Van Horn was a co-owner of of the Van Horn Funeral Home in Jackson Center in Shelby County and Lakeview in Logan County.
On August 28, visiting Judge Robert Lindeman from Miami County sentenced Van Horn to two years in prison on two counts of forgery and one count of attempting to engage in a pattern of corrupt activity.
Van Horn was released after serving only 221 days in prison. "Ultimately, restitution was made for all the victims," said Judge Lindeman, "They are made whole in that regards, perhaps not emotionally, but at least financially."
Shelby County Prosecutor Ralph Bauer explained there were 43 victims with restituion amounting to $212,000.
Robert Ambos, of Jackson Center, said he was a victim of Van Horn. He stood up in court and told the judge "I think he deserves more time in jail, it's just that simple."
Lindeman noted Van Horn's "lack of a prior criminal record and genuine remorse" for granting his motion for early release.
Are part of the investigation Van Horn has lost his license as a funeral director and as an embalmer in the State of Ohio. The two family funeral homes have already been sold and are in operation under a new name.
Steve.Baker@WHIOTV.com