The director of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors is currently in Hull and Holderness Magistrates Court after a lengthy investigation by Humberside Police.
Robert Bush, formerly of Kirk Ella in East Yorkshire, arrived at court this morning wearing a three-piece suit, dark sunglasses, and a baseball cap to be met outside and inside of the court despite arriving and leaving by the rear door.
The 47-year-old only spoke to give his name, date of birth, and his current address in Otley, West Yorkshire.
Bush faced District Judge Curtis in relation to 63 charges, and no plea was entered.
Charges include 30 counts of preventing a lawful and decent burial, 30 counts of fraud by false representation in relation to the bodies found, one count of carrying on the business of a company with intent to defraud creditors, three counts of theft by finding, and one further charge of fraud by false representation.
During the short hearing, the names of those whom the police recovered from the Hessle Road branch were read out.
Criminal proceedings against Bush, now residing in Otley in West Yorkshire, have come after a whistleblower reported to the police on March 6, 2024, concerns about the way bodies were being stored at the Hessle Road branch of Legacy.
Charges encompass funeral plans sold between May 2012 and March 2024 due to families and friends being under the impression that Bush would provide the appropriate care and service.
Theft charges cover charities including the Sailors Children’s Charity, WISHH, Salvation Army, The Dogs Trust, Help for Heroes, RNLI, Macmillan Cancer Support, CHIEF, Dove House, Maister Lodge, Oakwood Dog Rescue and Hull Fishing Heritage Charity
Bush was granted bail with conditions and will appear in Hull Crown Court on August 13, 2025, for a plea and trial preparation hearing.