This section covers offenses regarding border tunnels and subterranean passages.

§2X7.1. Border Tunnels and Subterranean Passages

(a)Base Offense Level:

(1)If the defendant was convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 555(c), 4 plus the offense level applicable to the underlying smuggling offense. If the resulting offense level is less than level 16, increase to level 16.

(2)16, if the defendant was convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 555(a); or

(3)8, if the defendant was convicted under 18 U.S.C. § 555(b).

Commentary

Statutory Provision: 18 U.S.C. § 555.

Application Notes:

1.Definition.—For purposes of this guideline, “underlying smuggling offense” means the smuggling offense the defendant committed through the use of the tunnel or subterranean passage.

Historical Note: Effective November 1, 2007 (see Appendix C, amendment 700). Amended effective November 1, 2008 (see Appendix C, amendment 724).

(EFFECTIVE November 1, 2010)

United States Sentencing Commission