Summary
A 39-year-old male defense contractor employee was denied retention of his security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption) due to a history of excessive alcohol use. The Statement of Reasons alleged that the applicant consumed alcohol to excess, was diagnosed with alcohol dependence, reported for work under the influence, had a history of binge drinking, failed to complete or comply with treatment, and resumed drinking after treatment.
Disqualifying conditions G.2., G.3., and G.4. were raised, while mitigating condition G.3. was applied. The judge found that the applicant had a long history of excessive alcohol consumption, including periods of drinking 20 beers per day. Despite multiple treatment programs for his diagnosed alcohol dependence, he resumed excessive drinking shortly after completing them.
Ultimately, the applicant had not maintained sobriety for a sufficient duration to demonstrate reliable rehabilitation. Therefore, the judge concluded that the applicant's history of alcohol dependence and recent relapse did not mitigate security concerns, resulting in the denial of his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant had a long history of excessive alcohol consumption, including periods of drinking 20 beers per day.
- He was diagnosed with alcohol dependence and underwent multiple treatment programs, yet resumed excessive drinking shortly after treatment.
- The applicant had not been sober for a sufficient duration to demonstrate reliable rehabilitation.
Conditions Referenced
- G.2.raisedAlcohol-related Incidents at Work
- G.3.raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- G.4.raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- G.3.rejectedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of SobrietyThe applicant's recent attempts at sobriety were insufficient to mitigate the extensive history of alcohol dependence.
Key Rule Quoted
“The adjudication process is the careful weighing of a number of variables known as the whole person concept.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedSep 27, 1996
- Answer filed—
- Hearing heldJan 16, 1997
- Decision dateJan 27, 1997
Cite For
- Denial of Clearance Due to History of Alcohol Dependence
- Impact of Recent Relapse on Security Clearance Eligibility
- Insufficient Evidence of Rehabilitation After Treatment for Alcohol Abuse