On Wednesday, 2 April 2025, Humberside Police made a significant breakthrough in the Legacy Independent Funeral Directors investigation by charging Robert Bush, a 47-year-old man, with 64 offences related to the care of the deceased. This marks a pivotal moment in a complex, ten-month-long probe into alleged malpractice at the funeral firm’s premises in Hull and East Riding of Yorkshire.

The Investigation

The investigation began on 6 March 2024, after police received reports of irregular practices at Legacy Independent Funeral Directors. Concerns were raised regarding fraud, theft, and the prevention of lawful burials. The inquiry, described as “complex, protracted, and highly sensitive” by Deputy Chief Constable Dave Marshall, led to a detailed evidence file submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) on 16 January 2025. Following a thorough review, the CPS authorised the charges against Bush, formerly of Kirk Ella, East Yorkshire.

The Charges

Bush faces multiple charges, including:

• 30 counts of preventing a lawful and decent burial

• 30 counts of fraud by false representation relating to handling deceased individuals between April 2023 and March 2024

• Two counts of theft from charities spanning September 2022 to March 2024

• One count of fraudulent trading involving 172 victims from May 2012 to March 2024

• One count of fraud concerning human ashes affecting 50 victims between August 2017 and March 2024

Bush has been bailed with conditions and is scheduled to appear at Hull Magistrates’ Court on 25 June 2025.

Statement from Authorities

Speaking on the investigation, Deputy Chief Constable Marshall stated:

“This is a pivotal moment for the families affected. We’ve updated the families of the 35 deceased and are reaching out to additional victims. Their patience has been remarkable, and they remain our priority as this moves into the judicial process.”

Marshall also cautioned against public speculation that could compromise the case, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a fair judicial process.

Response from the CPS

Robin Weyell, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor of the Serious Economic, Organised Crime and International Directorate, stated:

“Our specialist prosecutors reviewed a substantial file to make a timely charging decision. Our sympathies are with the families during this challenging time, and we remind everyone that active criminal proceedings demand restraint in commentary to ensure a fair trial.”

Community Reaction and Support

The public response has been a mix of shock and relief. On social media, one user posted, “Finally, some justice for those poor families,” while another expressed frustration, “How could this go on for so long unnoticed?” These reactions reflect the emotional impact on the community, while authorities continue to base their case on verifiable evidence.

Victim Support

The charity Victim Support has stepped in to offer assistance. Julie Butcher, Area Manager, said:

Our team provides free, confidential support tailored to individual needs, whether or not someone has contacted the police. Even a single call can ease the burden.”
Affected individuals can contact Victim Support via their helpline at 0808 28 111 36.

Legal and Industry Implications

The case has sparked discussions about funeral industry oversight. A 2023 report from the UK’s Funeral Planning Authority highlighted that while most funeral directors operate ethically, isolated cases of misconduct can damage public trust. In this case, the alleged offences spanning over a decade point to potential regulatory gaps, though authorities have not drawn conclusions about systemic failures.

While the legal action aims to bring accountability and closure for families, the lengthy judicial process may prolong uncertainty, with some victims potentially never fully recovering their losses. Data from the CPS indicates that similar fraud cases often take 12-18 months to reach a conclusion.

Ongoing Investigation

A 55-year-old woman previously arrested in connection with the case has been released with no further action, leaving the investigation focused on Bush. The case continues to raise broader questions about standards within the funeral industry and support for affected families.

As legal proceedings move forward, the community in East Yorkshire and beyond awaits justice for the victims involved in this deeply troubling case.