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Adoption scam lands North Carolina woman in prison

CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. — A North Carolina woman who preyed on couples looking to start a family has been sent to prison for the nationwide adoption scam, investigators said.

['Secret Sister' gift exchange scam is back]

Wendy George posted on social media and adoption websites that she was pregnant and wanted to put her child up for adoption.

People from across the country responded to George, who got victims to send her money for food, doctors’ appointments and housing.

(Wendy George)

Investigators said she was never pregnant but got a positive pregnancy test and ultrasound images from a friend in the scam.

After a few months, a couple from Ohio called the Carolina Beach Police Department to report the scam.

Officers found at least 16 other people who had also claimed George scammed them.

George pleaded guilty Friday and was sentenced to at least four years in prison.

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