Barrett v. United States

Questions presented

SCOTUS records, cert granted 3 Mar 2025

I. Whether the Double Jeopardy Clause permits two sentences for an act that violates 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) and§ 924(j), a question that divides seven circuits but about which the Solicitor General and Petitioner agree. II. Whether "Hobbs Act robbery qualifies as a crime of violence under §924(c) (3)(A), a question left open after" United States v. Taylor, 596 U.S. 845 (2022). United States v. Stoney, 62 F.4th 108, 113 (3d Cir. 2023).

Opinion summary

Etalia.ai summary of the majority opinion

Justice Jackson wrote that Congress did not clearly authorize two convictions for a single act that violates both 18 U.S.C. §924(c)(1)(A)(i) and §924(j). The Court said those provisions are the same offense under Blockburger, so the usual presumption against multiple punishments applies unless Congress clearly says otherwise. The Court found no such clear statement in the text, structure, or operation of the statute. Section 924(c)’s consecutive-sentence language addresses sentencing only, not whether two convictions may be entered. Section 924(j) was treated as an alternative penalty provision for a §924(c) violation that causes death, not a supplement that creates an additional conviction. The Court therefore reversed in part and remanded.