Theft of Government Property Lawyer York County — Federal Defense
Theft of government property in York County is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 641, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for individuals accused of stealing federal assets. Our federal property theft defense lawyer York County understands the complex procedures of the Eastern District of Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s own use any record, voucher, money, or thing of value belonging to the United States. This includes property from any department or agency. The law also covers receiving, concealing, or retaining such property with intent to convert it. Prosecution typically occurs in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Conviction carries severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and a permanent federal criminal record.
For the official text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (via U.S. Code). For federal court procedures, visit the Eastern District of Virginia court website.
- Secure immediate legal representation upon learning of an investigation or charge.
- Your attorney will analyze the indictment and all discovery evidence provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve challenging the intent to steal, the value of the property, or whether the property was truly federal.
- handle pre-trial motions and potential plea negotiations, always aiming to protect your liberty and future.
- If necessary, prepare for a jury trial in federal court, presenting a compelling case to achieve the best possible outcome.
In York County, a conviction for theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 can result in up to 10 years in federal prison and significant fines, with penalties increasing if the property value exceeds $1,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Government Property (Value ≤ $1,000) | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, federal probation |
| Theft of Government Property (Value > $1,000) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Restitution, felony record, loss of federal benefits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex federal cases. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We approach each theft of government property case with a detailed understanding of federal sentencing guidelines and the tactics of federal prosecutors.
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
Our team has achieved favorable results in complex property crime cases. In one instance, our defense led to a breaking and entering charge being reduced to trespassing with a 90-day sentence. In another, a client facing multiple counts of credit card fraud received a suspended sentence and probation. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For federal cases, attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification, provides critical support.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients in York County and is accessible via I-64. We are your local theft of government property lawyer near Yorktown and the surrounding communities of Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford. Contact us 24/7 for a confidential case evaluation.
FAQs: Theft of Government Property in York County
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
Yes. Government property includes any money, asset, record, or thing of value belonging to the U.S. government or any of its departments or agencies. This is defined in 18 U.S.C. § 641 and can range from office supplies and tools to funds, data, and military equipment.
Do I need a specific federal criminal defense lawyer for this charge?
It depends. While any licensed attorney can represent you, a federal property theft defense lawyer York County residents can consult will have specific experience with federal court rules, sentencing guidelines, and the tactics of U.S. Attorneys, which differ significantly from state court practice.
What are the possible defenses to theft of government property?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (you believed you had permission), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of ownership by the U.S. government, or that the property’s value is below the felony threshold. A government asset theft lawyer York County can assess the best strategy for your case.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
It depends. The statute requires that you knowingly converted the property. If you genuinely had no reason to believe the item was government property, it could be a defense. However, prosecutors may argue you “should have known,” making experienced legal counsel vital.
Where will my case be heard if I’m charged in York County?
Federal charges from York County are typically prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, which may be the Newport News or Norfolk divisions. Your theft of government property lawyer York County will handle all proceedings in the appropriate federal venue.
For more information on related charges, see our pages on Virginia Federal Criminal Defense or Criminal Defense in Henrico County. If you are facing other legal issues, consider a York County Business Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.