Cindy Smith released on bail

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Cindy Smith is free on bail tonight. She’s the Burlington woman accused of faking a rare neurological condition and duping people out of money for medical expenses.

The judge put a publication ban on any evidence heard in court today but we can tell you Smith is charged with fraud over $5000.

She was released on conditions after a day of drama in the courtroom. Cindy Smith left the courthouse in a green prison tracksuit with her lawyer Mark Hogan by her side.

Hogan asked the public and the media not to rush to judgement.

“Fortunately we have a sophisticated justice system. It’s robust, it’s well equipped to handle situations like this, and for that reason we aren’t going to be discussing this case in the media. We asked the media and the public to respect the process and to reserve judgement until all of the issues have been dealt with.”

Smith is accused of faking a rare neurological disorder called Chronic Inflammatory Demylenating Polyneuropathy.

She apparently went to great lengths to convince people she was sick. Saying she had lost her sight and speech, had suffered organ failure and a massive stroke. Police say she also purchased expensive medical equipment.

“It was unfortunate that her family members and friends were involved, even members of the church as well, and they really believed she had this disease.”

A Go Fund Me site was set up to raise money for medical expenses. More than $125,000 was pledged but police say they don’t yet know where the money went.

“Our investigators are still working on that, and we hope to be able to find something but at this point it looks like there isn’t anything left.”

During the bail hearing Smith said she wasn’t feeling well and later passed out or fainted. EMS was called and a stretcher brought in, but the hearing later continued.

Smith was released with conditions that she meet regularly with the John Howard Society and Canadian Mental Health Association and follow their programs.

“She was also told not to have contact with her friend Hilary Keeves who helped set up the Go Fund Me campaign and is not allowed to have a cell phone or computer”

She’s scheduled to appear in court again on May 27th.