Theft

When it comes to theft, jurisdiction usually falls under state law. For instance, in Butler, Pennsylvania, state law prevails. However, certain types of theft that are considered federal crimes are taken to trial in federal courts. If you find yourself accused of stealing federal property or engaging in interstate commerce, you may face charges for a federal theft crime. In such a situation, it is crucial to consult a Butler PA criminal lawyer.

A few Facts About Federal Theft

Here are a few important facts to know about federal theft:

Federal theft crimes involve thefts that cross state lines or involve federal agencies.

Federal prosecutors actively pursue cases involving property owned by the government, such as computers, trucks, data, and documents, regardless of the value of the stolen item.

Misappropriation of government funds, including loans and grants, is also prosecuted as a federal theft crime.

Identity theft and illegal downloading are classified as interstate theft and are tried in federal court.

What’s the Difference Between Federal and State Court?

Now, you may be wondering about the differences between federal and state court. The federal court system is more complex than state courts, with distinct processes and procedures that differ from Pennsylvania’s state courts. A theft crime attorney in Butler can help clarify these distinctions. It’s important to note that federal courts utilize unique and intricate sentencing guidelines for determining punishments in federal crime convictions. 

Additionally, federal prosecutors have access to extensive resources that state prosecutors cannot utilize, such as citing findings from ongoing investigations conducted by federal agents, which are not accessible to Butler PA DUI lawyers.

The Consequences of Federal Charges

The consequences of facing federal charges can be severe. In general, you are likely to receive harsher sentences and steeper fines compared to facing similar charges at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania level.

Want to Learn More About Federal Crimes?

If you want to learn more about federal crimes, you can visit the United States Code for additional information on federal crimes, including theft.