In recent years, the funeral home industry has come under scrutiny due to several incidents involving the mishandling of bodies. One such case that has garnered attention is the incident at Serenity Memorial Funeral in St. Louis.
Funeral parlors are expected to uphold strict ethical standards when dealing with another person’s loved one, but sometimes lack of basic requirements can lead to negligence or abuse.
You may be eligible for compensation if you or a loved one has experienced funeral home negligence. The attorneys at Brown & Crouppen Law Firm can help you hold these funeral homes liable for the abuse or neglect of your loved one.
Allegations and Lawsuits Against Serenity Memorial Funeral Home
The incident at Serenity Memorial Funeral raised serious concerns after an investigator reported finding instances of mishandled bodies and neglecting to follow proper infectious disease protocols.
After the report, The State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors filed a lawsuit to prevent Serenity Memorial Funeral from performing funeral work. The petition cited numerous biohazards, including decomposed bodies, the presence of maggots, and the potential spread of infectious diseases. The lawsuit also alleges that the funeral home failed to handle the remains of the deceased with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Court Decisions and Public Response
In response to the lawsuit, the state board sought to close down Serenity Memorial Funeral. However, a judge declined the board’s request, deepening concerns about the state’s ability to regulate funeral homes effectively.
Current Status of the Case
As of now, the case against Serenity Memorial Funeral remains ongoing. The judge’s decision not to close the funeral home has attracted significant attention, prompting many to question the legal system’s effectiveness in protecting the dignity and well-being of the deceased. The state board, determined to bring justice to the families affected, continues to pursue legal measures to ensure the funeral home is held accountable for its alleged mishandlings.
The mishandling of bodies at Serenity Memorial Funeral serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of maintaining stringent standards in the funeral home industry. The ongoing lawsuit against the funeral home underscores the need for improved regulatory oversight to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. Families affected by such mishandlings deserve justice and compensation for the emotional and psychological trauma they endured.
Missouri Laws on Mishandling of Human Remains
In Missouri, several laws regulate the proper handling of human remains in establishments such as funeral homes and nursing homes. These laws aim to ensure the dignity and respectful treatment of deceased individuals.
Firstly, Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) Chapter 194 dictates the supervision of the handling and disposition of human remains. It establishes the State Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors, which is responsible for licensing, regulating, and enforcing the laws pertaining to funeral homes. This board has the authority to investigate any complaints or violations related to the mishandling of human remains.
In addition, RSMo Chapter 194 outlines the requirements for embalmers and funeral directors, such as obtaining proper licensing and adhering to professional standards. These professionals must also maintain detailed records of the disposition and transportation of human remains.
Furthermore, RSMo Chapter 198 addresses the responsibilities and regulations applicable to nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. It requires nursing homes to establish policies and procedures for properly handling and storing deceased residents’ remains. These policies must ensure that the remains are treated with respect and dignity, and that they are promptly released to the appropriate funeral home or other authorized entity.
Failure to comply with these laws can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension or revocation, and legal action. It is essential for funeral homes and nursing homes to familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance and maintain the highest standards of care for deceased individuals.
Please note that this summary is not exhaustive, and it is always advisable to consult the original statutes or seek legal advice for a comprehensive understanding of the laws about the mishandling of human remains in Missouri.
Seeking Compensation for Mishandled Remains
It is essential to recognize that the mishandling of remains is a deeply distressing and grievous matter for the affected families. If you or someone you love experienced funeral home negligence, legal avenues may exist to seek compensation. In such cases, it is strongly recommended to consult a lawyer specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases.
The top-rated lawyers at Brown & Crouppen have experience handling cases related to funeral home negligence. They have a track record of advocating for the rights of those who have suffered these types of injustices. Contact us for a free case evaluation today.
