Theft of Government Property lawyer Fairfax County, VA

At the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, federal theft of government property charges carry serious consequences. These cases arise when the government alleges that a person stole, embezzled, or otherwise wrongfully obtained property owned by the United States or any federal agency. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Virginia prosecutes these offenses actively, and a conviction can lead to a prison sentence and lasting collateral consequences. If you or someone you know is facing an investigation or has been charged with theft of government property in Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, or anywhere within the Eastern District, you need defense counsel who understands how these federal cases are built. Mr. Sris and the firm's Of Counsel attorneys represent individuals accused of federal property crimes throughout Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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Federal Theft of Government Property Charges in Fairfax County, Virginia

Theft of government property is a federal offense under Title 18 of the U.S. Code. Unlike state larceny or embezzlement charges, which proceed in Fairfax County General District or Circuit Court, federal theft cases fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, a court known for processing cases quickly under the “rocket docket.” The Eastern District’s Alexandria division handles many of the federal matters originating in Fairfax County. Federal investigators from agencies such as the FBI, the Department of Defense Inspector General, or the General Services Administration often conduct lengthy investigations before charges are filed. A federal grand jury indictment is required for felony theft offenses. Once indicted, a defendant faces the full machinery of a federal prosecution: pretrial detention hearings, extensive discovery, motions practice, and potentially a jury trial. Because federal sentencing guidelines apply and there is no parole in the federal system, the stakes are high from the very beginning of a case.

The federal government defines theft of government property broadly. The offense can involve stealing federal funds, equipment, vehicles, or intangible property. Charges may stem from a single incident or from a scheme spanning months. In Fairfax County, proximity to Washington, D.C., and numerous federal installations increases the likelihood that a theft allegation could be charged in federal court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has experience handling federal criminal matters in the Eastern District of Virginia and provides defense representation to individuals throughout Fairfax and the surrounding communities.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Defend Against Federal Theft Charges

Federal theft of government property investigations often begin well before an arrest. Search warrants, grand jury subpoenas, and interviews with coworkers or business partners are common. Early engagement with defense counsel can influence how an investigation unfolds. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work to identify weaknesses in the government’s case, examine the evidence for procedural violations, and develop a strategy tailored to the specific facts. The defense team reviews whether the property at issue actually belonged to the government, whether the accused acted with the requisite criminal intent, and whether any statutory exceptions or defenses apply.

If charges are already filed, representation focuses on every stage of the federal criminal process: initial appearance, detention hearing, arraignment, pretrial motions, and trial if necessary. The firm’s attorneys are familiar with the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and its procedures. They evaluate discovery materials, consider whether suppression motions are warranted, and engage in negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office when a resolution short of trial is in the client’s best interest. The federal sentencing guidelines heavily influence outcomes, so the team also prepares detailed sentencing memoranda and mitigation presentations. A thorough defense means scrutinizing every aspect of the government’s case while presenting the client’s side forcefully and accurately.

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

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he understands how the government builds federal cases and uses that insight to construct defense strategies for his clients. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Supporting Mr. Sris in federal criminal matters, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Together, they have documented case results across multiple practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. The firm’s Fairfax Location at 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032, provides a base for serving clients in Fairfax County and throughout Northern Virginia. Reach the firm at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation, by appointment only.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is theft of government property under federal law?

Theft of government property is a federal crime defined in Title 18 of the U.S. Code. It can include stealing, embezzling, converting, or otherwise taking property that belongs to the United States or any department or agency of the federal government. The offense covers a wide range of conduct, from misappropriating federal funds to taking government equipment or supplies. Because federal jurisdiction is involved, these cases are prosecuted in U.S. District Court, not in state court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia handles such prosecutions for Fairfax County and surrounding areas. An experienced federal criminal defense attorney can evaluate the specific allegations and advise on potential defense strategies. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer if I am under investigation for theft of government property?

Yes. Federal investigations often begin without the target’s knowledge. If you learn that federal agents are asking questions, executing search warrants, or that you are the subject of a grand jury investigation, you should seek legal representation immediately. Anything you say to investigators can be used against you. Early involvement of defense counsel can help protect your rights, prevent unintentional statements that might be misconstrued, and potentially influence the direction of the investigation. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are available to consult with individuals in Fairfax County who are concerned about a federal theft investigation.

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

Federal theft charges typically begin with a grand jury indictment. After indictment, the defendant appears for an initial hearing and possibly a detention hearing. The court sets a schedule for discovery, motions, and trial. The Eastern District of Virginia is known for its efficient docket, so cases move relatively quickly. Throughout the process, the defense has opportunities to challenge the government’s evidence, negotiate a plea agreement, or take the case to trial. Sentencing, if there is a conviction, follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines. Because federal procedures differ from state court, representation by counsel experienced in federal court is important. To discuss your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What should I do if I am contacted by federal agents?

If federal agents contact you about a theft of government property matter, you should politely decline to answer questions without counsel present. You are not required to speak with investigators, and anything you say can be introduced as evidence in court. Request to speak with an attorney and do not provide any documents or access to records without legal advice. Contact a federal criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to receive guidance on how to proceed. The firm’s attorneys can advise you on how to handle the situation while protecting your interests.

Can a federal theft charge be reduced or dismissed?

It is possible for federal theft charges to be resolved favorably, but outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case. The defense may identify legal flaws in the indictment, challenges to the sufficiency of the evidence, or procedural violations that warrant dismissal or suppression of evidence. In other situations, negotiations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office may lead to a plea agreement to a lesser charge or a favorable sentencing recommendation. The firm’s attorneys review every avenue to work toward a favorable resolution, but past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Also Serving These Northern Virginia Localities

The firm provides federal criminal defense representation in additional counties within the Eastern District of Virginia. Learn more about our services in these areas:

Federal Court and Sentencing Resources

These official sources offer additional background on federal criminal procedure and sentencing:

U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
U.S. Sentencing Commission

Last reviewed: July 2026

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

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