Theft of Government Property Lawyer New Kent County — Federal Defense
Theft of government property is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted in the Eastern District of Virginia. If you are under investigation or charged, you need a theft of government property lawyer New Kent County with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for federal property theft charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | U.S. Code.
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to steal, embezzle, or knowingly convert to one’s own use any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of 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. Charges are brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, not local prosecutors. A conviction can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
For official statute text, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (official U.S. Code). For local federal court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- Initial federal investigation by a federal agency.
- Grand jury indictment or criminal information filed.
- Initial appearance and arraignment in federal court.
- Discovery phase and pre-trial motions.
- Plea negotiations or preparation for trial.
- Sentencing under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines if convicted.
In federal court, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 carries penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines for property valued over $1,000. For property valued at $1,000 or less, the maximum is one year.
| 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 | Misdemeanor record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled complex federal cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions and provides strategic oversight on federal matters.
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
Our firm has documented results in federal and complex criminal cases. In one federal matter, our defense led to a favorable pre-trial resolution for a client facing serious charges. 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: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, including New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64. If you need a theft of government property lawyer near New Kent County, contact us for a consultation.
FAQs: Theft of Government Property Lawyer New Kent County
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes money, weapons, equipment, supplies, data, intellectual property, or any other thing of value owned by the U.S. or any department/agency (e.g., military gear, USDA funds, USPS items). The key is that the U.S. has an ownership interest.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
No, not for a conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 641. The statute requires that the defendant acted “knowingly.” The prosecution must prove you knew the property belonged to the U.S. government. Lack of knowledge is a potential defense a federal property theft defense lawyer New Kent County can assert.
What agencies investigate theft of government property?
Several. Common investigating agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Inspector General of the specific agency involved (e.g., DoD OIG, VA OIG), the Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for USPS property.
Is this charge different from state theft charges?
Yes. Theft of government property is a distinct federal crime. It is prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal district court, follows federal rules of procedure, and carries federal sentencing guidelines. State theft laws do not apply to property owned by the United States.
Why do I need a specific federal defense lawyer?
Federal criminal procedure and sentencing are vastly different from state court. A lawyer experienced in federal court understands grand juries, federal rules of evidence, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, and strategies for negotiating with federal prosecutors. This specific knowledge is crucial for your defense.
For more information, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters like business law in New Kent County. If you are looking for a criminal defense lawyer in nearby Henrico County, we can help.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding a theft of government property charge.