DeepSummary
The episode begins with Speaker A recounting their experience with Amanda, who they initially believed was a young Christian woman fighting cancer. However, it is revealed that Amanda faked having cancer and scammed people for money through her blog and fundraisers. Nancy Muscatello, an investigative producer, received an anonymous tip about Amanda's blog and started an investigation that eventually led to Amanda's indictment for wire fraud.
The episode features interviews with various individuals affected by Amanda's lies, including friends, family members, and victims who donated money. They express their shock, anger, and betrayal upon learning the truth about Amanda's deception. Despite pleading guilty, Amanda continued to maintain her innocence to some of her supporters, claiming the investigation was a misunderstanding over unpaid taxes.
The episode culminates with Amanda's sentencing, where she is given a five-year prison sentence and ordered to pay restitution to over 350 victims. The judge condemns Amanda's actions, stating that she preyed on the kindness and goodwill of innocent people for over seven years. The episode also explores the lasting impact of Amanda's lies on her family, particularly her stepdaughter, Jessa.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Amanda C. Riley was sentenced to five years in prison for wire fraud after faking cancer and soliciting donations through her blog and fundraisers.
- The investigation into Amanda's deception was sparked by an anonymous tip received by investigative producer Nancy Muscatello.
- Over 350 victims were identified in the wire fraud indictment, accounting for over $105,000 in donations obtained through Amanda's deception.
- Amanda's lies and deception had a significant emotional impact on those close to her, including her family members and friends.
- Despite pleading guilty, Amanda continued to maintain her innocence to some of her supporters, claiming the investigation was a misunderstanding over unpaid taxes.
- The judge condemned Amanda's actions, stating that she preyed on the kindness and goodwill of innocent people for over seven years.
- The lasting impact of Amanda's lies on her family, particularly her stepdaughter Jessa, was explored in the episode.
- The case was considered unique and significant in IRS history, as it was the first of its kind involving the solicitation of donations through faked cancer claims.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I think every one of them knew what she was doing, or they found out somehow down the road that she did, that she probably was gonna sue them too.“ by Speaker A
- “It's hard to know where to begin here in considering this crime, based upon all of the information provided through the plea agreement and probation, it is clear, Miss Riley, that you preyed on the kindness and goodwill of innocent, loving people for over seven years.“ by Beth Freeman
- “I was shocked because that is northern California. That's pretty hefty sentence for white collar crime.“ by Nancy Muscatello
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Episode Information
Scamanda
Lionsgate Sound
6/26/23