Theft Of Government Property Lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia
Theft of government property is a 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 Loudoun Virginia with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for federal larceny charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal Courts | Virginia General Assembly
The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert 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. Penalties are severe and depend on the property’s value. A conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence and a substantial fine. Your defense must address the specific intent required under the statute and challenge the government’s evidence of value and ownership.
For the official text of the statute, see 18 U.S.C. § 641 (Cornell Legal Information Institute). For local federal court procedures, refer to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia website.
- If contacted by a federal agent, politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney.
- Your attorney will conduct a thorough case review, examining all discovery from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of evidence, such as searches or seizures.
- We engage in plea negotiations with federal prosecutors, seeking reduced charges or favorable sentencing recommendations.
- If necessary, we prepare for and conduct a jury trial in U.S. District Court, presenting a strong defense case.
- We advocate at sentencing, presenting mitigating factors to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
In federal court, theft of government property valued over $1,000 is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines. Misdemeanor theft under $1,000 carries up to one year in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Govt. Property > $1,000 | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Felony record, restitution, loss of federal benefits/employment |
| Theft of Govt. Property < $1,000 | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Misdemeanor record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to federal criminal defense. Our firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice. We have a documented record of handling complex federal cases. We understand the high stakes of a federal indictment and work collaboratively to build a strategic defense.
Our firm has handled numerous federal and state criminal matters. While specific results for theft of government property in Loudoun are not publicly listed, our approach is thorough and defense-focused. We examine every aspect of the government’s case, from the initial investigation to the evidence presented. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex federal matters, ensuring a multi-layered defense strategy.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Ashburn Location — 20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only.
Our Ashburn location serves clients facing federal charges in Loudoun County. We are accessible to residents of Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, and surrounding communities. If you need a Theft Of Government Property Lawyer Loudoun Virginia, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only at our office.
What is theft of government property under federal law?
It is a crime under 18 U.S.C. § 641 to steal, embezzle, or knowingly convert any money, property, or record of the United States. This includes items from any federal department or agency, and even applies to contractors holding government property.
What should I do if I’m contacted by a federal agent about this?
Politely state you wish to speak with an attorney and end the conversation. Do not answer questions. Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you, and agents are trained to obtain incriminating statements.
Can a property crime lawyer help if I’m already indicted?
Yes. An experienced lawyer can challenge the indictment, file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for trial. Even after an indictment, there are multiple avenues to seek a dismissal or reduction of charges.
What are the defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal, mistaken identity, ownership claim to the property, or that the property was not actually owned by the U.S. government. An attorney can also challenge the valuation of the property, which affects the potential penalty.
Why do I need a theft attorney with federal experience?
Federal courts have different rules, procedures, and sentencing guidelines than state courts. A larceny defense lawyer familiar with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, federal discovery rules, and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines is essential for an effective defense.
Is this charge similar to state-level shoplifting?
No. While a shoplifting lawyer handles state misdemeanors, theft of government property is a federal felony with much more severe penalties, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys in federal district court. The procedures and potential consequences are entirely different.
For more information on related state charges, see our page on Petit Larceny Defense in Loudoun. To understand the full scope of our federal practice, visit our Virginia Federal Criminal Defense hub. We also assist with other related matters in Loudoun, such as Business Law.
Last verified: April 2026. Federal laws and procedures are subject to change. For current guidance on theft of government property charges, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.