An Australian social media influencer has been charged with harming her one-year-old daughter in a disturbing case that has shocked the community. Authorities allege that the mother deliberately made her child sick to gain sympathy and attention online, ultimately seeking financial support from followers on social media.
The Queensland Police announced the charges against the 34-year-old woman, stating that the infant suffered considerable pain and distress while the mother recorded videos of her, aiming to attract online support. In total, the mother faces multiple charges, including five counts of administering poison with the intent to cause harm and one count each of torture and fraud.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton emphasized the importance of removing the child from danger and holding the responsible party accountable. He stated, “There is no excuse for harming a child, especially a one-year-old who depends on others for care.”
The investigation revealed that the alleged abuse started in early August 2024. Medical staff at a Brisbane hospital brought their concerns to the police on October 15, suspecting that the child was being poisoned by her mother. Detectives found that the mother was giving her daughter outdated and unauthorized medications against medical advice in an apparent attempt to worsen the child’s condition.
According to reports, the mother posted videos of her ill daughter online, successfully raising nearly $60,000 AUD (around $37,000 USD) in donations. The crowdfunding platform GoFundMe is currently processing refunds for those contributions.
Queensland Police stated that the content shared exploited the child and was primarily aimed at garnering financial support and social media followers. The mother was arrested after tests confirmed the presence of the unauthorized medications, and she is scheduled to appear in court soon.
