An RCMP investigation into the disappearance of cash that had been raised to support a young man during his battle with cancer has resulted in charges.
According to RCMP, Brandon Hall was diagnosed with cancer in the fall of 2015 and began undergoing treatments.
In April 2016, Drumheller residents and businesses held fundraisers to support the Hall family with expenses related to Brandon’s treatments.
Two months later, following a complaint from a citizen, the Drumheller RCMP detachment began an investigation into donated funds that failed to reach the family.
As a result of the investigation, 33-year-old Ashley Fredrickson of Drumheller has been charged with theft under $5,000.
Brandon Hall says Ashley was a friend of his parents and they shared mutual friends through Ashley's former workplace. As far as Brandon knows, the missing money has not been returned or recovered.
“It's mostly just disappointing because she was so adamant about helping my family," said the 20-year-old. "The fact that this is how it turned out disgusts me because it was not just to help me but more importantly my family!"
"I'm happy it is being dealt with so it does not happen to others!”
Brandon says he is scheduled to have tissue and tumours removed from his lungs in the near future. “I’m feeling great and excited for my upcoming surgery!”
Fredrickson has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Drumheller Provincial Court on August 26.
A GoFundMe page, created by Brandon Hall's aunt, continues to collect donations for the Hall family.
