Summary
A 34-year-old defense contractor was denied a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) and Guideline J (Criminal Conduct) due to a history of alcohol-related incidents and criminal behavior. The applicant had multiple arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) and disorderly conduct, along with other alcohol-related offenses. A qualified professional diagnosed the applicant with alcohol dependence, and the applicant engaged in habitual or binge consumption of alcohol, leading to impaired judgment.
Despite participating in inpatient treatment and Alcoholics Anonymous, the applicant consumed alcohol after the diagnosis and rehabilitation program, failing to comply with aftercare recommendations. The applicant also reported to work in an impaired condition due to alcohol. This pattern of incidents, including multiple DUI offenses, raised significant security concerns regarding judgment and reliability.
The denial was based on the applicant's failure to maintain sobriety after treatment, a recent relapse, and an ongoing pattern of binge drinking. The applicant did not provide sufficient evidence of rehabilitation or positive behavioral changes, nor did they establish a favorable prognosis for recovery from alcohol dependence.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a history of multiple alcohol-related incidents, including DWIs and disorderly conduct.
- The applicant was diagnosed with alcohol dependency syndrome and failed to maintain sobriety after treatment.
- The applicant's pattern of binge drinking and relapses indicated a lack of rehabilitation and posed a security risk.
Conditions Referenced
- G.1appliedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- G.3appliedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence
- G.4appliedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- G.5appliedConsumption of Alcohol, Subsequent to a Diagnosis of Alcoholism by a Credentialed Medical Professional and Following Completion of an Alcohol Rehabilitation Program
- J.1appliedAny Criminal Conduct, Regardless of Whether the Person Was Formally Charged
- J.2appliedA Single Serious Crime or Multiple Lesser Offenses
Key Rule Quoted
“A decision to grant or continue an applicant's clearance may be made only upon an affirmative finding that to do so is clearly consistent with the national interest.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJun 6, 1996
- Answer filedJun 25, 1996Applicant indicated decision could be made without a hearing.
- Hearing heldMar 20, 1997
- Decision dateMay 9, 1997
Cite For
- Denial Based on a Pattern of Alcohol-related Incidents Under Guideline G
- Impact of Criminal Conduct on Security Clearance Under Guideline J
- Consideration of Rehabilitation Efforts in the Context of Recent Relapses