Summary
A 47-year-old carpenter was granted a security clearance despite a history of excessive alcohol consumption, which raised concerns under Guideline G. The Statement of Reasons detailed multiple alcohol-related incidents spanning from 1973 to 2002. These included arrests for possession of alcohol by a minor in 1975, drunk driving in 1997 and 1998, and a positive alcohol test in 2001. The applicant was diagnosed with alcohol dependence in late 2001 and underwent outpatient treatment from November 2001 to February 2002, with a recommendation for AA meetings. He also consumed alcohol despite inpatient treatment for alcohol dependence.
However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns. The last alcohol-related incident occurred in October 2001, more than three years before the decision. He demonstrated positive changes by limiting his alcohol consumption to moderate levels.
Crucially, four co-workers provided testimony that they had never observed the applicant impaired or under the influence of alcohol at work. The judge concluded that the applicant was no longer a problem drinker, leading to the granting of his security clearance.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant's last alcohol-related incident occurred in October 2001, over three years prior to the decision.
- He has made positive changes by limiting his alcohol consumption to moderate levels.
- Four co-workers testified that they have never seen the applicant impaired or under the influence of alcohol at work.
Conditions referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A7.1.2.2raisedAlcohol-related Incidents at Work
- E2.A7.1.2.5raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Intoxication
- E2.A7.1.2.3rejectedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol DependenceThe diagnosis was made by a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, not a credentialed medical professional.
- E2.A7.1.2.4rejectedEvaluation of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence by a Licensed Clinical Social WorkerNo evidence was presented showing the person who made the diagnosis was a licensed clinical social worker.
- E2.A7.1.2.6rejectedConsumption of Alcohol Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism by a Credentialed Medical ProfessionalThe diagnosis was not made by a credentialed medical professional.
- E2.A7.1.3.2appliedThe Problem Occurred a Number of Years Ago and There Is No Indication of a Recent Problem
- E2.A7.1.3.3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety
Key rule quoted
“The only purpose of a security-clearance decision is to decide if it is clearly consistent with the national interest to grant or continue a security clearance for an applicant.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedApr 30, 2004
- Answer filedMay 27, 2004Applicant admitted all allegations.
- Hearing heldSep 8, 2004
- Decision dateFeb 17, 2005Decision delayed due to heavy caseload.
Cite for
- Mitigation of Alcohol-related Security Concerns Under Guideline G
- Evidence of Positive Behavioral Changes in Alcohol Consumption
- Testimony From Co-workers as Supportive Evidence in Clearance Cases