Summary
This case involved a 41-year-old married man with a Ph.D. in chemistry, whose security clearance was initially questioned under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline H (Drug Involvement) due to a history of substance dependence. Specific disqualifying conditions raised included E2.A7.1.2.3, E2.A8.1.2.1, E2.A8.1.2.2, and E2.A8.1.2.3.
Following a family intervention in 2004, the applicant completed an in-patient and out-patient treatment program. He has since maintained sobriety for over two years and actively participates in Alcoholics Anonymous. The judge applied mitigating conditions E2.A7.1.3.3, E2.A7.1.3.4, E2.A8.1.3.3, and E2.A8.1.3.4.
The security clearance was granted because the applicant demonstrated significant positive behavioral changes supporting his sobriety after treatment. He also received a favorable prognosis from a licensed counselor and has the full support of his family. The judge concluded that the applicant successfully mitigated the initial concerns.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated significant positive changes in behavior supportive of sobriety after treatment.
- He has maintained sobriety for over two years and actively participates in Alcoholics Anonymous.
- The applicant received a favorable prognosis from a licensed counselor and has the support of his family.
Conditions referenced
- E2.A7.1.2.3raisedDC 3: Diagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional, a Physician, of Alcohol Dependence.
- E2.A8.1.2.1raisedDC 1: Any Drug Abuse.
- E2.A8.1.2.2raisedDC 2: Illegal Drug Possession, Including Purchase.
- E2.A8.1.2.3raisedDC 3: Diagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional, a Physician, of Drug Dependence.
- E2.A7.1.3.3appliedMC 3: Positive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety.
- E2.A7.1.3.4appliedMC 4: Following Diagnosis of Alcohol Dependence, the Individual Has Successfully Completed Inpatient or Outpatient Rehabilitation Along with Aftercare Requirements.
- E2.A8.1.3.3appliedMC 3: A Demonstrated Intent Not to Abuse Drugs in the Future.
- E2.A8.1.3.4appliedMC 4: Satisfactory Completion of a Prescribed Drug Treatment Program, Including Rehabilitation and Aftercare Requirements, Without Recurrence of Abuse.
Key rule quoted
“"Any doubt as to whether access to classified information is clearly consistent with national security will be resolved in favor of the national security."”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedMay 18, 2006
- Answer filedJun 15, 2006
- Hearing heldAug 29, 2006
- Decision dateDec 27, 2006
Cite for
- Mitigation of Alcohol Consumption Concerns Under Guideline G
- Mitigation of Drug Involvement Concerns Under Guideline H
- Importance of Ongoing Support and Treatment in Recovery From Substance Dependence.