good evening snackers
did you know that criminal sentencing in the USA is based upon your prior convictions, which place you into 1 of 7 categories? the system operates as follows:
* Criminal History Category I: 0 or 1 criminal history point
* Criminal History Category II: 2 or 3 criminal history points
* Criminal History Category III: 4, 5, or 6 criminal history points
* Criminal History Category IV: 7, 8, or 9 criminal history points
* Criminal History Category V: 10, 11, or 12 criminal history points
* Criminal History Category VI: 13 or more criminal history points
How are these points calculated?
Points are generally assigned based on the severity and recency of prior convictions. Here's a general overview of the common scoring rules (though specific details and exceptions exist in the full guidelines):
* 3 points: For each prior sentence of imprisonment exceeding one year and one month (13 months). There's no limit to the number of points that can be counted under this subsection, meaning multiple serious prior sentences can quickly add up.
* 2 points: For each prior sentence of imprisonment of at least 60 days but not more than 13 months.
* 1 point: For each prior sentence of less than 60 days imprisonment, or other non-imprisonment sentences (like probation or fines). There's typically a maximum of 4 points that can be added under this section.
* Additional points for "status": If the current offense was committed while the defendant was under a criminal justice sentence (e.g., on probation, parole, supervised release, in prison, or on escape status), additional points may be added. Recent amendments (like Amendment 821) have changed how "status points" are applied, limiting them for individuals with fewer overall criminal history points.
thank you for reading today's snacker facts. have a good one!
