Summary
A 53-year-old mechanic was denied a Secret security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of excessive alcohol use and related incidents. The Statement of Reasons cited multiple alcohol-related arrests, a pattern of weekend binge drinking, and a failure to fully acknowledge the extent of his alcohol issues and their impact on judgment. Disqualifying conditions included a pattern of alcohol consumption that is chronic and habitual, and alcohol-related incidents that show impaired judgment.
Despite demonstrating some motivation for change and attending counseling sessions, the applicant continued to consume alcohol. He also lacked a formal diagnosis of an alcohol use disorder from a qualified professional. While mitigating conditions were considered, specifically that the applicant had demonstrated a clear and established pattern of modified consumption or abstinence, these were insufficient to overcome the security concerns.
The denial was based on the applicant's history of excessive alcohol consumption leading to multiple arrests, his lack of acknowledgment regarding intoxication during these arrests, and his continued alcohol consumption and urges to drink despite recent positive changes.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a history of excessive alcohol consumption leading to multiple arrests for alcohol-related incidents.
- The applicant did not acknowledge being intoxicated during his arrests, indicating a lack of insight into his alcohol use issues.
- Despite some recent positive changes, the applicant had not achieved complete abstinence from alcohol and continued to experience urges to drink.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A7.1.2.5raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- E2.A7.1.3.3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety
Key Rule Quoted
“The Directive does not prohibit drinking per se. Rather, it is the excessive consumption of alcohol which raises security concerns, as abusive drinking often leads to the exercise of questionable judgment, unreliability, failure to control impulses, and increases the risk of unauthorized disclosure due to carelessness.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedDec 7, 2001
- Answer filedDec 14, 2001Applicant acted pro se.
- Hearing heldMar 13, 2002Hearing rescheduled due to counsel's medical emergency.
- Decision dateApr 19, 2002
Cite For
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption Leading to Security Concerns Under Guideline G
- Impact of Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Determinations
- Importance of Demonstrating Rehabilitation and Insight Into Alcohol Use Issues for Security Clearance Applicants.