Summary
A 49-year-old senior field service engineer was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct). The denial stemmed from a history of multiple driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions and a demonstrated lack of sufficient insight into his alcohol-related behavior.
The applicant's record included a December 1994 DWI conviction, a July 1996 arrest for DWI second offense that was amended to a DWI plea, and a July 2002 conviction for DWI second offense. These incidents occurred despite the applicant's participation in an alcohol education program in 1996, an alcohol abuse assessment that same year recommending abstinence and counseling, and attending Alcoholics Anonymous for one year.
The decision highlighted a pattern of alcohol abuse and criminal conduct, noting that the last DWI occurred after he had received counseling and attended AA. The applicant was found to have shown little insight into his drinking and driving behavior, minimizing the seriousness of his offenses. Consequently, the security clearance was denied, as granting it was deemed inconsistent with national interest.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had three DWI convictions, indicating a pattern of alcohol abuse and criminal conduct.
- The applicant showed little insight into his drinking behavior and minimized the seriousness of his offenses.
- Recent alcohol consumption raised concerns about the applicant's judgment and reliability.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- E2.A10.1.2.1raisedA History or Pattern of Criminal Activity
- E2.A7.1.3.2appliedThe Problem Occurred a Number of Years Ago and There Is No Indication of a Recent Problem
- E2.A7.1.3.3rejectedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of SobrietyThe applicant's recent alcohol consumption undermined claims of positive behavioral changes.
Key Rule Quoted
“An applicant "has the ultimate burden of demonstrating that it is clearly consistent with the national interest to grant or continue his security clearance."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 26, 2005
- Answer filedNov 22, 2005Initial answer was incomplete.
- Hearing heldAug 1, 2006Hearing conducted after rescheduling.
- Decision dateJan 31, 2007
Cite For
- Pattern of Alcohol Abuse Under Guideline G
- Impact of Criminal Conduct on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Insufficient Insight Into Alcohol-related Behavior as a Disqualifying Factor