FUNERAL PROBE
Woman, 23, & man, 46, arrested as cops probe ‘fraud and prevention of lawful burial’ at three funeral homes
Cops removed 34 bodies from the funeral home
A MAN and a woman have been arrested by cops probing "fraud and prevention of lawful burial" at three funeral homes.
Officers removed 34 bodies from Legacy Funeral Directors in Hull, East Yorkshire, after receiving calls from the public.
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Cordons are in place at three of the firm's branches across the Humberside city.
A 23-year-old woman and 46-year-old man have now been arrested on suspicion of prevention of a lawful and decent burial, police confirmed on Sunday.
The pair have also been arrested on suspicion of fraud by false representation and abuse of position.
ACC Thom McLoughlin said: "On behalf of all of our police officers and staff, particularly today, on Mother’s Day, our thoughts remain with all families that have been affected because of this incident.
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"I know many families will need and want much more information.
"We will continue to release updates as soon as we are able but cannot jeopardise the ongoing investigation in any way.
"May I take this opportunity to remind the public to show the upmost respect and privacy for any bereaved families and their loved ones within our community."
ACC McLoughlin added: "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.
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"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.
"Each call we receive is being carefully handled and delicately assessed by a specialist team to ensure we have a thorough understanding of each family’s circumstances.
"We will get back to each and every one of you as soon as we can.
"Please be reassured that my staff and officers are working around the clock to deal with the unprecedented enquiries generated as a result of this incident.
"Families affected continue to be supported by family liaison officers at what we appreciate is an extremely distressing time for all involved.
"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."
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