A Florida cancer patient has been left heartbroken after losing more than $4,000 in a fraudulent online puppy scheme. Danielle Garcia-Culp, who has been battling the disease for four years, attempted to purchase an Australian Shepherd to provide emotional support during her treatment.
The Scam Unfolds
Garcia-Culp, whose cancer has progressed to stage four, told News 6 that she spotted an advertisement on Facebook for an Australian Shepherd puppy. She was captivated by its eyes, which she said conveyed unconditional love. She arranged for the puppy to be delivered from Pensacola to her home in Umatilla.
As she awaited delivery, a supposed agent sent her a picture of the puppy in a crate along with a tracking number. However, the requests for payments soon escalated. First, a $700 refundable deposit for the crate rental was demanded, followed by a $1,500 deposit for pet insurance. Additional deposit requests followed, ultimately totalling approximately $4,450.
Emotional Impact
Garcia-Culp expressed her devastation, saying, 'I can only imagine somebody going through a similar situation I am, you know, and that puppy being almost like a lifeline and then it’s not real.' The scam preyed on her vulnerability during a difficult time.
Investigation and Response
The delivery company, identified as Global Logistics Transport Solutions, was registered through Hostinger, a European-based web hosting company. Hostinger later confirmed that the website was involved in a 'fake courier' scheme, a type of logistics scam. The company suspended the site for violating its terms of service.
When News 6 contacted the Facebook page where Garcia-Culp found the advertisement, they received an automated response followed by a reply that simply said 'Who?' When given Garcia-Culp's name, the page operator responded, 'She abandoned her pup at the delivery agency.' Meta, Facebook's parent company, stated it is investigating the page.
Financial Struggles
Garcia-Culp launched a GoFundMe campaign last month to raise $4,000. She explained that she lost her job after her stage-four diagnosis and has been unable to find work since. 'Right now, I’m applying for disability, but that process can take months,' she wrote. 'In the meantime, I’m struggling to cover my medical bills and basic living expenses. Every day is a challenge, but I know I’m not alone - there are so many kind people out there who want to help.'
The Independent has contacted Meta for comment.
