United States Sentencing Commission

• Pages: 80-85

UNITED STATES SENTENCING COMMISSION

Suite 2-500, South Lobby, One Columbus Circle NE., Washington, DC 20002-

8002

Phone, 202-502-4500. Internet, www.ussc.gov.

Chair Ricardo H. Hinojosa

Vice Chairs Ruben Castillo, William K. Sessions III, John R. Steer

Commissioners Beryl A. Howell, Michael E. Horowitz,

(vacancy)

Commissioners (ex officio) Edward F. Reilly, Jr., Deborah J. Rhodes

Staff Director Timothy B. McGrath

General Counsel Charles R. Tetzlaff

Public Affairs Officer Michael Courlander

Director of Administration and Planning Susan L. Winarsky

Director and Chief Counsel of Training Pamela G. Montgomery

Director of Legislative and Governmental Affairs Kenneth P. Cohen

Director of Monitoring J. Deon Haynes, Acting

Director of Policy Analysis Louis W. Reedt, Acting

Special Counsel Judith W. Sheon

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The United States Sentencing Commission develops sentencing guidelines and policies for the Federal court system.

The United States Sentencing Commission was established as an independent agency in the judicial branch of the Federal Government by the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 (28 U.S.C. 991 et seq. and 18 U.S.C.

3551 et seq.). The Commission establishes sentencing guidelines and policies for the Federal courts, advising them as to the appropriate form and severity of punishment for offenders convicted of Federal crimes.

The Commission is composed of seven voting members appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate for 6-year terms, and two nonvoting members. One of the voting members is appointed Chairperson.

The Commission evaluates the effects of the sentencing guidelines on the criminal justice system, advises Congress regarding the modification or enactment of statutes relating to criminal law and sentencing matters, establishes a research and development program on sentencing issues, and performs other related duties.

In executing its duties, the Commission promulgates and distributes to Federal courts and to the U.S. probation system guidelines to be consulted in determining sentences to be imposed in criminal cases, general policy statements regarding the application of guidelines, and policy statements...