The Shocking Murder of Colleen Rebelo: How Her Son’s Desperation Led to Tragedy
The Illusion of a Perfect Life
Andre Rebelo and his ex-partner, influencer Gracie Piscopo, seemed to lead the dream life online—luxurious holidays, designer clothes, a fancy car, and a beautiful house. Their social media profiles painted a picture of affluence and success, with every post showcasing their high-end lifestyle.
But behind the glossy photos and glamorous travels, things were far from perfect. The couple was struggling financially, and despite Piscopo’s lucrative career as a model and influencer—bringing in six figures by 2020—their spending was spiraling out of control.
Andre Rebelo's Financial Troubles
By 2020, Andre Rebelo’s financial situation had reached a breaking point. While Gracie's career soared, his investments in cryptocurrency had failed miserably, and he had plunged further into debt. With over $40,000 in personal loans and credit card debt, and debt collectors circling, Rebelo's desperation grew.
Unable to keep up with their lavish lifestyle, Rebelo hatched a sinister plan. He would murder his mother, Colleen Rebelo, and claim the life insurance payout. This would solve his financial problems, or so he thought.
A Shocking Crime in the Name of Insurance Money
On May 25, 2020, Colleen Rebelo, 58, was found dead in the shower of her Bicton home. Initially, her death was ruled as natural, but things quickly took a dark turn when Andre Rebelo began attempting to collect on her life insurance policies.
It was soon discovered that Rebelo had secretly taken out three life insurance policies worth $1.5 million in his mother's name, with himself as the sole beneficiary. The insurance company grew suspicious and flagged the claim, prompting an investigation.
In December 2022, Rebelo was charged with the murder of his mother. During the trial, prosecutors revealed that his motive was driven by mounting debt and a desperate desire to maintain his 'perfect' lifestyle.
Rebelo's Deceptive Tactics and the Trial
Rebelo's actions after his mother's death were chilling. Not only did he attempt to claim the insurance money, but he also forged documents and even fabricated a voicemail from Colleen’s psychologist, all in an attempt to convince the insurers that his mother had not taken her own life.
Throughout the trial, Gracie Piscopo, who was unaware of the extent of Rebelo's financial troubles, was called as a witness. She testified that Rebelo appeared "ordinary" the day his mother was murdered, further adding to the shock of the crime.
The Jury's Verdict: Andre Rebelo Found Guilty
After a lengthy trial, the jury unanimously found Andre Rebelo guilty of murdering his mother. In April 2025, he was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 25 years behind bars.
The case has left many shaken, with prosecutor Brett Tooker noting that while the couple appeared to have everything, the truth was far different. Rebelo’s actions were a result of his extreme desperation and his obsessive need to maintain a facade of wealth.
The Ultimate Betrayal: The Impact on Family
During sentencing, Justice Bruno Fiannaca described Rebelo’s actions as a "monstrous act" and "the ultimate betrayal." He highlighted how Rebelo's greed and desire for wealth outweighed any familial connection to his mother.
One of the most heart-wrenching consequences of this crime is the effect it will have on Rebelo’s young son. As the court noted, the child will grow up knowing his father only as an inmate, and the psychological toll of this will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
Gracie Piscopo Moves On
Since the trial, Gracie Piscopo has distanced herself from the crime and moved on from her relationship with Andre. In December 2024, she revealed her new relationship with Daniel Classen and has continued to share glimpses of her life on social media—complete with overseas vacations and family moments.
Conclusion: A Tragic Reminder of the Dangers of Living Beyond Your Means
The case of Andre Rebelo and Gracie Piscopo is a chilling reminder that not everything is as it seems on social media. Behind the glittering posts and perfect images, financial desperation can drive people to commit unimaginable acts. Rebelo’s story is one of greed, desperation, and betrayal—a tragedy for all involved.
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