Police investigating funeral directors in Hull have passed a file containing more than 13,000 pieces of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).
Officers removed 35 bodies and a quantity of ashes from the premises of Legacy Impartial Funeral Administrators following a report of “concern for the care of the deceased” on March 6, 2024.
Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin, of Humberside Police, said the families of the deceased had been informed of the development, which followed “a meticulous 10-month investigation”.
Two people who were arrested last year in connection with the investigation remain free on bail.
The CPS will now review the evidence file and consider whether to bring charges.
ACC McLoughlin said it had been a “comprehensive and lengthy” investigation, “as we have diligently and sensitively handled every line of inquiry with the families who have suffered an untold amount of pain, hurt and anguish.”
He thanked the families for their “unwavering patience and cooperation.”
Their support was “invaluable” as officers gathered information “in hopes of seeking the answers they want and deserve.”
ACC McLoughlin said the force remained “committed to keeping the affected families at the center of this investigation”.
A 46-year-old man was arrested on March 9 last year on suspicion of preventing a lawful and dignified burial, fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of office.
A 54-year-old woman was arrested in July on suspicion of money laundering offences.
Both remain on conditional police bailconfirmed the force.
Emma Hardy, MP for Hull West and Haltemprice, thanked the officers for “their meticulous work”.
“It has been a long wait for progress for those affected by these horrible crimes, so I am sure this news will bring relief,” she 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 circumstances.”
Julie Butcher, senior operations manager at Sufferer Help, said the charity continues to support those affected, including through a dedicated phone line on 08082811136.
