Summary
A 32-year-old security officer was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The Statement of Reasons detailed allegations of deliberate falsification on security clearance applications and during interviews, as well as providing false or misleading information to officials. Specific personal conduct disqualifying conditions included deliberate omission or concealment of facts and providing false information.
Under Guideline G, allegations included excessive alcohol consumption, two DUI incidents, a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence by a medical professional, habitual or binge drinking leading to impaired judgment, and alcohol-related incidents away from work. Further concerns involved failure to comply with treatment recommendations and continued alcohol use after diagnosis.
The denial was based on the applicant's significant history of alcohol and illegal drug use, including multiple DUI offenses, and the deliberate falsification of information on his security clearance application and during interviews. The judge found the applicant's participation in rehabilitation programs to be marginal, noting a history of relapse into substance abuse. While one mitigating condition related to personal conduct was applied, it was insufficient to overcome the security concerns.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a significant history of alcohol abuse and illegal drug use, including multiple DUI offenses.
- The applicant deliberately falsified information on his security clearance application and during interviews with security officials.
- The applicant's participation in rehabilitation programs was deemed marginal, and he had a history of relapse into substance abuse.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A7.1.2.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse
- E2.A7.1.2.5raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- E2.A5.1.2.2raisedDeliberate Omission, Concealment, or Falsification of Relevant and Material Facts
- E2.A5.1.2.3raisedDeliberately Providing False or Misleading Information
- E2.A7.1.3.3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety
Key Rule Quoted
“A person who seeks access to classified information enters into a fiduciary relationship with the Government predicated upon trust and confidence.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedAug 3, 2001
- Answer filedAug 22, 2001Requested determination on the written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing; case decided on written record.
- Decision dateJan 7, 2002
Cite For
- Denial Based on History of Substance Abuse and Lack of Candor
- Impact of Rehabilitation Participation on Security Clearance Decisions
- Criteria for Evaluating Personal Conduct and Alcohol Consumption in Security Clearance Cases