Two funeral directors have been slammed by the courts after conning families into believing their loved ones were cremated — when they were not. This chilling scam is one of the first criminal cases of its kind in the UK.
Horrific Scene Uncovered in Gosport Funeral Home
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Police launched a probe after bailiffs forced entry into Elkin & Bell Funeral Directors’ rundown Gosport premises in December 2023. What they found was worse than anyone imagined.
- Two elderly bodies left to decompose in filthy conditions
- Broken windows, water leaks, and a horrendous stench
- No refrigeration and used coffins stacked inside
The dreadful discovery exposed years of neglect and deception.
Fraud, Lies, and Broken Promises
Richard Elkin, 49, and his partner Hayley Bell, 42, ran the funeral business with fake credentials — showing forged certificates that claimed National Association of Funeral Directors accreditation.
Familes were told their loved ones were cremated on 4 December, but police found that one body had been rotting on site for 36 days. The pair blamed unpaid insurance, yet evidence showed payments were made. Bell admitted receiving the money but said she “didn’t have time” to arrange funerals.
The couple raked in cash without arranging funerals or even buying coffins — using the struggling company to cover debts by “robbing Peter to pay Paul”.
Trial Unfolds: Guilty Verdicts for Funeral Scammers
The grim trial at Portsmouth Crown Court began 17 November 2025. Several families testified about the devastating impact of Elkin & Bell’s fraud.
Richard Elkin was convicted of:
- Causing a public nuisance (June 2022–Dec 2023)
- Preventing lawful and decent burial (Nov–Dec 2023)
- Running a business to defraud creditors (Aug 2022–Dec 2023)
- Making and using false instruments
Hayley Bell was found guilty of:
- Causing a public nuisance (June 2022–Dec 2023)
- Preventing lawful and decent burial (Nov–Dec 2023)
- Running a business to defraud creditors (Aug 2022–Dec 2023)
Both await sentencing on 19 February 2026 at Portsmouth Crown Court.
Officials Condemn Funeral Directors’ Callous Acts
“Mr Elkin and Ms Bell betrayed the trust of grieving families in the worst possible way,” said Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo. “They left bodies unrefrigerated, causing harm and distress. We must ensure this never happens again.”
District Crown Prosecutor Rachel Robertson added: “Elkin and Bell showed grave disregard for dignity and trust. Their dishonest actions caused deep harm. Today’s verdict brings justice and some comfort to affected families.”
This shocking case shines a light on serious gaps in funeral industry regulation. Authorities now urge tougher laws and stronger oversight to stop heartless scams like this in their tracks.
