Theft of Government Property in Manassas carries serious federal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 641, including up to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Manassas can build your defense. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
What Is Theft of Government Property Under Federal Law?
Under 18 U.S.C. § 641, theft of government property involves stealing, embezzling, or knowingly converting property owned by the United States government. This includes money, records, documents, or any tangible item valued at $1,000 or more. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Manassas understands that federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia handle these cases aggressively. The statute covers both intentional theft and unauthorized use of government resources. Penalties escalate with the value of the property taken. A federal property theft defense lawyer Manassas can explain how the government must prove intent to deprive the United States of the property permanently.
Statutory Definition and Penalties
The federal theft of government property statute, 18 U.S.C. § 641, classifies the offense based on property value. Property valued at $1,000 or more carries up to 10 years in federal prison. Property under $1,000 carries up to one year. Fines up to $250,000 apply. Restitution to the government agency is mandatory. A government asset theft lawyer Manassas knows that federal sentencing guidelines often produce longer sentences than state equivalents. The statute applies to any person who embezzles, steals, purloins, or knowingly converts to their use any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States.
External Citation Links
Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia General Assembly
Manassas General District Court — Official Court Website
Insider Procedural Edge: Manassas Federal Court Process
Federal theft of government property cases in Manassas begin with an investigation by federal agencies such as the FBI, IRS-CI, or agency OIG. The case proceeds to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Manassas should be involved from the investigation stage.
- Contact a federal defense lawyer immediately upon learning of an investigation.
- Preserve all documents and communications related to the alleged theft.
- Do not speak to investigators without counsel present.
- File any necessary motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable resolution.
- Prepare for trial if a plea agreement is not in your best interest.
Penalty Table for Theft of Government Property
In Manassas, federal theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 carries penalties based on property value.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of property valued $1,000+ | Federal felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | Federal employment ineligibility | Restitution, supervised release |
| Theft of property under $1,000 | Federal misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | Federal employment ineligibility | Restitution, probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
E-E-A-T Authority Block
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the government builds theft cases. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Manassas from our firm brings this depth of experience to your case.
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
Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Manassas. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In related theft cases, our firm achieved a reduction of breaking and entering to trespass with 90 days to serve in Arlington County J&DR Court. In Fairfax County GDC, four counts of credit card fraud resulted in a 2-year sentence fully suspended with active probation. A petit larceny third offense (Class 6 felony) resulted in 12 months jail with 8 months suspended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax Location
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for theft of government property in Manassas?
Yes. Under 18 U.S.C. § 641, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more carries up to 10 years in federal prison. Property under $1,000 carries up to one year. Fines up to $250,000 and mandatory restitution apply.
Can theft of government property charges be reduced in Manassas?
It depends. Federal prosecutors may offer a plea to a lesser charge if the property value is disputed or if you have no prior record. A federal property theft defense lawyer Manassas can negotiate for a reduction or diversion program.
Do I need a lawyer for a federal theft investigation in Manassas?
Yes. Federal investigations often lead to indictment. Speaking to agents without counsel can harm your case. A government asset theft lawyer Manassas can protect your rights from the investigation stage through trial.
What is the difference between GDC and federal court for theft cases in Manassas?
Manassas General District Court handles state misdemeanor theft cases. Federal theft of government property is prosecuted in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. Federal cases carry longer sentences and no parole.
How does bail work for federal theft charges in Manassas?
A federal magistrate sets bond after arrest. Pretrial detention is common for theft of government property cases involving public trust. A lawyer can argue for release with conditions such as GPS monitoring or home confinement.