The 43-year-old Mercer man is charged with theft by deception and using deceptive business practices.

Investigators say Wheeler told six businesses that he was selling advertising space on a race car he claimed to own. It was later discovered that Wheeler doesn't own a race car and didn't fulfil his obligation to advertise.

Police allege that Wheeler scammed Kritter Kreations and five other Grove City businesses out of $880.00

According to court records, Wheeler has served jail time for several theft convictions dating back to 2001.

On March 28, Wheeler was placed on parole by a Lawrence County judge who had sentenced him to 72 days in jail for his conviction on a charge of unlawful restraint.