Summary
A 38-year-old male defense contractor employee was denied retention of his SECRET security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The denial stemmed from a history of alcohol dependency, including two driving while intoxicated (DWI) arrests and a diagnosis of alcohol dependence by a medical professional. The applicant also experienced alcohol-related health issues, such as seizures and blackouts, and demonstrated a pattern of excessive consumption that impaired his judgment.
Despite claiming over a year of abstinence, the judge found insufficient evidence of rehabilitation. The applicant had failed to comply with treatment recommendations following an alcohol rehabilitation program and had consumed alcohol after his diagnosis. Concerns were raised about his commitment to sobriety, as he had minimized his alcohol problem and made inconsistent statements regarding his alcohol use.
The denial was based on the applicant's lengthy history of alcohol abuse, which adversely affected his judgment and reliability. His failure to comply with recommended aftercare programs and lack of demonstrated successful rehabilitation, coupled with doubts about his candor, led to the decision to deny the clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant's lengthy history of alcohol abuse adversely affected his judgment and reliability.
- He failed to comply with recommended aftercare programs and did not demonstrate a successful rehabilitation.
- The applicant's inconsistent statements regarding his alcohol problem raised doubts about his candor and commitment to sobriety.
Conditions Referenced
- G.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence
- G.4raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- G.5raisedConsumption of Alcohol, Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism by a Credentialed Medical Professional and Following Completion of an Alcohol Rehabilitation Program
Key Rule Quoted
“The issuance of the clearance is "clearly consistent with the interests of national security."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 16, 1996
- Answer filedApr 30, 1996
- Hearing held—Case decided on written record.
- Decision dateNov 15, 1996
Cite For
- Insufficient Demonstration of Rehabilitation Under Guideline G
- Impact of Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Credibility Issues Arising From Inconsistent Statements Regarding Alcohol Use