Woman pleads guilty to lying about stomach cancer diagnosis

JOHNSTOWN, PA (WJAC) — A woman who was arrested last year after being accused of lying about having cancer in order to raise money has entered a guilty plea in the case, according to the Cambria County District Attorney.

Officials say Brandi Hammers pleaded guilty to one felony count of theft by deception.

Hammers was arrested and charged in February 2022 following a months-long investigation into her alleged fraudulent activity.

Authorities said the community reportedly raised thousands of dollars to help Hammers with her alleged medical treatments for stomach cancer prior to the revelation that she was faking the illness.

Investigators added multiple tipsters told authorities that they learned through Hammers' insurance provider that there was no record of her being treated for cancer.

Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer said she tricked the community out of the goodness of their hearts.

Unfortunately, scams and lies prey on people's emotions. We have a great community that cares deeply about a lot of causes.

That's why he says this prosecution is so important: to set a future precedent.

Hammers is scheduled to be sentenced on July 6.