Bodies found stacked at funeral home as families allegedly charged thousands

Authorities say more than a dozen decomposing bodies and cremated remains were discovered improperly stored at a New York funeral home, while families were allegedly charged thousands of dollars for services.

The disturbing findings were detailed in an indictment unsealed by prosecutors from the office of Letitia James.

A surprise inspection in January at a funeral home in Westchester County reportedly uncovered 13 bodies in “various states of decomposition thrown throughout the building.”

“Some even stacked on top of one another like packages at a warehouse — along with 17 boxes of cremated remains,” the attorney general said.

Following the discovery, authorities issued an emergency order shutting down Camelot Funeral Home.

Officials allege that 55-year-old Michael Naughton continued operating the funeral home despite having his license revoked seven years earlier. Prosecutors say he defrauded dozens of grieving families while failing to properly care for human remains.

“Planning a loved one’s funeral can be among the most difficult and vulnerable times in a person’s life,” James said. “Naughton heartlessly took advantage of New Yorkers while knowingly operating his funeral home without a license and failed to take proper care of the remains in his possession.”

James McDonald said the case highlights the importance of licensed professionals handling funeral services.

“The violations and alleged crimes uncovered at Camelot Funeral Home demonstrate why only licensed funeral directors should be entrusted with the care of human remains,” McDonald said.

Prosecutors say the alleged misconduct dates back to at least May 2025, during which time Naughton reportedly charged families thousands of dollars.

He now faces multiple charges, including nine misdemeanor counts of unlicensed practice, along with 11 felony charges such as grand larceny, scheming to defraud, and possession of a forged instrument.

If convicted on the most serious charge, Naughton could face up to seven years in prison. His attorneys have not commented on the case.