Funeral home inquiry: Police sent file to CPS
Police investigating the directors of a funeral in Hull have passed a file containing more than 13,000 exhibits to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Officers removed 35 bodies and a large quantity of ashes from the premises of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors following a report.concern for the care of the deceasedOn 6 March 2024.
Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin of Humberside Police said the families of the deceased were informed of the developments after “a careful 10-month investigation”.
Two people arrested last year in connection with the investigation are on bail.
The CPS will now review the evidence file and consider whether to lay charges.
ACC McLaughlin said it was an “extensive and lengthy” investigation “as we handled each line of investigation diligently and sensitively with the families who have endured countless grief, heartache and distress”.
He thanked the families for their “unwavering patience and cooperation”.
Their support was “invaluable” as officials gathered information “in the hope of getting the answers they wanted and deserved”.
ACC McLoughlin said the force was “committed to keeping the families affected at the center of this investigation”.
On March 9 last year a 46-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of preventing a lawful and decent funeral, fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of position.
A 54-year-old woman was arrested in July on suspicion of money laundering offences.
Both be on conditional police bailForce confirmed.
Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West and Haltemprice, thanked officers for “their meticulous work”.
“Those affected by these horrific crimes have had to wait too long for progress, so I’m sure this news will provide relief,” he said.
“I want to pay tribute to those who have been affected. You have shown us all the true meaning of resilience and community in the most difficult situation.”
Julie Butcher, senior operations manager at Victim Support, said the charity is continuing to provide support to those affected, including a dedicated phone line on 08082811136.
