Mother accused of faking child's terminal cancer diagnosis; going so far as to cut off her hair

MISSION, Texas -- Authorities say neighbors in a Texas community wanted to donate to a good cause, and help a struggling family -- but they were instead duped by a mother pretending her child had cancer.

"Hidalgo County Sheriff's investigators believe that 46-year-old Juanita Garcia of Mission, Texas wasn't only lying about her daughter's cancer to the people who were donating -- but that she was lying to the seven-year-old girl as well.

Investigators believe Garcia told her young daughter that she had terminal cancer -- even going so far as cutting off all of her hair.

This began in June, according to investigators, and was an effort by Garcia to get donations from people to help pay for her daughter's cancer treatments.

Child Protective Services officials reported the case to the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office and an arrest was made.

Garcia is charged with exploitation of a child -- a third-degree felony.

Investigators say because it's the season of giving, they want to make sure everyone out there is being smart before they donate.

"We don't want to discourage people from participating in fundraisers but we do want them to be cautious and we want them to vet and confirm the information," Sgt. J.P. Rodriguez with the Hidalgo County Sheriff's Office said.

The child in this case has been removed from the home, and officials are working to give her any kind of care she may need.

Garcia remains in jail.