2010 FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES MANUAL
CHAPTER FIVE - DETERMINING THE SENTENCE
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).