FAYETTE — A Natchez couple is behind bars in Jefferson County on charges they embezzled more than $100,000.

Emily Sanders, 53, and Merrick Sanders, 54, of 302 Mansfield Drive, were arrested earlier this week on charges of embezzlement under contract for crimes alleged to have happened in Jefferson County.

Sheriff Peter Walker said that according to information provided to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Emily Sanders allegedly told an individual she needed money to open a business.

“She needed someone to put up a certain amount of money, and (the victim) did,” Walker said. “(Sanders) alleged she had three-quarters of the money already, and she needed another portion of it.”

The business Sanders reportedly said she was going to open was supposed to open several months ago, and Walker said when it didn’t the investor contacted her to find out what happened.

“The money was supposed to be put in an escrow account, but apparently that did not happen,” Walker said.

The investigation into the matter is ongoing, Walker said.

Both Emily and Merrick Sanders are being detained on $100,000 bonds.

Merrick Sanders was arrested because he is reportedly the vice president of the company that was supposed to be formed, Walker said.

Emily Sanders was reportedly the president of the company.

Emily Sanders was arrested Tuesday, and Merrick Sanders was arrested Wednesday.