Theft of Government Property lawyer Garrett County, MD

Federal theft of government property charges are among the most serious allegations a person can face in Maryland, carrying the potential for lengthy imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent federal criminal record. If you are being investigated or have been indicted for taking money, goods, or services belonging to the United States government, you need an experienced federal defense team that understands how these cases are built and prosecuted. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides federal criminal defense representation to clients throughout Garrett County, Maryland, including Oakland, Deep Creek Lake, Accident, Grantsville, Mountain Lake Park, and Friendsville. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997, leads a team of Of Counsel that includes a former Maryland prosecutor with extensive federal court experience. Federal theft of government property cases are investigated by agencies such as the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security, or Inspectors General and are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Maryland before the U.S. District Court. The firm appears in federal court for Garrett County residents, handling every stage from grand jury investigation through trial and sentencing. To discuss your situation, reach our location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Theft of Government Property Charges Mean in Garrett County, MD

Federal theft of government property is defined broadly under Title 18 of the United States Code and covers embezzlement, stealing, or unauthorized conversion of anything of value that belongs to the U.S. Government or any of its agencies. This includes cash, equipment, supplies, benefits overpayments, grant funds, and even information or services. Unlike state theft offenses, which are handled in the District Court of MD for Garrett County or the Garrett County Circuit Court, federal theft charges are prosecuted exclusively in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The court has divisions in Baltimore and Greenbelt, meaning that residents of Garrett County—Maryland’s westernmost county—must travel across the state for court appearances, a logistical burden that amplifies the stress of a federal prosecution.

Garrett County is a rural community of roughly 29,000 residents, anchored by the county seat of Oakland and the recreational hub of Deep Creek Lake. The county is accessible via I-68 and Route 219, but the distance to the federal courthouse makes early and effective legal representation all the more critical. Federal investigations in this region often involve multiple agencies, including the FBI, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, or the Office of Inspector General for the specific agency alleging a loss. Defendants from Garrett County are typically brought before a federal magistrate judge in Baltimore or Greenbelt for an initial appearance and bail hearing, and then proceed through the federal system just as any other federal defendant would, facing the United States Sentencing Guidelines and the absence of parole in the federal system.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Federal Theft of Government Property Cases

Federal theft defense begins long before an indictment is handed down. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Often becomes involved at the investigation stage, when a person is contacted by federal agents or receives a target letter. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team immediately work to protect the individual’s rights, advise on all communications with investigators, and begin assembling the factual record. The defense strategy is built on a meticulous review of the government’s allegations—whether the property involved truly belongs to the U.S., whether the defendant had the requisite criminal intent, whether the evidence was lawfully obtained, and whether the government’s loss calculation is accurate. The firm’s experience as former prosecutors provides insight into how federal cases are constructed, allowing the defense to challenge weak evidence early and negotiate from a position of strength.

If the case proceeds to indictment, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle arraignment, detention hearings, discovery motions, and pretrial litigation. They seek to uncover favorable evidence, challenge overreaching search warrants or subpoenas, and identify procedural errors. In many instances, the team works to resolve the matter short of trial through a plea agreement that minimizes the defendant’s exposure. When trial is necessary, Mr. Sris draws on decades of courtroom experience and a thorough understanding of federal criminal procedure to present a thorough defense. At sentencing, the team advocates for a fair application of the advisory guidelines, emphasizing mitigating factors, acceptance of responsibility, and the defendant’s personal history. The firm’s goal in every case is to work toward the trusted achievable outcome under the specific facts and the law.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand knowledge of how criminal cases are built and prosecuted to every defense matter he handles. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York—a five-jurisdiction practice that enables him to represent clients in federal matters across multiple states. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a credential that reflects his involvement in the legislative process that shapes the law.

Verify admissions: Virginia State Bar • Maryland Judiciary • DC Bar • NJ Courts • NY OCA

Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys. The firm has documented 4,739+ firm-wide results. Results may vary. That collective knowledge includes a former Maryland prosecutor with substantial federal court practice, as well as attorneys with deep trial and investigative backgrounds. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle federal criminal defense matters for clients throughout Maryland, appearing regularly in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and working diligently to protect each client’s rights, liberty, and future.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between state and federal theft charges?

Federal theft charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney—not by the local State’s Attorney—and are governed by federal statutes with typically more severe sentencing ranges and no possibility of parole. A state theft charge in Garrett County, such as theft under a lower value, might be handled in the District Court of MD for Garrett County with a maximum penalty of 18 months. A federal theft of government property charge, however, can result in years of imprisonment under the United States Sentencing Guidelines and is litigated in the U.S. District Court. The federal system also has distinct rules of evidence and procedure, making federal experience essential.

What are the potential penalties for federal theft of government property in Maryland?

Penalties for federal theft of government property depend on the value of the property taken and the specific statute charged, but a conviction can result in imprisonment of up to 10 years, substantial fines, and mandatory restitution. Because the federal system abolished parole, individuals serve a large portion of any prison sentence imposed. The sentencing court applies the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which calculate an advisory range based on the amount of loss, the defendant’s role in the offense, and criminal history. Prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result, and each case is unique.

How do federal sentencing guidelines work in Garrett County, Maryland?

Federal sentencing at the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, a points-based calculation that considers the offense level and the defendant’s criminal history category. Although the guidelines are advisory since Booker (2005), they are highly influential, and judges in the Baltimore and Greenbelt divisions routinely use them as a starting point. Certain federal statutes impose mandatory minimum prison terms that limit a judge’s ability to sentence below those floors. Factors such as acceptance of responsibility, substantial assistance to the government under §5K1.1, or eligibility for the safety valve can reduce a sentence. An experienced federal defense attorney can explain how these factors apply to a particular case in Garrett County.

Do I need a federal criminal defense lawyer if I am only under investigation in Garrett County?

Yes, retaining a federal defense attorney at the investigation stage—before any charges are filed—is one of the most effective steps you can take to protect yourself. Federal agents and prosecutors begin building their case long before an indictment, and statements made during interviews can be used against you. A lawyer can engage with investigators on your behalf, help you avoid self-incrimination, and sometimes persuade the government not to bring charges or to charge a lesser offense. For Garrett County residents who must deal with the federal system from a distance, early legal guidance is particularly valuable to prevent a situation from escalating unnecessarily.

What should I do if I am contacted by a federal agent in Garrett County?

If a federal agent contacts you, you should politely decline to answer questions without an attorney present and immediately call a federal criminal defense lawyer. You have a right to remain silent and a right to counsel; exercising those rights is not an indication of guilt. Do not consent to a search of your home, computer, or phone, and do not turn over documents without legal advice. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation before you speak with any agent. Federal investigations are serious, and an experienced attorney can help you respond appropriately.

How does the federal court process work for Garrett County residents?

Garrett County residents charged with a federal crime are processed through the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, typically appearing before a magistrate judge in Baltimore or Greenbelt for an initial appearance and detention hearing, followed by proceedings before a district judge. The process includes an arraignment, pretrial motions, discovery exchange, and possible plea negotiations. If the case goes to trial, a jury is seated in Baltimore or Greenbelt. Because the federal courthouse is far from Garrett County, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Manages each step efficiently, coordinating travel and keeping clients informed. Federal cases often take many months, and the timeline varies based on the complexity of the allegations and the court’s calendar. The firm helps clients understand each phase and what to expect.

Official sources:
U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland |
Title 18, U.S. Code (Crimes and Criminal Procedure) |
U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Maryland

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