TikTok influencer arrested after sick act to boost followers
A Queensland TikTok influencer has been arrested after being accused of poisoning a one-year-old girl for her own benefit.
The 34-year-old Sunshine Coast woman allegedly gave several unauthorised prescription and pharmacy medicines to the young girl, resulting in her falling ill.
"While the child was being subject to immense distress and pain, it is alleged the woman filmed and posted videos of the child," police said in a statement.
"It is alleged the content produced exploited the child and was used to entice monetary donations and online followers."
Detective Inspector Paul Dalton said the little girl was already in hospital with a genuine illness, when medical staff suspected that something was wrong.
On January 7, they tested her for unauthorised medicines, and found that the result was positive.
Police allege the medicines were given to the one-year-old girl between August 6 and October 15 last year.
"There are no words to describe just how repulsive offences of this nature are," Dalton said.
"There is no excuse for hurting a child, particularly one so young."
The woman is accused of raising around $60,000 through GoFundMe, with Dalton confirming that they are working towards returning the money to those who have donated.
"We've been dealing with GoFundMe, I understand through my investigators that they are making attempts to repay that money to the people through the kindness of their heart who have donated that money," Dalton said.
"We will be seeking that money back in restitution should she be convicted at a later date," Dalton said.
He also confirmed that the young girl and her siblings are "safe" and "the child's going well" but did not reveal who was caring for them.
The woman has been charged with five counts of administering poison with intent to harm, three counts of preparation to commit crimes with dangerous things, and one count each of torture, making child exploitation material and fraud.
She remains in custody and has been denied bail.
Image: Queensland Police