Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Lexington, VA — Federal Defense
Theft of government property in Lexington is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia. Conviction can lead to fines and up to 10 years in prison. As a theft of government property lawyer Lexington, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against these serious federal allegations.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Federal Statute on Theft of Government Property
The primary federal law governing theft of government property is 18 U.S.C. § 641. This statute makes it a crime to knowingly embezzle, steal, purloin, or convert to one’s own use any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States or any department or agency thereof. The law also covers receiving, concealing, or retaining such property with intent to convert it. The value of the property stolen often determines the severity of the charge and potential penalties.
Prosecutions for this offense in the Lexington area typically fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, Roanoke Division. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia handles these cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For information on the federal court handling these cases, visit the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia website.
Defense Strategy for Federal Theft Charges in Lexington
Defending against a federal theft of government property charge requires immediate and strategic action. The federal investigative process often involves agencies like the FBI, Inspector General offices, or the Department of Defense. Early intervention by a theft of government property lawyer Lexington is critical to protect your rights during interviews and evidence collection.
- Initial Case Assessment: Immediately secure all communications and documents related to the alleged property. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will scrutinize the government’s evidence, focusing on the chain of custody, valuation of the property, and proof of your specific intent to steal.
- Legal Motions: File pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the indictment or to suppress evidence obtained improperly.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on the merits of negotiating a plea or preparing for a jury trial in federal court.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In Lexington, a federal conviction for theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 can result in fines and imprisonment for up to 10 years. If the property value exceeds $1,000, it is a felony.
| Offense Level | Property Value | Maximum Incarceration | Maximum Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony | Over $1,000 | 10 years | $250,000 (individual) | Restitution, felony record, loss of federal benefits/employment |
| Misdemeanor | $1,000 or less | 1 year | $100,000 | Restitution, misdemeanor record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to complex federal cases. We understand the high stakes of federal court and the specific procedures of the Western District of Virginia. Our approach involves meticulous case preparation and leveraging our knowledge of federal sentencing guidelines.
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
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in theft and fraud cases. In one property case in Fairfax County General District Court, a client facing a Class 6 felony for petit larceny 3rd offense received a sentence of 12 months in jail with 8 months suspended. In an Arlington County case, a breaking and entering charge was reduced to trespassing with a 90-day sentence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Lexington and the surrounding areas. We are accessible via I-64 and I-81. If you need a theft of government property lawyer near Lexington or a government asset theft lawyer Lexington, contact us for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes any money, asset, record, or thing of value belonging to the U.S. government or any of its agencies. This can range from office supplies and equipment to funds, data, and military gear. The key is that the government must have a possessory interest or ownership in the item.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
Yes, but knowledge is a key element. The prosecution must prove you knew the property belonged to the government or that you acted with reckless disregard. A strong defense often challenges the government’s ability to prove this specific intent or knowledge beyond a reasonable doubt.
What agencies investigate theft of government property?
Several agencies can be involved, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Office of Inspector General for the relevant agency (e.g., Department of Defense OIG, GSA OIG), the Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or even the U.S. Postal Inspection Service if mail is involved.
Is restitution always required in these cases?
Almost always. If convicted, the court will order you to pay restitution to the government for the value of the stolen property. This is a mandatory part of sentencing under the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act and is separate from any fines imposed.
What should I do if I’m contacted by a federal agent about this?
Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an attorney. You have the right to remain silent and the right to counsel. Do not provide any documents or statements without your lawyer present. Contact a theft of government property lawyer Lexington immediately.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like Business Law in Lexington.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.