Dionne Marie Hanna, the 84-year-old British woman featured in Netflix’s documentary Con Mum, has been charged with multiple counts of fraud in Singapore. The documentary, released on March 25, 2025, details how Hanna allegedly deceived her son, Graham Hornigold, and others out of substantial sums of money.
Allegations and Charges
Following the release of Con Mum, several individuals in Singapore recognized Hanna and reported similar experiences of deception. She is accused of falsely claiming to be terminally ill and a member of the Brunei royal family to solicit funds from victims, promising reimbursement through a nonexistent inheritance. Singapore police have linked her to at least five cases of fraud, with losses exceeding S$200,000 (approximately £115,400). Hanna appeared in court via video link from a hospital bed and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
The Con Mum Documentary
Con Mum explores the story of Graham Hornigold, a London-based pastry chef, who was contacted by Hanna in 2020 claiming to be his long-lost mother. A subsequent DNA test confirmed their biological relationship. Hanna portrayed herself as a wealthy illegitimate daughter of the Sultan of Brunei, initially lavishing Hornigold and his then-partner with extravagant gifts. However, she later manipulated them into covering her escalating expenses, leading to financial and emotional distress.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Consequences
Hanna has been charged with five counts of fraud involving victims in Singapore and France. The court heard that she deceived individuals by claiming she needed funds for legal fees and to open new bank accounts, assuring them of repayment through her alleged inheritance. If convicted, Hanna could face significant prison time and fines.
Impact on Victims
The victims, including her son Hornigold, have suffered considerable financial losses and emotional trauma. Hornigold reportedly lost £300,000 due to Hanna’s deceit. The case has highlighted the profound impact of familial fraud and the vulnerabilities exploited by such scams.
As legal proceedings continue, the public remains attentive to the outcomes of this high-profile case, underscoring the importance of vigilance against fraud, even within familial relationships.
