Theft of Government Property lawyer Arlington County, VA

A federal indictment for theft of government property can upend your life before you step into a courtroom. In Arlington County, these cases are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia—an office known for moving quickly and pursuing active charging decisions. The prospect of a felony conviction, federal prison, and a permanent criminal record requires experienced counsel who knows federal procedure and how the Alexandria-based prosecutors build their cases. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., together with the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, represents individuals facing theft of government property charges in U.S. District Court. Early involvement by a federal criminal defense attorney can influence case direction, pretrial release conditions, and overall strategy. To request a consultation about your situation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Federal Theft of Government Property Charges Mean in Arlington County

Federal theft of government property is charged under 18 U.S.C. § 641 and related statutes when the government alleges that a person knowingly stole, embezzled, converted, or otherwise obtained money or property belonging to the United States or a federal agency. Because Arlington County is adjacent to Washington, D.C., many federal cases here involve property or funds tied to government contractors, military installations, or administrative agencies with a Northern Virginia presence. Investigations are typically led by federal agencies such as the FBI, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), or the Office of Inspector General for the affected department.

All federal criminal prosecutions in Arlington County proceed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division—a court widely acknowledged for its rapid pace under the Speedy Trial Act. After an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, a detention hearing may follow, and a grand jury indictment is required for a felony charge. The U.S. Attorney’s Office routinely seeks to establish that the defendant acted with intent to deprive the government of property, and federal sentencing guidelines—while advisory—strongly shape any eventual sentence. Because there is no parole in the federal system, the stakes are high from the moment a target letter or summons arrives. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear in the Albert V. Bryan U.S. Courthouse in Alexandria and guide clients through every stage, from investigation through pretrial motions, plea negotiations, or trial.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Approach Federal Theft Cases

When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. takes on a federal theft matter, the focus from day one is on protecting the client’s rights while building a well-prepared defense. Mr. Sris, drawing on his background as a former prosecutor, evaluates the government’s evidence with an understanding of how federal charging decisions are made. The firm examines whether the government can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt—for example, whether the property was actually owned by the United States, whether the defendant acted with criminal intent, and whether the value attributed to the property is accurate. Procedural defenses, such as challenges to searches or statements obtained in violation of constitutional protections, are explored early.

The defense strategy is tailored to the facts of each case. In some matters, presenting mitigating information to the U.S. Attorney early can influence whether charges are brought or what charges are filed. If a case proceeds to trial, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are prepared to cross-examine government witnesses, challenge financial records or electronic evidence, and present a defense that confronts the government’s narrative. Throughout the process, the firm works to keep the client informed about the timeline, potential exposure under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and the practical realities of litigating in the Eastern District of Virginia. Results may vary. Every case is unique.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. A former prosecutor, he draws on firsthand trial experience when representing individuals charged in federal court. His legislative engagement includes testifying before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to federal criminal defense matters. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys collectively handle cases in the Eastern District of Virginia, including matters that originate in Arlington County. The team’s familiarity with federal procedural rules, the Sentencing Guidelines, and the practices of the Alexandria U.S. Attorney’s Office helps shape a defense approach that is grounded in the real dynamics of federal prosecution. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is theft of government property under federal law in Virginia?

Theft of government property is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 641 that involves knowingly stealing, embezzling, or converting money or property owned by the United States. The statute covers a wide range of conduct—from taking physical federal equipment to submitting fraudulent invoices to a government agency. In the Eastern District of Virginia, these charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney and can lead to a felony conviction with significant incarceration and fines.

What are the potential consequences of a federal theft of government property conviction?

A conviction for federal theft of government property can result in a substantial prison sentence, a term of supervised release, and an order to pay restitution. The actual term depends on the value of the property, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors considered under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Unlike state systems, there is no parole in the federal system. Collateral consequences—such as loss of security clearances or professional licenses—may also follow.

What should I do if I am under investigation for federal theft in Arlington County?

If you suspect you are the subject of a federal investigation, do not discuss the matter with anyone except a lawyer and preserve all relevant documentation. Federal agents often build cases using grand jury subpoenas, witness interviews, and documentary evidence over weeks or months. Contacting an experienced federal criminal defense attorney early can help protect your rights before charges are filed. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are available by phone at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.

How does a federal criminal case proceed in the Eastern District of Virginia?

A federal case typically begins with an indictment or a criminal complaint, followed by an initial appearance and a detention hearing before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. If the case is not resolved by plea, it moves through pretrial motions, discovery, and trial in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division. The process from indictment to trial can unfold relatively quickly due to the district’s strict Speedy Trial Act calendar. Sentencing takes place after a verdict or guilty plea, guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.

Do I need a federal criminal defense attorney for theft of government property charges?

Yes—federal theft of government property charges carry serious consequences, and the federal court system has procedural rules and sentencing guidelines distinct from Virginia state courts. An attorney familiar with federal practice can evaluate the strength of the government’s evidence, negotiate with the U.S. Attorney, and, if necessary, prepare a trial defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in Arlington County and throughout the Eastern District of Virginia. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

How soon should I contact an attorney if I suspect I may be charged with a federal offense?

You should contact a federal criminal defense attorney as soon as you become aware of an investigation or an impending charge. Early legal advice can shape how you interact with investigators, what statements you make, and what documents you preserve. Once an indictment is returned, the prosecution has already invested substantial resources. Engaging counsel at the earliest stage gives your defense team the trusted opportunity to influence the direction of the case. Reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.

Local Federal Criminal Defense Services

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Appears in federal courts across Northern Virginia. For more information about federal representation in surrounding counties, visit:

Additional Resources

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Last reviewed: July 2026

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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.