At Dublin Criminal Court on 2/7, 54-year-old DJ Carey pleaded guilty to 10 counts of defrauding people by pretending to have cancer. The former sports star even tricked Irish billionaire Denis O'Brien into giving him money for treatment.

Carey is accused of enticing and deceiving victims into transferring money to him from 1/2014 to the end of 2022 after claiming he needed funds for cancer treatment. He sent victims pictures of "oxygen tubes" in his nose and lying in a "hospital bed," which were actually iPhone charging cables taped to his face.

DJ Carey arrives at Dublin Criminal Court. Photo: PA Wire

Carey's defense attorney told the court that while he didn't have cancer, the sports star did have "serious health issues" and required heart surgery last year.

Carey is a legendary Irish hurler, considered the "first superstar" of the traditional sport, with numerous prestigious awards. Members of Carey's family are also well-known in Irish sports.

After retiring in 2006, Carey experienced financial difficulties, owing millions of pounds to the bank.

In late 2023, Carey appeared in court facing 21 charges under the Theft and Fraud Offences Act. After pleading guilty to fraud, Carey was released on bail until his sentencing on 29/10.

DJ Carey arrives at Dublin Criminal Court. Photo: PA Wire

Before Carey, one of the most notable fake cancer scandals occurred in 2015. Belle Gibson, an Australian health influencer, was discovered to have fabricated her story of curing brain cancer through diet, exercise, natural remedies, and alternative medicine. Through this fabrication, Belle built an online community and profited from book sales.

Belle was convicted in 2017 for misleading or deceptive conduct and fined 410,000 USD for violating consumer protection laws.

Tue Anh (according to Metro)