West U man accused of faking disappearance pleads guilty to wire fraud

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Friday, August 23, 2024
West U man, who faked disappearance, faces federal charge, DOJ says
Brett Detamore, a former West University home builder who allegedly faked disappearance in June 2023, has been charged with wire fraud on Friday.

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

Brett Detamore, a man missing from the West University area, was found and taken to a hospital, the Harris County Constable Precinct 1 said.
Brett Detamore was reported missing for nearly six days and was found in San Antonio. Now, three months later, a lawsuit is accusing the husband and father of swindling people through his business.