Florida Couple Faces Charges for Allegedly Faking Son's Cancer to Fund Personal Spending

A Florida couple faces multiple charges after allegedly orchestrating fraudulent fundraisers by falsely claiming their son had cancer. Edward Downing and Stephanie Skeris were arrested on February 27 following an extensive investigation by the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities allege the pair solicited donations from community members and businesses under the pretense of needing funds for their son’s cancer treatment and medical expenses, despite doctors never diagnosing him with the disease. Instead, investigators found that money raised was diverted to personal purchases, including retail transactions, fuel, restaurant meals, and cash withdrawals.

The investigation began after the couple sought medical care for their then-15-year-old son in December 2023 for weight loss and other health concerns. Medical evaluations and tests confirmed no cancer or tumors, with doctors recommending nutritional support and follow-up care. Despite these medical findings, Downing and Skeris allegedly continued to inform others that their son was battling cancer affecting multiple organs, using this narrative to launch various fundraisers, including events hosted by local businesses and online campaigns.

Bank records for an account supposedly dedicated to the boy's medical expenses revealed numerous personal expenditures. Beyond the financial fraud, investigators also raised concerns about the child's overall well-being and care, leading to his placement in protective custody for evaluation and treatment. Downing and Skeris were booked on charges including scheme to defraud, communications fraud, and child neglect, later posting $75,000 bonds each. They are scheduled to appear in court again on April 7.