Whiting Cemetery Manager Accused of Diverting Funds

The manager of a southern New Jersey cemetery has been accused of diverting about $76,000 from the business to his own company.

Ocean County prosecutors say 64-year-old Alan Grote of Manchester Township is charged with theft by deception.

Investigators say Grote diverted funds that were due to Whiting Memorial Park.

He allegedly offered customers a discounted price if they made their payments to his company, Cash Management Consultants. He would provide the requested services, but didn't submit paperwork to document the transaction.

Investigators have uncovered about 100 such incidents over the past five years, but say there may have been more thefts. They say it appears Grote sold plots, mausoleums and openings/closings.

Bail was set at $35,000 cash for Grote, and it's not known if he's retained a lawyer.

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