Summary
A 40-year-old senior systems engineer was denied a security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), Guideline H (Drug Involvement), and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions). The denial stemmed from a history of excessive alcohol abuse, extensive drug involvement, and a diagnosis of schizophrenia, paranoid type, though noted to be in full remission.
The applicant's alcohol history included consumption to the point of intoxication from 1971 to at least 1997, a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence, and failure to comply with treatment. This history also involved habitual or binge consumption, alcohol-related incidents away from work, consuming alcohol on duty, hospitalization for alcohol issues, an arrest for driving under the influence, and convictions for public intoxication.
Regarding drug involvement, the applicant used marijuana daily from 1971 to 1996, even while holding a security clearance, and sold marijuana on approximately three occasions in the 1970s. Other drug use included cocaine in 1985, LSD on about 14 occasions in the early 1970s, and hash at some point. The applicant also used and sold psilocybin on two occasions between 1975 and 1977, and sold amphetamines, methamphetamines, and dextroamphetamines on one occasion in 1975. A diagnosis of cannabis abuse in full, early remission was noted, and the applicant had not completed a prescribed drug treatment program. The judge concluded that these factors posed a risk to the applicant's reliability and judgment.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a long history of excessive alcohol abuse, including multiple alcohol-related incidents.
- The applicant was diagnosed with schizophrenia, paranoid type, which could result in future psychological issues affecting judgment and reliability.
- The applicant's drug involvement included daily marijuana use for many years, raising concerns about his ability to safeguard classified information.
Conditions Referenced
- G1raisedExcessive Alcohol Involvement
- H1raisedDrug Involvement
- I1raisedMental Condition
Key Rule Quoted
“The granting (or continuance) of a security clearance under this Directive may only be done upon a finding that to do so is clearly consistent with the national interest.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedJun 26, 1997
- Answer filedJul 17, 1997
- Hearing heldOct 1, 1997
- Decision dateDec 31, 1997
Cite For
- Excessive Alcohol Abuse as a Disqualifying Factor Under Guideline G
- Mental Health Issues Impacting Security Clearance Under Guideline I
- Drug Involvement Affecting Judgment and Reliability Under Guideline H