Summary
A 48-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline D (Sexual Behavior) and Guideline E (Personal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a history of alcohol dependence and continued consumption despite prior treatment and multiple DUIs. The judge determined that the applicant's ongoing alcohol use raised significant concerns regarding his judgment and reliability, concluding that a clearance was not consistent with national interest.
Disqualifying conditions E2.A5.1.2.1, E2.A7.1.2.3, and E2.A7.1.2.6 were cited. The denial was based on several factors: the applicant's continued alcohol consumption after an alcohol dependence diagnosis, which raised serious concerns about his judgment and reliability; a pattern of behavior including two DUIs, two divorces, and two clearance hearings related to alcohol use, which undermined trustworthiness; and the applicant's failure to fully accept his alcohol dependency, coupled with his belief in moderate drinking, suggesting a high risk of relapse.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant's continued alcohol consumption after being diagnosed as alcohol dependent raises serious concerns about his judgment and reliability.
- The applicant has a history of two DUIs, two divorces, and two clearance hearings related to his alcohol use, indicating a pattern of behavior that undermines trustworthiness.
- The applicant's failure to fully accept his alcohol dependency and his belief that he can drink moderately suggest a high risk of relapse.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A5.1.2.1raisedReliable, Unfavorable Information Provided by Associates, Employers, Coworkers, Neighbors, and Other Acquaintances
- E2.A7.1.2.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence
- E2.A7.1.2.6raisedConsumption of Alcohol, Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism by a Credentialed Medical Professional and Following Completion of an Alcohol Rehabilitation Program
Key Rule Quoted
“A person who seeks access to classified information enters into a fiduciary relationship with the government predicated upon trust and confidence.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJan 23, 2003
- Answer filedFeb 24, 2003
- Hearing heldApr 30, 2003
- Decision dateAug 1, 2003
Cite For
- Denial of Clearance Due to Ongoing Alcohol Dependence Under Guideline D
- Impact of Personal Conduct on Security Clearance Under Guideline E
- The Importance of Accepting Treatment Recommendations for Alcohol Dependency in Security Clearance Evaluations