A 29-year-old man has been sentenced in Londonderry for fraudulently claiming to have cancer and misusing over £3,000 in donations.
Stephen Patrick Doherty, from Lisnafin Park in Strabane, pleaded guilty to one count of fraud by false representation for actions taken between January 7, 2022, and June 20, 2023.
At Londonderry Magistrates’ Court, it was revealed that Doherty had falsely claimed to be suffering from three different types of cancer. He testified that a GoFundMe page established in his name raised £3,280, which he then spent on a dog and travel to watch Liverpool FC. Doherty stated that the page was set up by a friend “acting in good faith.”
He admitted to police that he came forward after the local community learned he was not ill, and he expressed concern for the woman who set up the page, stating he did not want her to be blamed.
The court heard that the woman who initiated the fundraiser was “really upset,” had lost contact with Doherty, and felt she had been “taken advantage of.” A prosecutor noted that Doherty was aware he did not have cancer when the fundraising page was created.
In his defense, Doherty’s lawyer acknowledged the seriousness of the offenses, suggesting that an immediate custodial sentence could be warranted. Doherty expressed remorse for his actions and voluntarily turned himself in to authorities.
Deputy District Judge Alan White, upon sentencing, indicated that there were limited options available. He imposed an enhanced combination order, which includes 18 months of probation and 100 hours of community service. Additionally, the judge ordered Doherty to pay £250 in compensation to the woman who set up the fundraising page and £400 to the Foyle Hospice.