Going up against federal law enforcement agencies can be intimidating. These agencies have large budgets and broad police powers. However, there are Nebraska practices/policies of federal law enforcement agencies that a skilled attorney understands and can use that to protect those being investigated.
If you believe a federal agency is investigating you, you should speak with a proactive federal criminal lawyer to learn more about the agencies’ powers, how they conduct investigations, and what rights you may have. You have the right to due process, as well as rights against unreasonable searches and seizures and arrest warrants, and a dedicated attorney can help you protect those rights.
Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
There are many agencies created through the executive powers of the Constitution. Those agencies are meant to ensure that no one violates federal laws and pursue actions against those who do. Some of the most well-known law enforcement agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and U.S. Marshal. Each of these agencies has specific roles and powers.
Federal Bureau of Investigation
The FBI’s job includes enforcing the criminal laws of the federal government. When the FBI is investigating a legal matter, they must follow the FBI manual and handbook. For example, an agent cannot use threats or coercion to get a witness to identify suspects. If an agent failed to follow the proper procedure, the defendant may be able to argue that the court should exclude specific evidence.
The FBI investigates the following types of crimes:
- White-collar crime
- Public corruption
- Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations
- Organized crime
- Cybercrime
- Violent crime
United States Marshals Practices and Policies
U.S. Marshals are generally responsible for catching fugitives, protecting the federal courts and their rulings, transporting federal prisoners, protecting witnesses for national matters, and seizing assets from criminal enterprises. In Nebraska, the president appointed a Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal to serve in the state who was confirmed by the Senate and other government officials.
Drug and Alcohol Enforcement in Nebraska
There are also agencies meant to regulate the movement of certain substances and materials in the country. The most notable of these are the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
DEA
The DEA’s role is to enforce the laws and regulations related to controlled substances. They search for people involved in manufacturing, growing, or distributing illicit substances. They investigate drug-related acts both domestically and internationally and work with other organizations to enforce the laws.
Some of their operations include:
- Seizing assets
- Observing areas of intense drug trafficking
- Investigating organized drug crimes
- Working with local and state enforcement agencies
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
The ATF has the unique job of preventing the unlawful manufacture, possession, and use of guns and explosives, arson, and bombings, as well as the illegal trafficking of alcohol and tobacco. ATF works with local law enforcement to ensure that no one violates these federal laws.
Learn More about Nebraska Practices/Policies of Federal Law Enforcement Agencies
An attorney can discuss the Nebraska policies and practices of federal law enforcement agencies. Reach out to Berry Law to learn more about the different federal agencies and how those agencies investigate suspects. Call today for a confidential case evaluation to learn more.