A Florida woman, Maribeth Ellen Jones, 51, from Bonita Springs, has been arrested for allegedly claiming to have cancer and scamming over 200 individuals out of more than $40,000. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office reported that Jones was charged with grand theft between $20,000 and $100,000 after she turned herself in at the Naples Jail Center following the issuance of an arrest warrant.
Between 2022 and 2024, Jones reportedly told community residents that she was undergoing cancer treatment, which led them to donate money to her. She is accused of pretending that her condition was worsening and even had community members cut her hair to simulate preparations for chemotherapy.
A GoFundMe page was created for her, linked to her personal bank account, and community members provided cash and checks. The sheriff's office noted that Jones had previously benefited from two other GoFundMe campaigns under similar claims.
GoFundMe confirmed that fundraisers organized for Jones were removed, her account banned, and over $41,000 refunded to donors through their Giving Guarantee. The investigation concluded that Jones did not have cancer and used the donations to pay personal debts. Sheriff Kevin Rambosk condemned the actions, stating that they exploited the kindness of those who wished to help.