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Houston 'Brick Lady' Gets 10 Years' Probation for $42K GoFundMe Theft

Court evidence contradicted her viral account.

Overview

  • Roda Osman was convicted by a Harris County jury and ordered to repay $42,302, serve 90 days in jail, complete inpatient substance-abuse treatment, and avoid social media for 10 years under probation.
  • A judge set an appeal bond at $40,000 on Friday after Osman filed notice of appeal and was appointed an appellate attorney based on indigency.
  • Prosecutors presented bank records showing the GoFundMe donations were spent on trips to Jamaica and New York, restaurants, spas, and rideshares rather than medical expenses.
  • Surveillance video showed Osman striking Olan Douglas first before he hit back while holding a plastic water bottle, contradicting her claim of a brick attack and attempted kidnapping.
  • Olan Douglas said he received death threats after the viral allegation and expressed relief following the verdict, while investigators also flagged a prior 2020 fundraiser tied to Osman that police said did not reflect an actual assault.