New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on Apr. 1 the indictment of Michael Naughton, a Baldwin resident, for allegedly operating as an unlicensed funeral director and defrauding grieving families out of thousands of dollars. The 20-count indictment was unsealed in Westchester County Court before Judge Melissa A. Loehr and accuses Naughton of providing unauthorized funeral services at Camelot Funeral Home in Mount Vernon after his license had been revoked.
This case is significant because it highlights the vulnerability of families during times of loss and underscores the importance of oversight in the funeral industry. The New York Attorney General operates as a public law enforcement and legal advocacy agency for New York, according to the official website.
According to the press release, a January inspection by the Department of Health discovered thirteen bodies in various states of decomposition and seventeen boxes containing cremated remains at Camelot Funeral Home. “Planning a loved one’s funeral can be among the most difficult and vulnerable times in a person’s life,” said Attorney General James. “Naughton heartlessly took advantage of New Yorkers while knowingly operating his funeral home without a license and failed to take proper care of the remains in his possession.” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald added, “The violations and alleged crimes uncovered at Camelot Funeral Home demonstrate why only licensed funeral directors should be entrusted with the care of human remains.”
Investigators allege that between May 2025 and January 2026, Naughton negotiated prices, entered into contracts for services, arranged transportation for decedents, presided over funerals, oversaw disposition processes without proper authorization, and forged burial documents. If convicted on all charges—including grand larceny, scheme to defraud, criminal possession of forged instruments—he faces up to seven years in prison.
Since Jan. 30 authorities have worked with local medical examiners to identify recovered remains so they can be returned to relatives. Families who believe they may have been affected are encouraged to contact OAG at camelot.complaint@ag.ny.gov.
Letitia James heads the New York Attorney General’s office according to its official website; her office promotes social justice through civil rights enforcement and consumer advocacy across regional offices statewide (official website). The agency also provides services such as consumer fraud investigations, charities oversight, tenant dispute mediation (official website), protects public safety, defends civil rights protections (official website), upholds consumer protections and preserves environmental interests (official website).
Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard called this situation “deeply disturbing,” expressing support for impacted families: “There is no place in our city for this level of negligence.” Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said these allegations represent “a profound betrayal” during vulnerable moments; District Attorney Susan Cacace praised swift action by James’ office.
Attorney General James advises all residents making arrangements for deceased loved ones verify licensure status with DOH before proceeding.
