Summary
This case concerns a 41-year-old computer software instructor whose security clearance was initially questioned under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The Statement of Reasons cited two DUI arrests, one on October 17, 1999, and another on March 31, 2001. Additionally, it was alleged that she consumed alcohol, at times to excess, from at least October 1999 to at least January 2004. These allegations raised disqualifying condition E2.A7.1.2.1.
However, the applicant successfully demonstrated significant mitigation. She took complete responsibility for her past actions and has maintained sobriety, with no alcohol-related incidents since March 2001. She also made positive life changes, including counseling others about the dangers of drinking and driving.
The judge determined that the applicant's alcohol-related incidents occurred during a difficult personal period and did not indicate a current pattern of behavior. Applying mitigating conditions E2.A7.1.3.1, E2.A7.1.3.2, and E2.A7.1.3.3, the judge found that the concerns related to alcohol consumption had been successfully mitigated. Consequently, the applicant's security clearance was GRANTED.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant took complete responsibility for her past actions and has not had any alcohol-related incidents since March 2001.
- She has made positive changes in her life, including counseling others about the dangers of drinking and driving.
- The applicant's alcohol-related incidents occurred during a difficult personal period and do not indicate a current pattern of behavior.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work, Such as Driving While Under the Influence, Fighting, Child or Spouse Abuse, or Other Criminal Incidents Related to Alcohol Use
- E2.A7.1.3.1appliedThe Alcohol-related Incidents Do Not Indicate a Pattern
- 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 objective of the security-clearance process is the fair-minded, commonsense assessment of a person's life to make an affirmative determination that the person is eligible for a security clearance.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedSep 8, 2005
- Answer filedSep 19, 2005Applicant requested a hearing.
- Hearing heldNov 9, 2005Hearing date was amended from November 10, 2005.
- Decision dateDec 16, 2005
Cite For
- Successful Mitigation of Alcohol-related Incidents Under Guideline G
- Importance of Personal Accountability and Positive Behavioral Changes
- Consideration of the Whole Person Concept in Security Clearance Determinations