Summary
A 35-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of alcohol dependence and continued alcohol use. The applicant had been diagnosed with alcohol dependence in 2007, with a discharge recommendation for abstinence, but continued to drink. This history included excessive drinking, instances of drunk driving, and drinking to the point of intoxication. Furthermore, the applicant failed to complete outpatient requirements following a 2007 rehabilitation program.
The judge found that the applicant's continued alcohol consumption despite the 2007 diagnosis and recommendations, along with a relapse after treatment, raised significant concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness. While mitigating conditions were considered, a recent psychological evaluation was deemed insufficient to alleviate the risk of recurrence of alcohol-related issues.
Ultimately, the security clearance was denied because the applicant failed to mitigate the concerns regarding his alcohol use and the potential for recurrence.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant continued to consume alcohol despite a 2007 diagnosis of alcohol dependence and recommendations for abstinence.
- The applicant's relapse into alcohol use after treatment raised concerns about his reliability and trustworthiness.
- The psychologist's recent evaluation did not sufficiently mitigate the risk of recurrence of alcohol-related issues.
Conditions Referenced
- G.22(a)raisedAlcohol Incidents Away From Work, Such as Driving While Under the Influence
- G.22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- G.22(d)raisedDiagnosis by a Duly Qualified Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- G.22(f)raisedRelapse After Diagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence and Completion of an Alcohol Rehabilitation Program
- G.23(a)rejectedSo Much Time Has Passed, or the Behavior Was so Infrequent, or It Happened Under Such Unusual Circumstances That It Is Unlikely to RecurThe judge concluded that the applicant's recent evaluation did not supersede the initial diagnosis of alcohol dependence.
- G.23(b)rejectedThe Individual Acknowledges His or Her Alcoholism and Provides Evidence of Actions Taken to Overcome This ProblemThe applicant did not establish a pattern of abstinence or responsible use.
- G.23(d)rejectedThe Individual Has Successfully Completed Counseling or Rehabilitation and Has Received a Favorable PrognosisThe applicant's recent evaluation did not sufficiently mitigate the concerns regarding his alcohol consumption.
Key Rule Quoted
“The protection of the national security is the paramount consideration.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMar 27, 2013
- Answer filedApr 25, 2013
- Hearing heldOct 30, 2013Applicant waived his right to 15 days notice of hearing.
- Decision dateDec 12, 2013
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Ongoing Alcohol Consumption Despite Prior Diagnosis
- Importance of Following Treatment Recommendations for Alcohol Dependence
- Evaluation of Risk of Recurrence in Alcohol-related Cases Under Guideline G