A Florida woman has been arrested for allegedly fabricating a cancer diagnosis over several years to defraud hundreds of donors out of nearly $40,000, according to the Collier County Sheriff's Office.

Maribeth Ellen Jones, 51, of Bonita Springs, is accused of deceiving 238 residents in a Naples community between 2022 and 2024. Officials stated that Jones took steps to make her story appear credible, including cutting her hair to simulate the effects of chemotherapy and claiming her condition was worsening.

"This is an appalling case because it exploited the kindness and generosity of people who truly wanted to help someone they believed was fighting for her life," Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said in a statement. "If you lie to steal from the generosity of others in Collier County, we will arrest you and hold you accountable."

Authorities reported that a GoFundMe campaign was established for Jones and linked to her personal bank account. She also allegedly accepted personal checks and cash donations. Detectives found that Jones had previously created two other GoFundMe campaigns in which she claimed to have cancer.

"This type of scam not only hurts victims financially, it undermines trust in legitimate fundraisers for people who genuinely need help," Rambosk added.

Jones allegedly took measures such as cutting her hair to make it appear she was preparing for chemotherapy and pretending that her condition was worsening

Jones surrendered to authorities after a warrant was issued for her arrest on a charge of grand theft, valued between $20,000 and $100,000.

A GoFundMe spokesperson stated that the platform has zero tolerance for misuse and that fundraisers organized on behalf of Jones were removed, with her account banned from future fundraising. The platform confirmed that over $41,000 was refunded to donors through its Giving Guarantee.

She turned herself in after a warrant was issued for her arrest on a charge of grand theft between $20,000 and $100,000

The Sheriff's Office offered advice for potential donors, suggesting they look for updates, documentation, and transparency from organizers. They also recommended checking comments and donations from friends or community members, being cautious of pressure to donate quickly, and attempting to independently verify stories. Donating directly to individuals, hospitals, or verified charities was also advised when possible.

Jones's next court appearance is scheduled for August 31.