Christopher Phillips, 60, has been jailed for keeping his deceased mother in a freezer for nearly three years while fraudulently claiming more than £78,000 in benefits.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
Phillips previously pleaded guilty to preventing the lawful and decent burial of Silvia Phillips, 89, at their home in Porthcawl. He also admitted two counts of fraud for failing to inform the Department for Work and Pensions and Bridgend County Borough Council of his mother's death.
At Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court on Monday, Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, the Recorder of Cardiff, sentenced Phillips to two years and four months in prison.
Details of the Case
The court heard that Phillips had given up work to care for his mother full-time in the months before her death on March 8, 2023. After her passing, for which no cause of death has been established, Phillips purchased a chest freezer and stored her body inside it in the living room of their shared home.
The body was found draped in a leopard print throw, surrounded by roses and a birthday card bearing the message "To Mum, from Christopher and Tina" — a reference to the family's pet dog.
In total, Phillips fraudulently claimed £78,190.92 in benefits following his mother's death.
Investigator's Comment
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Claire Lamerton said: "This is an extremely sad case where Phillips concealed his own mother's death and financially profited for a significant period.
"My thoughts are with Sylvia's loved ones during such a difficult time, and I hope they have found some peace having been able to properly lay her to rest."
