News writer
As the holiday season ramps up across the country, law enforcement is seeing an increase in lottery-related crimes. From stolen tickets in South Carolina to violent robberies in Florida, authorities are asking whether this increase is a seasonal craze or part of a bigger trend.
Lottery ticket theft at gas stations in South Carolina
According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, deputies are on the hunt for two individuals connected to lottery ticket thefts. The thefts allegedly took place at a gas station on Fontaine Road.
Officials say the same suspects were then later seen trying to cash the stolen South Carolina Lottery tickets at a convenience store on Farrow Road.
The two suspects remain on the loose. Police are urging anyone with information to contact the Richland County Sheriff’s Department at 803-576-3000 or submit an anonymous tip through CrimeStoppers at 1-888-CRIMESC.
Man charged with lottery fraud in South Carolina
South Carolina continues to be a hot spot for lottery crimes. In a separate incident, 33-year-old Dajun Marquis Martin of Anderson was arrested and charged by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) with lottery fraud, ticket counterfeiting, and tampering.
For this case, authorities said Martin allegedly tried to cash in stolen lottery tickets at Stop-A-Minit #8, located at 4154 Clemson Blvd. in Anderson. Officials say the tickets were previously stolen by Martin at the Raceway Gas Station, located at 4606 Clemson Blvd. in Anderson.
Police were able to obtain surveillance footage, which showed Martin scanning the tickets at the lottery terminal at the Stop-A-Minit store and then presenting them to the clerk for winnings.
Local law enforcement was able to positively identify Martin, but they did not state how much in winnings he claimed. He was booked into the Anderson County Detention Center.
Robberies and lottery scams in Florida
The lottery crimes also took place in Florida, but these didn’t involve theft from stores.
In Ormond Beach, Florida, two men were playing cards at an RV park when they were approached by so-called lottery winners. These “winners” told the two men they had just won the lottery, and any money they had on hand, the winners would double.
One of the victims handed over $2,500, and the other victim was about to hand over $5,000 when the suspects snatched it out of his hands. Police are now asking for your help in identifying the suspects, including a $1,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest.
As we previously reported, a 58-year-old man in Palm Springs, Florida, was robbed recently after cashing in a winning Florida Lottery ticket. The suspect, 24-year-old Christian Nasir Nelloms, allegedly took the winnings, which were a smaller amount, and a necklace and bracelet valued at over $2,000.
Police warn to be aware during the holidays
Law enforcement officials say holiday shopping crowds, busy retail stores, and the visibility of lottery winnings may create more opportunities for criminals. Authorities say they often see a spike in thefts during the holidays.
Officials advise lottery players to take precautions. They should avoid announcing any wins publicly while also securing any winnings immediately. They should also scan any stores before leaving.
Whether these incidents are a seasonal surge or part of a growing trend, the message is clear: lottery crime can happen anywhere, even with small wins, and public awareness is key to staying safe.
Enjoy playing the lottery, and please remember to play responsibly.
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