Federal law enforcement agencies fall into major categories. DOJ oversees investigative bodies like the FBI (led by a Director appointed by the President), DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service, all under the Attorney General. DHS manages protective agencies such as ICE, CBP, TSA, and Secret Service, directed by the DHS Secretary.[police1]

Internal Hierarchies

Within agencies like the FBI, command flows from the Director to Deputy Director, Assistant Directors (overseeing divisions), Special Agents in Charge (field offices), and line agents. Similar structures apply elsewhere, emphasizing unified command for national security and interstate crimes.[reddit +1]

Coordination Mechanisms

Interagency coordination occurs via bodies like the Attorney General’s office or joint task forces, but no single overarching “federal police chief” exists; authority is decentralized by mission. The President, as head of the executive, holds ultimate authority through appointments and directives.[reddit +1]