Summary
A 41-year-old male applicant with a bachelor's degree in computer information science was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The Statement of Reasons alleged a history of alcohol consumption raising security concerns, a diagnosis of alcohol dependence by a qualified professional, and a failure to comply with treatment recommendations.
Disqualifying conditions G 22(c), G 22(d), and E 16(b) were raised. The judge noted the applicant's habitual alcohol consumption led to impaired judgment, evidenced by daily intoxication and family intervention. Furthermore, the applicant failed to demonstrate a clear understanding of his alcohol dependence and did not follow through with recommended aftercare treatment.
While mitigating conditions G 23(b) and G 23(d) were applied, the judge found the applicant's 18 months of abstinence insufficient to mitigate the disqualifying conditions. The denial was based on insufficient evidence of rehabilitation and ongoing compliance with treatment recommendations.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant's alcohol consumption was habitual and led to impaired judgment, as evidenced by daily intoxication and family intervention.
- The applicant failed to demonstrate a clear understanding of his alcohol dependence and did not follow through with recommended aftercare treatment.
- The applicant's recent abstinence of 18 months was insufficient to mitigate the disqualifying conditions related to alcohol consumption.
Conditions Referenced
- G 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- G 22(d)raisedDiagnosis of Alcohol Dependence
- E 16(b)raisedDeliberately Providing False or Misleading Information
- G 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcoholism and Actions Taken to Overcome ItThe applicant's acknowledgment of his alcoholism was limited and did not reflect a full understanding of his condition.
- G 23(d)rejectedSuccessful Completion of Treatment and AftercareThe applicant did not follow through with aftercare recommendations and his prognosis was not favorable.
Key Rule Quoted
“A security clearance decision resolves only the questions of whether it is clearly consistent with the national interest for an applicant to either receive or continue to have access to classified information.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 18, 2009
- Answer filedApr 13, 2009
- Hearing heldJul 7, 2009
- Decision dateSep 30, 2009
Cite For
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation Under Guideline G
- Impact of Habitual Alcohol Consumption on Judgment and Behavior
- Misunderstanding of Questions During Security Interviews Under Guideline E