What defines a federal crime?

A federal crime is specifically defined as an offense that violates laws or regulations established by Congress, which applies across the entire nation rather than being confined to a single state or local jurisdiction. Federal crimes encompass a wide range of activities, including drug trafficking, immigration violations, and certain fraud schemes, all of which are legislated at the federal level to address issues that transcend state lines or require a uniform approach by the federal government.

This distinction is crucial since state crimes differ by jurisdiction and are governed by state laws. Local ordinances govern municipal laws, and acts of violence, while they may involve federal interests, do not inherently qualify as federal crimes unless they explicitly contravene federal legislation. Understanding this differentiates the scope and application of criminal law in the United States and underlines the federal government's role in addressing specific types of crimes that have a national impact.