Robert Bush, the owner of Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, has accepted responsibility for mishandling cremations and debts that prevented proper services. During a police interview and a five-day sentencing hearing at Hull Crown Court, Bush acknowledged that he should have contacted the council's bereavement services when he encountered financial difficulties.
"I know that this has hurt people," Bush stated. "I am so sorry for the hurt caused but I never wanted it to be like this. It wasn't my plan. It was poor choices." His barrister indicated that Bush did "not seek in any way to minimise what he has done" and "accepts that responsibility."
However, Detective Superintendent Al Curtis expressed lingering doubt about Bush's remorse. Curtis stated he still does not understand "what's gone on in Robert Bush's head." Some of the incidents date back to 2012, the year Bush acquired Legacy Independent Funeral Directors. Prior to this, he had worked for other funeral businesses in Hull and oversaw approximately 2,000 funerals during his career.
Police have indicated that they cannot offer reassurance to all families who used Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, suggesting that further victims may be involved in the case. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify and inform all affected parties. Images from the investigation show forensic teams at work and rows of evidence bags containing ashes, highlighting the scale of the operation.
