This section covers the disruption of governmental functions in the commission of an offense.

2010 FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES MANUAL

CHAPTER FIVE – DETERMINING THE SENTENCE

PART K – DEPARTURES

2. OTHER GROUNDS FOR DEPARTURE

§5K2.7. Disruption of Governmental Function (Policy Statement)

If the defendant’s conduct resulted in a significant disruption of a governmental function, the court may increase the sentence above the authorized guideline range to reflect the nature and extent of the disruption and the importance of the governmental function affected. Departure from the guidelines ordinarily would not be justified when the offense of conviction is an offense such as bribery or obstruction of justice; in such cases interference with a governmental function is inherent in the offense, and unless the circumstances are unusual the guidelines will reflect the appropriate punishment for such interference.

Historical Note: Effective November 1, 1987.

(EFFECTIVE November 1, 2010)

United States Sentencing Commission