October 25th 2023.
It was a shocking revelation when it was discovered that 20-year-old Madison Russo had allegedly scammed donors out of $37,000 with a fake cancer story. Donors thought they were supporting a good cause, and it was only after medical professionals noticed that things weren't adding up that Russo was caught red-handed.
It was reported that Russo had used TikTok, GoFundMe, Facebook, and LinkedIn to scam people into donating. She had falsely claimed to have pancreatic cancer and a tumor the size of a football. She allegedly deceived over 400 people.
Russo appeared in court on October 20 and pleaded guilty to first-degree theft. Judge John Telleen said, “Through this scheme, you deceived your friends, your family, your community, other cancer victims, charities, and strangers who were motivated by your supposedly tragic story to donate to help support you.”
Instead of a 10-year prison sentence, Russo was given three years of probation. This includes 100 community service hours and she is expected to stay out of trouble during her probation.
The Bettendorf woman revealed that she had lied to get the attention of her dysfunctional family. She said, “I didn't do this for money or greed. I did this as an attempt to get my family back together.” Scott County prosecutor Kelly Cunningham suggested against a prison sentence and noted Russo's clean criminal record, employment status, and exceptional standing in college.
GoFundMe has already issued refunds to donors and the restitution of $39,000 has already been paid. It is clear Russo is remorseful and understands the gravity of her actions. She stated, “I fully acknowledge what I did was wrong. And I'm incredibly sorry. If there was anything I could do to take it back, I would. The reality is I can't.”
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