Legacy Funeral Directors: Woman, 54, & man, 46, released on bail

UPDATE: Deputy Chief Constable David Marshall. Picture by Tom Arran

A woman arrested in the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors investigation has been released on bail.

Humberside Police said the woman, aged 54, had been arrested on Wednesday, July 3 on suspicion of money laundering as “part of a pre-planned operation”.

A man, aged 46 – who was on bail following his arrest in March on suspicion of prevention of a lawful burial, fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of position – was also arrested on suspicion of theft, making or supplying articles for use in frauds and offences under the Financial Services Act as part of the same operation. He has now been released on police bail as well.

A 23 year old woman who was previously arrested in March on suspicion of prevention of a lawful burial, fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of position remains on police bail too.

Deputy Chief Constable David Marshall said: “There is work being carried out continuously behind the scenes as part of the investigation, and with these arrests for new and additional suspected offences, detailed analysis must now be completed to ensure we explore every possible avenue as we progress through the investigative process.

INVESTIGATION: Police at Legacy Independent Funeral Directors

“We are determined to ensure we provide the much-needed answers for the families, the bereaved and all those who have suffered and have been so deeply affected by the information and evidence uncovered as part of the investigation.

“We do not underestimate the devastating impact this will have had on hundreds, possibly thousands, of people and their lives, and our aim is to provide the best possible service and care as we navigate such a multifaceted and complex investigation. However, this is an extremely large and complex investigation, and it will take time to fully determine the facts. We have significant resources committed to complete this as soon as possible.

“We continue to personally visit the 163 families regarding the repatriation of the ashes recovered from the Hessle Road premises, with both my officers and support staff from Hull City Council and East Riding Council in attendance where needed, to offer care and assistance to those who require help.

“Victim Support’s 24-hour independent helpline is also available on 0808 281 1136, for anyone who feels they need help or assistance, and I would encourage them to make a call and get in touch with the dedicated team, who will be able to offer additional advice as to how to access support and services available.”

Debbie Harding, area manager at Victim Support, said: “Since this distressing incident first unfolded, we have been supporting those impacted through our 24/7 independent helpline and team of dedicated caseworkers.

“We have seen first hand the shock and distress felt across the community and want to reassure anyone affected that support continues to be available to anyone who needs it. We work with people to ensure our advice and support is tailored to each individual.

“Help ranges from offering emotional support and a listening ear, through to discussing options around loved ones’ ashes or providing information and advocacy around fraud. We know this incident has affected everyone differently. For anyone who is considering contacting us, please don’t hesitate - call our 24/7 independent helpline on 0808 281 1136.”

Mr Marshall added: “I would again like to offer my sincerest thanks to all the families and our communities for their patience and understanding, and I want to offer my personal assurance that the investigation remains an utmost priority for us, and we will continue to provide updates as and when we are able to.”

The force launched a major investigation in March after receiving a report of “concern for care of the deceased” at the company’s premises in Hessle Road and Anlaby Road in Hull, and at Beckside in Beverley.

As part of the inquiry, a total of 35 bodies were moved from the Hessle Road site to a Hull mortuary. They were all formally identified and their relatives were informed.

On Monday, July 1, the force said it had contacted 163 families about the return of ashes recovered from the Hessle Road premises. It had said in April it would be unable to identify any of the ashes recovered because of the cremation process.