Crematory Faces Shutdown Amid Investigation into Mishandling of Human Remains

White Plains, Md. — 

The Maryland State Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors has indefinitely suspended the license of Heaven Bound Cremation Services in White Plains, citing egregious violations of state health and safety regulations. The decision follows multiple inspections that uncovered decomposing human remains, unsanitary conditions, and ongoing complaints about foul odors emanating from the facility.

The shutdown order comes after a long history of regulatory infractions and public health concerns dating back several years.

Timeline of Events and Violations

1. Initial Complaints and Violations (2017–2019):
   • Complaints began in 2017, alleging improper handling of cremated remains, such as mixing ashes from multiple individuals and failing to provide proper documentation.
   • In 2019, co-owner Rosa Williams admitted to these violations and was reprimanded. She was fined $5,000, placed on probation, and required to complete ethics training. However, Williams failed to comply fully with these corrective actions.
2. Probation and Inspections (2021):
   • Williams’ probation was extended, requiring unannounced inspections and further oversight. Reports from this period indicated persistent issues with compliance.
3. Major Violations Discovered (March–April 2024):
   • Inspections revealed shocking conditions:
     • Human remains were stored in ripped body bags and unsupported cardboard boxes.
     • Remains were kept in refrigeration units at improper temperatures, exceeding the mandated 40°F.
     • Blood and bodily fluids were found leaking onto the floors.
     • Boxes containing decomposing remains emitted strong odors, and flies were observed in the facility.
4. Emergency Shutdown Ordered (January 2025):
   • On January 10, 2025, inspectors discovered:
     • A backlog of human remains due to a non-functional cremation chamber.
     • Eighteen improperly stored bodies, including three that were visibly decomposing.
     • Containers blocking refrigeration units and dried blood on floors.
   • These findings were deemed an immediate public health threat, prompting an emergency suspension of the crematory’s license on January 17, 2025.

Public Health and Legal Implications

The Charles County Department of Health classified the conditions as a public health risk, citing the potential for exposure to pathogens due to improper storage and handling of remains. The Maryland State Board of Morticians emphasized that these violations represented a severe breach of professional standards and public trust.

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Heaven Bound Cremation Services has been ordered to cease operations immediately. The owners have 30 days to request a hearing to contest the suspension. Families affected by the crematory’s practices are encouraged to contact the Maryland State Anatomy Board or the Board of Morticians and Funeral Directors for assistance.

What’s Next?

The Board has confirmed that it will continue to investigate other possible violations. Further enforcement actions, including criminal charges, may follow depending on the findings.

Background on Heaven Bound Cremation Services

Located in White Plains, Heaven Bound Cremation Services specializes in direct cremations and has advertised low-cost packages. The facility was co-owned by Rosa Williams and Brandon Williams, both of whom have faced multiple disciplinary actions over the years. Despite these measures, the crematory’s failure to correct ongoing issues ultimately led to its license suspension.

Public Assistance

Families who believe their loved ones’ remains may have been mishandled are urged to reach out to the Maryland State Board of Morticians at health.maryland.gov or call their hotline for further guidance.

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