TIMMINS, Ont. — A 21-year-old woman who faked cancer to defraud people in northern Ontario has been handed six months of house arrest, with special provisions made after she told court she’s pregnant.
Jessica Ann Leeder admitted in court last month that she defrauded co-workers at a Ford dealership of more than $5,000.
She pretended to have lung and stomach cancer for close to a year, while accepting support, including money, from the community.
She faced a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison, but the Crown indicated before today’s hearing that Leeder would not face significant jail time.
A Timmins, Ont., court heard today that Leeder is pregnant.
The court recommended Leeder do her community service with the Canadian Cancer Society.
“I’m very sorry for the actions I’ve done and I want the chance to make things right,” Leeder said.