Harvard University Settles Morgue Scandal Lawsuits for $53 Million

Harvard University has agreed to a $53 million settlement to resolve lawsuits from families alleging the mishandling of human remains donated to Harvard Medical School.

The scandal involved former morgue manager Cedric Lodge, who pleaded guilty to stealing and selling body parts on the black market between 2018 and 2021.

Lodge was sentenced to eight years in prison in December 2025, and the university will establish an annual financial-aid scholarship starting in the 2027-2028 academic year to honour donors.