March 29, 2024

Attorney in cancer hoax case seeks venue change

ATLANTIC — The attorney for an Iowa mother accused of lying about her daughter’s cancer diagnosis has requested a change of venue for her trial.

Council Bluffs attorney Jay Mez says in court documents that extensive media coverage and gossip among residents would prevent Leatha Slauson, of Atlantic, from getting a fair trial in Cass County. The trial is set to start Nov. 12.

The 30-year-old Slauson is accused of telling her community that her 5-year-old daughter had terminal cancer. An investigation this year determined the child was not sick.

Slauson faces multiple charges, including child endangerment and drug distribution to a person under age 18. She has pleaded not guilty and remains at the Cass County Jail.