Theft of Government Property lawyer New Jersey, NJ

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends individuals facing federal theft of government property charges in New Jersey. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey prosecutes these offenses under 18 U.S.C. § 641, often relying on investigations by the FBI, HSI, IRS‑CI, or other federal agencies. Cases are filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, with courthouses in Newark, Trenton, and Camden. A conviction can carry significant incarceration, substantial fines, restitution orders, and long‑term collateral consequences. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive experience in federal criminal defense to these matters, working to protect clients’ rights from the earliest stages of a federal investigation through trial. The firm’s New Jersey location serves clients statewide, and consultations are available by appointment. For immediate assistance, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Theft of Government Property Means in New Jersey

The federal statute 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, purloin, or convert any record, voucher, money, or thing of value of the United States or any department or agency thereof. It also prohibits anyone from receiving, concealing, or retaining such property with the intent to convert it. Because the property must belong to the federal government or a federal entity, the offense is inherently federal — New Jersey state courts do not have jurisdiction. The U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey prosecutes these cases, often after a grand jury returns an indictment.

Federal theft investigations are typically conducted by agencies such as the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Department of Homeland Security, or the Inspector General of the affected agency. Charges may arise from allegations involving government‑administered benefits, military equipment, federal grant funds, contractor overpayments, or theft of government‑owned vehicles and supplies. Because federal sentencing guidelines apply, a conviction can result in a term of imprisonment, supervised release, monetary penalties, and an order of restitution. The Federal Bureau of Prisons administers any term of incarceration, and there is no parole in the federal system.

The firm’s New Jersey location is positioned to represent clients whose cases are handled in the Newark, Trenton, or Camden courthouses. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are familiar with federal pretrial procedures, detention hearings, discovery practice under the Jencks Act and Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 16, and the sentencing factors that drive outcomes in federal court.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Federal Theft of Government Property Cases

Defending a federal theft charge requires an understanding of how the government builds its case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office often uses documentary evidence, financial records, witness interviews, and forensic accounting. Early engagement by defense counsel can be critical — before an indictment is returned, an experienced attorney may be able to present exculpatory information to prosecutors, challenge the legal basis for a charge, or negotiate a resolution that avoids indictment. Once an indictment is filed, the defense team examines every aspect of the government’s proof: the ownership and valuation of the property, the defendant’s intent, the chain of custody of evidence, and the lawfulness of the investigation.

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys evaluate whether the government can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. They challenge weaknesses in the valuation of the property — an essential element that can affect sentencing guidelines — and examine whether the alleged conduct involved a genuine theft or a civil contract dispute that does not support criminal liability. The firm also advises clients on the collateral consequences of a federal conviction, including occupational licensing issues, security clearance implications, and immigration consequences for non‑citizens, so that every decision is made with a full understanding of the risks.

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

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor, admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His background informs the firm’s approach to federal defense work: he understands how the government builds a case and what strategies can be most effective in challenging it. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional experience in federal criminal matters. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. Collectively, they handle cases across all divisions of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, working to achieve the most favorable resolution possible under the federal sentencing framework.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is theft of government property under federal law?

Theft of government property under federal law involves the unauthorized taking or conversion of money, property, or anything of value belonging to the United States government or any of its agencies. The statute, 18 U.S.C. § 641, covers a wide range of conduct — from classic embezzlement to the sale of government equipment without authorization. The government must prove that the property belonged to the United States, that the defendant knew it did not belong to them, and that the defendant acted with the intent to deprive the government of the property or its use. Because federal investigative resources are substantial, early legal guidance can influence whether an investigation proceeds to formal charges.

Do I need a lawyer if I am being investigated for theft of government property in New Jersey?

Yes — if you learn you are under investigation by a federal agency for theft of government property, you should seek legal counsel immediately. Federal investigators may approach you for an interview, execute a search warrant, or issue a grand‑jury subpoena before charges are filed. Statements you make during this phase can be used against you. An experienced federal defense attorney can advise you on whether to speak with investigators, can contact the prosecutor on your behalf, and can work to protect your legal position. The firm’s New Jersey location represents clients throughout the pre‑indictment and post‑indictment stages.

How does a federal theft of government property case move through the New Jersey federal court?

After an investigation, the case typically begins with a complaint, an indictment, or a criminal information, followed by an initial appearance and arraignment before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. If the defendant is not released pretrial, a detention hearing is held. Discovery is exchanged, and the parties may litigate pretrial motions — such as motions to suppress evidence or to dismiss the indictment. Many cases resolve through a plea agreement; however, if the matter proceeds to trial, it is heard by a U.S. District Judge in one of the District of New Jersey’s courthouses. The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s calendar.

What potential penalties can result from a conviction for theft of government property?

A conviction under 18 U.S.C. § 641 can result in imprisonment, a fine, or both, with the sentence determined by the federal sentencing guidelines and the specific facts of the case. Because there is no parole in the federal system, an incarcerated individual serves a substantial portion of the imposed sentence. The court may also order restitution to the government and impose a term of supervised release after incarceration. Collateral consequences — such as the loss of federal benefits, security clearances, or professional licenses — often accompany a conviction. Experienced defense counsel works to present mitigating factors to the court that may influence the sentence.

Can federal theft of government property charges be dropped or dismissed?

Yes, federal theft of government property charges can be dismissed if the government’s evidence is insufficient, obtained unlawfully, or if a legal defense warrants dismissal. Common grounds include a violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights, a failure to prove the property belonged to the United States, or a showing that the defendant lacked criminal intent. Motions to dismiss are filed pretrial, and the court decides them after briefing and argument. A favorable resolution may also be reached through negotiations that result in a charge being reduced or dismissed as part of a pretrial diversion or plea agreement.

How do I reach a theft of government property defense lawyer in New Jersey?

You can reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. by calling (888) 437‑7747 to schedule a consultation. The firm’s New Jersey location is available by appointment. During an initial consultation, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys discuss the allegations, the stage of the investigation or prosecution, and possible defense strategies. Prompt contact allows the legal team to begin evaluating the government’s case and to take steps to safeguard your rights.

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Results may vary.

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