Summary
This case concerns a 58-year-old group manager for a defense contractor seeking renewal of her security clearance, which was initially challenged under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The Statement of Reasons alleged a history of alcohol-related incidents, specifically two charges of driving under the influence in 1995 and 2002. Further allegations included a lack of completion of an alcohol rehabilitation program, continued alcohol consumption despite past incidents, and a diagnosis of alcohol dependence.
Disqualifying conditions E2.A7.1.2.1, E2.A7.1.2.4, and E2.A7.1.2.6 were raised. However, the applicant successfully demonstrated mitigating factors, leading to the application of conditions E2.A7.1.3.1, E2.A7.1.3.2, E2.A7.1.3.3, and E2.A7.1.3.4.
The clearance was granted because the applicant completed a court-ordered alcohol rehabilitation program and exhibited positive behavioral changes. The two alcohol-related incidents, separated by seven years, were not deemed indicative of a pattern of abuse. Additionally, the applicant was not diagnosed with alcohol dependence, and subsequent evaluations confirmed no significant alcohol-related issues.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant completed a court-ordered alcohol rehabilitation program and demonstrated positive changes in behavior.
- The two alcohol-related incidents were separated by seven years and did not indicate a pattern of abuse.
- The applicant was not diagnosed with alcohol dependence, and subsequent evaluations indicated no significant alcohol-related issues.
Conditions referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A7.1.2.4raisedEvaluation of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence
- E2.A7.1.2.6rejectedConsumption of Alcohol After Diagnosis of AlcoholismThe applicant was never diagnosed as an alcoholic or alcohol dependent.
- E2.A7.1.3.1appliedThe Alcohol-related Incidents Do Not Indicate a Pattern
- E2.A7.1.3.2rejectedThe 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
- E2.A7.1.3.4rejectedSuccessful Completion of Rehabilitation and AftercareThe applicant does not participate frequently in meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous.
Key rule quoted
“The adjudicative process is an examination of a sufficient period of a person's life to make an affirmative determination that the person is eligible for a security clearance.”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedAug 23, 2004
- Answer filedSep 20, 2004
- Hearing heldMar 8, 2005
- Decision dateJul 14, 2005
Cite for
- Mitigation of Alcohol-related Incidents Under Guideline G
- Evaluation of Behavioral Changes Post-rehabilitation
- Distinction Between Alcohol Abuse and Alcohol Dependence in Security Clearance Cases