163 families allegedly involved in funeral directors investigation in Hull, say police
Following the removal of 35 bodies from Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, Humberside Police initiated an investigation into the matter.
Detectives have been in touch with 163 families in Hull regarding the mishandling of bodies and ashes at the funeral home. As part of their inquiry, authorities recovered 35 bodies and suspected human ashes from the company’s main premises in March.
A 46-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman are currently on police bail as they probe offenses including prevention of a lawful burial, fraud by false representation, and fraud by abuse of position.
Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin stated that officers have been engaging with the affected families over the past two weeks. He mentioned the challenge in identifying the human ashes through DNA profiles, which could be distressing news for the families.
The police department is collaborating with Hull City Council and East Riding Council to offer support to the impacted families. Mr. McLoughlin emphasized the families’ well-being as a primary concern and acknowledged the emotional distress they may be experiencing.
‘The Families Are Our Priority’
Mr. McLoughlin emphasized the importance of supporting the families during this difficult time and respecting their privacy. He acknowledged that some families might wish to receive the ashes, while others may not, and stressed the personalized nature of the grieving process.
Despite the challenges, the police are committed to assisting families throughout the investigative and emotional journey they are on. They have narrowed down the number of families involved to 163, out of the initial 700 contacted.
In response to the incident, Julie Dunk, the chief executive of the Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Management, highlighted the necessity for regulating funeral directors to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
This report includes contributions from PA Media.
