Woman charged with felony theft for alleged ‘casket scheme’

LEXINGTON, Tenn. — Police are investigating a “casket scheme” and say they anticipate more victims to come forward.

Melissa Russell

“We have suspicions there may be other members of the community that may have purchased this type of property from her and don’t realize it’s gone out of business,” Capt. Jeff Middleton with the Lexington Police Department said.

Investigators said Melissa Russell, owner of former Lexington business Till Death Do Us Part, is charged with one count felony theft.

The case is still open, and Russell could face additional charges in the investigation, according to Capt. Middleton.

The casket store was open for about a year, according to employees at a neighboring business, and was located at 14 Monroe Street in downtown Lexington.

“We started receiving reports that people who had purchased these caskets were not able to reach her,” Middleton said.

Police said the business catered to those pre-planning and paying for items like urns and caskets in advance.

Lexington resident Jamie Askeu said she has considered planning for her funeral in advance but would research a business before turning over her money.

“Part of pre-planning is also checking the reputation of the company,” she said. “I would’ve checked with the Better Business Bureau and any other agencies that have backgrounds on that company.”

With two potential victims coming forward claiming they haven’t received their items, police believe there may be more. “Our victims have been led to believe they’re going to get their property back, but we don’t believe that to be the case based on our investigation,” Middleton said.

According to records, Russell is being held on a probation violation in Madison County.

If you think you may be a victim, contact the Lexington Police department at 731-968-6666.