An Australian mother has been accused of poisoning her one-year-old daughter and recording the child’s suffering to solicit donations and gain followers online.
The 34-year-old woman from Queensland, whose name has not been released, allegedly administered “various unapproved prescription medications” to her baby without medical approval between August and October of last year, according to Queensland Police. Authorities claim that when the child became visibly unwell, the woman filmed and shared videos online to attract financial donations and increase her follower count.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton revealed that the woman allegedly collected over $60,000 from donors through GoFundMe. She reportedly went to great lengths to conceal her actions, only confessing to the poisoning when doctors identified signs of harm while the child was hospitalized in critical condition. Medical staff alerted the police, suspecting foul play. Investigators stated that without intervention, the baby’s life could have been at risk.
Following an extensive investigation, the woman was charged on January 16 with five counts of administering poison, three counts of preparing to commit a crime, and one count each of torture, producing child exploitation material, and fraud, according to police.
“There is no justification for harming a child, especially a one-year-old infant who depends entirely on others for care and survival,” said DI Dalton. “We will do everything in our power to remove this child from harm and hold the perpetrator accountable.”
Police have confirmed that the baby is now “safe and well” and is in the care of her father, who was reportedly unaware of the abuse and is devastated. Authorities are also working with GoFundMe to refund donations made during the scheme.
The woman is set to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court today.
