NCJ Number
98310
Date Published
1985
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This address describes the Federal role in law enforcement, those areas on which the U.S. Department of Justice has focused its enforcement efforts, particular forms and assistance which the Department provides to local law enforcement, and recent favorable developments in law enforcement.
Abstract
Because of geographical and jurisdictional limitations on State and local governments, the Federal government is uniquely positioned to deal with interstate and international crimes. The Federal Government also provides policy leadership and assists local law enforcement through training and technical assistance as well as through the centralized collection of research and statistics. Additionally, the Department of Justice cooperates in joint efforts with local law enforcement. The Department is presently focusing its law enforcement resources on five areas: (1) control of drug distribution and abuse; (2) domestic terrorism; (3) economic crime; (4) child safety, at the direct request of the President; and (5) cooperative efforts with local officials in civil rights enforcement. The Federal Government can assist sheriffs in reducing prison and jail overcrowding and also in serving warrants. Recently, the Comprehensive Crime Control Act has been passed, court decisions have become favorable, and the crime rate has declined.