Law Enforcement Agencies and Their Functions

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts, agencies, and their purposes within law enforcement and governmental structures.

Law Enforcement Agencies

Organizations that have enforcement powers and the authority to arrest individuals, which can be local, state, or federal.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

A federal agency that protects the United States from internal threats and provides services to local law enforcement.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

A federal agency that investigates drug trafficking into the United States.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF)

A federal agency responsible for investigating the transportation, importation, and exportation of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms.

Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

A federal agency responsible for tax collection and investigating tax evasion.

Postal Inspection Service

An agency of the United States Postal Service responsible for investigating postal fraud and mail theft.

United States Secret Service

An agency responsible for protecting the President and investigating counterfeiting.

Department of Homeland Security

A federal department responsible for safeguarding the United States from various threats, created after 9/11.

Intelligence Agencies

Organizations that collect information on various topics for federal law enforcement but lack enforcement or arrest powers.

State Police

Law enforcement agencies at the state level, which may focus solely on traffic or have full law enforcement capabilities.

Local Law Enforcement Agencies

Agencies controlled by local governments that enforce state and municipal laws within their jurisdiction.

Military Police

Law enforcement agencies that enforce military laws against military personnel or on military bases.

Administrative Agencies

Governmental agencies responsible for enforcing regulations and overseeing compliance across various sectors.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

An administrative agency that regulates unfair business practices and promotes consumer protection.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

An administrative agency responsible for enforcing federal environmental laws and protecting natural resources.

Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

An intelligence agency responsible for collecting information on foreign governments, corporations, and individuals.

United States Coast Guard

A federal agency responsible for maritime law enforcement and protecting U.S. waters, including aiding other law enforcement agencies.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

A federal agency that provides emergency management responses to natural and man-made disasters.