In enacting legislation directed to the protection of foreign officials, internationally protected persons, and official guests, Congress has repeatedly made it clear that such statutes are not intended to preempt the application of State and local criminal law governing the same matter. See Pub. L. 92-539, §§ 2, 3; Pub. L. 94-467, § 10. In so doing, Congress has recognized the traditional responsibility of State and local law enforcement authorities for handling common law crimes. Consequently, in cases where State or local law enforcement authorities express a strong preference to prosecute an offense falling under §§ 112, 878, 970, 1116, 1117 and 1201 which relates to foreign dignitaries, the United States Attorney should consider deferring to such request and consult with the Criminal Division in instances where there is disagreement with such authorities as to the appropriate entity to assert criminal jurisdiction.

[cited in JM 9-65.811]