Federal crimes are criminal offenses based on legislation (laws or statutes) enacted by the United States Congress and published in the United States Code (U.S.C.). Most crimes (murder, rape, assault, burglary, etc.) are prosecuted under state law (statutes) and are known as state law crimes. In contrast, crimes prosecuted under federal law are known as federal crimes.

Federal crimes generally involve a subject over which the United States Constitution gives the federal government—and more specifically, the U.S. Congress—the power or authority to legislate or make laws. This power or authority is also known as jurisdiction.

For example, the federal government (and not the states ) has the exclusive authority to print money and regulate its value. And because bank deposits are guaranteed (insured) by the federal government (FDIC) up to $250,000 per depositor, per FDIC-insured bank, and per ownership category, bank robbery is a federal crime (18 U.S.C. §2113). Examples of other federal crimes include tax evasion, wire fraud, mail fraud, immigration offenses, voting or electoral fraud, counterfeiting money, espionage (spying), and damaging or destroying mailboxes.

In Vermont, as in all states, federal crimes are offenses that fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government, as established by the United States Constitution and federal statutes. These crimes are distinct from state crimes, which are prosecuted under Vermont state law. Federal crimes typically involve matters that cross state lines or affect federal interests, such as counterfeiting currency, bank robbery due to the involvement of federally insured banks, tax evasion, and mail fraud. Federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, and ATF, in conjunction with the U.S. Attorney's Office, are responsible for the investigation and prosecution of federal offenses. When a crime violates both state and federal laws, the offender can be prosecuted under both jurisdictions. However, federal law often takes precedence, and federal penalties can be more severe than state penalties. It's important for individuals in Vermont to understand that engaging in activities that fall under federal jurisdiction, such as those involving federal institutions, interstate commerce, or national security, may subject them to federal prosecution.