Home / Crime and Justice / Couple Sues Police After Garden Burial Arrest
Couple Sues Police After Garden Burial Arrest
21 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Couple arrested and father's body exhumed two days after burial.
- They claim wrongful arrest and are suing police for damages.
- Burial followed dying wishes; death registration period was met.
Pierre and Donna Frenette are pursuing legal action against Cambridgeshire Constabulary, alleging wrongful arrest and imprisonment following the burial of Pierre's father, Peter Frenette, in their garden. Peter Frenette passed away in 2023, and his family honoured his wish to be buried at home with relatives and pets. Two days after the burial, police arrested the couple, confiscated personal items, and exhumed Peter's body, which was not returned for six weeks.
The Frenettes contend that their actions were lawful, as they were within the statutory five-day period for registering a death. They claim the police's handling of the situation was "barbaric," causing significant emotional distress and preventing them from grieving. The couple, who intend to represent themselves, are seeking substantial damages for trespass and false imprisonment, with a trial scheduled for November 2026.
