Theft of Government Property lawyer Wicomico County, MD

Federal criminal charges involving theft of government property are a serious matter, prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of Maryland and litigated in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, with divisions in Baltimore and Greenbelt. If you are facing such an allegation in Wicomico County or anywhere on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, you need an experienced federal defense attorney who understands how these cases are built and challenged. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, brings decades of federal criminal defense experience to clients across Maryland. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team work to protect the rights of individuals accused of misappropriating government funds, property, or benefits under Title 18 of the United States Code. Federal sentencing guidelines apply, and the government’s resources are extensive, which makes early, focused legal guidance essential. For a confidential consultation about a federal theft of government property matter in Wicomico County, reach our location at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Federal Theft of Government Property Charges Mean in Wicomico County

Federal theft of government property encompasses a wide range of conduct — from embezzlement of federal program funds to unauthorized use of government vehicles, theft of mail, or conversion of government equipment. Unlike state-level theft offenses, these cases are handled exclusively in federal court. In Wicomico County, that means the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland will lead the prosecution, with the case likely to proceed in the Greenbelt or Baltimore division of the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. The procedural path is distinct from state proceedings in the District Court of MD for Wicomico County or the Wicomico County Circuit Court, where local misdemeanors and felonies are tried.

Federal investigations into theft of government property often involve agencies such as the FBI, the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, or the IRS Criminal Investigation division. These agencies have considerable investigative authority and frequently build cases over many months. Anyone under investigation in the Salisbury area or surrounding parts of Wicomico County — including Fruitland, Delmar, Mardela Springs, Sharptown, and Pittsville — should understand that federal charges can move swiftly once an indictment is returned. The Speedy Trial Act imposes time limits on the prosecution, and the case calendar in federal court is managed without the same discretion as many state courts. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the local federal practice and can advise on what to expect at each stage.

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

Because federal theft of government property charges often involve extensive documentary evidence and financial records, a thorough review of the government’s case is the first priority. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine every piece of discovery: bank statements, emails, contracts, witness interviews, and the chain of custody for any physical evidence. They assess whether the government can prove the required elements — that the property indeed belonged to the United States, that it had a value sufficient to meet federal jurisdictional thresholds, and that the accused acted with the requisite intent.

The defense strategy may involve challenging the sufficiency of the evidence, identifying procedural violations during the investigation, or negotiating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a pretrial resolution. In many federal cases, the sentencing guidelines create powerful incentives for early cooperation or plea negotiations. At the same time, the decision to go to trial is one that should be made only after careful evaluation of the government’s evidence and the potential sentencing exposure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with clients to understand all of their options and to make informed choices at key decision points, from the initial appearance to any post-conviction proceedings.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced federal criminal defense since the firm was established in 1997. 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 in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he has extensive experience representing clients facing federal charges in the District of Maryland. Working alongside Mr. Sris is a team of experienced Of Counsel attorneys, each of whom brings substantial litigation background to every matter. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, and they have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997. 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 the difference between state and federal charges?

Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. Federal cases are brought in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, while state charges proceed in the local district or circuit courts. Federal theft of government property charges often involve agencies like the FBI or the IRS, and the investigation can span months or years. The federal system uses advisory sentencing guidelines, and there is no parole, so a conviction can lead to a significant term of imprisonment. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical to navigate those differences.

How long does a federal theft of government property case take in Maryland?

The timeline for a federal theft of government property case varies by complexity and court scheduling. Under the Speedy Trial Act, the government must proceed within certain time limits, though many cases are resolved through pretrial motions or plea agreements. Straightforward matters may resolve within several months, but those involving extensive records or multiple defendants can take a year or more. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to move the case forward efficiently while protecting the client’s interests at every stage.

Do I need a lawyer for a federal theft of government property charge in Wicomico County?

Yes, you should have an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer as soon as you believe you are under investigation or have been charged. Federal theft of government property allegations carry serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and restitution. A lawyer can help protect your rights during questioning, review the evidence, and develop a defense strategy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers confidential consultations to discuss your situation.

Can federal theft of government property charges be dropped?

Yes, federal charges can be dropped if the government’s case is insufficient or if a motion to dismiss is granted by the court. Dismissals may occur when evidence was obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment, when the indictment fails to state an offense, or when the prosecution determines it cannot meet its burden. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate every avenue for seeking dismissal or reduction of charges based on the specific facts of the case.

What should I do if I am being investigated for federal theft of government property?

Do not speak to investigators without counsel present, and contact a federal defense attorney immediately. Federal agents may have been building a case for some time, and anything you say can be used against you. Preserve all relevant documents and do not attempt to discuss the matter with anyone other than your lawyer. Prompt legal guidance can help prevent missteps that might complicate your defense later.

How does a federal theft of government property case affect my future?

A conviction for federal theft of government property can have lasting consequences beyond any sentence imposed. It can affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, security clearances, and immigration status. A felony record can limit where you may live or travel. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel take a long-term view when advising clients, working not only on the immediate charge but also on minimizing collateral consequences whenever possible. Results may vary.

Federal Criminal Defense Across Maryland

Our firm represents clients throughout the state in federal criminal matters. Learn more about our work in neighboring counties:

• Federal Criminal Lawyer Montgomery County, MD
• Federal Criminal Lawyer Prince George’s County, MD
• Federal Criminal Lawyer Howard County, MD
• Federal Criminal Lawyer Anne Arundel County, MD
• Federal Criminal Lawyer Frederick County, MD

Official Federal Resources

For reference, these primary sources provide information on the federal court system and prosecution in the District of Maryland:

• U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland
• U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Maryland
• Title 18 of the U.S. Code (Crimes and Criminal Procedure)

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Results may vary.

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