Unresolved Criminal Allegations Resurface in HBO's The Mortician

In the latest episode of HBO's critically acclaimed series *The Mortician*, David Sconce, a central figure in a notorious mortuary scandal, has made unsettling remarks that hint at unresolved criminal activities linked to his past. The episode aired on June 16, 2025, and featured Sconce discussing his involvement in a series of events that led to his infamous notoriety in the funeral industry. Sconce, who previously faced murder charges in connection with the death of rival mortuary owner Timothy Waters, suggested that there are 'three things altogether' that he cannot publicly disclose, raising significant concerns regarding unsolved crimes related to his operations at Lamb Funeral Home in Pasadena, California.

This docuseries explores the dark underbelly of the funeral industry, particularly focusing on illegal practices such as mass cremations, the sale of corpses' jewelry, and the provision of fake ashes to grieving families. The director of *The Mortician*, Joshua Rofé, emphasized the implications of Sconce's statements, suggesting they allude to serious crimes that may still be subject to prosecution. 'If there is a prosecutor out there who deems it fit, who thinks there is enough to even go by, then great,' Rofé asserted, indicating the potential for legal action to be revisited.

The backdrop of this story includes the 1985 death of Timothy Waters, which was initially believed to involve oleander poisoning. Although charges against Sconce were dismissed in 1991 after forensic examination found no traces of the poison, the case remains controversial. Dr. Jack Henion, a toxicology professor at Cornell University who served as an expert witness, noted in the docuseries that the absence of oleander derivatives does not conclusively exonerate Sconce, stating that such substances can degrade and become undetectable over time. Henion expressed his belief that Sconce likely committed the murder but escaped accountability.

In addition to these allegations, the docuseries recalls the mysterious death of Sconce’s former employee, Ron Jordan, whose death was deemed a suicide, but raised suspicions of foul play. Sconce's cryptic remarks about a man who robbed him at gunpoint also suggest a deeper narrative of violence and intimidation surrounding his operations.

The implications of Sconce’s past are significant, not only for his personal legacy but also for the broader context of funeral home regulations and practices in the U.S. Following the scandal, many reforms were instituted to prevent the exploitation of grieving families, yet the questions surrounding Sconce’s actions continue to linger. As Rofé poignantly stated, Sconce's candidness in the series allows viewers to glimpse the complexity of his character, suggesting a troubling duality inherent in his life and the industry he represents.

Looking ahead, the revelations presented in *The Mortician* could potentially reignite legal scrutiny into Sconce's past, prompting renewed discussions about accountability in the funeral service sector. Furthermore, the series invites viewers to reflect on the ethical dimensions of the industry and the need for ongoing vigilance against malpractice.

With the resurgence of public interest in this case, it remains to be seen whether law enforcement will act on Sconce’s confessions or if the shadows of his past will continue to haunt both him and the families affected by his actions.