Title 18: Crimes and Criminal Procedure
Federal criminal offenses, sentencing, criminal procedure, firearms regulation, cybercrime, fraud, and organized crime.
123 chapters · 2,725 sections · 14 key sections available
Key Sections (14)
Classification of Offenses
Federal crimes are classified as felonies (prison over 1 year), misdemeanors, or petty offenses. Felonies range from Class A (life/death) down to Class E, and misdemeanors from Class A to C.
Unlawful Acts — Firearms
Federal law prohibits selling or possessing firearms without proper licensing. Convicted felons, fugitives, drug users, and certain other prohibited persons cannot possess firearms or ammunition.
Computer Fraud and Abuse Act
The Computer Fraud and Abuse Act makes it a federal crime to access computers without authorization, steal data, or transmit malicious code. Penalties range from fines to 20 years in prison.
Mail Fraud
Using the mail or commercial carriers to execute a fraud scheme is a federal crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison, or up to 30 years if a financial institution is affected.
Interception and Disclosure of Wire, Oral, or Electronic Communications Prohibited
It is a federal crime to wiretap or intercept someone's phone calls, emails, or other communications without authorization. Law enforcement needs a court order to conduct wiretaps.
RICO — Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act Definitions
RICO targets organized crime by making it a federal offense to participate in an enterprise through a pattern of criminal activity. It allows prosecutors to charge leaders of criminal organizations and provides for asset forfeiture.
Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act
The Hate Crimes Prevention Act makes it a federal crime to cause bodily injury motivated by the victim's race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
Hobbs Act — Interference with Commerce by Threats or Violence
The Hobbs Act makes it a federal crime to commit robbery or extortion that affects interstate commerce, including public corruption cases where officials extort bribes under color of official right.
Imposition of a Sentence — Factors to Be Considered
Federal judges must consider multiple factors when sentencing, including offense seriousness, defendant's history, deterrence, public safety, and rehabilitation needs, imposing a sentence no greater than necessary.
Stored Communications Act — Unlawful Access to Stored Communications
The Stored Communications Act makes it illegal to access stored emails and electronic communications without authorization, and sets rules for when the government can compel providers to disclose stored data.
Sex Trafficking of Children or by Force, Fraud, or Coercion
Federal law imposes severe penalties for sex trafficking — 15 years to life for trafficking children under 14 or using force/fraud, and at least 10 years for other trafficking of minors.
Wire Fraud
Wire fraud makes it a federal crime to use electronic communications (phone, email, internet) to execute a fraud scheme, punishable by up to 20 years in prison or 30 years if a financial institution is affected.
Deprivation of Rights Under Color of Law
Section 242 makes it a federal crime for anyone acting under government authority to willfully deprive a person of constitutional rights. It is a key tool for prosecuting police brutality and official misconduct.
Gun Control Act
Regulates firearms industry and firearms ownership. Prohibits interstate firearms transfers except through licensed dealers, establishes categories of prohibited persons, and requires serial numbers on firearms.