Summary
A 53-year-old systems engineer's security clearance application was DENIED under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a long history of alcohol use and multiple DUI arrests. The Statement of Reasons detailed his alcohol consumption from age 16 to at least February 14, 2010, and included five DUI arrests occurring in May 1974, October 1977, March 1984, September 2007, and April 2009. Following his last DUI, he received probation before judgment and completed a six-week alcohol treatment program.
In June 2009, the applicant was diagnosed with alcohol dependency. Despite this diagnosis and subsequent treatment, the Statement of Reasons alleged he continued to consume alcohol. Disqualifying conditions under Guideline G were raised, while mitigating conditions were also considered.
Ultimately, the judge determined that the applicant had not demonstrated a sufficient pattern of abstinence or rehabilitation. More time was deemed necessary for the applicant to establish a clear record of recovery, leading to the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had multiple DUI arrests and a history of excessive alcohol consumption.
- He was diagnosed with alcohol dependence and had not demonstrated a sufficient pattern of abstinence.
- The judge found that more time was needed for the applicant to demonstrate rehabilitation.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 22(d)rejectedDiagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or DependenceNo evidence of diagnosis by a duly qualified medical professional.
- AG ¶ 22(e)rejectedEvaluation of Alcohol Abuse or DependenceNo evidence that the qualifications of the treatment staff met the required standards.
- AG ¶ 22(f)notedRelapse After Diagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- AG ¶ 23(a)rejectedTime Passed or Infrequent BehaviorInsufficient time has passed to demonstrate rehabilitation.
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Alcoholism and Actions TakenApplicant acknowledged his alcoholism and took steps to overcome it.
- AG ¶ 23(d)rejectedCompletion of Counseling or RehabilitationNo established pattern of abstinence and no qualified prognosis.
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the applicant meeting the criteria contained in the AG.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 6, 2010
- Answer filedNov 5, 2010Requested determination on the record without a hearing.
- Hearing held—Determination made without a hearing.
- Decision dateFeb 1, 2011
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Multiple Duis Under Guideline G
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation for Alcohol Dependence
- Importance of Demonstrating a Pattern of Abstinence for Mitigating Conditions Under Guideline G