Theft of Government Property Lawyer Baltimore — Federal Defense Strategy
Theft of government property is a serious federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641, prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. A conviction can lead to imprisonment, fines, and a permanent felony record. As a theft of government property lawyer Baltimore, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against these federal charges.
Federal Statute on Theft of Government Property
The federal law governing theft of government property is 18 U.S.C. § 641. This statute makes it a crime to knowingly steal, convert, or misapply any property or money of the United States. The law covers a wide range of property, from physical items like tools or equipment to intangible assets like data or funds. The value of the property stolen often determines the severity of the charge and potential penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the federal statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local court procedures, visit the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland website.
Defending Against Federal Theft Charges in Baltimore
Federal investigations for theft of government property in Baltimore often involve agencies like the FBI, GSA OIG, or Department of Defense. The key local procedural fact is that these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland. A government asset theft lawyer Baltimore must challenge the government’s proof of intent and value. The prosecution must show you knowingly took property you knew belonged to the U.S. government.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: We review the allegations, the property involved, and the investigation status with you.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Our team examines procurement records, property logs, witness statements, and digital evidence.
- Pre-Indictment Negotiations: We communicate with federal prosecutors to present mitigating facts and seek a favorable resolution.
- Motion Practice: If indicted, we file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the charges.
- Trial or Plea Strategy: We prepare a full defense for trial or negotiate a plea agreement that minimizes consequences.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If convicted, we advocate for the most lenient sentence under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In federal court, theft of government property carries penalties based on the property’s value, with higher-value thefts facing felony charges and significant prison time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of property valued ≤ $1,000 | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, probation |
| Theft of property valued > $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 aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice. He provides strategic oversight on complex federal cases, including those involving theft of government property. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Case Results
Our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in complex cases. In one federal matter, we negotiated a resolution that avoided prison time for a client accused of misapplying government funds. In a Baltimore County case, we secured a Nolle Prosequi (charges dropped) for a client facing serious allegations. Mr. Sris collaborates on federal defense strategy, leveraging his extensive cross-jurisdictional experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Federal Defense Lawyer Serving Baltimore County
Our Maryland office represents clients in Baltimore County and before the U.S. District Court in Baltimore. We serve communities including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. As a federal property theft defense lawyer Baltimore, we are accessible to clients throughout the region.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Rockville/MD Location — Montgomery County area (by appointment)
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It includes any money, property, or thing of value of the United States. This ranges from office supplies and equipment to data, funds, and intellectual property developed with government funds.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
It depends. The statute requires the government to prove you acted “knowingly.” A key defense is lack of knowledge that the property was government-owned. An experienced theft of government property lawyer Baltimore can investigate to support this claim.
What agencies investigate theft of government property in Baltimore?
Common agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the General Services Administration Office of Inspector General (GSA OIG), the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG), and the Department of Veterans Affairs OIG.
Is restitution always required in these cases?
Yes. Federal courts almost always order restitution to the government for the full value of the property stolen or misapplied, regardless of the sentence imposed.
What is the difference between theft and misapplication of government property?
Both are covered under 18 U.S.C. § 641. Theft typically involves taking property for personal use. Misapplication involves using government property for an unauthorized purpose, even if you intended to return it or believed it was for a good cause.
Related Legal Services
If you are facing federal charges, you may need a federal criminal lawyer in Baltimore County. For other Maryland criminal matters, see our Maryland criminal defense hub. We also assist clients with criminal defense in Montgomery County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding theft of government property charges.