Houston Authorities Investigate Alleged Scam: Man Accused Of Posing As Funeral Director And Exploiting Grieving Families

Authorities are investigating a case involving a 26-year-old man, Javian Major, accused of exploiting grieving families by posing as a funeral home director.

Law & Crime reports, Houston authorities are investigating a case involving a 26-year-old man, Javian Major, accused of exploiting grieving families by posing as a funeral home director and embezzling life insurance payouts meant for the deceased’s loved ones. Major, currently facing a forgery charge, allegedly deceived families during their most vulnerable moments, leaving over 50 victims in his wake.

“This is a case that absolutely turned my stomach because you’re dealing with people at the most vulnerable time of their lives after they lost somebody that they loved and cared for,” remarked Alan Rosen, Harris County Constable for Precinct 1, during a press conference.

The alleged scam involved Major reaching out to victims through social media or mutual connections, masquerading as a licensed funeral director. Promising to manage funeral arrangements, Major failed to fulfill his commitments, exploiting the trust of grieving families.

Detectives from Harris County Constable Precinct 1 initiated an investigation after the Texas Funeral Service Commission reported forgeries to life insurance policies in May 2023. One notable case involved Deidre Greenleaf, who passed away in Louisiana. Major, claiming to be a relative, accepted payment to transport Greenleaf’s body to Houston. However, he allegedly forged signatures, causing delays and distress for the family.

During the press conference, Ernest A’akquanakhann, Greenleaf’s brother, disclosed that Major had forged signatures to access insurance funds. While Major was charged in the Greenleaf case, several other victims shared harrowing experiences.

One woman recounted paying Major to embalm her deceased son, only to discover the shocking state of his body during a late-night viewing at a church in a questionable neighborhood. Major’s deceit became evident as he falsely claimed the church always had a foul smell. “The smell just hit us,” the grieving mother said, describing the distressing encounter.

In a significant development, authorities also arrested 38-year-old Sandy Broussard, who allegedly collaborated with Major in the fraud scheme. Broussard faces a theft charge and was taken into custody along with Major. Both individuals posted bonds of $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.