What Makes a Crime a Federal Offense?
Violation of Federal Law
Any crime that violates federal statutes becomes a federal offense. Examples include tax evasion, mail fraud, and counterfeiting.
Interstate Crimes
Crimes that cross state lines, such as kidnapping, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, are federal offenses.
Crimes on Federal Property
Crimes committed on federal property, such as national parks, military bases, or federal buildings, are prosecuted under federal law.
Involvement of Federal Agencies
Crimes investigated by federal agences (FBI, DEA, etc) typically become federal offenses.
Crimes Against Federal Employees
Offenses against federal employees, officials, or institutions (ex: assaulting a federal officer) are federal crimes.
