A woman who fabricated a cancer diagnosis to avoid attending her job at a children's charity has been sentenced to two years in prison. Claire Alderton, 48, secured employment at George's Rockstars, a charity founded in memory of a child who died of leukemia, by submitting two false references.
Her deception was uncovered when charity organizers attempted to contact her after she stopped coming to work and ceased all communication. Investigations revealed that Alderton had not applied for grants as she claimed and that her provided references were fraudulent.
Alderton admitted to fraud by false representation, acknowledging her intent to deceive for personal gain. The charity's co-founder, Amy O'Shaughnessy, described Alderton's actions as "truly abhorrent," highlighting the betrayal of public trust and the emotional distress caused to a grieving family. The charity, which provides music therapy, faced operational challenges due to Alderton's fraudulent activities.
PC Emma Thomas of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police stated that Alderton's crime was "appalling" and expressed hope that her prison sentence would lead her to reflect on her choices. The case concluded at Portsmouth Crown Court, where Alderton was sentenced for her deception.