Child Sexual Abuse
Child sexual abuse matters are generally handled by state and local authorities, and not by the federal government. These matters are typically prosecuted in state court under state laws rather than in federal court under federal law. There are many sound reasons for this, including the relationship between the states, which generally have broad authority within their jurisdictions, and the federal government, which has constitutional limitations on its authority.
If, however, a child is sexually abused on federal lands, such as a military base or Indian territory, the offender may be prosecuted under federal law in addition to, or instead of, state law (For more information, see Citizen's Guide to Federal Law on Child Sexual Abuse).