Two arrested in probe of Humberside funeral directors as bodies moved by police

Police launched investigation into concerns about the ‘care of the deceased’ at funeral directors
Police outside the Hessle Road branch of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Hull
PA Wire
Josh Salisbury10 March 2024
WEST END FINAL

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Two people have been arrested in the probe of a funeral home over reported concerns about the care of the deceased at the premises.

Police said on Sunday that a 46-year-old man and 23-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of preventing a lawful and decent burial in connection with an investigation into Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in Humberside

The pair were also arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of position. They remain in police custody.

Officers said 34 deceased people had been moved from the funeral directors’ premises in Hessle Road, Hull, while a police cordon remained around all three of the businesses’ premises.

A probe was sparked on Wednesday after reported concerns about the “storage and management processes relating to care of the deceased” at the premises.

Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin, of Humberside Police, said: "As part of our investigation, as of today, we can confirm 34 deceased people have now been respectfully transported from Legacy Funeral Directors based on Hessle Road to the mortuary in Hull for formal identification procedures to take place.

"Since the report on Wednesday March 6, cordons remain in place at all three Legacy Independent Funeral Directors premises.

"The dedicated phone line remains open and has received over 350 calls from concerned members of the public since Friday. 

“We continue to encourage anyone who has used Legacy Independent Funeral Directors and has concerns to call us on 0800 051 4674 or 0207 126 7619 if you are calling from abroad.”

The force said it was “working around the clock” to deal with the “unprecedented” enquiries generated by the case.

"Families affected continue to be supported by family liaison officers at what we appreciate is an extremely distressing time for all involved,” ACC McLoughlin added in a statement. 

“These officers are also working closely with our partners to ensure that families are provided with the most appropriate care and support for their personal circumstances whilst our investigation continues.”

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