Document: 128 S. Ct. 558 (2007) Derrick KIMBROUGH, Petitioner, v. UNITED STATES. No. 06-6330. Supreme Court of United States. Argued October 2, 2007. Decided December 10, *563 Michael Nachmanoff, Alexandria, VA, for petitioner. R. Dreeben, Washington, D.C., respondent. Frances H. Pratt, Appellate Attorney, Counsel Record, *564 Federal Public Defender the Eastern District Virginia, Geremy C. Kamens, Kenneth P. Troccoli, Ass't Defenders Office The Defender, Petitioner. Paul D. Clement, Solicitor General, Alice Fisher, Assistant Attorney Deputy Kannon K. Shanmugam, to Nina Goodman, Jeffrey Singdahlsen, Department Justice, respondents. Justice GINSBURG delivered opinion Court. This Court's remedial in States Booker, 543 U.S. 220, 244, 125 738, 160 L. Ed. 2d 621 (2005), instructed district courts read Sentencing Guidelines as "effectively advisory," id., at 245, 738. In accord with 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a), Guidelines, formerly mandatory, now serve one factor among several must consider determining an appropriate sentence. Booker further that "reasonableness" is standard controlling appellate review sentences impose. Under statute criminalizing manufacture and distribution crack cocaine, 21 841, relevant prescription, 2D1.1, a drug trafficker dealing cocaine subject same sentence 100 times more powder cocaine. question here presented whether, Appeals held this case, "a ... outside guidelines range per se unreasonable when it based on disagreement sentencing disparity offenses." 174 Fed.Appx. 798, 799 (C.A.4 2006) (per curiam). We hold that, under like all other are advisory only, erred holding crack/powder effectively mandatory. A judge include array factors warranting consideration. may determine, however, particular within-Guidelines "greater than necessary" objectives sentencing. 3553(a) (2000 ed. Supp. V). making determination, between Guidelines' treatment offenses. I September 2004, petitioner Kimbrough was indicted Virginia charged four offenses: conspiracy distribute cocaine; possession intent 50 grams firearm furtherance drugtrafficking offense. pleaded guilty charges. statutes, Kimbrough's plea subjected him aggregate 15 years life prison: 10 three offenses, plus consecutive term 5 offense.[1] order determine *565 within statutory range, first calculated Guidelines.[2] acknowledged he accountable 56 92.1 quantity drugs yielded base offense level 32 See Commission, Manual 2D1.1(c) (Nov.2004) (USSG). Finding Kimbrough, by asserting sole culpability crime, had testified falsely his codefendant's trial, increased 34. 3C1.1. presentence report, court determined criminal history category II. An 34 II 168 210 months ch. 5, pt. A, Table. minimum, 60 months. USSG 2K2.4(b). final thus 228 270 months, or 19 22.5 years. judgment, would have been accomplish purposes set forth 3553(a). App. 72. As required took into account "nature circumstances" "history characteristics." Id., 72-73. also commented case exemplified "disproportionate unjust effect sentencing." regard, contrasted applied equivalent amount cocaine: 97 106 inclusive 5-year mandatory minimum charge, see 2D1.1(c); Concluding "clearly long enough" listed sentenced years, 180 prison supervised release. 74-75.[3] unpublished curiam opinion, Fourth Circuit vacated precedent, observed, "outside Fed.Appx., (citing Eura, 440 F.3d 625, 633-634 2006)). granted certiorari, 551 ___, 127 2933, 261 (2007), whether adopted *566 has rendered "advisory" our decision Booker.[4] begin some background different federal laws. Crack two forms drug. Powder hydrochloride, generally inhaled through nose; be mixed water injected. Special Report Congress: Cocaine Policy 12 (Feb.1995), available http://www.ussc.gov/crack/exec.htm (hereinafter 1995 Report). (All Internet materials visited Dec. 7, 2007, included Clerk file.) type base, formed dissolving baking soda boiling water. 14. resulting solid divided single-dose "rocks" users smoke. Ibid. active ingredient same. 9. physiological psychotropic effects, but smoking allows body absorb much faster inhaling produces shorter, intense high. 15-19.[5] Although chemically similar, handled very differently purposes.  1 ratio yields offenses six longer those involving equal amounts drugs. iv (May 2002), http://www.ussc.gov/r_congress/02crack/ 2002crackrpt.pdf 2002 Report).[6] means major supplier receive shorter low-level dealer who buys from then converts crack. 193-194. originated Anti-Drug Abuse Act 1986 (1986 Act), Stat. 3207. created two-tiered scheme five- ten-year manufacturing Congress sought "to link trafficking dealers five-year serious traffickers." 119. uses weight involved *567 proxy identify "major" "serious" dealers. For example, any defendant responsible heroin 841(b)(1)(B)(i) Supp V), 1,000 841(b)(1)(A)(i). relatively new signed law, already matter great public concern: "Drug abuse general, particular, become members' minds problem overwhelming dimensions." 