Summary
This case concerns a 27-year-old engineer whose security clearance eligibility was reviewed under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of alcohol-related incidents. The Statement of Reasons cited two arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), a diagnosis of alcohol abuse in 2009, and a pattern of binge drinking and heavy alcohol consumption that led to impaired judgment. These issues raised disqualifying conditions under Guideline G.
However, the applicant demonstrated significant rehabilitation. He had not relapsed after completing alcohol treatment and had maintained responsible alcohol use since then, specifically demonstrating abstinence since March 2015. He completed all required treatment programs and received a favorable prognosis from a licensed professional, including an assessment from a licensed independent substance abuse counselor indicating no current alcohol abuse issues.
The judge applied mitigating conditions, noting the applicant's sustained period of responsible alcohol use and abstinence. The applicant's positive character references and professional performance further supported his reliability and trustworthiness. Ultimately, the judge concluded that the applicant had mitigated the security concerns, and eligibility for a security clearance was GRANTED.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a pattern of responsible alcohol use and abstinence since March 2015.
- He received a favorable assessment from a licensed independent substance abuse counselor indicating no current alcohol abuse issues.
- The applicant's positive character references and professional performance supported his reliability and trustworthiness.
Conditions Referenced
- AG ¶ 22(a)raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- AG ¶ 22(c)raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- AG ¶ 23(a)appliedTime Has Passed Since the Last Incident
- AG ¶ 23(b)appliedAcknowledgment of Alcohol Issues and Pattern of Abstinence
- AG ¶ 23(d)appliedSuccessful Completion of Counseling and Favorable Prognosis
Key Rule Quoted
“The ultimate determination of whether to grant eligibility for a security clearance must be an overall commonsense judgment based upon careful consideration of the guidelines and the whole-person concept.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 5, 2015
- Answer filedApr 17, 2015
- Hearing heldJul 22, 2015
- Decision dateAug 17, 2015
Cite For
- Mitigation of Alcohol Consumption Concerns Under Guideline G
- Importance of Rehabilitation and Support in Security Clearance Cases
- Whole-person Concept in Evaluating Security Clearance Eligibility