Summary
This case concerns a 56-year-old CEO of a family business who sought a security clearance under Guideline G (Alcohol Consumption). The Statement of Reasons detailed two instances of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), occurring on December 20, 1994, with a blood alcohol level of .12%, and on February 25, 1997, with a blood alcohol level of .18%. Additionally, allegations included a diagnosis of alcohol abuse by a credentialed medical professional and habitual or binge consumption leading to impaired judgment. Disqualifying conditions G.1, G.3, and G.4 were raised.
Following his last DWI in February 1997, the applicant entered a 28-day inpatient treatment program. He has since maintained sobriety for over a year, actively participating in Alcoholics Anonymous and family therapy. His therapist provided a favorable prognosis.
The judge determined that the applicant's significant commitment to sobriety and positive changes mitigated the security concerns, applying mitigating conditions G.3 and G.4. Based on his successful completion of treatment, sustained sobriety, and active participation in recovery programs, the security clearance was GRANTED.
Why the applicant prevailed
- The applicant demonstrated a significant commitment to sobriety after a history of alcohol abuse.
- He successfully completed an inpatient treatment program and actively participates in Alcoholics Anonymous.
- The applicant has maintained over a year of sobriety and received a favorable prognosis from his therapist.
Conditions referenced
- G.1raisedAlcohol-related Incidents Away From Work, Such as Driving While Under the Influence.
- G.3raisedDiagnosis by a Credentialed Medical Professional of Alcohol Abuse.
- G.4raisedHabitual or Binge Consumption of Alcohol to the Point of Impaired Judgment.
- 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
“"the clearly consistent standard indicates that security-clearance determinations should err, if they must, on the side of denials."”
Procedural posture
- SOR issuedDec 12, 1997
- Answer filedJan 30, 1998
- Hearing heldMar 3, 1998
- Decision dateApr 21, 1998
Cite for
- Mitigation of Alcohol Abuse Concerns Under Guideline G
- Importance of Active Participation in Recovery Programs
- Consideration of Favorable Prognosis From Treatment Professionals