Two Florida parents face felony charges after authorities uncovered a years-long scheme in which they falsely claimed their teenage son had cancer to collect thousands of dollars in donations from their community, with financial records revealing the money funded personal expenses instead of medical care.

Fraudulent Fundraising Campaign Exposed

Edward Downing and Stephanie Skeris were arrested on February 27 by the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office and charged with scheme to defraud, communications fraud, and child neglect. The pair created multiple fundraising campaigns, including a GoFundMe page, claiming their son required cancer treatment and surgery. In April 2025, Downing posted on Facebook, thanking supporters for their contributions, writing that his son was “more than a son” and “a hero to some.”

Donations Used for Personal Expenses

Investigators from the sheriff’s criminal investigations division discovered a bank account that Downing and Skeris had established specifically for their son’s supposed medical expenses. Financial records revealed the couple spent donation money on personal purchases, including clothing, fuel, restaurant meals, and cash withdrawals. The investigation also found that both investigators and medical professionals identified serious concerns about the teenager’s well-being and medical treatment, leading authorities to place him in protective care.

Legal Consequences and Community Impact

Each charge against the parents constitutes a third-degree felony in Florida, carrying a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Both Downing and Skeris were released on bond after their arrest, with no court date currently scheduled. The Dixie County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement acknowledging the generosity of community members and local businesses who donated in good faith, believing they were helping a child facing a serious illness. The case highlights the vulnerability of charitable giving to exploitation and the importance of verifying fundraising claims before contributing.