2009 FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES MANUAL

CHAPTER 5 - PART K - DEPARTURES

2.      OTHER GROUNDS FOR DEPARTURE

§5K2.22.    Specific Offender Characteristics as Grounds for Downward Departure in Child Crimes and Sexual Offenses (Policy Statement)

In sentencing a defendant convicted of an offense involving a minor victim under section 1201, an offense under section 1591, or an offense under chapter 71, 109A, 110, or 117, of title 18, United States Code:

                   (1)       Age may be a reason to depart downward only if and to the extent permitted by §5H1.1.

                   (2)       An extraordinary physical impairment may be a reason to depart downward only if and to the extent permitted by §5H1.4.

                   (3)       Drug, alcohol, or gambling dependence or abuse is not a reason to depart downward.

Commentary

Background: Section 401(b)(2) of Public Law 108–21 directly amended Chapter Five, Part K, to add this policy statement, effective April 30, 2003.

Historical Note: Effective April 30, 2003 (see Appendix C, amendment 649). Amended effective November 1, 2004 (see Appendix C, amendment 674).