Summary
A 44-year-old defense contractor employee was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline H (Drug Involvement). The applicant's history included two arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) in 1982 and 2005, a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder, and a pattern of impaired judgment due to alcohol consumption. Furthermore, the applicant failed to complete or comply with mandated alcohol treatment and aftercare requirements.
Regarding drug involvement, the applicant admitted to illegal marijuana use from 1977 until 2001, and again in May 2005. This included using marijuana while holding a security clearance between August 1980 and August 2001, which was cited as reflecting questionable judgment and irresponsibility.
The denial was based on the applicant's extensive history of alcohol abuse, including the DUIs and a lack of clear evidence of rehabilitation despite treatment programs. The prolonged illegal marijuana use, including its resumption after a period of abstinence, further demonstrated poor judgment. Ultimately, the applicant did not provide sufficient evidence to mitigate these substance abuse concerns.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant's history of alcohol abuse included two DUI arrests and participation in mandated treatment programs without clear evidence of rehabilitation.
- The applicant's illegal marijuana use persisted for over 24 years, including a resumption of use after a period of abstinence, reflecting poor judgment and irresponsibility.
- The applicant failed to provide sufficient evidence to mitigate the concerns raised by his substance abuse history.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A7.1.2.5raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol
- E2.A8.1.2.1raisedAny Drug Abuse
- E2.A8.1.2.5raisedFailure to Successfully Complete a Drug Treatment Program
Key Rule Quoted
“Excessive alcohol consumption often leads to the exercise of questionable judgment, unreliability, failure to control impulses, and increases the risk of unauthorized disclosure of classified information due to carelessness.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedDec 23, 2005
- Answer filedJan 23, 2006Applicant elected to have the case decided on the written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing was held.
- Decision dateNov 13, 2006
Cite For
- Denial of Clearance Due to Substance Abuse History Under Guideline G and H
- Impact of Multiple Duis on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Failure to Demonstrate Rehabilitation After Substance Abuse Treatment Programs