Ohio Mother Accused of Lying About Her Child’s Cancer, Stealing Thousands of Dollars in Donations

A mother in Ohio has been arrested after she allegedly lied about her child having cancer and pocketed money from local organizations who made donations to her family, according to authorities.

On Jan. 4, police received a report of a possible theft by deception involving a child who had been “publicly portrayed to be fighting cancer,” the Noble County Sheriff’s Office said.

Officials noted several local organizations had allegedly participated in fundraising efforts and had made monetary contributions to help the family offset medical expenses, including one organization who gave the family $8,000.

After an investigation, authorities confirmed the child was not suffering from cancer.

On Jan. 8, detectives arrested 41-year-old Pamela Reed and took her to the Noble County Jail for questioning.

During the interview, officials said Reed had admitted she “exaggerated and fabricated medical conditions to receive monetary donations from local organizations.”

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Reed was charged with theft by deception and is being held on a $50,000 bond.

“We are extremely proud of the Children’s Services staff along with law enforcement collaborative efforts to quickly act for the safety of these children," Sheriff Jason Mackie and Misty Wells, Director of the Department of Job and Family Services said in a statement. "Child abuse and neglect isn't always cut and dry, cookie cutter scenarios…The grit and devotion of this team is inspiring.”