West U man accused of faking disappearance pleads guilty to wire fraud
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A West University Place developer accused of faking his disappearance last year has pleaded guilty to wire fraud, federal officials announced Friday.
The video above is from a previous report.
Brett Detamore, 39, was charged with wire fraud earlier this month. FBI Houston said he "fraudulently obtained at least $1.5 million for his personal use by misusing funds intended for the construction of private residences."
As part of the guilty plea, Detamore agreed to forfeit at least $1.5 million he illegally obtained.
Detamore, who worked as a custom home builder, was the center of a massive search that included several volunteers and law enforcement agencies after his wife reported him missing in June 2023.
PREVIOUS REPORT: West U man accused of faking disappearance placed on $50K bond for wire fraud, court documents say
The search went on for days as it continued to develop. Police found his $100,000 truck that was set on fire out in Bear Creek Park. He was found days later at a San Antonio bus stop, looking "disheveled and fazed."
Investigators later learned that a day before Detamore went missing, he made false statements that furthered a scheme. He allegedly submitted fake bills to banks holding construction loans for the single-family houses he was approved to build.
Detamore faces up to 20 years in prison, a possible $250,000 maximum fine, and full restitution to the victim homeowners.
His sentencing date is set for Nov. 5, 2024.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE:
Investigation continues after West U dad found 'disheveled,' but safe, in San Antonio, officials say
