A 34-year-old Australian woman from Queensland has been accused of poisoning her infant daughter to generate online sympathy and boost her social media following. The woman claimed to document her child’s struggle with a terminal illness, but authorities allege she was deliberately drugging the one-year-old and recording her suffering to solicit donations.
Doctors Raise Alarm Over Baby's Condition
Concerns were raised in October when the baby was hospitalised after experiencing a severe medical episode. Medical professionals, suspecting foul play, alerted authorities. Following months of investigation, the mother was charged with multiple serious offences, including torture, administering poison, child exploitation, and fraud.
“There are no words to describe how appalling crimes like these are,” said Queensland Police Detective Inspector Paul Dalton during a press briefing.
Allegations of Intentional Harm
Between August and October, investigators allege the mother administered a range of prescription and pharmacy medications to the child without medical approval. Authorities claim the woman went to significant lengths to obtain the unauthorised drugs, even repurposing leftover medications meant for another individual in the household.
The baby was reportedly filmed in visible distress and pain, with these recordings later shared on social media platforms. Police say these actions were part of a calculated effort to elicit sympathy and financial donations.
Evidence and Investigation
The case came to light when the baby was admitted to the hospital on 15 October. Medical tests revealed the presence of unauthorised medications, with results confirmed earlier this month. The findings led to the charges against the mother.
Fortunately, police have confirmed that the baby is now "safe and doing well" following her ordeal.
Fraudulent Fundraising Scheme
The woman allegedly raised approximately A$60,000 (£30,500; $37,300) through a GoFundMe campaign, claiming the funds were for her child’s medical expenses. GoFundMe has since pledged to reimburse donors who contributed to the fraudulent cause.
Inspector Dalton also clarified that no evidence implicated other individuals in the alleged abuse, despite extensive investigations.
Court Proceedings
The accused is set to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday. The case has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting the darker side of social media-driven fundraising and the lengths some individuals may go to for online recognition.
Authorities continue to investigate the matter and ensure the child’s welfare, while efforts are being made to prevent similar incidents in the future.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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