PSH-24-0124 - In the Matter of Personnel Security Hearing

On October 9, 2024, an Administrative Judge determined that the Individual's access authorization should not be restored under 10 C.F.R. Part 710. The Individual is employed with a DOE Contractor in a position that requires him to hold a security clearance. The Local Security Office (LSO) received potentially derogatory information regarding the Individual's alcohol consumption.

The Individual and the DOE-consultant psychologist testified at the hearing. Although the record shows that the Individual attends Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, completed an alcohol awareness and education program, submitted to several alcohol tests, and sought therapy. However, the Individual failed to show adequate evidence of rehabilitation or reformation from his Alcohol Use Disorder diagnosis, as he was not abstinent for twelve months. Further he could not support his claims of abstinence with consistent alcohol testing, and the DOE-consultant psychologist did not have meaningful information from the Individual's therapist regarding the Individual's ongoing treatment . (OHA Case No. PSH-24-0124, Rahimzadeh)