Summary
A 44-year-old retired Navy chief and defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to ongoing alcohol use following multiple treatments for alcohol dependence. The Statement of Reasons detailed a history of alcohol consumption to intoxication, including twelve beers daily from 1979 or 1980 to at least December 2004. He was diagnosed as alcohol dependent and completed Level III rehabilitation in October 1994, received a similar diagnosis and advice to abstain in December 1996, and underwent inpatient treatment in February 1997.
Despite these interventions, the applicant continued to consume alcohol. In December 2004, he was again diagnosed with alcohol dependence, in early partial remission, and advised to abstain. Although there was no evidence of intoxication since 2004, his drinking increased after his marital separation in 2005, leading to concerns about abusive patterns.
The administrative judge denied the clearance, citing the applicant's continued alcohol consumption against medical advice. While his current consumption of a six-pack every seven to ten days represented a positive change from previous patterns, it was still deemed an unacceptable risk. The applicant failed to meet the burden of overcoming the security concerns related to his alcohol consumption.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant continued to consume alcohol despite being advised to abstain after treatment for alcohol dependence.
- His alcohol consumption increased following the dissolution of his marriage, raising concerns about abusive drinking.
- The applicant's current drinking pattern, averaging a six-pack every seven to ten days, was deemed unacceptable and against medical advice.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence
- E2.A7.1.2.5raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- E2.A7.1.2.6raisedConsumption of Alcohol Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism by a Credentialed Medical Professional
- E2.A7.1.3.3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior From Previous Drinking Patterns
- E2.A7.1.3.2rejectedThe Problem Occurred a Number of Years Ago and There Is No Indication of a Recent ProblemThe counselor's assessment was based on outdated information and did not account for the applicant's current drinking.
- E2.A7.1.3.4rejectedSuccessful Completion of Inpatient or Outpatient Rehabilitation Along with Aftercare RequirementsThe applicant did not meet the abstinence requirement and was not involved in a support network.
Key Rule Quoted
“Eligibility for a security clearance is predicated upon the applicant meeting the security guidelines contained in the Directive.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedMay 13, 2005
- Answer filedJun 28, 2005
- Hearing heldMar 2, 2006pursuant to notice dated January 13, 2006
- Decision dateAug 31, 2006
Cite For
- Ongoing Alcohol Consumption After Treatment Under Guideline G
- Increased Drinking Following Personal Stressors as a Disqualifying Factor
- The Importance of Abstaining From Alcohol After a Diagnosis of Dependence for Security Clearance Eligibility.