Summary
A 24-year-old logistics and supply analyst was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of alcohol dependence and related incidents during his Coast Guard service. The Statement of Reasons cited driving while intoxicated, other alcohol-related incidents away from work (including fighting and disturbing the peace), habitual or binge consumption leading to impaired judgment, and an evaluation of alcohol dependence by a licensed clinical social worker. Additionally, the applicant failed to complete or comply with treatment or aftercare.
Disqualifying conditions under Guideline G were raised, specifically concerning alcohol-related incidents, habitual consumption, and a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence. While mitigating conditions were applied, acknowledging some positive changes, they were ultimately insufficient to overcome the security concerns.
The denial was based on the applicant's failure to establish a sufficient track record of abstinence following his alcohol dependence diagnosis. Furthermore, he did not participate in any counseling or treatment programs after his Coast Guard discharge, and his testimony suggested a potential intent to abstain only until clearance approval.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant failed to establish a sufficient track record of abstinence from alcohol after being diagnosed as alcohol dependent.
- The applicant did not participate in any counseling or treatment programs after his discharge from the Coast Guard.
- The applicant's testimony suggested he may only intend to abstain from alcohol until he receives his security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(e)raisedEvaluation of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Alcoholism and Actions Taken to Overcome ItThe applicant acknowledged his alcohol dependence and has been abstinent since September 2007.
- AG ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Passed or Infrequent Behavior Unlikely to RecurThe applicant's alcohol-related issues were concentrated in a specific timeframe and he has not established a long-term pattern of abstinence.
- AG ¶ 23(c)rejectedParticipation in a Counseling or Treatment ProgramThe applicant is not participating in any counseling or treatment program.
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedSuccessful Completion of Counseling or RehabilitationThe applicant has not completed any rehabilitation or received a favorable prognosis from a qualified professional.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJun 20, 2008
- Answer filedJul 8, 2008
- Hearing heldOct 3, 2008
- Decision dateNov 11, 2008
Cite For
- Evaluation of Alcohol Dependence Under Guideline G
- Impact of Past Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Importance of Established Patterns of Abstinence for Mitigating Alcohol-related Concerns