Federal agents say a Harleysville woman spun a years-long lie about having terminal brain cancer, then used the sympathy money to fly to Australia instead of paying for treatment. Investigators say the scheme dates back to 2015 and brought in nearly $12,000 from more than 140 donors who believed they were helping cover experimental medical care.
FBI Puts Her On Wanted List
According to the FBI, Vanessa O’Rourke is wanted on an outstanding federal warrant after a grand jury indicted her on 15 counts of wire fraud. The bureau’s wanted page lists several aliases, posts multiple photos, and asks anyone who knows where she is to contact the FBI’s Philadelphia field office.
Prosecutors Detail GoFundMe Pitch And Cash Trail
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Philadelphia says the alleged fraud started in October 2015, when O’Rourke falsely told friends and relatives she had glioblastoma and needed to travel to Australia for experimental treatment, according to a press release. Prosecutors say more than 140 people ultimately donated $11,740 through a GoFundMe campaign and a benefit dinner held at a local restaurant. Officials say the indictment, returned under seal, was made public in September 2020.
Trips To Australia, Leisure Instead Of Treatment, Investigators Say
As reported by WGAL, investigators allege O’Rourke flew to Australia in April 2016 and again later that year, but instead of undergoing medical treatment she “engaged in a variety of leisure activities.” Local reporting and court filings state that donated money was used on personal expenses while she was overseas, and that Queensland was listed as her last known location.
Questionable Medical Claims And A Neighborhood Fundraiser
Court records reviewed by reporters say O’Rourke told local medical providers she had been diagnosed with brain cancer, and that prescriptions were written based on those claims, according to reporting by The Philadelphia Inquirer. The Inquirer and other outlets note that her fundraising plea was shared on a local Patch post and promoted during a benefit at a Blue Bell restaurant that drew community support.
Charges, Possible Whereabouts And How To Share A Tip
O’Rourke faces 15 federal counts of wire fraud, and a warrant for her arrest remains active, according to Tampa Free Press. Investigators have told local outlets they believe she is most likely still in Australia. Federal officials say anyone with information should contact the FBI’s Philadelphia field office or the nearest American embassy or consulate, a request echoed in public notices and case recaps by multiple news organizations.
