Man Accused of Committing 64 Offences Following Investigation Into Hull Funeral Directors
Robert Bush, 47, has been charged with various offences, including 30 counts of preventing a lawful burial and fraud related to human ashes.
A man is facing 64 charges involving 254 victims after an investigation into remains discovered at funeral directors in Hull.
Bush is accused of 30 counts of preventing a lawful burial and 30 counts of fraud by false representation in connection with bodies found at the Hessle Road site in March of the previous year.
Additionally, he faces a charge of fraudulent trading for funeral plans sold between May 2012 and March 2024, involving 172 victims, and a fraud charge concerning human ashes between August 2017 and March 2024, affecting 50 victims, according to Humberside Police.
Two theft charges from charities between September 2022 and March 2024 are also leveled against Bush.
He is scheduled to appear at Hull Magistrates’ Court on June 25.
During a press conference at Melton Police Station, Deputy Chief Constable Dave Marshall stated, “On March 6, 2024, we were alerted to concerns regarding the treatment of the deceased at Legacy Independent Funeral Directors across multiple locations in Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire.”
Following an extensive 10-month investigation, Bush, previously residing in Kirk Ella, East Yorkshire, has been charged with a total of 64 offenses related to the inquiry.
Marshall also mentioned, “We have provided updates to the families of the deceased individuals and have made initial contact with additional victims affected by the investigation, who will be contacted directly in the coming days.”
He urged people to avoid making any prejudicial remarks or speculations that could impact the case, emphasizing the importance of allowing affected individuals to receive the answers they deserve.
Humberside Police announced that a 55-year-old woman arrested in July 2024 was released without further action.
After the investigation began in March of the previous year, the police received over 2,000 calls from concerned individuals seeking information about the identification of their loved ones’ ashes.
The force confirmed the inability to identify any of the human ashes using DNA profiles, which he acknowledged as devastating news for families.
A helpline for those affected is available at 0808 281 1136.
