Vanessa O’Rourke, a woman from Harleysville, Pennsylvania, is wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on charges of wire fraud. Investigators allege that she falsely claimed to be suffering from glioblastoma, an aggressive and often terminal form of brain cancer.
According to officials, O’Rourke convinced family members, friends, and local residents that she needed financial support to receive experimental medical treatment in Australia.
Alleged Cancer Scam Lasted for Months
The FBI said the alleged scheme began in October 2015 when O’Rourke first told people she had been diagnosed with brain cancer. She reportedly asked for donations to help cover the cost of an experimental treatment program overseas.
Authorities claim the scam continued until July 2016. During that period, O’Rourke travelled to Australia, but investigators said she did not receive any medical treatment there.
Instead, officials allege that she spent her time enjoying leisure activities and treating the trip as a vacation.
Multiple Trips and Community Fundraisers
Investigators further stated that O’Rourke made a second trip to Australia, where she again allegedly spent time on personal activities rather than seeking treatment for the illness she claimed to have.
After returning to Pennsylvania, O’Rourke reportedly persuaded community members to organise fundraising events on her behalf.
A GoFundMe campaign created for her raised nearly $12,000 from more than 140 donors. In addition, a local restaurant hosted a fundraiser to support her supposed medical expenses.
Federal Charges Filed Against O’Rourke
The alleged fraud came to light in May 2018 when federal prosecutors charged O’Rourke with 15 counts of wire fraud in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
Authorities believe she may have left the United States and could currently be living in Australia.
FBI Requests Public Assistance
The FBI is asking anyone who may have information about Vanessa O’Rourke’s whereabouts to contact the nearest FBI office or an American Embassy or Consulate.
The case serves as a reminder of how easily public trust can be exploited through false medical claims. Authorities continue their efforts to locate O’Rourke and bring the case to court.
