Former Cornwall Funeral Director Given Suspended Sentence

A former funeral director in Cornwall has been given a suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body.

What happened

Jack Weekes, 32, of St Johns Road, Millbrook, appeared at Truro Crown Court on Tuesday 13th January, where he was sentenced to 15 months in prison, suspended for two years.

The court heard that the offence related to the remains of a woman in her 80s, who was due to be cremated at Glyn Valley Crematorium on 16th October 2023. Jack had taken payment for the cremation as the proprietor of J Weekes Funeral Directors.

A problem with paperwork was identified the day before the cremation was due to take place, meaning it did not go ahead. A memorial service still took place, with the plan for the cremation to be carried out once the documentation was resolved. The court heard this was not an uncommon situation.

False information given

When the Liskeard Registrar later contacted the crematorium and confirmed no notification of cremation had been received, Jack was contacted and stated that the cremation had taken place at Weston Mill Crematorium.

Further enquiries established that this was not the case. The body had been retained at premises in Millbrook until 1st December 2023, a period of around six and a half weeks. The body was then removed and the cremation carried out.

Jack had also faced a charge of fraud by false representation, but no evidence was offered and it was not proceeded with.

Sentence and warning from the judge

In addition to the suspended prison sentence, Jack was ordered to complete 300 hours of community work over the next 12 months, undergo mental health treatment, and pay a victim surcharge of £187.

Judge James Adkin warned that if Jack breaches the sentence, he will be sent to prison and there would be no second chance.

Police statement

Detective Inspector Peter Gee, who led the investigation, said:
“Having been made aware of concerns raised in March 2024, regarding the management of remains at a funeral director in Millbrook, an investigation was launched to determine whether any offences had been committed and to also provide reassurance to those affected.

“We can confirm that offences committed, contrary to common law, related to one person and that all other remains at the premises were managed lawfully.

“Preventing a lawful burial is a profound breach of dignity.

“Our investigation has hopefully brought some support to the family affected by this.”

Support for those affected

Anyone affected by crime can visit Victim Care Devon & Cornwall for support services, information on their rights, and guidance through the criminal justice system.

Support is also available from Victim Support on 08 08 16 89 111 or Devon and Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900.