Summary
A 23-year-old defense contractor employee was granted a security clearance despite initial concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The Statement of Reasons detailed a history of alcohol-related incidents, including driving under the influence, a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence, and a pattern of impaired judgment due to alcohol consumption. Additionally, the applicant had convictions for driving under the influence and reckless driving, and arrests for burglary (charges dismissed), shoplifting, and marijuana possession, all occurring during his teenage years.
However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns. He completed alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs and demonstrated significant personal responsibility and maturity following the incidents. The judge noted that the applicant's alcohol-related incidents did not indicate a pattern and that he had shown positive behavioral changes supporting sobriety.
Crucially, the applicant also provided numerous positive character references from supervisors and peers. Based on these mitigating factors, the judge found that the applicant had resolved the security concerns related to his past conduct, leading to the granting of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- Successfully completed alcohol and drug rehabilitation programs.
- Demonstrated significant personal responsibility and maturity since the incidents.
- Received numerous positive character references from supervisors and peers.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A10.1.2.1raisedAdmission of Criminal Conduct
- E2.A10.1.2.2raisedMultiple Lesser Offenses
- E2.A7.1.3.2appliedProblem Occurred a Number of Years Ago
- E2.A7.1.3.3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety
- E2.A10.1.3.1appliedCriminal Behavior Was Not Recent
- E2.A10.1.3.4appliedFactors Leading to the Violation Are Not Likely to Recur
- E2.A10.1.3.6appliedClear Evidence of Successful Rehabilitation
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 issuedJan 25, 2005
- Answer filedFeb 5, 2005
- Hearing heldOct 12, 2005
- Decision dateDec 7, 2005
Cite For
- Mitigation of Alcohol-related Offenses Under Guideline G
- Mitigation of Criminal Conduct Under Guideline J
- Importance of Personal Responsibility and Character References in Security Clearance Cases