Summary
A 36-year-old aviation mechanic and former U.S. Marine was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The Statement of Reasons detailed a history of excessive alcohol consumption from 1991 to at least September 2007, alongside multiple alcohol-related criminal charges between 1990 and June 2005. The applicant received outpatient alcohol-related counseling from July 2005 through May 2006, where he was diagnosed with alcohol abuse. In February 2006, he underwent inpatient treatment and was diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
Disqualifying conditions under Guideline G were raised, specifically concerning alcohol consumption to the point of impaired judgment, diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence, and alcohol-related incidents.
The judge applied mitigating conditions, noting the applicant's significant rehabilitation efforts, including voluntary treatment and active participation in Alcoholics Anonymous. He maintained sobriety for over a year following his last relapse and received strong support from family and peers. His work performance was exemplary, and he was considered trustworthy by supervisors and colleagues. Based on these factors, the security clearance was granted.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated significant rehabilitation efforts, including voluntary treatment for alcohol abuse and active participation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
- He maintained sobriety for over a year following his last relapse and received strong support from family and peers.
- The applicant's work performance was exemplary, and he was regarded as trustworthy by supervisors and colleagues.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)raisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- AG ¶ 22(f)raisedRelapse After Diagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- AG ¶ 23(a)appliedTime Passed Without Misconduct
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Issues and Actions Taken
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedSuccessful Completion of Treatment and Pattern of AbstinenceThe prognosis from the inpatient program was 'guarded' and did not meet the criteria for a favorable prognosis.
Key rule quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the applicant meeting the criteria contained in the revised adjudicative guidelines (AG).”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedJul 21, 2008
- Answer filedAug 20, 2008
- Hearing heldOct 28, 2008
- Decision dateDec 23, 2008
Cite for
- Mitigating Conditions for Alcohol Consumption Under Guideline G
- Considerations for Criminal Conduct Under Guideline J
- Evidence of Rehabilitation and Support Networks in Security Clearance Cases