The maximum penalty for destroying federal records without authorization is imprisonment for up to 3 years, a fine of up to $2,000, or both. In more serious cases, such as when the destruction is intended to obstruct an investigation or the proper administration of a federal matter, the penalty can be imprisonment for up to 20 years along with fines. This is based on federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 2071 and related statutes that protect the integrity of federal records and impose severe consequences for unlawful destruction or alteration.