Facing federal charges for theft of government property in Fredericksburg? Under 18 U.S.C. § 641, this offense carries up to 10 years in federal prison. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Fredericksburg from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build your defense. Call (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fredericksburg General District Court | 18 U.S.C. § 641 (official U.S. Code)
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to steal, embezzle, or knowingly convert property of 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 Fredericksburg understands that the government must prove you acted with intent to deprive the U.S. of its property. The statute covers both direct theft and unauthorized use of government resources. Penalties escalate with the value of the property involved.
For more information, review the official statute at 18 U.S.C. § 641 (official U.S. Code). The Eastern District of Virginia federal court handles these cases; visit the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia for local procedures.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before a federal magistrate judge within 48 hours of arrest. The judge advises you of the charges and sets conditions of release.
- Detention Hearing: If the government seeks pretrial detention, a hearing occurs within 3 business days. Your lawyer argues for release under appropriate conditions.
- Indictment or Information: The grand jury must return an indictment within 30 days if you are detained, or 60 days if released. The indictment formally charges the offense.
- Discovery and Motions: The government provides evidence through discovery. Your lawyer files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on constitutional violations.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a favorable plea agreement. If no agreement, the case proceeds to trial before a federal jury.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge applies the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Factors include the property value, your criminal history, and acceptance of responsibility.
In Fredericksburg, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 carries federal prison time, fines, and restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Government Property (value under $1,000) | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Restitution, supervised release |
| Theft of Government Property (value $1,000+) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A | Restitution, supervised release, loss of federal benefits |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
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
Mr. Sris brings over 25 years of federal criminal defense experience to your case. As a former prosecutor, he understands how the U.S. Attorney’s Office builds theft of government property cases. He has handled complex federal matters involving fraud, embezzlement, and property crimes. His background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial records and digital evidence. He accepts only a limited number of cases to ensure deep personal involvement.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas in Fredericksburg (83% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fredericksburg courts (701 Princess Anne St), accessible via I-95, Route 1, Route 3, and Route 17. We serve Fredericksburg and surrounding communities. A government asset theft lawyer Fredericksburg is available to meet by appointment.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Q: Can theft of government property charges be reduced to a misdemeanor in Fredericksburg?
Yes. If the property value is under $1,000, the offense is a federal misdemeanor carrying up to 1 year in prison. Your lawyer can negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a misdemeanor plea even if the value exceeds $1,000, depending on the circumstances.
Q: What is the difference between theft of government property and embezzlement under federal law?
Theft involves taking property without authorization. Embezzlement occurs when you lawfully possess the property but convert it for your own use. Both fall under 18 U.S.C. § 641. The government must prove intent in either case.
Q: How long does a federal theft of government property case take in Fredericksburg?
It depends. Under the Speedy Trial Act, trial must occur within 70 days of indictment. Most cases resolve in 6-18 months. Complex cases involving large property values or multiple defendants can take 1-3 years.
Q: Will I lose my job if charged with theft of government property?
It depends. Federal charges often trigger employment consequences, especially for government employees or those with security clearances. A conviction can result in loss of federal employment, professional licenses, and future job opportunities.
Q: Can I get probation instead of prison for theft of government property?
Yes. First-time offenders with no criminal history may qualify for probation under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Factors include the property value, acceptance of responsibility, and cooperation with the government. Restitution is typically required.