Section 1B1.1 (Application Instructions) sets forth the instructions for determining the applicable guideline range and type of sentence to impose, in accordance with the Guidelines Manual. The following is a summary of the steps for applying the guidelines and is provided only for the convenience of the reader.
(1) Refer to the Statutory Index (Appendix A) to determine the offense guideline section from Chapter Two (Offense Conduct) applicable to the offense of conviction. See §1B1.2 (Applicable Guidelines).
(2) In accordance with §1B1.3 (Relevant Conduct), determine the base offense level and apply any appropriate specific offense characteristics, cross references, and special instructions contained in the particular guideline in Chapter Two in the order listed.
(3) Apply the adjustments as appropriate related to victim, role in the offense, obstruction of justice, as well as additional statutory sentencing enhancements, as provided in Part A, Part B, and Part C of Chapter Three.
(4) If there are multiple counts of conviction, repeat steps (1) through (3) for each count. Apply §3D1.1 (Procedure for Determining Offense Level on Multiple Counts) to determine the combined offense level applicable to all counts.
(5) Apply the adjustment for the defendant’s acceptance of responsibility and the reduction pursuant to an early disposition program, as appropriate, from Part E and Part F of Chapter Three.
(6) Determine the defendant’s criminal history category as specified in Part A of Chapter Four. Determine any other applicable adjustments using Part B and Part C of Chapter Four.
(7) Determine the applicable guideline range in Part A of Chapter Five by locating the cell in the Sentencing Table that is at the intersection of the offense level and criminal history category determined above.
(8) For the applicable guideline range, determine from Parts B through G of Chapter Five the sentencing requirements and options related to probation, imprisonment, supervised release, restitution, fines, special assessments, and forfeitures.
(9) Apply, as appropriate, Part K of Chapter Five.
(10) Consider the other applicable factors in 18 U.S.C.§ 3553(a) to determine a sentence that is sufficient, but not greater than necessary, to comply with the purposes of sentencing.