Summary
A 25-year-old defense contractor with a college degree was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a pattern of alcohol-related incidents. The Statement of Reasons detailed three arrests: one in March 2002 for minor in possession of alcohol, and two DUIs in July 2006 and February 2007. These incidents raised disqualifying conditions under AG ¶ 22(a) and AG ¶ 22(c).
The applicant claimed to have ceased drinking to intoxication and attributed rehabilitation to his church and faith, but had not received formal alcohol counseling or treatment. While mitigating conditions AG ¶ 23(a), AG ¶ 23(b), AG ¶ 23(c), and AG ¶ 23(d) were considered, the judge found insufficient evidence of rehabilitation.
Ultimately, the judge determined that the applicant had not demonstrated a long enough period without incidents to mitigate the security concerns, leading to the denial of the security clearance.
Why the applicant was denied
- The applicant had three alcohol-related arrests, including two DUIs, raising significant security concerns.
- The applicant did not provide sufficient evidence of rehabilitation or a long period without incidents to mitigate the concerns.
Conditions referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)rejectedHabitual or Binge Consumption of AlcoholInsufficient evidence to conclude that his drinking habits constituted 'habitual or binge' drinking.
- AG ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Passed or Infrequent Behavior Unlikely to RecurThe applicant has not gone long enough without an alcohol-related incident.
- AG ¶ 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcoholism and Evidence of Actions TakenThe applicant does not believe he has a drinking problem and has not received counseling.
- AG ¶ 23(c)rejectedParticipation in Counseling or Treatment ProgramThe applicant has not participated in any counseling or treatment.
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedCompletion of Rehabilitation and Established Pattern of AbstinenceThe applicant lacks a sufficient track record without incidents.
Key rule quoted
“Excessive alcohol consumption often leads to the exercise of questionable judgment or the failure to control impulses, and can raise questions about an individual’s reliability and trustworthiness.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedMay 8, 2008
- Answer filedUndatedApplicant elected to have the case decided on the written record.
- Hearing heldN/ANo hearing; decided on written record.
- Decision dateSep 17, 2008
Cite for
- Security Concerns Related to Multiple Alcohol-related Arrests Under Guideline G
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation in Alcohol Consumption Cases
- The Importance of a Sufficient Track Record Without Incidents for Mitigating Conditions