Theft of Government Property Lawyer in King George County, VA — Federal Defense
Theft of government property in King George County is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted in U.S. District Court. This charge carries severe penalties, including up to 10 years in federal prison and substantial fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals facing these serious allegations.
Federal Statute for Theft of Government Property
The primary federal statute governing theft of government property is 18 U.S.C. § 641. This law makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s use or the use of another, any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States or of any department or agency thereof. The statute covers a wide range of property, from physical assets like equipment to intangible items like data or funds. Conviction requires proof that the property belonged to the U.S. government, that the defendant stole or converted it, and that they did so with intent to deprive the government of its use.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal theft of government property statute, visit the U.S. Code § 641 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court handling these cases in Virginia, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
Federal Investigation & Court Process in King George County
Cases involving theft of government property in King George County typically begin with an investigation by a federal agency such as the FBI, Department of Defense (relevant to Dahlgren NSWC), GSA OIG, or Department of Veterans Affairs OIG. These investigations are thorough and can involve surveillance, forensic accounting, and interviews. If you are under investigation or contacted by federal agents, it is critical to have a government asset theft lawyer in King George County involved immediately, as statements made can be used against you.
- Federal Investigation: A federal agency investigates the alleged theft, often involving subpoenas for records and interviews.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The U.S. Attorney’s Office presents evidence to a federal grand jury, which decides whether to issue an indictment.
- Arraignment: The defendant appears in U.S. District Court, is formally charged, and enters a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence (discovery) and files pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The case may be resolved through a plea agreement or proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which are often stricter than state penalties.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In federal court, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 carries penalties based on the property’s value, with potential for over a decade in prison.
| Offense / Value | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of property valued over $1,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 (individual) | Restitution, forfeiture, loss of federal benefits/employment |
| Theft of property valued $1,000 or less | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. Our approach is to build a defense that challenges the prosecution’s evidence on every point, from the intent element to the valuation of the alleged stolen property.
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
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results in Theft and Property Crimes
Our attorneys have achieved positive results in theft and property crime cases. In Arlington County, a breaking and entering charge was reduced to trespassing with a 90-day sentence. In Fairfax County, we secured a suspended sentence and probation for a client facing multiple counts of credit card fraud. In another Fairfax case involving a third-offense petit larceny (a Class 6 felony), we negotiated a sentence of 12 months in jail with 8 months suspended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft of Government Property Lawyer Near King George County
Our Fairfax location serves clients in King George County and the surrounding region. We are accessible via major routes for those traveling from King George or Dahlgren. We provide legal representation for theft of government property charges throughout Northern Virginia.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Phones answered 24/7/365. Office meetings by appointment only.
We serve the communities of King George and Dahlgren.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes any money, thing of value, record, or voucher belonging to the United States or any of its departments or agencies. This is broad and can cover office supplies, equipment, data, funds, military gear, or even intellectual property developed with government funds. The key is establishing federal ownership or custody.
Can I be charged at both the state and federal level for the same theft?
Yes. Under the dual sovereignty doctrine, state and federal governments can prosecute the same act if it violates both state and federal laws. For example, stealing equipment from a federal facility in Virginia could lead to state larceny charges and federal theft of government property charges. A skilled federal property theft defense lawyer in King George County can work to handle this risk.
What are common defenses to theft of government property charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (you believed you had permission), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of federal ownership, challenging the valuation of the property, and procedural defenses like violations of your Fourth or Fifth Amendment rights during the investigation. An experienced government asset theft lawyer in King George County will identify the strongest defense strategy for your specific case.
How does the federal sentencing process work for this crime?
Federal sentencing uses the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which consider the offense level (heavily influenced by the property’s value) and the defendant’s criminal history. Judges have discretion but typically follow these guidelines. Factors like acceptance of responsibility, cooperation, and restitution can affect the sentence. Theft of government property lawyer King George County representation is vital at this stage to advocate for the lowest possible sentence.
What should I do if I’m contacted by a federal agent about an investigation?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with your attorney. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Do not attempt to explain, justify, or provide documents without legal counsel. Contact a theft of government property lawyer King George County residents trust as soon as possible to protect your rights from the very start of the process.
Internal Resources: For more on our federal practice, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. For related local defense, consider our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer or King George County business lawyer pages.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding theft of government property charges, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.