Maribeth Ellen Jones, 51, of Bonita Springs is accused of pretending to have cancer and collecting more than $40,000 from approximately 238 neighbors in a Naples-area community between 2022 and 2024. Investigators say she staged worsening symptoms and even allowed haircuts to simulate chemotherapy, while funds were collected via a GoFundMe tied to her bank account and through cash or checks. GoFundMe removed related campaigns, refunded over $41,000 and banned her account; Jones surrendered on August 5 and faces a second-degree grand theft charge. The case is pending, and authorities urge donors to verify crowdfunding campaigns and report suspected fraud to the FTC.
Florida Woman Accused Of Faking Cancer, Raising $40K From Neighbors — Arrested After Investigation
Image Credit: Collier County Sheriff's Office.
Authorities say Maribeth Ellen Jones, 51, of Bonita Springs, posed as a cancer patient and raised more than $40,000 from residents of a Naples-area community between 2022 and 2024. Jones, who worked as an activities director in the community, allegedly solicited donations through a GoFundMe linked to her bank account and accepted cash and checks from neighbors.
Investigators with the Collier County Sheriff’s Office say Jones went to great lengths to make the illness appear real. They allege she feigned worsening health and even allowed community members to cut her hair under the pretext that chemotherapy was imminent. Detectives also uncovered two earlier GoFundMe campaigns in which Jones had reportedly claimed to have cancer.
Fox 13 reported that 238 residents were identified as alleged victims and that investigators trace more than $40,000 in donations to Jones. GoFundMe told reporters it removed fundraisers associated with Jones, banned her from future campaigns, and — through its GoFundMe Giving Guarantee — returned more than $41,000 to donors. The sheriff’s office notes, however, that some donations were made directly to Jones in cash or by check and public reporting does not confirm whether every off-platform donor has been reimbursed.
Sheriff Kevin Rambosk said the case was especially troubling because it allegedly preyed on people trying to help someone facing a life-threatening illness and warned that such fraud can erode trust in legitimate fundraisers.
After detectives obtained an arrest warrant, Jones surrendered to authorities at the Naples Jail Center. She was arrested on August 5 and charged with grand theft, a second-degree felony for theft between $20,000 and $100,000. The criminal case is pending; Jones has been charged but not convicted and the investigation remains open.
Advice For Donors
The Federal Trade Commission advises donors to research fundraisers before contributing. Look for verified organizers, consistent updates, independent confirmation of medical claims and involvement from people who genuinely know the beneficiary. Be cautious of urgent pleas, vague explanations about how funds will be used, or requests that bypass reputable platforms.
Anyone who suspects a crowdfunding campaign is fraudulent should preserve screenshots of the fundraiser, receipts, messages and payment records, report the campaign to the platform, and file a complaint at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or with local law enforcement as appropriate.
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