121. apparently believed significantly dangerous that: (1) highly addictive; (2) were likely violent drugs; (3) harmful powder, particularly children exposed their mothers' use during pregnancy; (4) especially prevalent teenagers; (5) crack's potency low cost increasingly popular. 90. Based these assumptions, "100 ratio" treated every gram Act's applies 500 841(b)(1)(B)(ii), (iii); its 5,000 841(b)(1)(A)(ii), (iii). While considering adoption Act, Commission engaged formulating Guidelines.[7] main, developed using empirical approach data about past practices, including 10,000 investigation reports. 1A.1, intro. comment., ¶ 3. "modif[ied] adjust[ed] practice interests greater rationality, avoiding inconsistency, complying congressional instructions, like." Rita States, 2456, 2464, 203 (2007). did not developing drug-trafficking Instead, employed weightdriven scheme. table levels 2D1.1(c). setting line ratio. itself specifies only quantities each drug, "go full possible ratio." 1. sets ranging 12, less 250 milligrams (or 25 powder), 38, 1.5 kilograms 150 powder). 2D1.1(c).[8] *568 B immediately used define later unwarranted. additional research experience ratio, concluded "fails meet both Reform Act." 91. series reports, identified problems disparity. First, reported, rested assumptions "the relative harmfulness prevalence certain conduct associated recent no support." Ibid.; 8 2007), http://www.ussc.gov/r_congress/ cocaine2007.pdf 2007 Report) (ratio embedded far "overstate[s]" harmfulness" "seriousness most offenses"). found "significantly trafficking-related violence previously assumed." 100. It observed negative effects prenatal exposure identical exposure." 94. furthermore noted epidemic youth never materialized extent feared." 96. Second, inconsistent goal punishing traffickers severely Drug importers deal which converted street-level sellers. 66-67. But can lead "anomalous" result "retail get wholesale distributors supply them produced." 174. Finally, stated differential "fosters disrespect lack confidence justice system" because "widely-held perception" "promotes unwarranted race." 103. Approximately 85 percent defendants convicted black; severe imposed "primarily upon black offenders." Despite observations, Commission's reports do urge view, "some quantity-based penalties" warranted, 102, addictive involve weapons bodily injury, higher 93-94, 101-102. concluded, overstates differences Accordingly, recommended "substantially" reduced. viii. *569 C achieve reduction 1995, proposed amendments replaced Complementing change, installed special enhancements injury. Amendments Courts, Fed.Reg. 25075-25077 (1995). Congress, acting pursuant 28 994(p),[9] rejected amendments. Pub.L. 104-38, 1, 109 334. Simultaneously, directed "propose revision statutes guidelines." 2(a)(2), 335. response directive, issued 1997 recommending change prescribed Act. 2 (Apr. 1997), http://www.ussc.gov/r_congress/newcrack.pdf. lowering "at least" 20 Neither proposal prompted action. again urged amend reduce time, simply await ameliorating Guidelines. alteration, became effective November reduces levels. 72 Fed. Reg. 28571-28572 (2007).[10] modest amendment five powder. ibid.[11] Describing "only partial remedy" generated disparity, "[a]ny comprehensive solution requires legislative action Congress." 10. III With mind, we next status tied after (2005). *570 system violated Sixth Amendment. 226-227, cure sever excise provision 3553(b)(1) ed., IV).[12] modification statute, explained, "makes advisory." U.S., modified contains overarching instructing "impose sufficient, goals sentencing, reflect seriousness offense," promote respect law," provide just punishment afford adequate deterrence conduct," protect crimes defendant." provides sentence, should number factors, nature circumstances characteristics defendant," established" "any pertinent policy statement" authority, need avoid disparities similar records conduct." sum, while still give respectful consideration Gall ante, ___ 586, 594, 596, WL 4292116, "permits tailor light concerns well," 245-246, Government acknowledges "are advisory" general matter, "courts vary [from ranges] solely considerations, disagreements Guidelines." Brief 16; cf. 2465, (a arguments fails properly considerations"). contends adopting exception "general freedom apply [§ 3553(a)] factors." 16. That so, according Government, "specific determinatio[n] observe." 25. offers support position. turn. heavily pressed argument, urges prohibits disagreeing ratio.