Theft of Government Property Lawyer in Falls Church, VA
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 dedicated Theft of Government Property lawyer Falls Church. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for federal property theft charges.
Federal Statute on Theft of Government Property
Theft of government property is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 641. This statute makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s own use, or the use of another, any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States or of any department or agency thereof. The law also covers receiving, concealing, or retaining such property with intent to convert it. The statute applies broadly to any property belonging to the U.S. government, including funds, equipment, supplies, and intellectual property.
Last verified: April 2026 | Eastern District of Virginia | U.S. Code
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 Eastern District of Virginia website.
Defending Against Federal Theft Charges in Falls Church
Federal investigations for theft of government property in Falls Church are typically conducted by agencies like the FBI, OIG, or GSA. The case is prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. A key procedural fact is that the government must prove you had the specific intent to deprive the government of its property. A successful defense often hinges on challenging this intent or the valuation of the property, as penalties escalate with value.
- Immediately seek legal counsel if you are under investigation or contacted by federal agents.
- Your attorney will conduct a thorough review of the allegations and evidence.
- We will engage in pre-indictment negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to seek a favorable resolution.
- If charged, we will file strategic motions to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and legal theories.
- We will prepare a vigorous defense for trial or negotiate a plea agreement that minimizes the consequences.
Potential Penalties for Theft of Government Property
In federal court, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 carries severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, depending on the property’s value.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of property valued ≤ $1,000 | Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Restitution, criminal record |
| 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 Federal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of federal court and the specific strategies needed to defend against charges like theft of government property. Our approach is built on thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in complex cases. For example, we have successfully negotiated reductions in charges and sentences in federal property crime matters. In one case, a client facing multiple counts of fraud and theft saw significant charges dismissed following our pre-trial motions and negotiations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Secondary attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, contributes deep litigation experience to our federal defense team.
Contact Our Falls Church Federal Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Falls Church facing federal charges. We are accessible via Route 7, Route 29, I-66, and I-495, near the West Falls Church Metro.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only. We serve Falls Church and surrounding communities.
FAQs: Theft of Government Property Defense
What is considered “government property” under federal law?
It depends. Government property includes any money, asset, supply, equipment, or thing of value belonging to the U.S. government or any of its agencies. This can range from office supplies and tools to funds, data, and intellectual property developed with government resources.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the property belonged to the government?
No, generally not. A key element the government must prove under 18 U.S.C. § 641 is that you knew the property belonged to the United States. Lack of knowledge can be a strong defense. A government asset theft lawyer Falls Church can investigate whether the government can meet this burden of proof.
What agencies investigate theft of government property?
Several federal agencies can investigate, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Office of Inspector General (OIG) for the relevant agency (e.g., Department of Defense, GSA), the General Services Administration (GSA) Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Justice. The choice of agency depends on the property involved.
What are the possible defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (e.g., you believed you had permission), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of ownership or value, and challenging the legality of the investigation (e.g., Fourth Amendment violations). An experienced Theft of Government Property lawyer Falls Church will identify the best defense strategy for your specific situation.
Is a plea bargain possible in a federal theft case?
Yes. The U.S. Attorney’s Office frequently engages in plea negotiations. A skilled federal property theft defense lawyer Falls Church can negotiate to reduce charges, agree on a favorable sentencing recommendation, or enter into a pre-trial diversion program, especially for first-time offenders or cases with mitigating circumstances.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other federal charges, explore our pages on Federal Criminal Defense in Falls Church and Business Law in Falls Church. For a broader view, see our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub.
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 a theft of government property charge.