Neil Caffrey, a professional thief and con artist, falls into the clutches of FBI agent Peter Burke and is sent to prison for four years. However, after an attempted escape, Neil begins to cooperate with the bureau and helps them investigate fraudulent crimes by catching his former comrades. This deal is beneficial for both sides: Neil, although wearing an ankle monitor, remains free, and the FBI can utilize his thieving expertise and professional knowledge to apprehend criminals.