A Porthcawl man has been jailed after concealing the death of his mother in order to financially benefit.
Christopher Phillips, 60, 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, Phillips was sentenced at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court to two years and four months in prison.
South Wales Police was called to an address in Poplar Crescent, Porthcawl, on February 17 following concerns for the welfare of a woman who had not been seen by medical professionals since 2022, despite continuing to receive prescriptions and previously maintaining regular contact.
Officers attended the address shortly before 7pm, where they spoke to Phillips. He told officers his mother was in London staying with cousins, but was unable to provide details about who they were or where they lived.
A search of the property led officers to a freezer with flowers placed on top. Further officers attended the scene and discovered the body of a woman in her 80s, later confirmed to be Sylvia Phillips, inside.
During police interview, Phillips answered “no comment” to all questions.
An initial post mortem examination has taken place, although the cause of death has not yet been determined. 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.”
