This section covers weapons or dangerous instrumentalities used in the commission of an offense.

2010 FEDERAL SENTENCING GUIDELINES MANUAL

CHAPTER FIVE – DETERMINING THE SENTENCE

PART K – DEPARTURES

2. OTHER GROUNDS FOR DEPARTURE

§5K2.6. Weapons and Dangerous Instrumentalities (Policy Statement)

If a weapon or dangerous instrumentality was used or possessed in the commission of the offense the court may increase the sentence above the authorized guideline range. The extent of the increase ordinarily should depend on the dangerousness of the weapon, the manner in which it was used, and the extent to which its use endangered others. The discharge of a firearm might warrant a substantial sentence increase.

Historical Note: Effective November 1, 1987.

(EFFECTIVE November 1, 2010)

United States Sentencing Commission