Theft of Government Property lawyer New Kent County, VA

If you are facing a federal theft of government property charge in New Kent County, Virginia, your case will be handled not in the New Kent County General District Court but in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. These are serious federal felony offenses prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office under Title 18 of the United States Code. Federal prosecutors pursue theft of government property charges actively, and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, along with the absence of parole in the federal system, create significant exposure. Anyone under investigation or indicted for stealing or embezzling property belonging to the United States government needs defense counsel who understands federal criminal procedure and the Eastern District of Virginia. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced in federal courts since 1997. Together with his Of Counsel, he represents clients from New Kent County and throughout Central Virginia in federal theft of government property matters. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Theft of Government Property Means in New Kent County

Theft of government property, prosecuted under 18 U.S.C., covers a wide range of conduct – from embezzling funds from a federally funded program to stealing equipment, records, or money belonging to the United States. The government typically charges these offenses as a felony when the value of the property involved exceeds a threshold defined by statute. Investigations often involve the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or other federal law enforcement agencies. Because New Kent County lies within the Richmond Division of the Eastern District of Virginia, a federal theft case arising there will be heard in federal court in Richmond, not in the county’s General District Court.

The procedural landscape differs significantly from state court. Federal theft of government property charges are initiated by a grand jury indictment, after which the defendant is arraigned. The case then proceeds through pretrial motions, discovery, potential plea negotiations, and, if necessary, trial. Unlike Virginia state sentencing, federal sentences are governed by the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines. Moreover, parole has been abolished in the federal system; defendants serve roughly 85% of their sentence after applying good time credits. This high stakes environment requires defense counsel who are comfortable with federal rules and have a working knowledge of the Eastern District of Virginia’s practices. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring that experience to every federal matter, working to preserve the defendant’s rights from the initial appearance through sentencing.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Theft of Government Property Cases

When a client contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. regarding a federal theft of government property charge, the first step is a thorough review of the charging documents and the underlying investigation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel analyze whether law enforcement complied with constitutional requirements, whether the evidence supports the government’s valuation of the property, and whether any procedural defenses exist. Because of his background as a former prosecutor, Mr. Sris is familiar with the methods federal prosecutors use to build these cases, which often involve financial records, witness statements, and documentary evidence.

Early in the case, defense counsel frequently engage with the Assistant United States Attorney to discuss the evidence and explore possibilities for a resolution. In some instances, pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges can narrow the case. If the matter proceeds to trial, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare a defense strategy that challenges the government’s proof at every stage. Throughout the process, the team focuses on achieving the most favorable outcome under the circumstances, whether through a negotiated plea, a sentencing argument that highlights mitigating factors, or a jury trial. Because every federal case follows a unique timeline set by the court’s calendar and the complexity of the evidence, the firm works diligently to keep clients informed and actively engaged in their defense.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris founded Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 1997 after serving as a prosecutor. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Over the course of his career, he has represented clients in federal trial and appellate courts across multiple jurisdictions. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), reflecting his deep engagement with Virginia’s legal community.

Mr. Sris is supported by experienced Of Counsel attorneys who concentrate on federal criminal defense, white collar matters, and complex litigation. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. The firm has documented 4,739+ case results since 1997. When facing a federal theft of government property charge, having a multi-state, multi-decade practice on your side can make a meaningful difference in the strategy and outcome of your case.

Verify admissions: Virginia State Bar ? Maryland Judiciary ? DC Bar ? NJ Courts ? NY OCA

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I am facing federal theft of government property charges in New Kent County?

Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately and do not discuss the facts with anyone other than your attorney. Preserve all relevant documents and electronic records because they may become important evidence. The federal government often conducts extensive investigations before bringing charges, so early legal guidance is essential to protect your rights and begin building a defense strategy. Even if you have only been contacted by investigators, you should seek advice from a lawyer who understands federal procedure before providing any statement. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can be reached at (888) 437-7747.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against federal theft of government property charges?

Defense strategies in federal theft of government property cases focus on challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, the valuation of the property, and the legality of the investigation. An experienced federal criminal attorney will examine whether the government can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, review the grand jury process for irregularities, and explore whether constitutional violations – such as an improper search or an involuntary statement – support suppression of evidence. Mitigating factors, such as the defendant’s background and the circumstances surrounding the alleged conduct, can also play an important role in plea negotiations and sentencing.

What are the possible penalties for theft of government property under federal law?

Federal theft of government property can result in incarceration, substantial fines, and restitution to the government. The precise penalties depend on the value of the property taken and the specific statute charged under Title 18. Because the federal system has no parole, a defendant who receives a term of imprisonment will serve the majority of that sentence. The advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines consider the amount of loss, the defendant’s role in the offense, and any criminal history. An attorney can explain the potential sentencing range applicable to your case and work to minimize that exposure through negotiation or advocacy at sentencing.

What is the difference between state theft charges and federal theft of government property?

State theft charges are prosecuted under the Virginia Code in a General District or Circuit Court, while federal theft of government property is prosecuted under Title 18 in a United States District Court. Federal cases involve different rules of procedure, a distinct sentencing scheme, and generally carry more severe consequences because there is no parole. Additionally, federal theft of government property typically requires that the property belonged to the United States or to an entity receiving federal funds. A defense lawyer handling these cases must be admitted to practice in federal court and have familiarity with the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure.

Can federal theft of government property charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, it is possible for federal theft charges to be reduced through plea negotiations or dismissed based on legal or evidentiary challenges. The government’s case may be weakened if it cannot prove the value of the property or if key evidence was obtained improperly. Defense counsel can file pretrial motions to suppress evidence or to challenge the sufficiency of the indictment. In some instances, the U.S. Attorney’s Office may agree to resolve the matter with a lesser charge if the facts warrant it. The potential for a favorable resolution depends on the specifics of each case.

How do federal theft of government property investigations start in Virginia?

These investigations typically begin with an audit, a whistleblower complaint, or a referral from another law enforcement agency. Federal agencies like the FBI, the Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or the IRS Criminal Investigation division conduct the inquiry. They may use grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, and witness interviews to gather evidence. Because the investigative process can last months or even years, it is wise to seek legal counsel as soon as you become aware of any federal inquiry, even before charges are filed.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary. Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.