A 34-year-old Queensland social media influencer has been arrested for allegedly poisoning her one-year-old daughter to gain followers and solicit donations. Authorities claim the woman used unauthorized medications to induce distress in her child, capturing the baby’s suffering on camera to raise funds online.
Queensland Police revealed the woman administered leftover prescription drugs without approval between August and October 2023. Detective Inspector Paul Dalton noted, “She used these drugs to boost her social media profile and receive financial gains.”
Medical experts alerted authorities in October after the child experienced a severe episode, later confirmed in January as caused by unauthorized medications. The woman reportedly raised AUD 60,000 ($37,300 USD) on GoFundMe, claiming her child had a terminal illness.
GoFundMe is collaborating with law enforcement and refunding donors. The child, now stable, is no longer under the mother’s care.
The woman faces multiple charges, including administering poison, fraud, and creating child exploitation material. She is set to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday.
“These actions are abhorrent,” said Dalton, emphasizing the calculated nature of the crimes. Police determined only the mother would face charges after a detailed investigation.
The case highlights the critical role of medical staff in safeguarding vulnerable patients, with authorities commending their professionalism under distressing circumstances.
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