Theft of Government Property lawyer Rockville, MD

Federal charges for theft of government property can upend a person’s life. In Rockville and across Maryland, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases actively under 18 U.S.C. § 641, often seeking restitution, asset forfeiture, and federal prison time. Because federal conviction rates exceed 90% and the federal system has no parole, anyone facing a government‑theft investigation or indictment needs a defense built on a thorough understanding of the federal court process. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team represent clients in Rockville and surrounding communities who are accused of stealing, converting, or embezzling funds, equipment, or property that belongs to a United States department or agency. They appear regularly in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, including at the Greenbelt courthouse that serves Montgomery County residents. To discuss your situation with an experienced federal criminal defense advocate, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
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What Theft of Government Property Means in Rockville

Theft of government property is a specific federal offense defined in 18 U.S.C. § 641. It is not a state‑level theft charge handled in Montgomery County District or Circuit Court. When the property involved belongs to a federal agency—such as the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, or a military installation—or involves funds distributed through a federal program, jurisdiction lies with the U.S. District Court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, working closely with agents from the FBI, Department of Defense, or Inspector General offices, builds cases methodically, often relying on financial records, electronic surveillance, and witness testimony gathered over months.

For a Rockville resident, the case will typically proceed through the Greenbelt division of the federal court, located on Cherrywood Lane. From the initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge to the potential trial or sentencing, every step follows the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. The government must prove that the defendant knowingly converted, stole, or sold property of the United States and that the property had value. Even when the dollar amount seems modest, a conviction carries consequences that can extend far beyond the term of imprisonment—including supervised release, fines, and restitution orders that may last for years.

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

When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents a client in a federal government‑theft matter, the team acts early to protect the individual’s rights during the investigation phase, often before charges are formally filed. They review the government’s evidence for procedural errors, such as defective search warrants or failures to preserve potentially exculpatory material. They also engage directly with the Assistant U.S. Attorney assigned to the case, exploring whether a pre‑indictment resolution or a negotiated plea can reduce exposure.

If trial becomes necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel draw on decades of combined courtroom experience—over 120 years of combined legal experience—to challenge the government’s proof. Results may vary. They scrutinize the chain of custody for physical evidence, the reliability of cooperating witnesses, and the accuracy of financial analysis. Federal theft prosecutions often turn on circumstantial evidence, and a well‑prepared defense can highlight alternative explanations for the conduct the government labels as theft. Throughout the process, the team keeps the client informed and works to achieve favorable outcomes under the unique facts of the case. The firm’s attorneys have documented 4,739+ case results since 1997, and they apply that experience to every federal matter they handle. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings firsthand insight into how the government builds and presents its cases. Mr. Sris testified 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, and he personally oversees every serious federal defense matter the firm undertakes.

Mr. Sris is supported by a team of experienced Of Counsel, each of whom brings a distinct perspective to federal criminal defense. Several members of the team served as prosecutors before joining the firm, and they understand the strategies the U.S. Attorney’s Office employs in theft‑of‑government‑property investigations. The collective experience of Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel includes more than 120 years of combined legal knowledge, which they use to protect clients facing the most serious federal charges. Results may vary.

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

Last reviewed: June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is theft of government property under federal law?

Theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 involves knowingly converting, stealing, or selling property that belongs to the United States or any of its departments or agencies. The property can be tangible, such as computer equipment or construction materials, or intangible, like federal grant funds. The statute also covers the knowing receipt, concealment, or retention of such property with the intent to convert it to one’s own use. A conviction can arise even when the person had no direct physical contact with the property, so long as they knowingly participated in the scheme.

How does a federal theft of government property charge differ from a state theft charge?

Federal theft charges are prosecuted in U.S. District Court under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, with no parole available and conviction rates that routinely exceed 90%. State theft cases, by contrast, proceed in Maryland’s District or Circuit Court with different sentencing options and the possibility of parole. Federal prosecutors also have access to far more investigative resources, including grand jury subpoenas and multi‑agency task forces. The rules of evidence, discovery obligations, and pretrial detention standards are distinct from state practice.

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

Yes, you should seek legal counsel as soon as you become aware of an investigation, even if you have not been charged. Federal agents may interview witnesses, execute search warrants, or issue subpoenas for financial records long before an arrest. A defense lawyer can contact the prosecutor on your behalf, attempt to prevent the filing of charges, and advise you on how to avoid making statements that could be used against you. Early engagement often makes a material difference in the outcome.

What are the potential penalties for theft of government property?

The penalties depend on the value of the property and the defendant’s prior criminal history, but a conviction can lead to imprisonment, fines, restitution, and a period of supervised release. The federal sentencing guidelines calculate a recommended range based on the loss amount and other factors; however, the judge retains discretion to impose a sentence above or below the guideline range. There is no parole in the federal system, so any period of incarceration must be served almost entirely. Asset forfeiture may also be sought.

How can a defense attorney help in a federal theft of government property case?

An experienced federal criminal defense attorney can challenge the government’s evidence, negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and present mitigating information to seek a favorable resolution. The attorney can file pretrial motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully, exclude unreliable witness testimony, or dismiss counts that are not supported by probable cause. At sentencing, the defense can advocate for a below‑guideline sentence by highlighting the client’s background, lack of prior criminal history, or minimal role in the offense.

What should I bring to an initial consultation with a theft of government property defense lawyer?

Bring any documents related to the investigation, such as subpoenas, search warrants, or financial records, and be prepared to discuss the facts of the matter. If you have been charged, bring the indictment and any discovery materials the government has provided. A list of potential witnesses, including their contact information, can also be helpful. The consultation is confidential, so you can speak openly about the government’s allegations without fear that your statements will be used against you.

Related Federal Criminal Defense Pages

In addition to representing individuals in Rockville facing theft of government property charges, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides federal criminal defense in communities throughout Maryland. Visit these pages to learn more about representation in your area:

Primary Authority Sources

The following official sources contain the statutes, court information, and prosecution policies relevant to federal theft of government property cases in Maryland:

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is located at 199 E. Montgomery Avenue, Suite 100, Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850. Reach our location at (888) 437‑7747. Consultations by appointment; Results may vary. © 1997–2026 Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

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