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Home News Harvard Settles $53 Million Over Stolen Body Parts Scandal

Harvard Settles $53 Million Lawsuit Over Stolen Body Parts

Aug 21, 2026
58 min
6
Aug 21, 2026 01:31
Harvard agrees to $53 million settlement over body parts stolen and sold by former morgue manager

## Settlement Agreement

Harvard Medical School has agreed to a $53 million settlement to resolve lawsuits filed by families of body donors. These lawsuits arose after it was discovered that Cedric Lodge, a former morgue manager, illegally sold body parts on the black market.

## Details of the Case

The lawsuits were initiated by 47 relatives of donors whose remains were mishandled. Lodge, who was charged in 2023, was found guilty of stealing and selling body parts, including brains and skin, to buyers in various locations. He was sentenced to eight years in prison, while his wife received a shorter sentence for her involvement.

## Harvard's Response

In response to the scandal, Harvard Medical School has pledged to implement reforms in its Anatomical Gift Program. The school plans to establish a scholarship for medical students in honor of the donors and has already adopted recommendations from an external review panel.

## Impact on Families

The settlement covers families of donors who contributed their bodies between January 2018 and March 2023. Harvard has expressed deep regret and empathy for the affected families, emphasizing that Lodge acted without the institution's knowledge or consent.

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