Former Funeral Director Denies Forging Death Certificates

A former funeral home director accused of forging death certificates and misplacing money pleaded not guilty to multiple charges on Friday.

Authorities said Marvin Boatright, who lost his funeral director's license in 2007, forged another person's name on at least 10 death certificates between 2007 and 2009.He's also accused of taking money, around $7,000 each in most cases, for prearranged funerals, but not placing it in a trust within 30 days, as required by law.

Boatright, who was indicted on 14 charges, told 6News' Rafael Sanchez outside of court on Friday that he is innocent and plans the fight the allegations."Let me say, we have well over $1 million in pre-funeral trust and insurance and those monies are protected," he said. He also denied forging death certificates.

Authorities launched an investigation into Boatright after the body of an infant was found in a garbage bin last year, along with supplies from Boatright's business, Marion County Prosecutor Carl Brizzi said.Boatright isn't facing charges related to the baby.

A third lab will soon begin DNA testing to confirm the identity of the parents of the child.

Officials asked anyone who may have paid Boatright for funeral pre-planning to call 317-327-5600.Boatright's trial is set for Aug. 23.

SOURCE