Does Local Law Enforcement Respond to Federal Crimes in Ohio?
March 4, 2025
When a person commits a federal crime in Ohio, which law enforcement agencies respond to the report of the crime? In many cases, local or state law enforcement agencies may play an initial role in federal criminal investigations, although the case may ultimately end up in the hands of federal law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. Local and state law enforcement agencies may work with federal agencies to investigate federal crimes.
Differences Between Federal and State Crimes
Although federal and state criminal law outlaws many of the same offenses, the two criminal justice systems have multiple key differences. First, federal crimes typically occur across state lines or national borders, use the post office or telecommunication systems, or occur on U.S. government property. Otherwise, crimes tend to fall under state jurisdiction. The federal criminal justice system usually handles more serious and complex criminal offenses, such as terrorism, drug trafficking, racketeering, white-collar crimes, and securities fraud.
However, a criminal offense can result in prosecution in federal and state courts. Prosecution in both courts may not violate a defendant’s right against double jeopardy under the Fifth Amendment because of the separate sovereignty of the federal and state governments.
How Local Law Enforcement Participates in Federal Investigations
Although federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, and Secret Service typically handle investigations of federal crimes, local law enforcement agencies often participate in such investigations. Federal investigators frequently rely on state and local law enforcement agencies’ local knowledge, experience, and connections to assist with federal investigations. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies may form joint task forces to investigate crimes such as drug trafficking, child pornography, or racketeering. State and local law enforcement agencies may also help federal investigations by ensuring public safety as federal agents execute search or arrest warrants or transport high-profile detainees.
In some cases, state and local law enforcement officials may become the first responders to a crime that eventually ends up prosecuted in federal court. However, those law enforcement officials may eventually hand the investigation to federal agencies.
Limits on Local Law Enforcement in Federal Cases
State and local law enforcement agencies have limits on their ability to participate in federal criminal cases. First, local and state law enforcement officers typically can only exercise lawful authority within the geographic boundaries of their jurisdiction. Furthermore, while state or local law enforcement officers may detain a suspect on suspicion of committing a federal crime, they must hand the case over to federal investigators and the United States Attorney’s office to handle the formal investigation, filing of charges, and indictment of the suspect on federal charges.
Contact a Federal Crimes Defense Attorney Today
If you’ve been arrested and charged with federal crimes in Ohio, you need legal counsel with extensive experience in the federal criminal justice system to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights and options. Contact DiCaudo, Pitchford & Yoder today for a free, confidential consultation with our Ohio federal crimes defense attorneys to learn how our firm can help you defend your rights, reputation, and future against federal charges.