The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
A Tennessee man was taken into custody after the authorities investigated a report that lottery tickets had been improperly activated and taken from a local business.
According to an arrest affidavit, the investigation began after a store owner in Ashland City was reportedly contacted by the Tennessee Lottery Corporation and informed that his business owed approximately $30,000. The unexpected claim prompted the owner to review surveillance footage from inside the store, where he allegedly observed a recently hired employee activating multiple lottery ticket booklets without authorization.
The footage reportedly showed the employee, who had only been working at the store for about two weeks, handling four separate ticket packs on March 21. Authorities later stated the tickets carried a total value of approximately $4,500. When questioned by the owner, the employee allegedly denied having the tickets and failed to return to the store when asked to bring back his keys the following day.
As the investigation continued, the authorities reportedly discovered additional concerns unrelated to the alleged theft. They determined the individual was required to remain on the sex offender registry, but had allegedly failed to update key information, including employment details and identification requirements.
On March 24, officers received information about the man’s possible location at a residence in Ashland City. When they arrived, they reportedly noticed a bicycle matching the description of the one he used to commute to work. The man initially refused to come outside.
While inside, he allegedly spoke by phone with the store owner and admitted to taking the tickets and claiming winnings of about $5,000, according to the authorities. He was taken into custody after eventually exiting the residence.
The man was charged with theft over $1,000 and two counts related to failing to comply with registration requirements, the authorities said.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a theft offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.