Queensland Mother Charged for Poisoning Daughter to Fund Social Media Scam

January 16, 2025
Queensland Mother Charged for Poisoning Daughter to Fund Social Media Scam
  • A 34-year-old woman from Queensland has been charged with poisoning her one-year-old daughter, allegedly administering unauthorized medications to enhance her social media profile and raise approximately $60,000 in donations.

  • The allegations surfaced after the child was hospitalized for a serious medical condition on October 15, 2024, prompting medical staff to report suspected poisoning to the authorities.

  • The investigation began last year when police scrutinized the mother's social media posts that documented her child's medical treatment.

  • Police allege that between August 6 and October 15, 2024, the woman administered unauthorized prescription and pharmacy medicines to her child without medical approval.

  • Investigations revealed that the mother filmed and shared videos of her distressed child online to attract financial support and followers.

  • Detective Inspector Paul Dalton condemned the alleged actions as 'abhorrent,' emphasizing the commitment of the Child Protection Investigation Unit to protect vulnerable children.

  • As a result of her actions, the woman raised approximately A$60,000 through GoFundMe, which the platform is now processing refunds for all donors.

  • Authorities removed the child from the parents following reports of harm, and the infant is reportedly doing well after the incident.

  • Concerns for the woman's safety due to media attention led her lawyer to request protective custody upon her arrival at a women's prison.

  • During her court appearance on January 17, 2025, the woman remained silent as her case was adjourned for a week, with plans for a bail application indicated.

  • Requests from journalists for access to court documents related to the case were denied, maintaining the confidentiality of the proceedings.

  • A GoFundMe spokesperson confirmed that the company has been in close contact with police during the investigation and is committed to protecting the generosity of Australians.

Summary based on 11 sources


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