By Nakiwala Barbra
A 34-year-old social media influencer from Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has been arrested and charged with multiple serious offenses, including torture, fraud, and administering poison, after allegedly harming her one-year-old daughter to attract online followers and solicit financial donations.
Authorities allege that between August and October 2024, the woman administered unauthorized prescription and pharmacy medications to her child without medical approval. She reportedly documented the child’s supposed medical struggles on social media, sharing distressing videos of the infant to gain sympathy and financial support. The scheme came to light when medical staff at a Brisbane hospital raised concerns in October after the child was admitted in severe distress. Subsequent tests revealed the presence of unauthorized substances in the child’s system.
Investigations uncovered that the influencer had raised over A$60,000 (£30,500; $37,300) through a GoFundMe campaign under the guise of covering her daughter’s medical expenses. GoFundMe has since frozen the funds and is cooperating with authorities in the ongoing investigation.
Queensland Police Detective Inspector Paul Dalton condemned the alleged acts as “abhorrent,” emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable children and holding perpetrators accountable.
The influencer has been charged with offenses including administering poison with intent to harm, creating child exploitation material, and fraud. She is set to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday. Meanwhile, the child has been placed under protective care to ensure her safety.
