Start of Investigations
Police began investigating the case in October 2023, after neighbors reported an unbearable smell coming from the location. Upon arriving,
investigators came across a truly horrific scene: 190 bodies stored improperly, some in an advanced stage of decomposition, with dates of death dating back to 2019.
Disrespect and Deception
Prosecutors described horrific scenes. Bodies were found in disposable bags, wrapped only in sheets and duct tape, or even exposed without any protection. Some were found thrown on the floor, others stacked on shelves, on stretchers or even inside plastic bags.
The funeral home was demolished earlier this year. The funeral home sold eco-friendly burial packages, promising burials in biodegradable coffins.
However, an investigation revealed that the Hallfords were deceiving grieving families by delivering urns containing concrete mixes instead of their loved ones’ ashes. They were also sending the wrong bodies to cemeteries for burial.
Conviction and Illicit Enrichment
Arrested in November 2023, Jon and Carie Hallford pleaded guilty during a hearing in El Paso County Court. They face 191 counts of felony abuse of a corpse and could face between 15 and 20 years in prison. Their final sentencing will be announced on April 18, 2025.
Financial records show the couple received more than $130,000 for funeral services. However, instead of using the funds to cremate or bury the bodies, the Hallfords spent thousands of dollars on travel, jewelry and Amazon purchases.
Human Composting: A Sustainable Alternative That’s Been Distorted
The case has shed light on the practice of human composting, which is legal in states including Washington,
Colorado and Oregon. The technique aims to reduce environmental impacts and increase space in cemeteries. However, Return to Nature has turned this alternative into a fraudulent and disrespectful scheme, betraying the trust of hundreds of families.
Impact and Need for Supervision
Prosecutors say the impact of the crime goes far beyond the financial loss. “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.
The scandal highlights the need for stricter oversight of the funeral industry to prevent such brutal incidents from happening again.
