Third person arrested in funeral homes inquiry

A major investigation was launched in March after concerns were raised about the Hull-based Legacy Independent Funeral Directors

Officers investigating a Hull-based funeral directors have made a third arrest following a pre-planned operation.

A 54-year-old woman has been arrested on suspicion of money laundering offences.

A 46-year old man, who was arrested earlier this year, has also been taken into custody on suspicion of theft and making or supplying articles for use in fraud. A 23-year-old woman remains on bail.

Humberside Police removed 35 bodies and a quantity of ashes from Legacy Independent Funeral Directors in March, following a report of "concern for care of the deceased".

Assistant Chief Constable Thom McLoughlin described the investigation as "extremely complex" and "sensitive" following the latest arrest.

He added: "We continue to follow all lines of enquiry and seek answers for the families involved and those affected.

"As we enter the fourth month since the initial report came in to us, we continue to keep the families, friends and everyone affected at the heart of everything we do.

"We are committed to working with partners to ensure that they receive the help and support that they need."

The 46-year-old man and the 23-year-old woman were arrested in March on suspicion of prevention of a lawful and decent burial, fraud by false representation and fraud by abuse of position.

No charges have been brought in the investigation to date.

On Monday, detectives revealed they had identified 163 families linked to ashes found at the funeral home on Hessle Road.

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