Woman accused of faking son's cancer sentenced

MOUNT CLEMENS, Michigan - A woman convicted of scamming money from donors by drugging her 12-year-old son and making him appear to have cancer has been sentenced to a year in jail.

Carol Schnuphase pleaded no contest last month to charges of second-degree child abuse and acting under false pretenses. A no contest plea is not an admission of guilt but is treated as such for sentencing purposes.

In sentencing Schnuphase on Tuesday, Macomb County Circuit Judge Richard Caretti said her "despicable scheme" was "almost beyond the realm of comprehension."

Caretti gave Schnuphase credit for six months of time served and ordered her to pay restitution.

Prosecutors say the Roseville woman received $7,500 from a church fundraiser and other donations. They say she spent the money on bills.

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