Questions Linger Over Cory Riley’s Role in Amanda’s Cancer Scam

LOS ANGELES, California — In the wake of the true crime docuseries “Scamanda,” curiosity surrounds Cory Riley, husband of convicted fraudster Amanda Riley, especially regarding his knowledge of her scam.

Amanda Riley garnered attention for faking cancer and swindling over $100,000 from her community. After her conviction in 2022, conversations about Cory’s involvement have intensified, particularly his presence during her trial and the subsequent years.

Authorities charged Amanda with wire fraud in 2020, following years of scrutiny initiated by investigative producer Nancy Moscatiello. The release of the “Scamanda” podcast in May 2023 reignited public interest, prompting ABC to adapt the story into a docuseries that premiered in early 2025.

Cory remained by Amanda’s side throughout the trial, but their relationship reportedly soured after her sentencing. He filed for divorce in 2024, as he stayed in Texas with their two sons.

Moscatiello’s investigation dates back to 2015 when suspicions about Amanda’s health claims began to surface. Despite multiple points of scrutiny, such as IRS involvement and a police investigation, Amanda maintained her innocence until pleading guilty in October 2021.

In the podcast, Cory’s daughter Jessa expressed uncertainty about her father’s knowledge of the scam. “I don’t know how to describe it. He was very – I want to say, ‘not himself,’” Jessa said, implying that Cory may have been more involved than he admits.

Contradicting Cory’s assertions, Jessa recounted trips to the hospital that seemed less about treatment and more about maintaining the facade of Amanda’s illness. Detective Jose Martinez echoed her sentiment, suggesting that Cory likely played a role in the scam’s orchestration.

Despite numerous accounts connecting Cory to the fraudulent activities, he has faced no charges related to Amanda’s crimes. As discussions about true crime continue to captivate audiences, the fallout from Amanda’s scam raises lingering questions about Cory’s potential complicity.

As Amanda is scheduled for release in 2025, Moscatiello remains skeptical about her future actions, indicating the potential for more deception. “Unless she’s learned something from this experience… I’m not sure what she’ll do,” Moscatiello revealed on a recent episode of NewsNation.