Theft of Government Property: Understanding the Crime and Consequences
If you’ve been accused of stealing from the government, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Theft of government property is a serious federal offense that can result in hefty fines and lengthy prison sentences. But don’t panic – we’re here to help you understand the ins and outs of this crime and what you can do to protect your rights.
What is Theft of Government Property?
Theft of government property is defined under 18 U.S.C. § 641, which makes it illegal to embezzle, steal, purloin, or knowingly convert to one’s own use or the use of another any property belonging to the United States government. This includes any record, voucher, money, or thing of value.In simpler terms, if you take something that belongs to the government without permission, you could be charged with theft of government property. This could include anything from office supplies to classified documents to military equipment.
What are the Penalties for Theft of Government Property?
The penalties for theft of government property depend on the value of the property stolen. If the value is $1,000 or less, it’s considered a misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to one year in prison and a fine. If the value exceeds $1,000, it’s a felony offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine.But the consequences don’t stop there. A conviction for theft of government property can also result in:
- Loss of security clearance
- Difficulty finding employment
- Damage to your reputation
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Real-Life Examples of Theft of Government Property
To better understand what theft of government property looks like in practice, let’s take a look at some real-life examples:
- In 2021, a Pennsylvania woman was arrested for allegedly stealing Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi’s laptop during the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. She was charged with theft of government property, among other offenses.
- In 2020, a former U.S. Army Green Beret pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal government property after he admitted to smuggling over $200,000 worth of stolen military equipment from Afghanistan to the United States.
- In 2019, a former NASA contractor was sentenced to 18 months in prison for stealing over $18,000 worth of government property, including a space suit and other NASA memorabilia.
As you can see, theft of government property can take many forms and have serious consequences.
What to Do if You’re Accused of Theft of Government Property
If you’ve been accused of stealing from the government, the first thing you should do is remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Don’t try to explain yourself or make any statements to law enforcement without an attorney present.Next, contact an experienced federal criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. Your attorney can:
- Investigate the allegations against you
- Gather evidence to support your defense
- Negotiate with prosecutors for a favorable plea deal
- Represent you at trial if necessary
Remember, you have the right to a fair trial and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. An experienced attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way.
Defenses to Theft of Government Property Charges
There are several potential defenses to theft of government property charges, depending on the specific facts of your case. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of intent: To be convicted of theft of government property, the prosecution must prove that you intended to deprive the government of its property. If you can show that you took the property by mistake or without criminal intent, you may have a valid defense.
- Ownership of the property: If you can show that the property in question actually belonged to you or that you had a legal right to possess it, you may be able to avoid a conviction.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit the crime through coercion, threats, or other improper means, you may be able to argue that you were entrapped and should not be held criminally liable.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to support the charges against you, your attorney may be able to get the charges reduced or dismissed.
The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Attorney
Theft of government property is a serious federal offense that requires the skill and expertise of an experienced federal criminal defense attorney. Federal cases are complex and involve different rules and procedures than state cases. An attorney who specializes in federal criminal defense can provide you with the knowledge and resources necessary to mount a strong defense.When choosing an attorney, look for someone who:
- Has experience handling federal criminal cases, particularly theft of government property cases
- Is familiar with the federal sentencing guidelines and can help you understand the potential consequences of a conviction
- Has a track record of success in negotiating favorable plea deals and winning acquittals at trial
- Is responsive to your needs and keeps you informed throughout the legal process
Conclusion
Theft of government property is a serious crime with potentially life-altering consequences. If you’ve been accused of stealing from the government, it’s essential to take the charges seriously and seek the advice of an experienced federal criminal defense attorney.Remember, you have rights and options, and you don’t have to face this difficult situation alone. With the right legal guidance and support, you can work towards the best possible outcome for your case.
