Fiona Bakulich, former funeral director at Tipene Funerals and past star of the reality show The Casketeers is facing serious allegations of misconduct and deception, including claims that she mishandled deceased clients and defrauded grieving families out of $15,002.
Bakulich, 48, appeared in Auckland District Court, where her request for name suppression was denied, though she initially considered an appeal.
Charged with nine counts of obtaining by deception and one count of misconduct with human remains, she will appear again on November 15.
The case follows a police investigation, spurred by families’ complaints and an investigation revealing alleged abuses, including placing bodies in garbage bags instead of paid coffins.
Tipene Funerals director Francis Tipene urged anyone with concerns to contact the police, as investigations continue.
