This chapter explores the thrilling story of a $16.5 million Hot Lotto ticket sold in Des Moines, Iowa, that went unclaimed after the winning numbers were matched. The ensuing speculation and intrigue captivated the local community as the search for the ticket holder continued.
In 2010, a $16.5 million Hot Lotto ticket was sold at a gas station in Des Moines, Iowa. At first, no one showed up to claim the prize. And then, a series of lawyers tried to claim the money on behalf of a client they would not name. Things got stranger, and eventually investigators uncovered what has been called the biggest lottery fraud in U.S. history.
This episode was first published in 2021.
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