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Chapter 3 · Part B · 2026 Manual

Role in the Offense

United States Sentencing Commission · Effective November 1, 2026

Introductory Commentary

This part provides adjustments to the offense level based upon the role the defendant played in committing the offense. The determination of a defendant’s role in the offense is to be made on the basis of all conduct within the scope of §1B1.3 (Relevant Conduct), i.e., all conduct included under §1B1.3(a)(1)–(4), and not solely on the basis of elements and acts cited in the count of conviction.

When an offense is committed by more than one participant, §3B1.1 or §3B1.2 (or neither) may apply. Section 3B1.3 may apply to offenses committed by any number of participants.

Historical note

Effective November 1, 1987. Amended effective November 1, 1990 (amendment 345); November 1, 1992 (amendment 456); November 1, 2023 (amendment 824).

§3B1.1 Aggravating Role §3B1.2 Mitigating Role §3B1.3 Abuse of Position of Trust or Use of Special Skill §3B1.4 Using a Minor To Commit a Crime §3B1.5 Use of Body Armor in Drug Trafficking Crimes and Crimes of Violence

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From the United States Sentencing Commission's 2026 Guidelines Manual, effective November 1, 2026. This site is an independent presentation of the Commission's text, not affiliated with the Commission.

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