A woman has avoided jail for fraud against a charity set up in memory of three-year-old Morgan Ridler, who sadly passed away from cancer. Charlotte Blackwell attempted to deceive the Morgan’s Army Charitable Foundation, which helps families in south Wales affected by childhood cancer. Blackwell, 40, pleaded guilty to fraudulently receiving funds from the charity with intentions to secure £4,000 for herself.
Natalie Ridler, inspired by her son Morgan to establish the charity with her husband Matt, expressed how Blackwell exploited their vulnerability. The fraud took place shortly after Morgan’s death in June 2023. Mrs. Ridler revealed that Blackwell falsely claimed her child needed expensive treatment in Germany to garner donations. Mrs. Ridler provided emotional support to Blackwell before discovering discrepancies in her fundraising tactics.
Blackwell’s deceit was exposed when she messaged Morgan’s Army sponsors, falsely implying the charity endorsed her fundraising campaign. Despite Blackwell’s apologies and claims of desperation, Mrs. Ridler grew suspicious and contacted other charities Blackwell had approached. It was then revealed that Blackwell’s child, who had been in remission with no active treatment, did not require the funds claimed. Mrs. Ridler promptly alerted the authorities, leading to Blackwell being charged with fraud.
Blackwell, from Cefn Glas, received a suspended 10-month jail term, a four-month tagged curfew, 180 hours of unpaid work, and rehabilitation activities. She was also required to pay surcharges and prosecution costs. Mrs. Ridler highlighted the ordeal’s impact on their charity and pledged to strengthen their processes to prevent similar incidents. Morgan Ridler, who passed away days before his fourth birthday, inspired a widespread following on social media, aiding substantial fundraising efforts before the establishment of Morgan’s Army Charitable Foundation.