Summary
A 44-year-old U.S. Government contractor employee was denied a Secret security clearance due to concerns under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The case focused on the applicant's history of alcohol use, including a diagnosis of alcohol dependence and an alcohol-related incident where he threatened his wife while intoxicated.
The Statement of Reasons alleged a history of alcohol-related incidents away from work, a diagnosis of alcohol abuse or dependence by a medical professional, and habitual or binge consumption leading to impaired judgment. It also noted the applicant's failure to complete or comply with treatment or aftercare requirements, and continued alcohol consumption after his diagnosis. Disqualifying Conditions 1, 3, and 4 were raised, while Mitigating Conditions 3 and 4 were applied.
Ultimately, the clearance was denied because the applicant had a history of habitual drinking and a diagnosis of alcohol dependence. He failed to complete a recommended aftercare program and did not frequently participate in support meetings, leading the judge to conclude that he had not demonstrated sufficient rehabilitation or a favorable prognosis.
Why the Applicant Was Denied
- The applicant has a history of habitual drinking and was diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
- He had an alcohol-related incident involving a threat to his wife while intoxicated.
- The applicant failed to complete the recommended aftercare program and did not participate frequently in support meetings.
Conditions Referenced
- DC 1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work
- DC 3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse or Dependence
- DC 4raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment
- MC 3appliedPositive Changes in Behavior Supportive of Sobriety
- MC 4rejectedSuccessful Completion of Rehabilitation and Favorable PrognosisThe applicant did not receive a favorable prognosis and failed to complete the aftercare program.
Key Rule Quoted
“It is difficult to see how the Board would be able to review security-clearance determinations under a preponderance of the evidence standard without departing from the 'clearly consistent with the interests of the national security' test.”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedFeb 26, 1997
- Answer filedMar 14, 1997Applicant elected to proceed on a written record.
- Hearing held—No hearing; case determined on written record.
- Decision dateJul 23, 1997
Cite For
- Denial Based on History of Alcohol Dependence Under Guideline G
- Failure to Demonstrate Sufficient Rehabilitation After Treatment
- Impact of Alcohol-related Incidents on Security Clearance Eligibility