A Kentucky man has been accused by the FBI of selling stolen human skulls and other body parts through Facebook to customers across the United States.
James Nott, a resident of Mount Washington, Kentucky, allegedly used the profile name "William Burke" to advertise human skulls for sale as recently as June, according to federal court filings.
The FBI became aware of Nott through their investigation into an illegal network of human body parts traders connected to the Harvard Medical School through its former morgue manager, Cedric Lodge.
Screenshots of Nott's Facebook posts revealed that he would ship human remains anywhere in the country except for three states: Tennessee, Georgia, and Louisiana.
One of the advertised human skulls had an "autopsy cut" and was missing a slice from the top. While Nott attempted to conceal his activities by using a pseudonym and sending untraceable voice messages through Facebook, investigators discovered that he used a PayPal account under his real name to receive payment for the human remains.
When the FBI arrived at Nott's apartment to execute a search warrant, he was the only person present. However, when agents asked if anyone else was inside, Nott allegedly responded, "Only my dead friends."
The affidavit filed in the Western District of Kentucky stated that FBI agents discovered approximately 40 human skulls, spinal cords, femurs, and hip bones, which were decorated around the furniture.
One of the skulls had been wrapped in a headscarf, and another was found in Nott's bed. Additionally, agents found a bag from the Harvard Medical School in Nott's home.
During the search, law enforcement also seized two rifles and a revolver. Since Nott is a felon, he is prohibited from owning firearms, resulting in federal charges of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
The search also uncovered bomb-making materials and numerous loaded AK-47 and .308 magazines.
It remains unclear if Nott will face additional charges. However, last month, Lodge and other individuals involved in the Harvard body parts ring were charged with interstate transport of stolen goods and conspiracy.
One of the suspects, Jeremy Pauley, allegedly purchased human face skin from Lodge for $600 and transformed it into leather. Pauley is now accused of buying body parts from Nott as well.
The Harvard Medical School has condemned the conspiracy as an "abhorrent betrayal" and terminated Lodge's employment in May.
In a statement, Harvard Deans George Daley and Edward Hundert expressed their apologies to the families and loved ones of the anatomical donors, pledging to engage with them during this distressing time.
Nott has been remanded without bail, and his arraignment is scheduled for August 4th.
Login