VERNON, Conn. (WFSB) - A former funeral director accused of stealing pre-paid funeral funds from several clients is facing more charges.

Phillip Pietras was arrested by Vernon police after an investigation into him taking money meant for pre-paid funerals and using it to gamble.

Vernon police say the investigation began in April of 2025 and involved interviewing more than 60 victims.

He was charged with 20 counts of larceny in the second degree and 60 counts of intent to defraud funeral service contracts.

Pietras was held on an $800,000 bond.

He is facing numerous charges in other towns he owned funeral homes. He was recently arrested in East Windsor, charging him in 8 fraud cases.

He also faces charges in Coventry and Tolland.

The State’s Board of Embalmers revoked his license

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