Megan Hess, a Colorado funeral home operator accused of illegally selling body parts and giving clients fake ashes, was sentenced to 20 years in prison Tuesday by a federal court judge. Hess received the maximum penalty after pleading guilty to mail fraud. She and her mother, who was also charged, were shipping body parts to third parties for research without the consent of the deceased family.

Hess’ mother said during the sentencing, “I acknowledge my guilt and take responsibility for my actions. I’m very sorry for harm I caused you and your families.”