DELAWARE, Ohio -- A woman was on the run after being accused of stealing from her family and friends and failing to appear in court.
NBC 4 reported with the FAST FACTS Monday.
Melanie Chen, 29, of Columbus was accused of stealing thousands from family and friends after she falsely told them her husband, 38-year-old Phylip Chen, was ill.
Melanie and Phylip both were indicted on one count of theft, a first-degree felony, and one count of receiving stolen property, which is a third-degree felony.
Melanie and Phylip recruited their Taiwanese family and friends to help with Phylip’s alleged cancer diagnosis and medical expenses from July 2005 until August 2008, according to the Delaware County Prosecuting Attorney's Office.
The community gave the Chens more than $800,000, the office said.
There was no evidence to support Phylip's medical condition.
Phylip did appear for arraignment, and his jury trial has not been scheduled.
Melanie failed to appear for her arraignment hearing Monday, March 2.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Melania Chen was encouraged to call the Delaware County sheriff’s office at 740-833-2890.
For additional information on this developing story, stay with NBC 4 and refresh nbc4i.com -- Where Accuracy Matters.
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