Unraveling the Controversial Case of Laurieanne Lamb and Jerry Sconce
What transpired with Lamb and Sconce during their highly publicized trial?
During the trial, both Laurieanne and Jerry claimed their innocence, deflecting blame towards their son, David. The defense attorney, Edward A. Rucker, asserted in the courtroom, as reported by the LA Times, that the disturbing actions involving the extraction of gold teeth and other macabre procedures were actually orchestrated by their son. He emphasized the profound tragedy this situation caused not only for the couple but also for their long-standing third-generation business and the grieving families of the deceased individuals involved. This defense strategy aimed to distance them from the heinous acts that had occurred.
Despite their claims, the jury was unconvinced that Laurieanne and Jerry were oblivious to the grim activities occurring right under their noses. In April 1995, according to the LA Times, Jerry faced serious charges and was convicted on a single count of conspiracy to remove body parts, alongside another count of misappropriating a staggering $100,000 from a trust account. However, he was acquitted of four counts related to the illegal removal and sale of body parts from corpses prior to cremation, which was a significant aspect of the case.
Meanwhile, Laurieanne was found guilty on three of four counts of unlawfully authorizing the extraction of vital organs, including eyes, hearts, lungs, and brains from deceased individuals before cremation. Additionally, she faced three counts of forging customer signatures on critical organ donor and cremation authorization forms, highlighting the extent of the fraudulent activities carried out by the couple.
Both were sentenced to a substantial prison term of three years and eight months, a decision that reflected the severity of their crimes. In a poignant statement, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge John Ouderkirk remarked, “They did it literally to steal the hearts of the dead and break the hearts of the living.” He condemned their actions as a deceitful scheme aimed at profiting from the bereaved families, emphasizing the moral implications of their crimes. Following their conviction, the couple pursued an appeal but ultimately served their full sentences.
In a tragic turn of events, Jerry passed away in 2019 at the age of 85, leaving behind a complex legacy. Laurieanne, now in her late 80s, has chosen to lead a life away from the public eye, opting not to participate in the documentary titled The Mortician, further distancing herself from the scandal that once engulfed them.
