What Constitutes Stolen Government Property?

A federal employee who receives or embezzles public monies to which he is not entitled is guilty of stealing government property.

The United States government is the single largest landowner (e.g., military bases, national parks) in the country. In addition to its real estate holdings, the federal government owns personal property such as seized property and public monies. The United States Code, which itemizes the laws of the U.S., protects government property from theft.

Definition

The relevant section of the U.S. Code pertaining to stolen government property is broadly written. Under the Code, "stolen" property includes property that has been taken by theft, embezzlement and conversion. It also includes selling, conveying and/or disposing of government property without authorization. Receiving stolen government property and intending to keep the property for personal use is "stolen" property under the Code.

Value

Federal prosecutors will look to the highest of the property's wholesale or retail value to determine its market value.

Punishment

Someone found guilty of stealing government property may face fines and prison time. The maximum prison sentence for this category is 10 years; however, if a defendant stole $1,000 or less, the maximum prison sentence would be one year.

References

• Cornell University Law School: U.S. Code § 641. Public money, property or records
• The 'Letric Law Library: Conversion

Resources

• US Attorneys Criminal Resource Manual: Protection of Government Property