Robert Bush, 47, has pleaded guilty to 36 counts of fraud, including handing unidentified ashes to the parents of four stillborn babies, after the remains of at least 30 people were discovered at his funeral home in Hull. The charges relate to a period spanning more than 12 years until March 2024.
Bush appeared at Kingston-upon-Hull Crown Court on Wednesday, where he admitted fraudulently taking money from bereaved families for funeral services. He is accused of a total of 67 offences, including 30 counts of preventing a lawful burial and fraudulent trading, to which he pleaded not guilty.
Among the allegations, Bush admitted misleading the relatives of 30 deceased people whose bodies were found at the premises of Legacies Independent Funeral Directors on Hessle Road. One of the remains belonged to an unborn baby. He also confessed to dishonestly making false promises to the parents of four babies who died during childbirth, giving them ashes that were not their children's.
Additionally, Bush denied stealing money from 12 charities, including Macmillan Cancer Support, the Salvation Army, the RNLI, and Help for Heroes. He showed no emotion as the charges were read aloud in court, standing with his hands clasped.
Judge John Thackray KC released Bush on bail and scheduled his trial for 5 October next year at Sheffield Crown Court. Sentencing for the admitted offences will follow the trial, which is expected to last eight weeks.
Humberside Police said in a statement: 'We are unable to provide any further details or information at this time to ensure judicial proceedings are not jeopardised. Victim Support continues to be available for anyone affected.'
