When does FBI get involved in a kidnapping?

In the public eye—and even in some state and local law enforcement circles—there are common misconceptions about when the FBI can get involved in child kidnappings. That there has to be evidence a victim has been taken across state lines. Or that a ransom demand has to be made. read more

FBI Jurisdiction in Child Kidnappings. In the public eye—and even in some state and local law enforcement circles—there are common misconceptions about when the FBI can get involved in child kidnappings. That there has to be evidence a victim has been taken across state lines. Or that a ransom demand has to be made. Or that 24 hours must pass. read more

Best Answer: When the kidnapping involves multiple jurisdictions, the FBI is a better resource because they have field offices in every state and authority anywhere in the United States. The FBI does not have the time or manpower to actively pursue every kidnapping case. read more

That's why they get involved in interstate crimes, which include kidnapping and trafficking, as mentioned. If the FBI wants to be involved, they will focus on getting someone arrested on a drug charge etc. for that reason, or they can just help out local law enforcement with their resources. read more