Congressman Rush asks U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder to launch criminal investigation into Burr Oak Cemetery tragedy

WASHINGTON –– Today, U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush (D-IL) requested the U.S. Department of Justice launch a criminal  investigation into the events surrounding the embattled Burr Oak Cemetery where the remains of more than 300 people were disinterred and dumped into mass graves as part of an alleged criminal enterprise. Although the FBI is participating with Cook County authorities in the forensic aspects, the congressman officially asked U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder to "initiate a criminal investigation to determine if any federal laws, rules or policy statements were violated."

"Unfortunately the damage done to the families and loved ones of those disturbed from their final resting places cannot be undone," Rush wrote. "(However,) we owe it to these citizens to ensure those responsible for these reprehensible acts are brought to justice and the mechanisms are put in place to deter this kind of despicable act in the future."

Rush, who serves as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection,  issued the request at a time when thousands of complaints have flooded law enforcement agencies and government offices from families fearing the worst. He will conduct a congressional field hearing in Chicago on Monday, July 27 at the Dirksen Federal Building where victims will be able to tell their stories to federal law makers. Burr Oak Cemetery, in Alsip, IL, is located in his congressional district.

Earlier this week, Rush hinted to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Jon Leibowitz, the Burr Oak situation may be the tip of the iceberg, pointing to fact there may be no uniform statute regulating the conduct of cemeteries from state to state. The congressman also noted that despite FTC's Funeral Rule, 16. C.F.R. 453, which bans abusive and deceptive practices, most of states that do have regulatory laws lack effective enforcement mechanisms.  Funeral Rule violators are subject to penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.

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Editor's Note: DOJ Letter Attached; to review the FTC Funeral Rule visit: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/business/adv/bus05.shtm#intro