In many cases, if you commit a crime the local government steps in to charge you. This means that a county, city, or state prosecutor builds a case against you, but sometimes they aren’t the only ones who have had their eye on you. Federal law enforcement agencies may have also been investigating any alleged transgressions, and this can mean that you end up facing charges for a federal crime as well. A Des Moines criminal defense lawyer from our firm is ready to help you defend yourself no matter who is filing charges against you.
Can a Violent Crime Be a Federal Crime?
Some people think that a federal crime has to be something more serious than a typical criminal infraction, which leads many to assume that a violent crime is one that’s more likely to attract interest from the country’s top cops. This isn’t necessarily true, but some hate crimes, organized crime, firearms offenses, and other offenses with a violent element can be charged as federal crimes.
What is the Main Factor That Determines Whether a Crime is Federal?
What often makes an offense a federal crime is where it takes place. Crimes that cross state and national lines are far more likely to get the feds involved. Some good examples include:
- Transporting stolen goods across state lines
- Crimes involving federal programs, like Medicare
- Human trafficking
- Drug trafficking
There are also crimes that the U.S. government usually takes jurisdiction over, no matter where they occurred in the United States. This can include financial crimes, like embezzlement or insider trading, or civil rights violations and hate crimes. Cybercrimes, like hacking, are often left to the feds because interstate communications infrastructure has to be used.
What Happens if a Crime is Committed on Federal Land?
It is also important to note that a crime that might not normally be considered a federal crime could be considered one if it’s committed in the right place. Get accused of committing a crime on federal land, like in a national park or on a military base, and that’s likely to come with federal charges. A good example of this would be vandalizing a federal monument. You didn’t commit a crime in multiple states or jurisdictions, but it’s still a federal crime because it happened on federal land.
Can I Be Charged By the State and Country at the Same Time?
If an agency like the Drug Enforcement Administration or the FBI decides to charge you with a crime, that may not be all you have to worry about. If you have already been charged with a state crime, the prosecutor might continue your case. You can end up facing federal and state charges at the same time and this doesn’t violate double jeopardy.
Talk to a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Whether you are facing federal or state charges, you need someone to advocate for you and help you stand up for your rights. Contact Herting Law, PLLC to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our experienced defense attorneys can be of assistance today.
