Lotto Ticket Scam

On August 22, 2007 at 4:30 p.m., a 67 year old woman was approached by a man while shopping at TJ Maxx, located at 13530 Whittier Blvd. The man asked for directions from the woman however, she responded that she did not know where that address was located. As the woman spoke to the man, a second man approached them and said he knew how to get to the address. During the conversation both men convinced the woman into giving them a ride to the address. While in the car, the first man discussed that he had a winning lotto ticket worth $359,000. The man explained that he was unable to cash the winning ticket because he was an undocumented immigrant. The man asked the woman to cash the ticket on his behalf. The suspects talked the victim into withdrawing $16,000 from her bank account as “good faith” money. He told her he would later return the money to her, and give her an additional $15,000 for her help. After leaving the bank, one of the suspects asked if she would drive them to the store because he had an upset stomach and needed medicine. Once all three entered the store, the woman realized both men had left her sight. She then became suspicious and checked the envelope she was carrying. Upon opening the envelope she realized that the suspects had switched the envelopes. The woman was left with an envelope filled with newspaper.

The first suspect is described as a Hispanic male, 5’2’’, and weighing 170 pounds, with short black hair and a moustache. The suspect had blue or green eyes and spoke only Spanish. The second suspect is a Hispanic male, 5’7”, and weighing 150 lbs.

If you have any information in regards to this crime we ask that you contact the Whittier Police Department at (562) 945-8250.