledged his past alcohol abuse but did not demonstrate a clear pattern of abstinence or responsible use.
- E.17.arejectedPrompt, Good-faith Efforts to Correct OmissionsThe applicant did not make prompt efforts to disclose his DWI arrest before being confronted.
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 issuedApr 23, 2008
- Answer filedMay 19, 2008
- Hearing heldSep 24, 2008continued on October 21, 2008 for additional testimony
- Decision dateNov 25, 2008
Cite For
- Disqualifying Conditions Related to Alcohol Consumption Under Guideline G
- Personal Conduct Issues Arising From Omissions in Security Clearance Applications Under Guideline E
- The Importance of Candor and Honesty in the Security Clearance Process