Summary
A 36-year-old male applicant was denied a security clearance under Guideline E (Personal Conduct) and Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The denial stemmed from a history of alcohol-related issues, including a DUI arrest in March 1998, and subsequent diagnoses of alcohol abuse and dependence. Concerns were also raised regarding the deliberate omission of material facts from a security questionnaire.
Disqualifying conditions under Guideline G included a history of alcohol-related incidents, a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence, continued alcohol consumption after diagnosis and rehabilitation, and failure to comply with treatment. While mitigating conditions E.2, E.3, and G.3 were considered, they were insufficient to overcome the concerns.
The denial was ultimately based on the applicant's continued alcohol consumption despite medical diagnoses, his failure to attend Alcoholics Anonymous or complete recommended treatment programs, and persistent doubt regarding his rehabilitation and commitment to sobriety.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant continued to consume alcohol despite diagnoses of alcohol abuse and dependence.
- He did not attend Alcoholics Anonymous or complete recommended treatment programs.
- Doubt remained regarding his rehabilitation and commitment to sobriety.
Conditions Referenced
- G.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence
- G.6raisedConsumption of Alcohol, Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism
- E.2rejectedThe Falsification Was an Isolated Incident, Was Not Recent, and the Individual Has Subsequently Provided Correct Information VoluntarilyThe applicant's omissions were not isolated and raised ongoing concerns.
- E.3appliedThe Individual Made Prompt, Good-faith Efforts to Correct the Falsification Before Being Confronted with the Facts
- G.3rejectedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of SobrietyPositive changes were insufficient to mitigate the ongoing alcohol concerns.
Key Rule Quoted
“Following diagnosis of alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence, an individual has to have successfully completed inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation along with after-care requirements, participate frequently in meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous or a similar organization, abstain from alcohol for a period of at least 12 months, and received a favorable prognosis by a credentialed medical professional or licensed clinical social worker who is a staff member of a recognized alcohol treatment program.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedAug 27, 2002
- Answer filedSep 16, 2002Notarized response from applicant.
- Hearing heldJan 22, 2003Applicant represented himself.
- Decision dateApr 25, 2003
Cite For
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Ongoing Alcohol Consumption After Diagnosis
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation Under Guideline G
- Mitigating Conditions for Personal Conduct Issues May Not Apply If Ongoing Concerns Exist.