NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 20, 2026Miami-Dade
Harvard Medical School agrees to $53 million settlement for morgue remains theft
Harvard Medical School has agreed to pay $53 million to settle class-action lawsuits filed by families of body donors. The settlement addresses claims that a former morgue manager stole and sold human remains on the black market.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10 – Main FeedWhy It Matters
This provides financial resolution for families whose donated remains were mishandled, concluding legal action regarding the unauthorized sale of human body parts by a former university employee.
Key Facts
- Harvard Medical School agreed to a $53 million settlement.
- The settlement resolves class-action lawsuits brought by relatives of body donors.
- The lawsuits stemmed from the theft and sale of human remains by a former morgue manager.
- The remains were sold on the black market.
Who's Mentioned
personDenise Lodge“Wife of Cedric Lodge, sentenced for assisting in the scheme.”personAlisan Martin“Assistant U.S. Attorney.”organizationHarvard Medical School“The institution responsible for the Anatomical Gift Program and the settlement.”personCedric Lodge“Former morgue manager convicted of stealing and selling body parts.”personGeorge Q. Daley“Dean of Harvard Medical School.”locationBoston“Location of the reporting agency.”personBernard S. Chang“Dean of Harvard Medical School.”