Barrington man enters mail-fraud plea

Charles Landwer, 46, formerly of Barrington, has accepted a plea deal on federal charges of mail fraud.

Landwer pleaded guilty to bilking 17 victims of $2.2 million by preying on those fearing foreclosure. He allegedly got them to contribute money to his Accurate Financial Group real-estate firm, with offices in Long Grove and Lake Barrington Shores, with offers to help with their difficulties. But, according to the plea agreement, he "instead converted the victims' funds to his own benefit."

Landwer is in federal custody. Sentencing is set for March 24. Prosecutors have established guidelines calling for a sentence of 92 to 115 months in prison, but the defense is expected to argue for a sentence of 63 to 78 months.