When is a DUI a Federal Offense? Most DUI, DWI, and OUI charges in Kansas and Missouri are charged under State Law or Municipal Ordinance. However a DUI may become a federal matter if it takes place on or near Federal Property including:
* National Parks and Forests and National Monuments
* Some Airports (Kansas City International Airport/ MCI )
* Military Bases including Fort Leavenworth Kansas, Fort Riley Kansas, Whiteman Air Force Base Missouri, Fort Leonard Wood Missouri )
* Native American Tribal Land or Property or Casino Property
* Federal Courthouses
* Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital Property
* Any property owned by the federal government or operated by a respective federal agency
When is a First-Time DUI a Federal Offense?
A first-time DUI offense is generally a misdemeanor under federal law. It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater (same standard as Missouri or Kansas). It is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle on federal property while impaired by illegal or prescription drugs.
What Other Crimes are Prosecuted in Federal Court?
Common offenses occurring on federal property prosecuted in Federal Court include Driving under the Influence (DUI), Operating Under the Influence (OUI), Trespassing, Possession of Drugs/ Controlled Substances, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm on Federal Property.
In the Kansas City Metro Area we commonly represent clients charged with offenses occurring at the Kansas City International Airport (MCI), the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital, Military Bases, and other federal property.
In Kansas City, Missouri Federal DUI, OUI and other criminal charges are prosecuted in the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri at the Charles Evans Whittaker U.S. Courthouse located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri at 400 E. 9th Street, Kansas City, Mo., 64106. This Court hears cases from jurisdictions from the Western District of Missouri.
In Kansas City, Kansas the United States District Court is held at the Robert J. Dole U.S. Courthouse, located at 500 State Ave., Kansas City, Ks., 66101.
The criminal justice system can be intimidating and being charged at the Federal Level can be especially stressful. Not every lawyer is licensed to practice law in federal courts, and even fewer practice criminal law in the federal criminal justice system. My office represent clients in the Federal Court System in both Missouri and Kansas, contact us today to discuss your case.
If you have been charged with committing a crime on federal property contact our office for a free initial consultation at 913.383.3311 or 816.361.0964.
