A Texas embalmer is facing charges after allegedly mutilating a deceased man’s body. The embalmer, a licensed professional, reportedly cut off a dead man’s penis and placed it in his mouth after discovering he was a registered sex offender.
Authorities launched an investigation following a complaint filed by a funeral director associated with a mortuary and crematory where the incident took place. The complaint was initially submitted to the Texas Funeral Service Commission, which then alerted law enforcement.
According to the arrest affidavit, the embalmer, identified as 34-year-old Amber Paige Laudermilk, allegedly used a scalpel on February 7 to remove part of the deceased man’s genitalia. The deceased, identified as 58-year-old Charles Roy Rodriguez, was previously convicted of sexual assault in 2008 and had been a registered sex offender.
A trainee embalmer, who was working on another body in the facility at the time, reportedly witnessed the incident. Laudermilk allegedly told the trainee, “You didn’t see anything,” in a manner the witness perceived as threatening. When other employees approached to examine the body, Laudermilk attempted to obscure the view by covering the area with a sheet, reportedly stating that the deceased had “a lot going on with him.”
The case highlights two troubled individuals: the victim, who had a criminal past, and the embalmer, who is now accused of a disturbing act. While the deceased man’s history includes sexual assault, officials emphasized that all individuals, regardless of their past, must be treated with dignity in death.
Authorities have stated that, despite the circumstances, the embalmer’s actions were unlawful and unacceptable. While some may empathize with any anger she may have felt upon discovering the deceased man’s past, the law does not allow for such acts of mutilation. Officials also noted that there is no immediate information on Laudermilk’s personal history or whether she had any prior connection to victims of sexual assault.
Following the incident, Laudermilk turned herself in to law enforcement and was booked into jail before posting a $5,000 bond. She no longer works at the funeral facility, and regulatory authorities will seek to suspend or revoke her embalming license. Her attorney has not yet made a public statement regarding the case.
The case is expected to proceed through the court system, and officials hope that justice will be served while also ensuring that any underlying personal issues on the part of the accused are addressed appropriately. The situation underscores the importance of professional conduct in all fields, including the funeral industry, where respect for the deceased remains a fundamental principle.
