Summary
A 49-year-old machinist was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The denial stemmed from a long history of alcohol abuse, beginning at age fourteen and becoming excessive in 1992, leading to a diagnosis of alcohol dependence. This history included at least three DUI convictions, being fired from one job and asked to quit another due to alcohol-related issues, and admitting to drinking on the job. Despite undergoing treatment, the applicant had a history of relapses and continued to drink contrary to recommendations.
Additionally, the applicant had significant mental health issues, including diagnoses of Bipolar II Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and Schizoaffective Disorder. He had a history of auditory hallucinations and a suicide attempt involving alcohol and multiple pills. The applicant was prescribed medications, including a mood stabilizer, but failed to adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen.
The judge concluded that the applicant's ongoing alcohol dependence and untreated psychological conditions demonstrated poor judgment and unreliability, posing a security risk. The applicant did not provide sufficient evidence to mitigate or rebut the government's case, resulting in the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a long history of alcohol abuse, including multiple DUI convictions.
- He has been diagnosed with several mental health disorders, including Schizoaffective Disorder and Alcohol Dependence.
- The applicant failed to provide evidence in mitigation or rebuttal to the government's case.
Conditions Referenced
- G22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- G22(e)raisedEvaluation of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- I28(a)raisedBehavior That Casts Doubt on Judgment
- I28(b)raisedOpinion by a Mental Health Professional
Key Rule Quoted
“The Government is therefore appropriately concerned when available information indicates that an Applicant for clearance may be involved in alcohol abuse and have psychological conditions that demonstrates poor judgment or unreliability.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJul 6, 2011
- Answer filedJul 29, 2011Applicant elected for a written record determination.
- Hearing held—No hearing; case determined on written record.
- Decision dateMar 28, 2012
Cite For
- Denial Based on Long-term Alcohol Abuse and Multiple Duis
- Impact of Untreated Psychological Conditions on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Failure to Provide Mitigating Evidence in Response to Government Allegations