For decades, Washington has been adding to the number of federal laws and regulations that carry criminal penalties. Now the number is so high, no one is actually sure how many there are.

Experts say practically anyone could be convicted of some sort of federal crime. And its all too easy for anyone to violate one of these laws and never know it. One congressman tells CBN News, We have made it dangerous just to be alive in America.

Three Strikes on the Way Out?

Imagine getting a life sentence for stealing a slice of pizza. The three strikes laws were designed to get violent criminals off the streets, but some say they're creating a dangerous mess.

Task Force Declares War on Over-Criminalization

Congress is beginning work this week to slash the federal criminal code, charging that it's become so large that every American over age 18 has broken some law without even knowing it.

Orchid Kingpin? Mistake Lands Elderly Gardener in Prison

In the latest installment of our Nation of Criminals series, CBN News explains how one man's passion for plants ultimately landed him in prison.

Overcriminalized? Whale Watcher Faces Prison Time

Marine biologist Nancy Black is now facing 20 years in prison for carrying out the very research the government permitted her to do.

Felon Farmers? Law Criminalizes Legitimate Businesses

With some 4,500 federal laws and hundreds of thousands more regulations to enforce them, almost anyone can break the law- often without knowing it.

Selling Prisons 'for Profit'

It's a $74 billion industry: private companies selling prisons for profit. Critics charge the practice only increases the incentive to put people in prison and keep them there.

Gibsons Blues: Endless Laws Criminalizing Business

Thanks to an overcriminalization, anyone could be convicted of a federal crime. It's not only bad for individuals, it's bad for business like Gibson Guitars.

Web of Laws Creating Hosts of 'Accidental Criminals'

Imagine you've lived an honest life, and then without warning, you're arrested for a federal crime. That's what happened to racing legend Bobby Unser.

'Overcriminalization' Making Us a Nation of Felons?

Experts say anyone can fall prey to "overcriminalization." CBN News investigated the growing phenomenon and how it's making America a nation of criminals.