Suspicion of Fraud Regarding Donation Appeal After Graz Rampage: Police Investigate

Surrounding a fundraising appeal for the survivors of the Graz rampage, suspicion of fraud has arisen according to research by the news magazine "Profil". It concerns more than 37,000 euros that were collected on the "GoFundMe" platform by an alleged survivor. However, according to research by "Profil" in cooperation with "Datum", it is said to be a fraudster. The State Police Directorate of Styria confirmed investigations on Wednesday.

Well-known Fraudster Suspected According to "Profil" Research

In the article published by "Profil" on Wednesday, the question is explored of who is behind the fundraising appeal named "Graz Rampage - Help for Survivors and Affected". Since June 11, exactly 37,262 euros have been donated by 623 people or organizations - most recently at the beginning of September. As the research by the news magazine has revealed, the organizer of the fundraising appeal is likely not a survivor, but a well-known fraudster. "Profil" confronted her with the allegations the day before publication, but she is said to have denied everything.

Only a Fraction Actually Went to Those Affected

According to the research, only 2,126 euros of the collected money were handed over to actual survivors - partly dubiously in the form of cash in envelopes. Where the rest of the money has gone is apparently unclear. Allegedly, the money was donated to the Red Cross and mosques - although it is claimed on "GoFundMe" that it is the only fundraising appeal "that can be directly and verifiably traced back to the survivors".

The police have now initiated investigations but do not want and cannot provide any details for tactical reasons, it was said on Wednesday in response to an APA inquiry.

City of Graz Donation Account Remains Active

After the rampage on June 10, the city of Graz set up a donation account. By July, around 228,000 euros had been received into the account, as the city's press office announced in the summer. The money is forwarded to the donation account of the school's parents' association. It is intended to cover costs that are not covered by the Victim Protection Act, the Victim Protection Fund, and other support facilities. The donation account will remain open, and further donations are welcome, according to the city of Graz. The use of the funds and compliance with the guidelines are monitored free of charge by an auditing company.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.