Local officials raided the funeral home.
A Colorado couple who ran an “eco-friendly” funeral home allegedly defrauded hundreds of families by pocketing funds for cremations and burials, court documents reveal. Instead of delivering on their promises, they reportedly spent the money on luxuries such as luxury cars, cryptocurrency and designer jewelry, while leaving nearly 200 bodies to rot in unhygienic conditions. New York Post.
Jon and Carie Hallford founded Back to Nature, which promotes “traditional burial” and biodegradable options that cost up to $1,895. However, investigators found the couple used the funds for personal gain, purchasing a GMC Yukon XL worth $92,566, an Infiniti SUV worth $28,336, and indulging in cryptocurrency, expensive vacations and high-end shopping sprees. news portal Further reporting.
Meanwhile, court documents allege, the remains of 189 people entrusted with the care were left unattended in “worm-infested rooms filled with liquid decay.” This blatant disregard for the client’s wishes and the remains of their loved ones sparked outrage and raised questions about potential legal consequences.
according to ABC 7In the latest disturbing news, a judge has ruled that Jon Holford’s case can move forward. The outlet noted that the court made a similar ruling against Carly last month. The pair will be arraigned on March 21 on a range of charges, including abuse of a corpse, forgery and money laundering in connection with their purchases.
“It’s absolutely despicable to prey on people at the most vulnerable, vulnerable time in their lives,” said Danica Romero, whose sister Samantha died unexpectedly in December 2019 , was supposed to be cremated by the “Back to Nature” organization.
“I don’t know what kind of person would do that. A soulless person… My sister didn’t deserve to be treated like this. None of the families involved deserved to be treated like this,” she lamented.
