When most people think of criminal charges, they imagine local police and state courts
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When most people think of criminal charges, they imagine local police and state courts. But certain serious offenses fall under federal jurisdiction, meaning they’re investigated by federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, or ATF and prosecuted in U.S. District Court. In Colorado, several types of federal crimes are charged frequently—especially in urban areas like Denver and along major transportation corridors.
Understanding which federal crimes are most common in Colorado can help you recognize the seriousness of these charges and the importance of working with a qualified Denver federal defense lawyer if you're under investigation or facing prosecution.
A crime may be prosecuted at the federal level if:
It violates U.S. federal law (e.g., immigration offenses, federal drug laws)
It involves interstate commerce or activity across state lines (e.g., wire fraud, trafficking)
It occurs on federal property (e.g., national parks, military bases)
It involves federal agencies or programs (e.g., tax fraud, federal benefits fraud)
Because federal cases tend to involve complex investigations and severe penalties, legal representation is critical from the very beginning.
Now, let’s take a closer look at the most commonly charged federal crimes in Colorado.
Colorado’s location along key interstate highways makes it a frequent hub for drug transportation—especially along I-70 and I-25. While simple possession is usually a state offense, trafficking large quantities of drugs like methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, or heroin often triggers federal charges.
Federal drug cases typically involve the DEA and may include wiretaps, confidential informants, or surveillance. Convictions can lead to mandatory minimum sentences, especially if firearms or prior convictions are involved.
Gun laws are strictly enforced at the federal level, and Colorado sees frequent prosecution under the U.S. Code for:
Felon in possession of a firearm
Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime
Illegal firearm sales or trafficking
Possession of prohibited weapons
These cases are often tied to other federal crimes like drug trafficking or robbery. The ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) often leads these investigations, and federal sentencing enhancements can lead to long prison terms.
White collar crime is another area where federal prosecutors are very active in Colorado. Wire fraud and mail fraud are charged when someone uses electronic communication (like email or phone) or the postal service as part of a fraudulent scheme.
These charges often come up in:
Investment scams
Business fraud
Unemployment or benefits fraud
PPP loan fraud
Romance or online scams
Because the fraud crosses state lines or involves federal institutions, the FBI often gets involved, and the penalties can include significant prison time and restitution orders.
Colorado’s proximity to the southern border and its diverse immigrant population contribute to a number of immigration-related federal prosecutions. Common federal immigration crimes include:
Illegal reentry after deportation
False statements on immigration applications
Harboring or transporting undocumented immigrants
Identity fraud related to employment eligibility
These offenses are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys and investigated by ICE or Homeland Security Investigations. Penalties can include removal proceedings and criminal sentences.
Federal authorities in Colorado actively investigate internet-based crimes involving child pornography, exploitation, or enticement. These crimes often involve:
Possession or distribution of child pornography
Online solicitation of a minor
Human trafficking or child sex trafficking
These cases are typically handled by the FBI or Homeland Security and carry very harsh penalties. Because of the use of interstate communication (internet), these cases often fall under federal jurisdiction.
The IRS and U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Tax Division prosecute individuals and businesses accused of:
Willful failure to file taxes
Underreporting income
Money laundering
Bank fraud
In Colorado, tax-related charges can be brought against both individuals and corporate entities. These white collar crimes often require deep financial investigation, and convictions can result in prison time, asset forfeiture, and heavy fines.
If you are facing any kind of federal charge, the stakes are incredibly high. Federal prosecutors have vast resources, and their conviction rates are extremely high. You need a defense attorney who:
Understands the federal rules of procedure and evidence
Has experience negotiating with U.S. Attorneys
Can challenge evidence from federal agencies
Is prepared to fight aggressively at trial if needed
A seasoned Denver federal defense lawyer can build a strategy tailored to your case, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea, challenging the legality of a search, or advocating for reduced sentencing.
Federal charges are serious, and in Colorado, the most common offenses—from drug trafficking to wire fraud—carry life-changing consequences. If you’re under investigation or have already been charged, don’t wait to get help. Contact an experienced Denver federal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
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