Ohio mom charged with theft by deception for lying about daughter’s cancer diagnosis, fundraising

Pamela Reed, 41, was arrested on Jan. 8, 2024, for theft by deception after she posted pictures of her daughter online with a shaved head, claiming that her daughter was suffering from Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

In a Facebook post from the Noble County Sherrif's office with Reed's mugshot, the office stated, "On January 8, 2024, Sheriff Mackie along with detectives arrested Pamela Reed, 41 years old, of Pleasant City, Ohio, and transported her to the Noble County Jail."

"Reed was interviewed and admitted during questioning that she had exaggerated and fabricated medical conditions to receive monetary donations from local organizations," the post continued.

On Jan. 4, the office received a tip about the scam and went on to investigate. Sheriff Jason Mackie and other investigators dug up findings and evidence showing that Reed had been able to procure $8,000 for supposed medical treatment expenses.

Reed had claimed her daughter was suffering from frequent seizures in addition to leukemia.

The mother told authorities that she had kept up the charade "because she liked the support given as a result."

One post from Reed that has been taken down since the arrest read, "Our baby girl is one of the strongest little gals on this planet! 22 tubes of blood today and ultrasounds... mommy, daddy and her sisters are so ready for this nightmare to be over!"

Noble Country Sherriff's Office in the post stated, "Child abuse and neglect isn't always cut and dry, cookie cutter scenarios. If you as a professional or as a member of our community feel like something just isn’t quite right, don't hesitate, make the report."