Pennsylvania woman wanted by FBI in alleged fake cancer GoFundMe scheme
The FBI says Vanessa O’Rourke is still wanted in a 2018 wire fraud case
Federal authorities say a Pennsylvania woman accused of faking a terminal cancer diagnosis to defraud donors remains at large, with investigators still unable to locate her years after charges were filed.
The FBI announced on May 23, 2026, that Vanessa O’Rourke, 37, formerly of Harleysville, Pennsylvania, is still wanted in connection with an alleged fraudulent fundraising scheme. Officials believe she may be in Queensland, Australia.
O’Rourke was indicted in 2018 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on 15 counts of wire fraud. A federal arrest warrant was issued on May 3, 2018.
Authorities allege O’Rourke falsely claimed she was diagnosed with terminal glioblastoma, a severe form of brain cancer, and told friends and family she needed financial support for treatment.
Investigators say she also claimed she required travel to Australia for experimental medical care.
According to the FBI, she traveled to Australia around April 2016, where she allegedly did not receive any medical treatment and instead engaged in leisure activities.
After returning to the United States, she allegedly continued fundraising efforts, including organizing two additional campaigns through both online and local events in Pennsylvania.
Officials say more than 140 people contributed to the effort, donating a total of approximately $11,740 through a GoFundMe campaign and related fundraisers.
The FBI has described the case as a serious breach of public trust.
Former U.S. Attorney William McSwain previously called the allegations “nauseating,” stating that O’Rourke “preyed upon the kindness and generosity of good people.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Driscoll also condemned the alleged scheme, saying that exploiting a false medical diagnosis for financial gain is “reprehensible,” and confirmed that law enforcement continues to work to bring her to justice.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about O’Rourke’s whereabouts to contact the FBI or their nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.