Summary
A 35-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a long history of alcohol abuse and related criminal conduct, including multiple arrests for domestic violence.
The applicant's history included consuming alcohol to excess, leading to intoxication and blackouts, from approximately 1982 until August 5, 2001. Specific incidents included a February 1995 arrest and guilty plea for Domestic Violence/Assault after consuming hard liquor, and a February 1998 arrest and guilty plea for Assault/Domestic Violence, also after alcohol consumption. In March 1997, the applicant was charged with and pled guilty to Consuming Spiritous Liquor in Public. Additionally, in May 1996, the applicant received emergency medical treatment for an anxiety attack after consuming approximately six beers.
Despite treatment for alcohol dependence in 1997 and court-ordered counseling for alcohol abuse, the applicant continued to consume alcohol until a little over two months before the hearing. Although the applicant had 80 days of sobriety and attended Alcoholics Anonymous regularly, the judge found insufficient evidence to mitigate the security concerns associated with the applicant's extensive history of alcohol consumption and related criminal conduct.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a long history of alcohol abuse, evidenced by three alcohol-related convictions.
- Despite a recent period of sobriety, the applicant's past alcohol abuse remains a security concern.
- The applicant did not meet the mitigating conditions of Guideline G.
Conditions Referenced
- G.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work, Such as Spouse Abuse, or Other Criminal Incidents Related to Alcohol Use
- G.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- G.6raisedConsumption of Alcohol, Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism by a Credentialed Medical Professional and Following Completion of an Alcohol Rehabilitation Program
Key Rule Quoted
“The Government must be able to place a high degree of confidence in a security clearance holder to abide by all security rules and regulations at all times and in all places.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJul 19, 2001
- Answer filedAug 10, 2001
- Hearing heldOct 25, 2001
- Decision dateNov 9, 2001
Cite For
- Long History of Alcohol Abuse as a Disqualifying Factor Under Guideline G
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation Despite Recent Sobriety
- Recent Criminal Conduct Not Being a Disqualifying Factor Under Guideline J