Funeral home owner?
Gruesome Funeral Home Scandal in Colorado
Jon and Carie Hallford, owners of a Colorado funeral home, pleaded guilty to abusing 190 bodies in a horrifying case that has shocked the nation. Under the name “Return to Nature,” the couple claimed to offer eco-friendly human composting. In reality, they mishandled remains and deceived families for years.
Horrific Discovery
The investigation began in October 2023 after neighbors complained of a terrible odor. Police found nearly 200 decomposing bodies, some dating back to 2019. Many were stored in garbage bags, wrapped in duct tape, or simply left exposed. Prosecutors described bodies “stacked on shelves, on stretchers, or on the floor.”
Fraud and Exploitation
Though the business sold biodegradable burial packages, families were often given concrete instead of cremated ashes. In some cases, the wrong bodies were sent for burial. The Hallfords profited over $130,000 but used the money on luxury items like jewelry and travel. The funeral home was later demolished. “These families trusted them with their loved ones. The violation of that trust is something these people will likely never recover from,” said Michael Allen, U.S. Attorney for Colorado’s 4th Judicial District.
