Opinion ID: 3209137
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 3

Heading: Sentencing Guidelines Policy Statements

Text: In addition to considering the § 3553(a) factors, a court must determine whether granting a reduction is “consistent with applicable policy statements issued by the Sentencing Commission” — namely, § 1B1.10. 18 U.S.C. § 3582(c)(2). Section 1B1.10 cmt (1)(B) instructs that the court shall consider § 3553(a) factors and shall consider the nature and seriousness of the danger to the community. U.S.S.G. § 1B1.10 cmt. n.1(B)(i)-(ii) (2014) (emphasis added). The third subsection of the policy statement uses different language, stating the “court may consider post-sentencing conduct of the defendant that occurred after imposition of the term of imprisonment.” Id. § 1B1.10 cmt (1)(B)(iii) (emphasis added). This contrasting language indicates that while the court certainly may consider the post-sentencing conduct of a defendant, it is not required to do so. Moreover, like the language in the statute itself, the policy requires only consideration, not explanation, by the court.