Summary
A 35-year-old field service representative was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct), Guideline F (Financial Considerations), and Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The applicant had a history of alcohol-related incidents, including an arrest for unlawful use of a firearm after consuming alcohol, and admitted to habitual or binge drinking that impaired his judgment. He acknowledged his alcoholism, stating he consumed alcohol almost daily, and had been late for work due to drinking within the last year.
Additionally, the applicant had unresolved delinquent debts and had not demonstrated sufficient progress in addressing these financial obligations. While the applicant began counseling for his alcohol abuse, the adjudicator found that his ongoing excessive alcohol consumption and financial irresponsibility did not meet the necessary standards for a security clearance.
Disqualifying conditions were raised under G 22(a), G 22(c), E 16(c), E 16(d), E 16(e), and F 20. Although mitigating conditions G 23(b), E 17, and F 20 were considered, they were not sufficient to overcome the security concerns. Consequently, the security clearance was denied.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant acknowledged his alcoholism and admitted to consuming alcohol almost daily, including binge drinking.
- He has been late for work due to alcohol consumption in the last 12 months.
- The applicant has unresolved delinquent debts and has not made sufficient progress in addressing them.
Conditions Referenced
- G 22(a)appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G 22(c)appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- E 16(c)appliedCredible Adverse Information in Several Adjudicative Issue Areas
- E 16(d)appliedCredible Adverse Information Not Explicitly Covered Under Any Other Guideline
- E 16(e)appliedPersonal Conduct Creating Vulnerability to Exploitation
- F 20appliedFailure to Meet Financial Obligations
- G 23(b)rejectedAcknowledgment of Alcoholism and Actions Taken to Overcome ItThe applicant has not established a pattern of abstinence or responsible use.
- E 17rejectedMitigating Evidence Regarding Personal ConductThe applicant's conduct and reputation were adversely affected by his termination.
- F 20rejectedEvidence of Financial ResponsibilityThe applicant has not made sufficient progress in resolving his debts.
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon meeting the criteria contained in the adjudicative guidelines (AG).”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedNov 20, 2012
- Answer filedDec 14, 2012
- Hearing heldJun 13, 2013via video teleconference
- Decision dateJun 21, 2013
Cite For
- Denial Based on Unresolved Alcohol Consumption Issues Under Guideline G
- Denial Due to Financial Irresponsibility Under Guideline F
- Denial Related to Personal Conduct Concerns Under Guideline E