A Florida woman has been arrested and charged with grand theft for allegedly defrauding hundreds of people out of more than $40,000 by faking a cancer diagnosis. Maribeth Ellen Jones, 51, is accused of deceiving 238 residents in Naples between 2022 and 2024.
According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Jones, of Bonita Springs, went to significant lengths to make her story appear credible. She allegedly told community members she was undergoing cancer treatment and even convinced some to cut her hair under the pretense of preparing for chemotherapy. Some residents created a GoFundMe campaign for Jones, which was linked to her personal bank account, and also provided her with cash and checks.
Investigators also found that Jones was the beneficiary of two previous GoFundMe campaigns that claimed she had cancer. She allegedly used the funds from these donations to pay off personal debts.
Collier County Sheriff Kevin Rambosk stated that the case exploited the kindness of people who genuinely wanted to help someone they believed was fighting for their life. He added that such scams not only cause financial harm to victims but also erode trust in legitimate charitable fundraisers.
Jones turned herself in to authorities after a warrant was issued for her arrest. GoFundMe confirmed that all donors who contributed to fundraisers organized on behalf of Jones have been refunded through the platform's Giving Guarantee. The spokesperson also stated that Jones's fundraisers were removed, and her account has been banned from future fundraising activities.
Authorities are advising residents to verify the legitimacy of fundraisers by consulting trusted individuals and conducting their own research before donating.