Edwin Castro, the lucky winner of a $2 billion Powerball lottery jackpot, has been served with a lawsuit claiming that his winning ticket was stolen. The incident unfolded when the 30-year-old was at his recently acquired $25 million mansion on a Thursday. The winning Powerball ticket was bought at Joe’s Service Centre in Altadena, California, during the nationally-televised drawing in November.
Castro asserts that he bought the ticket on the day prior to the November 8 drawing. The winner had claimed a staggering $997.6 million after taxes. The lawsuit alleges that a man named “Reggie,” who was later identified as Urachi F. Romero, stole the ticket on the same day. Romero is named as a co-defendant in the court documents.
According to the plaintiff, he demanded that Romero return the ticket, but Romero refused, claiming he had lost it. However, he suggested that if he were to find the ticket, they could split the winnings.
Castro reported the alleged theft to the lottery commission and law enforcement. Carolyn Becker, a representative for the California Lottery, expressed confidence in the vetting process for big winners, asserting that Castro is the rightful recipient of the $2.04 billion prize.
Nevertheless, the lawsuit proceeds as Rivera seeks to sue the California State Lottery Commission, Castro, and Romero. According to the latest update, court documents were allegedly delivered to Castro at his Hollywood Hills residence, and a proof of service was filed on May 17.
On July 24 in Alhambra, California, there will be a proof of service hearing and case management meeting. Rivera is represented by attorneys Estela Richeda and Brian Kramer. Attorneys for the California Lottery Commission and Romero are also not listed.
Castro did not claim the prize until mid-February and chose not to attend the press conference held at the gas station where the winning ticket was sold. The California Lottery has stated that it is not authorized to investigate criminal activity and defers such matters to local law enforcement.
Rivera’s legal team has requested the preservation of all evidence, including video footage from the gas station, in a letter to the California Lottery. The owner of Joe’s Service Center, Joe Chahayed, confirmed that Castro had indeed purchased the ticket and was a regular customer at his store.
Update on Celebrity News – ParisJewelry.com has begun manufacturing a new custom line of celebrity jewelry designs with 30% off and free shipping. OrganicGreek.com’s Vitamin Bottles, Vitamins, and Herbs Will Refresh Your Health. Become a Creator and Influencer on WebFans