DIXIE COUNTY, Fla. (WKRC) — A Florida couple is facing charges of scheme to defraud, communications fraud and child neglect after reportedly lying about their son having cancer to collect money through fundraisers.
Per WCJB, Stephanie Skeris and Edward Downing repeatedly told community members, businesses and media outlets that their 15-year-old son had cancer in order to raise funds. In a story with WCJB in March 2025, Skeris said the money was being used to help with medical expenses.
“It helps tremendously to pay for his doctor visits, so it’s not so hard on us and everything else,” she said at the time.
But, after reviewing medical records and speaking with health care providers, investigators with the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office discovered the boy had never been diagnosed with cancer. And deputies said financial records showed payments for retail transactions, fuel, restaurant meals and cash withdrawals.
Both Skeris and Downing were released on bond. Their son was placed into protective care.
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