Both state and federal criminal laws define criminal activities and penalties. The most significant differences between the two are that federal criminal codes have a narrower focus, federal prosecutors have an unlimited budget, and federal convictions typically lead to much harsher penalties.
There are no federal prisons in Nevada (although there is a federal detention center that holds persons awaiting trial). However, individuals convicted of federal crimes must serve prison time in a federal facility (without the possibility for parole). That means that you could spend a long time outside of Nevada if things don’t go your way in court.
Furthermore, state crimes are investigated by the Nevada Highway Patrol, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), and the like. Federal crimes, on the other hand, are investigated by federal agencies such as the FBI, DEA, IRS, ATF, Secret Service, and several others.
It’s important to note that the federal government and Nevada can each charge you for the same crime if the criminal offense violates Nevada and federal law.