MEMORANDUM AND ORDER

CATHERINE C. BLAKE, District Judge.

Now pending is the motion by Jimmie Troutman for a reduced sentence under Section 404 of the First Step Act of 2018 ("FSA"). For the reasons that follow, the motion will be granted in part. The sentence will be reduced by 30 months, from 262 to 232 months.

Troutman's career offender guidelines at the time of sentencing, following his guilty plea to distribution of more than 5 grams of cocaine base, were 210-262 months (32/VI). Today, those guidelines would be 168-210 months (30/VI). He was sentenced to 262 months, the high end of the range, in light of his criminal history and issues related to acceptance of responsibility. He now requests a reduction to 210 months.

The government agrees that Troutman is eligible for a reduction of sentence, but correctly notes that eligibility alone does not mandate a reduction. The court should consider the factors under 18 U.S.C. § 3553(a), and may include post-offense conduct in making its determination. As explained below, the relevant factors warrant some reduction but not to the extent sought by the defense.

First, while the offense itself did not involve a substantial quantity of drugs or a firearm, Troutman had a lengthy and significant history involving both drugs and violence. Second, his post-offense conduct is mixed. On the one hand, it appears he has taken advantage of multiple programs within the BOP and, with the support of family members, has a reasonable re-entry plan. On the other hand, he has a number of disciplinary infractions, one as recent as 2018, involving assaults or fighting. He also has some health issues, including the aftereffects of stroke, which may affect his oral communication. It is not clear whether he has received the treatment that might be warranted for his current medical needs.

Given the very substantial length of the sentence already served, his health issues, and the purpose of the First Step Act to lessen the disparity between past sentences for crack and powder cocaine, I conclude that some reduction is warranted. A sentence of 232 months is sufficient without being greater than necessary to serve the purposes of sentencing. Careful planning for Troutman's re-entry and close supervision upon release will be required.

Accordingly, the motion (ECF No. 83) is GRANTED, to the extent that the sentence will be reduced to 232 months. An amended J&C will be issued.

So Ordered.