A Florida couple was arrested last month following a lengthy investigation into allegations that they launched fraudulent fundraisers for their son with cancer — although he was never diagnosed with cancer.
Instead, the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office said, Edward Downing and Stephanie Skeris used funds from donations “for personal purchases, including retail transactions, fuel, restaurant meals, and cash withdrawals.”
The sheriff’s office said the couple did seek medical care for their then-15-year-old son in December 2024 when he was allegedly suffering from “weight loss and other medical concerns.” After multiple evaluations and medical tests, doctors identified no cancer or tumors and recommended “nutritional support, monitoring and follow-up care.”
“Despite medical findings, investigators determined the defendants allegedly told community members, business owners, and others that the juvenile had cancer affecting multiple areas of his body, including his chest and internal organs,” the sheriff’s office said.
They launched multiple fundraisers, including events hosted by local businesses, collecting donations “under the misrepresentation that the funds were needed for cancer treatment and medical expenses.”
Investigators located a bank account that was supposedly set up for the sole purpose of the boy’s medical expenses, but bank records showed funds from donations going to myriad personal purchases instead.
Online fundraisers were also located to solicit donations for the boy’s alleged cancer treatment and surgeries.
The sheriff’s office did not say how much money was raised and subsequently spent.
Investigators also uncovered concerns about the boy’s well-being and care, leading to him being taken into protective care, where his condtion is being evaluated and treated.
Downing and Skeris were booked on charges of scheme to defraud, communications, fraud, and child neglect. They were arrested on February 27. Both later posted $75,000 bonds and were released.
Court records show they are due in court again on April 7.
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[Featured image: Edward Downing and Stephanie Skeris/Dixie County Sheriff’s Office]
