Investigative responsibility for complaints arising under these sections rests with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Violations involving the importation of infringing works, labels, packaging and goods may also be investigated by the United States Customs Service. Prior authorization of the Criminal Division is not required for instituting prosecutions under Title 17 of the United States Code. However, because such prosecutions frequently involve technical and complex applications of the copyright laws, United States Attorneys are encouraged to consult the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section for assistance.
Consultation is particularly important in cases which are likely to go to trial.