Louisiana Administrative Code
Title 22 - CORRECTIONS, CRIMINAL JUSTICE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Part IX - Sentencing Commission
Subpart 1 - Felony Sentencing Guidelines
Chapter 2 - Determining Sentences Under the Sentencing Guidelines
Section IX-201 - Sentencing Guidelines Grid

A. The basis for the sentence for any offender convicted of a felony is determined by locating the designated sentence range in the appropriate cell of the sentencing guidelines grid, hereinafter referred to as the grid. See Chapter 4, §403 A, Sentencing Guidelines Grid. The appropriate cell is determined by the crime seriousness level of the offense and the criminal history index of the offender.

B. In imposing a sentence under the guidelines, the court shall state for the record the factors which led the court to determine that the cell in the grid was appropriate. The court may refer to any pre-sentence investigation report or a sentencing guidelines report, if available, in stating for the record the factual basis for imposing sentence.

C. If the sentence imposed falls within the range of the appropriate cell of the grid, the sentence is appropriate for purposes of the guidelines and the court is not required to set forth additional factors justifying the selection of the particular sentence.

D. Sentences greater or lesser than a penalty within the designated sentence range should be determined through the procedures for departure. See §209, Departures from the Designated Sentence Range.

E. Use of mandatory minimum sentences, concurrent or consecutive sentences, and other sentencing considerations should be determined through the procedures set forth in the guidelines or as otherwise provided by law.