A former Victoria financial adviser has pleaded guilty in a Vancouver court to 20 counts of fraud.

Ian Thow was facing 25 counts for bilking investors of more than $4 million while he worked with Berkshire Investment Group.

He allegedly used the money to pay his mortgage and buy luxury items like a plane.

Thow disappeared after the fraud came to light but was arrested in Portland, Ore., a year ago and extradited to Canada.

The Crown wants him to spend seven years in prison, but with time already served that would be reduced to five.

A judge will decide on sentencing later.