An Australian woman has been charged with poisoning a child and allegedly sharing videos of the infant’s suffering online to gain followers and solicit donations, Queensland Police announced Thursday.
The 34-year-old woman from the Sunshine Coast is accused of “administering several unauthorized prescription and pharmacy medicines to a one-year-old girl, known to her, without medical approval,” according to a police statement.
Police allege the woman ignored medical advice and went to great lengths to obtain unauthorized medicines, including using outdated medications meant for another person in her household.
The alleged poisoning occurred between August 6 and October 15, 2024, prompting suspicions from hospital staff where the child was admitted. Detectives were alerted by the medical team.
“While the child endured immense distress and pain, it is alleged the woman filmed and posted videos of the suffering,” police stated. “The content reportedly exploited the child and was used to attract monetary donations and online followers.”
Tests conducted on January 7 confirmed the presence of unauthorized medicines, leading to the woman’s arrest on Thursday.
She faces multiple charges, including five counts of administering poison with intent to harm, three counts of preparation to commit crimes with dangerous items, and single counts of torture, making child exploitation material, and fraud.
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton of the Morningside Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) condemned the acts, emphasizing the unit’s commitment to protecting children.
“We will do everything in our power to remove that child from harm’s way and hold any offender to account,” said Dalton. “There is no excuse for harming a child, especially not a one-year-old infant who depends entirely on others for care and survival.”
The woman appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday and has been remanded in custody until January 28.
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