Story highlights Miss Pennsylvania U.S. International is accused of faking cancer

Brandi Lee Weaver-Gates took part in fundraisers for her treatment

(CNN) Beauty pageant queens typically stand for things like beauty, poise and intelligence.

Press them just a bit and they'll talk about world peace and the need to feed starving children.

Authorities accuse Brandi Lee Weaver-Gates, Miss Pennsylvania U.S. International, of casting aside those attributes and faking cancer in an elaborate scheme that raised thousands of dollars.

Weaver-Gates led everyone to believe she had been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in March 2013.

In the years since, she took part in fundraisers to pay for her treatment. Police told CNN affiliate WJAC the most recent event was held in April and raised $14,000.

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