A Florida couple is facing serious criminal charges after investigators say they faked their teenage son’s cancer diagnosis to collect money from community fundraisers and donations.

According to a report by WCJB, authorities in Dixie County, Florida, say Edward Downing and Stephanie Skieris raised thousands of dollars by repeatedly telling people that their 15-year-old son was battling cancer. The claims drew sympathy from neighbors, local businesses and community members who wanted to help the family cover what they believed were costly medical expenses.

Investigators later discovered the boy had never been diagnosed with cancer, according to law enforcement officials who reviewed medical records and spoke directly with healthcare providers.

The alleged deception came to light after authorities began examining how the donations were being used.

Deputies said the couple directed contributions into a specific bank account meant for medical costs related to the supposed illness. But financial records told a different story. Investigators say the funds were spent on everyday purchases, including retail shopping, restaurant meals, gasoline and cash withdrawals, rather than medical bills.

The case also revealed how far the story had spread throughout the community.

One local restaurant, Papa Luigi’s, even held a fundraiser last year to support the family. At the time, the boy’s mother told WCJB that the donations would help pay for doctor visits and ease the financial burden of treatment.

“It helps tremendously to pay for his doctor visits,” she said during a March 2025 interview with the outlet.

Authorities now say those claims were false.

Once investigators uncovered the discrepancy between the family’s statements and medical records, the case quickly expanded. Law enforcement officials, healthcare professionals and child welfare authorities all became involved.

Officials ultimately determined the situation raised concerns about the teenager’s safety and well-being. As a result, the boy was placed into protective care while the investigation continued.

The parents were later arrested and charged with several serious offenses, including scheme to defraud, communications fraud and child neglect, according to investigators.

Authorities believe the couple knowingly misled the public in order to collect money and sympathy from their community. Fundraisers and donations organized around the boy’s supposed illness reportedly generated significant support before the truth emerged.

Both Downing and Skieris have since been released on bond, but the criminal case against them is still moving forward.

Cases involving alleged medical fraud can be particularly disturbing because they often exploit the goodwill of people trying to help families facing real health crises. Investigators say the community’s generosity was taken advantage of in this instance.

For those who donated, the allegations have left many feeling shocked and betrayed.

As the legal process continues, prosecutors will attempt to determine exactly how much money was raised and how it was spent. The charges could carry significant penalties if the couple is convicted.

Meanwhile, authorities say the priority remains ensuring the teenager involved in the case receives the care and protection he needs moving forward.