Man accused of killing foster mother battling pancreatic cancer to seize real estate, money

Disappearance during cancer treatment

Prosecutors say von Ferdinand killed his foster mother, identified as Jett, between January 14 and January 17, 2024. She was last seen alive at a chemotherapy session on January 14, according to investigators cited by NBC 7 San Diego.

Claims made to family and caretaker

Around January 17, he told Jett’s caretaker that her services were no longer needed because Jett had died, authorities said. Prosecutors allege that these claims helped cover up her disappearance.

Alleged effort to take property

An effort to sell Jett’s primary home in Valley Center did not succeed because von Ferdinand could not provide a death certificate, prosecutors said. Kimberley Pifer faces forgery and identity theft charges; she is accused of impersonating Jett and marrying von Ferdinand under Jett’s name in May 2024.

Prosecutors and family respond

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan described the case as one of “deadly greed” at a news conference announcing the homicide charges. Stephan said von Ferdinand preyed on Jett while she was ill with cancer.

“She was the mom we needed,” Lucci told NBC 7 San Diego, adding that Jett gave the family a fair chance at life. Lucci said they believed the alleged motive was greed and money, and welcomed the prospect of justice.