[13] *571 "Congress expressly direct incorporate 100:1 33 (brackets internal quotation marks omitted). Nevertheless, asserts "[i]mplicit[ly]" 32. Any deviation, urges, "logically incoherent" combined 33. argument encounters formidable obstacle: lacks grounding text terms, mandates maximum sentences: person 40 life. says nothing brackets, decline implicit directive silence. Jama Immigration Customs Enforcement, 335, 341, 694, 708 (2005) ("We lightly assume omitted requirements nonetheless intends ...."). Drawing meaning silence inappropriate here, shown knows how practices express terms. specifically recidivist offenders near" maximum. 994(h). 994(i) ("The shall assure specify substantial imprisonment" specified categories offenders.). Our cautious reading draws force Neal 516 284, 116 763, 133 709 (1996). methods calculating lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) weights, applicable sentences, calculation ranges. mixture substance containing detectable amount" LSD. 841(b)(1)(A)(v), (B)(v). Prior Neal, interpreted language carrier medium (usually blotter paper) LSD absorbed even though usually heavier itself. Chapman 453, 468, 111 1919, 114 524 (1991). Until 1993, way. year, changed "instructed dose constructive presumed 0.4 milligrams." 287, 763 2D1.1(c), n. (H) (Nov. 1995)). lowered remained pure medium. argued revised consistently "presumptive-weight method control calculation." 763. emphasizing purported interpret could event overrule *572 Chapman. 293-295, If Government's current position correct, jeopardy. recounted reasons alleged justify command Those Yet questioned validity altered To contrary, stated: "Entrusted sphere make judgments, abandon old favor what deemed desirable `approach' quantities." 295, 763.[14] does require adhere or, trigger sentences. addition relies Congress' disapproval 1995. "not disapproved 1:1 ratio," urges; made clear "that (and courts) take account, so manner respects 35. true place expressed view exceed cocaine." 2(a)(1)(A), reaction Commission-proposed 1 suggested recommend "revision emphasizes propose changes requirement, contends, implicitly foreclosed deviation *573 absence corresponding statute. 35-36. follow night follows day calling recommendations meant bar alteration advance proposals criticisms Part II-B, supra, concerned exorbitance contexts. Moreover, amendment, 569, varies (at levels) 80 28571-28572. Adopting analysis, amended conflict action, ratios deviate disapprove modify Commission-initiated amendment. Ordinarily, resist inaction. Bob Jones Univ. 461 574, 600, 103 2017, 76 157 (1983). failed act high-profile area exercised authority 994(p). else, tacit acceptance undermines position, implications drawn argues if free kinds will ensue. 3553(a)(6) (sentencing disparities"). remain bound deviations "cliffs" around minimums. (internal grant sizable downward variance distributing 49 impose gram. maintains permitted "defendants real markedly depending 40. persuades us untouchable courts. first, approved create risk "cliffs." offender possesses weighing ten whose weighs slightly considerably lower presumptive-weight methodology. Concerning second unquestioned uniformity remains important explained reasonableness *574 ongoing help "avoid excessive disparities." 264, These measures eliminate variations courts, recognized departures necessary remedy adopted. 263, 738 cannot claim `reasonableness' originally secure [through Guidelines]."). And note disparities: constrained minimums Act.[15] correctly identifies risks "unwarranted disparities" 3353(a)(6), proper treat Section directs along imposing Gall, 6, 596-597, 599, 4292116. instruction, reach weighed against IV rendering advisory, nevertheless preserved key role Commission. "starting point initial benchmark," established formulate constantly refine national standards. - 2464-2465, Carrying out fills institutional role: capacity "base determinations experience, guided professional staff expertise." Pruitt, 502 1154, 1171 (C.A.10 2007) (McConnell, J., concurring); 1171. accordingly ordinary recommendation "reflect rough approximation might 3553(a)'s objectives." Rita, S.Ct., 2465. judge, hand, familiarity individual before appeals court." 2469. He therefore "in superior find facts import 3353(a)" case. 4292116 discrete strengths, court's *575 attract greatest finds `heartland' apply." On binding, closer judge's considerations" mine-run Cf. Tr. Oral Arg. O.T.2007, 06-7949, pp. 38-39. present occasion elaborative discussion exemplify exercise characteristic role. ranges earlier noted, looked "empirical experience." F.3d, concurring). Indeed, reported disproportionately harsh sanctions, i.e., 568. Given this, discretion conclude purposes, V Taking foregoing appraising disposition 180-month survive inspection. began range. addressed factors. considered 3553(a)(1), unremarkable 72-73 ("[T]his another caught sitting car police officers that's sum [and they had] firearm."). 