A 54-year-old woman has been sentenced at Belfast Magistrates’ Court today, Thursday 6th November, after fraudulently claiming that she would donate a kidney to a man awaiting a transplant.

Nicola Hutton, from east Belfast, had been convicted of a false communication offence at an earlier hearing.

At today’s sentencing, Hutton was handed a sentence of five months’ imprisonment.

Commenting, Sergeant Young said: "In August 2024, a media appeal was made on behalf of William Cullen from Newtownabbey. William, known as Billy, had been suffering from Polycystic Kidney Disease for approximately ten years. His condition had deteriorated to the point where he needed a donor kidney or he would be forced to undergo 8-10 hours of gruelling daily dialysis. At this time, his kidney function was at 15%.

“Nicola Hutton responded to the appeal, stating that she would come forward as a live donor and was already on the transplant register.

“Six months of communications followed, which included claims that Hutton had attended medical appointments and been informed that the transplant surgery would happen before June 2025.

“In February 2025, Billy discovered Hutton's lies. The devastated Cullen family contacted the police and we commenced an investigation.”

Sergeant Young continued: “By April 2025, Billy’s kidney function had diminished to 10% and he was forced to begin dialysis. Six months had been wasted believing Hutton’s claims; time which could have been spent searching for a legitimate donor.

“Thankfully, over the summer a donor was found for William and he underwent a successful transplant operation. His health has improved dramatically and he returned to work this week.

“Hutton never provided an explanation for her callous actions.

"We hope that today's sentencing sends a clear message to anyone who thinks they can get away with this type of crime – you will face the consequences of your actions.

“We would appeal to anyone who thinks that they may have been the victim of a scam to report to police. Fraudsters don’t care about the emotional impact they have on their victims. We believe that fraud is under reported because people feel embarrassed. Do not feel ashamed - you are not at fault and you are not alone - help and support is available.”

Information on scam and fraud prevention can be found at https://www.psni.police.uk/safety-and-support/keeping-safe/scams-and-fraud or via the Scamwise partnership at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/scamwiseni