Mother who falsely claimed her son had terminal cancer to defraud crowdfunders of $26,000 sentenced to probation

The judge ordered an extensive treatment plan for Burgett and also ordered her to repay the $26,000 to the GoFundMe site

Monika Burgett listens to opening statements during her trial in Cincinnati. (AP)

A woman who prosecutors say falsely claimed her young son had terminal cancer, pretended to be a doctor and fraudulently raised funds for him has been sentenced to probation.

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports a Hamilton County judge told 40-year-old Monika Burgett that she needs "significant help" before sentencing her on Wednesday to five years of probation. Burgett was convicted in August of misdemeanor child endangerment and telecommunications fraud.

The judge ordered an extensive treatment plan for Burgett. He also ordered her to repay more than $26,000 to the GoFundMe fundraising site.

Burgett's attorney says the sentence will give her a chance to "get her life back together."

Testimony indicated Burgett's 5-year-old son has a genetic condition that causes benign growths. He's currently living with family members in Texas.

AP