A Fayette County man could spend up to 20 years in prison after admitting he took money meant for grave markers.
Sixty-five-year-old Jeffrey Phares of Fayetteville pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Prosecutors say he owned and operated several cemeteries across West Virginia.
They say Phares took payments for grave markers but failed to deliver them, misleading customers about delays. Investigators estimate losses between 250-thousand and 550-thousand dollars.
Under his plea agreement, Phares must pay restitution, with the amount to be set before sentencing.