Former Hull Funeral Director Pleads Guilty to 35 Fraud Charges After Grim Discovery of Human Remains
Former Hull funeral director Robert Bush has admitted to 35 counts of fraud by false representation following a lengthy police investigation into human remains found at his funeral premises. The 47-year-old also pleaded guilty to one count of fraudulent trading in connection with funeral plans but denied 30 counts of preventing lawful and decent burial and one count of theft from charities.
Bush appeared at Hull Crown Court on Wednesday, where he confirmed his pleas. The remaining charges to which he pleaded not guilty will go to trial at Sheffield Crown Court next year. He remains on bail while awaiting further proceedings.
The case stems from a 10-month investigation launched by Humberside Police in March last year after a report was made concerning the care of the deceased at one of Bush’s funeral homes. Officers later described the inquiry as “complex, protracted, and highly sensitive,” involving three sites across Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire.
In April, Bush was charged following the extensive investigation, which uncovered evidence suggesting fraudulent activity and improper handling of remains. The police received more than 2,000 calls from distressed families via a dedicated helpline, many of whom were concerned about the ashes and remains of their loved ones.
According to the prosecution, Bush’s fraudulent activities involved making false representations to bereaved families. He claimed he would properly care for the deceased in accordance with professional standards, ensure timely cremations, and return the correct ashes to families — promises prosecutors now say were lies.
Some of the most disturbing details include four separate “foetus allegations,” in which Bush reportedly presented ashes to grieving families, falsely claiming they were the remains of their unborn children.
The investigation sent shockwaves through the Hull community, where the funeral firm had long operated. Many families have since come forward demanding justice and answers about the fate of their loved ones’ remains.
A spokesperson for Humberside Police said the force continues to work closely with affected families and is committed to ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the judicial process.
While Bush’s guilty pleas represent a significant development in the case, the full extent of his alleged misconduct will only be determined when the remaining charges are tried next year.
The scandal has also sparked calls for stricter oversight and regulation of funeral homes across the UK to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
