BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. -- Former Caswell Beach mayor Harry Simmons was in court Wednesday.

Simmons was indicted on 18 felony charges in 2015 including obtaining property on false pretenses. Authorities say he was connected with the handling of funds for the Brunswick Beach Consortium, which was formed to restore and maintain the beaches in seven coastal towns.

He pleaded guilty Wednesday to embezzling thousands of dollars and was sentenced to 73-100 months in prison. He will get credit for the 773 days he has already served.