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Photos of Vanessa O”Rourke, wanted on federal charges (FBI).
A Pennsylvania woman is facing allegations of fabricating a cancer diagnosis to fraudulently obtain money, which she reportedly used for international travel.
Vanessa O’Rourke, reportedly in her late 30s, is currently on the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s wanted list, accused of wire fraud. The FBI reports that O’Rourke purportedly claimed to be suffering from glioblastoma, a terminal brain cancer, persuading those around her to fund her supposed medical treatments in Australia.
Contrary to her claims, the FBI asserts that O’Rourke never had brain cancer. Instead, she allegedly used the funds to enjoy a vacation in Australia.
The FBI’s investigation reveals that O’Rourke’s alleged deception began in October 2015. She reportedly informed her family and friends of her glioblastoma diagnosis, soliciting financial contributions to cover the cost of an “experimental treatment” in Australia. This purported scheme continued until July 2016, with O’Rourke traveling to Australia that spring. While there in April 2016, the FBI indicates she participated in leisure activities rather than receiving any medical care.
Authorities further claim that O’Rourke embarked on a second trip to Australia, during which she allegedly continued her vacation, again without seeking treatment for the falsely reported illness.
When O’Rourke returned to her home in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, she allegedly convinced people in her community to hold two fundraisers “on her behalf.” According to reporting by local NBC affiliate WGAL, a GoFundMe was started for O’Rourke that raised almost $12,000, donations that came from more than 140 people. A community fundraiser at a local restaurant was also held in person.
O’Rourke was busted in May 2018, when she was charged with 15 federal counts of wire fraud out of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. WGAL reported that authorities believe O’Rourke is out of the country and most likely in Australia.
The FBI is asking anyone with information about O’Rourke to contact one of its field offices or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.