Summary
A 48-year-old defense contractor employee was denied a security clearance due to a long history of alcohol abuse and dependence, with multiple treatment attempts and relapses. The denial was based on Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption), Guideline H (Drug Involvement), and Guideline I (Psychological Conditions).
The Statement of Reasons included allegations of alcohol-related incidents both at and away from work, a diagnosis of alcohol dependence by a medical professional, habitual or binge consumption leading to impaired judgment, and continued alcohol consumption after diagnosis and rehabilitation. The applicant also failed to maintain sobriety after treatment and did not demonstrate a commitment to sobriety or a long-term recovery plan.
Ultimately, the judge found that the applicant's ongoing alcohol dependence and repeated relapses, coupled with insufficient evidence of a commitment to sobriety, did not meet the national interest standard for clearance. The applicant's bipolar disorder was not considered a mitigating factor for his alcohol abuse, and the clearance was denied due to the applicant's failure to demonstrate long-term recovery efforts.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a long history of alcohol abuse and dependence, with multiple treatment attempts and relapses.
- The applicant failed to provide evidence of a long-term recovery plan or commitment to sobriety.
- The applicant's bipolar disorder was not considered a mitigating factor for his alcohol abuse.
Conditions Referenced
- G.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of 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.3rejectedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of SobrietyThe applicant's occasional periods of abstinence did not demonstrate a commitment to long-term sobriety.
Key Rule Quoted
“A person who seeks access to classified information enters into a fiduciary relationship with the Government predicated upon trust and confidence.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 10, 1997
- Answer filedFeb 24, 1997Applicant requested an administrative decision on the record.
- Hearing held—Applicant did not respond to the Government's FORM.
- Decision dateMay 7, 1997
Cite For
- Long History of Alcohol Abuse as a Disqualifying Factor Under Guideline G
- Insufficient Evidence of Commitment to Sobriety as a Basis for Denial
- Impact of Mental Health Issues on Alcohol Abuse Not Mitigating Under Guideline G