An Australian influencer stands accused of murdering his mother for life insurance money, as financial records reveal a history of luxury spending and mounting debts.
At a Glance
- Andre Zachary Rebelo is on trial for allegedly murdering his mother, Colleen Rebelo, to claim life insurance money
- Rebelo took out three life insurance policies on his mother a week before her death
- He pleaded guilty to fraud but denies the murder charge
- Financial records show Rebelo and his partner had significant debts and minimal savings
- The trial is ongoing, with the defense suggesting alternative causes for Colleen Rebelo’s death
The Allegations
Andre Zachary Rebelo, an Australian influencer, is facing serious accusations of murdering his mother, Colleen Rebelo, in an alleged scheme to claim life insurance money. The case has garnered significant attention as it unfolds in court, revealing a complex web of financial troubles and suspicious circumstances surrounding Colleen’s death in 2020.
Prosecutors argue that Rebelo’s actions were driven by financial desperation. According to court proceedings, he took out three life insurance policies on his mother just a week before her death and began the claims process shortly after. This suspicious timing has raised eyebrows and forms a crucial part of the prosecution’s case.
The money troubles of Andre Rebelo and his 'influencer girlfriend' Gracie Piscopo have been laid bare in court. #9Newshttps://t.co/iH7ggW1NxI
— 9News Perth (@9NewsPerth) October 29, 2024
Financial Troubles Revealed
Financial records presented in court paint a picture of a couple living beyond their means. Rebelo and his partner, model Grace Piscopo, reportedly had a combined income of about $339,000 over three years, primarily from Piscopo’s modeling career. However, their lifestyle apparently outpaced their earnings, leaving them with a combined debt of $112,000.
“Particularly from 2019 when he defaulted on credit card and personal loan repayments and was subject to recovery action” – Mr Stammers
The couple’s financial hardship was reportedly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with missed payments on rent and a car loan. Despite their financial struggles, there is evidence of continued luxury purchases, raising questions about their spending habits and financial priorities.
The Insurance Fraud Allegation
A key element of the case is Rebelo’s alleged attempt to claim $500,000 using forged documents. This claim raised suspicions with the insurer, who reported it to the police. While Rebelo has pleaded guilty to fraud charges, he vehemently denies killing his mother.
The Defense’s Case
Rebelo’s defense team is working to construct a case that challenges the prosecution’s narrative. They have suggested that Colleen Rebelo’s death could have been due to natural causes, such as cardiac arrhythmia. This argument is complicated by testimony from medical experts who stated that Colleen was in good health at the time of her death and there is possible evidence of asphyxiation.
The exact cause of Colleen Rebelo’s death remains undetermined, leaving room for debate and speculation. This uncertainty is likely to be a key point of contention as the trial progresses.
Timeline of Events
The sequence of events leading up to and following Colleen Rebelo’s death is crucial to understanding the case. Rebelo declared bankruptcy in March 2022, eight months before his arrest. This timeline, along with the suspicious timing of the life insurance policies, forms a significant part of the prosecution’s argument for financial motive.
As the trial continues, more details are likely to emerge about the financial situation of Rebelo and Piscopo, the circumstances of Colleen Rebelo’s death, and the alleged insurance fraud scheme. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for how financial motives are considered in murder investigations.
