Two funeral directors in Gosport have been caught in a disturbing cremation scam that left grieving families devastated. Richard Elkin, 49, and Hayley Bell, 42, falsely claimed that loved ones had been cremated when in fact bodies were left to rot in unrefrigerated conditions. This case is one of the first criminal prosecutions of its kind in the UK.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Police launched a major investigation after bailiffs forced entry into the Elkin & Bell Funeral Directors premises in Gosport in December 2023. Officers discovered two elderly bodies decomposing in filthy, unrefrigerated rooms. The premises had broken windows and water leaks, filling the air with a horrific stench. Used coffins were found stacked inside with no care or respect, revealing years of neglect and deception.
Richard Elkin and Hayley Bell operated their funeral business under false pretences, presenting forged certificates to claim accreditation from the National Association of Funeral Directors. Families were told their loved ones were cremated on 4 December 2023, but police found one body had been left to rot on site for 36 days. The couple blamed unpaid insurance for their failure to arrange funerals, although evidence showed payments had been made. Bell admitted receiving money but claimed she “didn’t have time” to organise funerals. Meanwhile, the pair continued to take payments while failing to provide services or even purchase coffins, using the struggling company to cover debts in a scheme described as “robbing Peter to pay Paul.”
The trial at Portsmouth Crown Court began on 17 November 2025, where multiple families gave emotional testimony about the devastating impact of Elkin & Bell’s deceit. Richard Elkin was convicted of causing a public nuisance (June 2022–December 2023), preventing lawful and decent burial (November–December 2023), running a business to defraud creditors (August 2022–December 2023), and making and using false instruments. Hayley Bell was found guilty of causing a public nuisance, preventing lawful and decent burial, and running a business to defraud creditors during the same periods.
Both defendants are due to be sentenced on 19 February 2026 at Portsmouth Crown Court.
Assistant Chief Constable Paul Bartolomeo condemned the actions of the funeral directors, stating, “Mr Elkin and Ms Bell betrayed the trust of grieving families in the worst possible way. 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 has highlighted significant gaps in funeral industry regulation. Authorities are now advocating for tougher laws and stricter oversight to prevent similar heartless scams from occurring in the future.
Originally published by UKNIP.
