Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Powhatan County, VA
Theft of government property is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines. If you are under investigation or charged in Powhatan County, you need a dedicated theft of government property lawyer Powhatan County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for federal charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 641 (official U.S. Code)
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s use anything of value belonging to the United States government or any department or agency thereof. This includes tangible property like equipment, funds, or supplies, as well as intangible property. The law applies broadly to anyone who has lawful possession of government property and misuses it, as well as to those who have no right to the property at all. A conviction requires proof that the defendant acted with intent to deprive the government of the property.
Federal Statute and Penalties
Theft of government property is prosecuted in federal court, which for Powhatan County falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Richmond Division. The penalties are severe and depend on the value of the property involved.
In federal court, theft of government property valued over $1,000 is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines. Theft under $1,000 is a misdemeanor with a maximum one-year sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Government Property (value ≥ $1,000) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Restitution, felony record, loss of federal benefits/employment |
| Theft of Government Property (value < $1,000) | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, misdemeanor record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why You Need a Federal Property Theft Defense Lawyer Powhatan County
Federal investigations are conducted by agencies like the FBI, Inspector General offices, or the Department of Defense. These cases are complex and move through a different system than state court. A government asset theft lawyer Powhatan County with federal experience understands the procedural rules, the sentencing guidelines, and how to negotiate with federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Early intervention is critical, even before charges are formally filed.
- Initial Investigation & Contact: If you are contacted by a federal agent, exercise your right to remain silent and immediately contact a theft of government property lawyer Powhatan County. Do not answer questions without counsel.
- Pre-Indictment Phase: Your attorney can communicate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to present mitigating information, argue against charges, or seek a favorable pre-indictment resolution.
- Arraignment & Plea: If indicted by a grand jury, you will be arraigned in federal court. Your lawyer will advise you on pleading not guilty and fighting the charges.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense team will review all evidence and file motions to challenge the prosecution’s case, potentially skilled to suppression of evidence or dismissal of charges.
- Trial or Negotiation: Your attorney will prepare for a jury trial while simultaneously exploring plea negotiations for a reduced charge or favorable sentencing recommendation.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate at sentencing, presenting factors to argue for a sentence below the federal guideline range.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal charges and provide a focused defense. Our approach involves a detailed review of the evidence, the circumstances of the alleged taking, and the intent behind the actions.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
For federal cases, our team includes Matthew Greene, who brings over 30 years of experience, including handling serious federal matters. We have documented case results across our practice areas.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Theft of Government Property Lawyer Powhatan County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Powhatan County and is accessible for meetings regarding federal court matters. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes any money, thing of value, or record belonging to the U.S. or any agency. This ranges from office supplies and tools to funds, data, and military equipment. The key is that the U.S. has an ownership interest, even if the property is in a contractor’s possession.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
No, knowledge is a required element. The prosecution must prove you knew the property belonged to the U.S. government. A skilled federal property theft defense lawyer Powhatan County can challenge whether the government can meet this burden of proof based on the circumstances.
What’s the difference between state and federal theft charges?
Federal charges apply when the property belongs to the U.S. government. They are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal district court under federal statutes and sentencing guidelines, which often carry longer potential sentences and different procedural rules than state court.
What should I do if a federal agent wants to question me?
Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to speak with an attorney. Contact a theft of government property lawyer Powhatan County immediately. Do not attempt to explain or justify your actions, as anything you say can be used against you.
Are there defenses to theft of government property charges?
Yes. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, ownership dispute (believing you had a right to the property), or insufficient evidence. An experienced government asset theft lawyer Powhatan County will investigate to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
Related Pages: For state-level theft charges, see our Powhatan County Criminal Defense Lawyer page. For other federal matters, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County.