Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Virginia — Federal Criminal Defense
Theft of government property in Virginia is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern or Western District of Virginia. Conviction can result in up to 10 years in federal prison and substantial fines. As a theft of government property lawyer Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Courts for the Eastern & Western Districts of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 641 (official U.S. Code)
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to knowingly steal, convert, or embezzle any property or thing of value belonging to the United States government. This covers a wide range of assets, from cash and equipment to sensitive data and intellectual property. The law also prohibits receiving, concealing, or retaining such property with intent to convert it. Prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly and with intent to deprive the government of its property. Defending against these charges requires a theft of government property lawyer Virginia with specific knowledge of federal court procedures and the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Federal Statute & Court Information
The primary law is 18 U.S.C. § 641 (official U.S. Code). In Virginia, these cases are filed in either the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (which includes Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Norfolk) or the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia (covering Roanoke, Charlottesville, and Lynchburg). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the relevant district leads the prosecution.
Defense Strategy for Theft of Government Property Charges
Building a defense as a theft of government property lawyer Virginia involves a detailed review of the evidence and the circumstances of the alleged act. Common defense strategies include arguing a lack of criminal intent, mistaken identity, or that the property in question did not belong to the federal government. In some cases, negotiations may focus on reducing the charge or seeking a favorable plea agreement that minimizes penalties.
- Initial Federal Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea (not guilty, guilty, or no contest) before a federal magistrate judge.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations: Most federal cases are resolved through plea agreements. Your lawyer will negotiate with the Assistant U.S. Attorney for the best possible terms.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no plea is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial. If convicted, sentencing follows under the strict U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In Virginia, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 is a federal felony. If the value of the property exceeds $1,000, the maximum penalty is 10 years in federal prison and a fine. For property valued at $1,000 or less, it is a misdemeanor with a maximum one-year sentence.
| 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, difficulty obtaining 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 Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, our team understands the high stakes of federal court. We approach each case with a focus on the specific facts and federal procedures that can impact the outcome. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, maintains a multi-state practice and accepts a limited number of complex federal matters requiring advanced strategy.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a track record of achieving favorable results in theft and property crime cases across Virginia. For example, in Fairfax County General District Court, we secured a result where a client facing four counts of credit card fraud received a 2-year suspended sentence and probation. In another Fairfax case involving a Class 6 felony petit larceny third offense, 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 Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients across Virginia, including those facing federal charges in the Eastern and Western Districts. We are accessible via major highways including I-95, I-66, and I-495. We serve communities throughout Northern Virginia and beyond.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes any money, asset, or thing of value belonging to the U.S. government or any department or agency thereof. This can range from office supplies and computers to funds, vehicles, data, and even intangible intellectual property. The key is that the government must have a possessory interest or ownership in the property.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
No, generally not. The statute requires that the act be done “knowingly.” A core part of the defense is often challenging whether the prosecution can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you knew the property was government-owned and that you intended to steal or convert it. Mistake of fact can be a valid defense.
What’s the difference between state and federal theft charges?
Federal charges for theft of government property are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in federal district court, follow the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure, and are sentenced under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Penalties are often more severe, and there is no parole in the federal system. A federal property theft defense lawyer Virginia is essential for handling this distinct legal arena.
What should I do if I’m under investigation by a federal agency?
Immediately contact a theft of government property lawyer Virginia. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you. A lawyer can advise you of your rights, communicate with the agency on your behalf, and work to protect your interests before any formal charges are filed.
Are there any defenses specific to government asset theft?
Yes. Defenses can include lack of intent, authorization to use the property, mistaken identity, or that the property’s value is below the $1,000 felony threshold. A government asset theft lawyer Virginia will also scrutinize the government’s evidence chain and valuation methods, which are common points of contention in these cases.