A man has been jailed after he concealed his mother’s death in order to financially benefit.
Christopher Phillips, 60, of Porthcawl, pleaded guilty to preventing the lawful and decent burial of a dead body, and to fraud by false representation, at Cardiff Crown Court on March 20.
On Monday August 3 at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court Phillips was sentenced to two years and four months in prison.
South Wales Police were called to an address at Poplar Crescent, Porthcawl, on February 17 following a concern for welfare for a woman who had not been sighted by medical professionals since 2022, despite her continued prescriptions and previous consistent contact.
Officers attended the address just before 7pm, where they met Phillips. He was asked about the whereabouts of his mother, who he claimed was in London with cousins. When officers pressed further, Phillips would not give the details of which cousins or where they lived.
A search of the house identified a freezer with flowers laid on top. Further officers attended and the body of a woman in her 80’s, now confirmed to be Sylvia Phillips, was found inside.
When interviewed, Phillips answered no comment to all questions put to him by officers.
An initial post-mortem examination has taken place however the cause of death is yet undetermined. An inquest will take place in due course –
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Claire Lamerton said: “This is an extremely sad case where Phillips concealed his own mother’s death and financially profited for a significant period.
“My thoughts are with Sylvia’s loved ones during such a difficult time, and I hope they have found some peace having been able to properly lay her to rest.”
