‘The child was gravely ill’: The chilling story of a mum’s dark social media scheme
- Replies 12
A recent case out of Brisbane has left many in shock, raising questions about the lengths some will go to for fame and fortune.
What began as a routine medical situation quickly spiralled into an investigation with disturbing allegations that have rocked the community.
As the details unfold, the shocking nature of this case continues to make headlines.
A 34-year-old woman has been accused of giving unnecessary prescription drugs to her one-year-old daughter.
The woman allegedly did this in an attempt to grow her social media profile and raise AU$60,000 in donations.
Police began investigating the case after hospital staff in Brisbane’s south raised concerns when the child was admitted for a serious and genuine medical condition.
Authorities allege that the woman administered unauthorised prescription drugs to the child, which were discovered through medical testing and expert opinions.
The investigation revealed that the woman ignored medical advice, even disregarding a hospital’s treatment plan.
She allegedly went to great lengths to acquire these drugs, including using old medications meant for another person available at her home.
Between August and October 2024, she allegedly gave the child a prescription medicine on multiple occasions.
In a disturbing twist, the woman reportedly filmed and posted videos on social media, showing the child in immense distress and pain.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton said: ‘Experts have described that the child would have been going through severe emotional and physical distress.’
Dalton also stated that the woman aimed to boost her social media views and financial gain through these actions.
The woman was charged with five counts of administering poison with intent to harm.
She also faces three counts of preparation to commit crimes with dangerous things.
Additionally, she was charged with one count each of torture, making child exploitation material, and fraud.
Police allege that the woman raised the funds via GoFundMe, fraudulently obtaining AU$60,000 in donations, which will be repaid to donors by the platform.
GoFundMe has been working closely with Queensland Police during the investigation.
The platform issued a statement, saying: ‘Proactive refunds are being issued to all donors.’
This is part of their ongoing commitment to protecting Australian generosity and in line with the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee.
Dalton clarified that any suggestion of Munchausen syndrome by proxy had not been raised during the investigation.
The child has been removed from the woman's care and is reportedly doing well.
Dalton noted that without police intervention, the child’s health could have worsened, with potentially fatal consequences.
‘It’s been described as gravely ill with the possibility of the child passing away,’ Dalton said.
The 34-year-old remains in custody and will face Brisbane Magistrates Court.
The case has had a profound impact on the community, with child protection group Act for Kids condemning the woman’s actions.
Katrina Lines, the organisation's chief executive, stated: ‘Act for Kids acknowledges that this is likely to have an emotional and negative impact on the entire community and may bring on feelings of anger, sadness and anxiousness.’
How far is too far when it comes to using social media to gain attention and financial support? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
What began as a routine medical situation quickly spiralled into an investigation with disturbing allegations that have rocked the community.
As the details unfold, the shocking nature of this case continues to make headlines.
A 34-year-old woman has been accused of giving unnecessary prescription drugs to her one-year-old daughter.
The woman allegedly did this in an attempt to grow her social media profile and raise AU$60,000 in donations.
Police began investigating the case after hospital staff in Brisbane’s south raised concerns when the child was admitted for a serious and genuine medical condition.
Authorities allege that the woman administered unauthorised prescription drugs to the child, which were discovered through medical testing and expert opinions.
The investigation revealed that the woman ignored medical advice, even disregarding a hospital’s treatment plan.
She allegedly went to great lengths to acquire these drugs, including using old medications meant for another person available at her home.
Between August and October 2024, she allegedly gave the child a prescription medicine on multiple occasions.
In a disturbing twist, the woman reportedly filmed and posted videos on social media, showing the child in immense distress and pain.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton said: ‘Experts have described that the child would have been going through severe emotional and physical distress.’
Dalton also stated that the woman aimed to boost her social media views and financial gain through these actions.
The woman was charged with five counts of administering poison with intent to harm.
She also faces three counts of preparation to commit crimes with dangerous things.
Additionally, she was charged with one count each of torture, making child exploitation material, and fraud.
Police allege that the woman raised the funds via GoFundMe, fraudulently obtaining AU$60,000 in donations, which will be repaid to donors by the platform.
GoFundMe has been working closely with Queensland Police during the investigation.
The platform issued a statement, saying: ‘Proactive refunds are being issued to all donors.’
This is part of their ongoing commitment to protecting Australian generosity and in line with the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee.
Dalton clarified that any suggestion of Munchausen syndrome by proxy had not been raised during the investigation.
The child has been removed from the woman's care and is reportedly doing well.
Dalton noted that without police intervention, the child’s health could have worsened, with potentially fatal consequences.
‘It’s been described as gravely ill with the possibility of the child passing away,’ Dalton said.
The 34-year-old remains in custody and will face Brisbane Magistrates Court.
The case has had a profound impact on the community, with child protection group Act for Kids condemning the woman’s actions.
Katrina Lines, the organisation's chief executive, stated: ‘Act for Kids acknowledges that this is likely to have an emotional and negative impact on the entire community and may bring on feelings of anger, sadness and anxiousness.’
How far is too far when it comes to using social media to gain attention and financial support? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Last edited:
.png){kind=icon}
