Summary
This case concerns a 45-year-old defense contractor, employed since 1995, who sought a security clearance despite a history of excessive alcohol consumption. The Statement of Reasons (SOR) raised concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), specifically citing excessive consumption, alcohol-related incidents at work, a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence, and continued consumption after diagnosis and rehabilitation. Disqualifying conditions G.2, G.3, G.4, and G.5 were initially raised.
However, the applicant demonstrated significant mitigating factors. She successfully completed both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs for alcohol dependence and has maintained sobriety since February 9, 1996. Her commitment to sobriety is further evidenced by regular attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous and a supportive network.
A medical professional provided a favorable prognosis, assessing a low risk of relapse. The judge concluded that these positive changes in behavior and lifestyle, along with the sustained sobriety and professional medical assessment, supported the applicant's case. Consequently, mitigating conditions G.3 and G.4 were applied, and the security clearance was GRANTED.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- The applicant has maintained sobriety since February 9, 1996, attending AA regularly and having a supportive network.
- She successfully completed inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs for alcohol dependence.
- The applicant received a favorable prognosis from a medical professional regarding her risk of relapse.
Conditions Referenced
- G.2raisedAlcohol-related Incidents at 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
- G.3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety
- G.4appliedFollowing Diagnosis of Alcohol Abuse or Alcohol Dependence, the Individual Has Successfully Completed Inpatient or Outpatient Rehabilitation Along with Aftercare Requirements, Participates Frequently in Meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous or a Similar Organization, Abstained From Alcohol for a Period of at Least 12 Months, and Received a Favorable Prognosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional
Key Rule Quoted
“A decision to grant or continue an applicant's security clearance may be made only upon an affirmative finding that to do so is clearly consistent with the national interest.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedOct 28, 1996
- Answer filedNov 15, 1996
- Hearing heldFeb 10, 1997Applicant requested a continuance due to a work conflict.
- Decision dateMar 21, 1997
Cite For
- Successful Rehabilitation and Commitment to Sobriety Under Guideline G
- Evidence of Positive Changes in Behavior Mitigating Alcohol-related Concerns
- Favorable Prognosis From a Medical Professional as a Mitigating Factor