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Australian Mother Sentenced to Over Four Years for Faking Son’s Cancer to Solicit Donations

Parole eligibility in April 2027 signals continued oversight after a scheme the judge labeled cruel, calculated, manipulative.

Overview

  • The 45-year-old from Adelaide received just over four years in prison on Wednesday, with eligibility for conditional release in April 2027.
  • She pleaded guilty to one count of causing harm to her six-year-old son and to 10 counts of deception.
  • To sustain the lie, she shaved his head and eyebrows, wrapped his head and hands, restricted daily activities, forced wheelchair use, and gave non-prescribed medications while raising about $3,500.
  • The judge said the conduct was child abuse that caused fear, pain during bandage removal and medication, and time away from school.
  • Her lawyer cited a gambling addiction that began after the pandemic and a borderline personality disorder diagnosis, while police later dropped earlier charges against her husband.