Summary
A 52-year-old engineering technologist was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of alcohol dependence and multiple DUI arrests. The Statement of Reasons detailed his alcohol consumption to excess from approximately 1970 to at least January 2002. This included arrests for driving while intoxicated on April 2, 1994; March 5, 1995; June 22, 1998; and January 13, 2002. These incidents resulted in fines, educational training, community service, and driver's license suspensions or revocation.
Following his final arrest, the applicant received two weeks of inpatient treatment in February and March 2002 for alcohol dependence. He then entered an outpatient rehabilitation program in March 2002, from which he was discharged in October 2002 with a recommendation for external support. He also attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings from about January 2002 to at least May 2003.
Despite claiming sobriety since 2002, the judge concluded that the applicant did not sufficiently mitigate the security risks. This was based on his pattern of alcohol-related misconduct, failure to adhere to recommended aftercare support, and sporadic attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, which did not demonstrate a commitment to recovery.
Why the applicant was denied
- The applicant has a history of multiple DUI arrests, indicating a pattern of alcohol-related misconduct.
- He was diagnosed as alcohol dependent and did not follow through with recommended aftercare support.
- The applicant's sporadic attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous meetings did not demonstrate a commitment to recovery.
Conditions referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A7.1.2.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Dependence
- E2.A7.1.2.5raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- E2.A7.1.3.1rejectedThe Conduct Was Not Recent or Occurred Under Circumstances That Indicate It Is Unlikely to RecurThe applicant's alcohol-related incidents occurred recently and reflect a pattern.
- E2.A7.1.3.2appliedThe Applicant Has Demonstrated a Positive Change in BehaviorSome positive changes in behavior were noted, but not sufficient to mitigate concerns.
- E2.A7.1.3.4rejectedThe Applicant Has Successfully Completed a Rehabilitation Program and Has a Support System in PlaceThe applicant did not actively pursue the recommended external support system.
Key rule quoted
“"No one has a 'right' to a security clearance."”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedDec 10, 2004
- Answer filedJan 6, 2005Requested decision on the record.
- Hearing held—No hearing; case determined on the record.
- Decision dateJun 3, 2005
Cite for
- Denial of Security Clearance Due to Alcohol Dependence Under Guideline G
- Pattern of Alcohol-related Misconduct as a Disqualifying Factor
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation and Commitment to Sobriety.