MILWAUKEE, WI — In a case that has left the community stunned and outraged, Milwaukee police have arrested the parents of 7-year-old Jamal White Jr. in connection with what authorities describe as a staged abduction meant to deceive the public and raise money under false pretenses.
According to a detailed report from law enforcement, 32-year-old Shavon Williams—who also goes by the name Paris Marie on social media—and Corey Williams, believed to be her partner, are facing serious charges after allegedly faking Jamal’s disappearance in an elaborate scheme to solicit donations through GoFundMe.
A Disturbing Allegation
The investigation began after Shavon Williams reported Jamal missing, prompting an urgent law enforcement response and community concern for the child’s safety. Police immediately launched a search, canvassed the area, and issued alerts to the public. In the meantime, a GoFundMe campaign was set up under the guise of helping locate Jamal and support his safe return, with an emotionally charged narrative that appealed to the compassion of donors nationwide.
However, suspicions quickly arose when investigators noticed inconsistencies in the couple’s accounts of Jamal’s disappearance. According to police, the fabricated story began to fall apart within hours as surveillance footage, witness statements, and digital evidence painted a very different picture from what was initially reported.
Recovery Before the Scam Could Unfold
Authorities were able to locate Jamal White Jr. safe and unharmed before the fraud could be fully executed. While relieved that the child was not physically harmed, investigators confirmed that the entire event had been a carefully planned ruse.
“The child was never in real danger,” a Milwaukee Police Department spokesperson said. “This was a manipulation of public trust, resources, and emotions. It’s both heartbreaking and infuriating.”
Charges and Legal Ramifications
Both Shavon and Corey Williams were taken into custody and are now facing a range of criminal charges, including:
- Filing a False Police Report
- Attempted Theft by Fraud
- Child Neglect
- Conspiracy to Commit Fraud
Additional charges may follow as the investigation continues, particularly around the use of digital fundraising platforms and interstate wire communications.
The GoFundMe campaign created for Jamal’s “safe return” has since been taken down, and company officials have stated they are cooperating fully with law enforcement. GoFundMe has also pledged to refund any donations made to the fraudulent campaign and has reminded users of its zero-tolerance policy for misuse.
Community Reaction
News of the staged abduction has prompted outrage across Milwaukee and beyond. Community members who shared missing posters, participated in the search effort, or donated in good faith expressed anger and betrayal.
“This is disgusting,” said one neighbor. “So many people were worried, praying, sharing his picture, and it turns out it was all a lie to get money. That’s unforgivable.”
Protecting Public Trust
Milwaukee officials emphasized the seriousness of the crime, especially considering the vast resources dedicated to the initial search and the emotional toll it placed on those who believed a child was in danger.
“This is not just a scam—it’s a dangerous abuse of the public’s compassion and the systems designed to protect children,” said an investigator familiar with the case. “We won’t let that go unchecked.”
Looking Ahead
As the legal process unfolds, Jamal White Jr. is reportedly in protective custody and receiving support services. Authorities are working to ensure his well-being remains the top priority.
The case is a sobering reminder of the potential for abuse within online fundraising platforms and the importance of vigilance—both by authorities and the public—in the digital age.
Anyone with additional information related to this case is urged to contact the Milwaukee Police Department.
Editor’s Note: All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Updates to this case will be provided as more details become available.
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