Can I Be Charged With a Federal Crime if I Never Left My State?

 Posted on June 19, 2025 in Animal Cruelty

Many people assume that federal crimes involve crossing state lines or international borders, but that is not always the case. You can be charged with a federal offense in Illinois without ever leaving Chicago.

Federal criminal law is broad. Jurisdiction often depends on whether the alleged conduct affects interstate commerce, involves federal property, or falls under specific federal statutes. If you are under investigation or have already been charged, you should contact a Chicago, IL federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Attorney Garfinkel is a former prosecutor who understands how federal cases are built and how to dismantle them.

When Can the Federal Government Prosecute an In-State Crime?

Federal jurisdiction applies when the government can show a connection to interstate commerce or a federal interest. That connection does not have to be direct. If a business accepts out-of-state payments or communicates online, the activity may be enough to bring it under federal scrutiny. 

The Hobbs Act, wire fraud statutes, drug laws, and firearms laws all allow for federal prosecution without requiring travel across state lines. For example, if you send an email to commit fraud — even within Chicago — that may qualify as a federal wire fraud case. The government does not need to prove that you ever left Illinois. They only need to show that your conduct touched an area regulated by federal law.

Examples of Federal Charges for In-State Conduct

There are many federal charges that can apply even when all activity takes place within one state. Wire fraud, drug trafficking, unlawful firearm possession, child exploitation involving internet access, and public corruption are common examples. A large-scale drug operation conducted entirely in Cook County may still be prosecuted federally if federal agents are involved or if quantities cross certain thresholds. 

Likewise, firearm cases are often federal when the defendant has a criminal record or the weapon is linked to a drug offense. Public corruption cases often begin with local conduct, but when the funds or positions relate to federally funded programs or officials, the case becomes federal.

Why Are Some Cases Tried in Federal Court Instead of State Court?

Federal prosecutors may choose to file charges in federal court when federal agents lead the investigation, when the penalties are harsher under federal statutes, or when the case fits within a larger initiative by the Department of Justice. The U.S. Attorney’s Office can prosecute crimes even if the state could have done so. That choice often comes down to sentencing exposure, available evidence, and the resources behind the investigation.

Federal cases move faster and follow different procedural rules than state cases. They also rely heavily on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which can lead to much longer sentences. That is why it is critical to work with a lawyer who understands the structure of federal criminal prosecution and how to attack the government’s case from the outset.

Contact a Chicago, IL Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been charged with a federal crime — or believe you are under investigation — contact an experienced Chicago, IL federal criminal defense attorney at Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney. Attorney Garfinkel is a former prosecutor who defends clients facing serious charges in federal court. We offer free consultations. Call 312-629-0669 today.