Woman fundraised off of sick kids but spent money on personal items

LEWIS COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A woman is behind bars after she fundraised off of sick kids but spent the money on personal items.

On August 20, 2024, local authorities were contacted by Charles Carse regarding a suspected fraudulent fundraising scheme. Carse reported that his spouse, Haley, had befriended Amber “Beth” Eberly on Facebook after Eberly claimed to be raising funds for a child who suffers from a serious illness. Eberly reportedly convinced the Carse family to include their own daughter in the fundraiser, as both children were battling significant health issues.

According to Carse, Eberly organized a fundraiser, including a cookout in June 2024, to raise money for the children’s medical expenses. The event was advertised as a charitable effort with a goal of raising $10,000. However, after the event, Eberly informed the Carse family that only $1,000 had been raised. Suspicions arose when it became apparent that approximately $5,000 had actually been collected, with businesses donating items for a raffle, including a $2,500 rail buggy.

Further investigation by law enforcement revealed that Eberly had opened an account at United Bank to manage the fundraiser’s proceeds. Bank records indicate that at least $2,170 had been raised, but the exact amount remains unknown. Officials confirmed that Eberly used the money for personal use.  The family reported receiving no funds from the event, and Eberly has since ceased communication with them.

Elberly is in jail on a 50,000 dollar bond.