Mother Accused of Using Daughter’s Terminal Illness to Gain Sympathy and Donations as Police Uncover Alleged Poisoning and Fraud Scheme
An Australian influencer, Allanah Harris, has been accused of poisoning her one-year-old daughter to elicit sympathy, gain followers, and solicit donations online. The 34-year-old mother from Queensland, who has three other children, is now facing charges of torture, administering poison, making child exploitation material, and fraud.
She Shared Heartbreaking Updates
The mother, widely followed on Instagram and TikTok, had been sharing emotional updates about her daughter Daisy’s health journey since June. Daisy, diagnosed with a rare genetic disease called Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), reportedly underwent multiple brain surgeries and endured long hospital stays, including being in a comatose state for 100 hours.
In heartfelt posts, the influencer described her struggles, shared images of Daisy in hospital, and revealed plans to bring her home under 24/7 palliative care. She expressed gratitude for the support she had received, saying:
“Although we may have got our wish for Daisy to be home for Christmas, we really wish it was under better circumstances.”
Community Support and a Shocking Discovery
A GoFundMe campaign, organized by Daisy’s father and grandmother, raised A$60,000 (approximately $37,300) to cover medical expenses. However, the situation took a disturbing turn in October when Daisy was hospitalized for a severe medical episode. Doctors raised concerns, prompting police to investigate.
Authorities allege the mother had been administering unauthorized prescription and over-the-counter medications to Daisy, causing immense pain and distress. Queensland Police Detective Inspector Paul Dalton described the crimes as “repulsive,” adding that the mother went to great lengths to obtain and conceal the drugs, even using leftover medications from another household member.
Police Investigations and Legal Proceedings
Tests confirmed the presence of unauthorized medicines in January, and police charged the woman after months of investigation. While other individuals were initially scrutinized, police found no evidence to implicate anyone else in the abuse.
GoFundMe has since pledged to refund all donations raised through the campaign.
The accused is scheduled to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday, where she will face the charges.
A Betrayal of Trust
The case has left many shocked and outraged, as the mother’s emotional posts had garnered significant public empathy and support.
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