York funeral director theft and fraud inquiry dropped

A 53-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman who were arrested have been released from the investigation, North Yorkshire Police says

A police investigation into theft and fraud allegations at a funeral director has ended.

A 53-year-old man and a woman, 33, from York were arrested in June, with the accusations connected to the Hayley Owen Funeral Director firm on Boroughbridge Road in Acomb.

North Yorkshire Police said no evidence of dishonesty was found, with no further action taken by the force.

A police spokesperson described the inquiry as "complex and sensitive".

"Our thoughts and thanks are with the families who were directly affected by the investigation for their cooperation during what was a distressing situation for them," they said.

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In a statement, Hayley Owen Funeral Director said: "We have worked so hard to establish this business and never had any complaints until these false allegations were made.

"We take professionalism seriously so we have naturally felt betrayed, disappointed and disillusioned."

The firm added: "We have always, and will continue, to bend over backwards to help bereaved families and accommodate their wishes, however unusual."