A federal crime is any violation of criminal laws or statutes developed by the United States Congress. It is possible for a particular offense to a violation of both federal and state law. The decision to prosecute a criminal offense as a federal crime is at the discretion of the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ). The USDOJ may decide to prosecute the offense or refer the case to the state.

 

Federal crimes can be divided into the following categories:

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• Federal Sex Crimes– Sexually motivated crimes and crimes involving children are treated especially seriously by federal agencies. Common federal sex offenses include the following offenses:

  • Child pornography,

  • Sex trafficking,

  • Aggravated sexual abuse, and

  • Sexual abuse of a minor or ward.

• Federal Drug Crimes-Many drug offenses may also be investigated and prosecuted as federal crimes. Common federal drug crimes include the following offenses:

  • Drug trafficking,

  • Drug importation, and

  • Drug exportation.

• Federal White Collar Crimes– Generally, when an individual thinks of white collar crimes he or she thinks of federal white collar crimes. Common federal white collar crimes include the following offenses:

  • Insider trading,

  • Securities fraud,

  • Computer or internet fraud,

  • Tax evasion, or

  • Credit card fraud.

• Federal Weapons Crimes– Due to the high number of violent crimes in the United States each year, the federal government has cracked down on the enforcement of firearm and weapon statutes. Common federal firearm and weapons offenses include the following:

  • Possession of a prohibited firearm,

  • Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and

  • Commercial robbery.

 

Federal charges are handled in a completely different manner than state charges. You need to have an attorney that is well versed in the sentencing guidelines and the newly passed First Step Act.

 

Mr. Kordalis has handled federal cases in the Southern District of Ohio and the Southern District of Illinois. Call us today to discuss your federal case.