Starting level and typical ranges
These ranges use the starting level alone, before any adjustments, for someone with no criminal record unless the column says otherwise. Most real cases add levels.
| Starting point | Level | Trial | Guilty plea | Plea + zero-point | Category IV, plea |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| What was the purpose or effect of the device: None of the other descriptions fit | 6 | 0–6 months | 0–6 months | 0–6 months | 2–8 months |
Important details
- Three of the four starting points borrow the offense level from another guideline (§2D1.9, §2B1.1 or §2A2.2). Work out that guideline's level and enter it. The level is never below 6 (§2Q1.6(a)(4)).
- The calculator does not apply mandatory minimum sentences set by statute for this offense. If the statute of conviction requires one and it is higher than the range shown, the minimum controls; check the statute or ask a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
What is the base offense level for hazardous devices on federal land?
The guideline for hazardous devices on federal land is §2Q1.6 of the federal Sentencing Guidelines. Its starting level is 6, before any adjustments. In some cases the starting level is taken from another offense instead; the calculator asks when that applies.
What is the guideline range for hazardous devices on federal land with no criminal history points and a guilty plea?
Using the starting level alone, a person with no criminal history points who pleads guilty scores 0–6 months, including the 2-level zero-point reduction. Adjustments such as role in the offense or obstruction can change the level, and the judge can sentence outside the range.
Is probation possible for hazardous devices on federal land?
The guidelines allow it at the starting level: with a guilty plea and the zero-point reduction the range begins at 0 months (Zone A), so prison is not required, unless the offense is a Class A or B felony or the statute rules probation out (§5B1.1(b)). Added facts can raise the range out of Zone A.
Is the calculator accurate for hazardous devices on federal land?
It follows §2Q1.6 of the Guidelines Manual effective November 1, 2025. It passed 5 review rounds, each comparing every number, rule and label with the manual text, and its last round found nothing to correct. Those reviews were done with AI tools, not by lawyers, and it has not yet been reviewed by an attorney, so mistakes are possible. The guidelines are advisory, and a lawyer who knows the case can tell you what actually applies.
Related offenses
- Wildlife TraffickingIllegally took, sold, imported or smuggled fish, wildlife or plantsVerified
- Knowing Endangerment by PollutionKnowingly put a person in imminent danger by mishandling pollutantsVerified
- Hazardous Waste ViolationsMishandled hazardous or toxic substances, or falsified the recordsVerified
- Environmental Pollution ViolationsMishandled other pollutants, or falsified pollution recordsVerified
- Public Water System TamperingTampered with, or threatened to tamper with, a public water supplyVerified