Thefts from interstate shipment should be prosecuted under Federal laws where: (1) there is difficulty in establishing venue for State prosecution; (2) the thefts are systematic or widespread; (3) another related Federal offense is charged against the defendant; or (4) Federal prosecution would be advantageous to the administration of justice, such as in the detection, prevention, or prosecution of crimes generally. Major theft cases and cases involving repeat offenders should be given priority attention under 18 U.S.C. § 659. Since theft from interstate shipment is a concurrent jurisdiction offense, prosecutive agreements with State and local law enforcement authorities are appropriate.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has investigative jurisdiction for offenses committed in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 659.

[updated April 2022]