3553(a)(1). prior felony convictions, served combat Operation Desert Storm received honorable discharge Marine Corps, steady employment. Furthermore, alluded criticizing 3553(a)(5) (Supp. noting "recognizes caused damage alleges has." Comparing possessed purport establish own. Rather, appropriately framed determination instruction advanced 3553(a)(2). 570. [drove] case," 72, *576 considerations "committed procedural error," ultimate "whether reasonable Judge abused supported [15 years] justified range." 4.5 below bottom term, homed accorded consistent emphatic odds supra. aside attack unsupported Giving due reasoned appraisal, reviewing rationally 4.5-year qualified discretion. 601-602; 2469-2470, * stated, judgment reversed, remanded proceedings opinion. ordered. SCALIA, concurring. "closer 'fails considerations' "present[s] matter." Ante, (quoting (2007)). join unannounced abandonment following statements opinions: "[Our opinion] ranges, permits well, . "[W]ithout namely makes `the rules impose[s] binding judges' falls scope requirement. "The consult 259, "Under described BREYER's judges indicated obliged `take of' enumerated SRA 3553(a)." Cunningham California, 549 856, 867, 166 856 *577 "[The judge] hear prosecution defense apply, perhaps (as themselves foresee) hand 5K2.0, warrants regardless. Rule 32(f). "A nonbinding presumption Still forbid jury-determined standing alone. law concerned, disregard (higher unenhanced range) (say, gun brandishing) which, warrant statutorily permissible mean own application reject (after consideration) advice there thumb scales; followed where entirely reasonable; would, over large expanse application, entitle lesser presence rather jury. This, said violate THOMAS, dissenting. continue disagree fashioned 258-265, post-Booker cases illustrate why majority mistaken craft broader correct constitutional error. confronted host questions administer basis Because decisions necessarily grounded respectfully dissent. Amendment insofar permit findings raise beyond "`facts reflected jury verdict admitted defendant.'" 232, Blakely 542 296, 303, 124 2531, 159 403 (2004) (emphasis deleted)). my violation suitably remedied requiring such submitted 323-325, (THOMAS, dissenting part). longstanding severability unconstitutional applications provisions. 322-323, achieved compliance doing least regime enacted. 324-326, Court, *578 chose sweeping remedy. acknowledging "every gives rise violation," entirety mandated "reasonableness." 268, "solution fail[ed] wrong," dissented 313, approach, called decide multiplicity discernibly legal answers. Last Term, presumptively reasonable. Today, 169 445, holds substantially extraordinary circumstances. 100-to-1 crack-to-powder outcomes perfectly policy, law. mandate whole cloth. 307-312, (SCALIA, content standard, rely intent. asked regime, part categorical answer derives something quite clearly intended bind judgments. 3553(b) V) (excised Booker). By rejecting left forced devising joined SCALIA's dissent accepting "statutory stare decisis," 2475, am convinced principled way certainly think best written, 3553(b), Dickerson 530 428, 465, 120 2326, 147 405 (2000) dissenting). Applying departing affirm vacating petitioner's remanding resentencing. ALITO, *579 significant embodied decision, binding. draw distinction Guideline issue vacate remand reconsideration. NOTES [1] 841(b)(1)(A)(iii) 846 ed.). 0 841(b)(1)(C) (Supp.V). 924(c)(1)(A)(i). run concurrently, 3584(a), consecutive, 924(c)(1)(A). [2] April 2005, advisory. version 2004. [3] consisted counts, count, consecutively. [4] Courts Appeals. Compare Pickett, 475 1347, 1355-1356 (C.A.D.C.2007) (District sentence), Gunter, 462 237, 248-249 (C.A.3 (same), Leatch, 482 790, 791 (C.A.5 curiam) disparity), Johnson, 474 515, 522 (C.A.8 Castillo, 460 337, 361 (C.A.2 Williams, 456 1353, 1369 (C.A.11 Miller, 450 270, 275-276 (C.A.7 Pho, 433 53, 62-63 (C.A.1 (same). [5] Injecting few inject 18. [6] II-C, infra, reduced Except refers 2004 time [7] promulgating 1984, 98 1987, 3551 et seq. operative until ii-iv. [8] results 16 first-time offender; 38 235 293 offender. [9] Subsection 994(p) submit unless "modified [10] produce keyed pre-2007 5- 50-gram produced exceeded contrast, guideline penalties." [11] yet retroactive cover Kimbrough. Even 195 218 well above (2007); [12] severed excised de novo 3742(e), depended status. [13] concedes "based individualized circumstance[s]" 45. sense [14] At oral distinguish (1996), ground true, challenge fact, brief appeared acknowledge legitimately policies inconsistency. O.T.1995, 94-9088, p. 26 ("When views depart difficult address."). assumed legitimate authority. 294, (noting apparent approval independent calculation"). [15] roughly 70% yield correspond

Category: 0