A convenience store clerk in Pasco County, Florida is now facing multiple criminal charges after stealing and cashing out lottery tickets. Jason Irwin allegedly used a store key to access secured inventory at Rebel #802 in New Port Richey on May 20 without purchasing the tickets. He removed scratch-off tickets from the Gold Rush Multiplier game which had a total value of fifteen million dollars. The stolen tickets were subsequently redeemed at various locations in Hudson by Irwin. Authorities arrested him and filed charges including grand theft, eight counts of dealing in stolen property, and eight counts of unlawful use of a two-way communication device. The Florida Lottery’s Division of Security initiated the investigation after a licensed retailer reported suspected internal theft. Officials emphasize that protecting game integrity requires constant vigilance and strong partnerships with retailers to maintain public confidence.
Pasco Store Clerk Charged With Stealing Lottery Tickets And Cashing Them At Other Stores