Summary
A 52-year-old quality engineer was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a documented history of excessive alcohol use and a failure to demonstrate rehabilitation. The applicant admitted to consuming alcohol, at times to excess and daily, between 1973 and at least October 2008. This history included a 1993 conviction for driving while intoxicated.
Further incidents included reporting to work under the influence of alcohol on February 7, 2006, resulting in a 30-day suspension without pay and a public intoxication charge that was later dismissed. Following these events, the applicant was diagnosed with and treated for alcohol dependence twice, first between February 14 and February 26, 2006, and again between March 1 and April 12, 2006.
Despite these treatments, the applicant continued to consume alcohol as of October 2008. The denial was based on the applicant's admitted history of excessive consumption, including the specific incidents, and a lack of consistent participation in recovery programs or adherence to treatment recommendations, which raised concerns about his judgment and reliability.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant admitted to a long history of excessive alcohol consumption, including incidents of driving while intoxicated and reporting to work under the influence.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate consistent participation in recovery programs or adherence to treatment recommendations, indicating a lack of rehabilitation.
- The applicant's continued alcohol consumption raised doubts about his judgment and reliability, which are critical for holding a security clearance.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(b)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents at Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)appliedDiagnosis of Alcohol Dependence
- AG ¶ 22(e)appliedEvaluation of Alcohol Dependence by a Licensed Professional
- AG ¶ 22(f)appliedRelapse After Diagnosis of Alcohol Dependence
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 issuedFeb 3, 2009
- Answer filedMay 5, 2009Applicant submitted a one-page letter.
- Hearing held—Decision made without a hearing.
- Decision dateMay 29, 2009
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Excessive Alcohol Consumption Under Guideline G
- Failure to Demonstrate Rehabilitation After Treatment for Alcohol Dependence
- Impact of Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility