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The ticket for the Mega Millions is set to increase tomorrow, the 8th of April, from the previous $2 to $5. But while the cost has risen, it will include the Megaplier, which was previously offered for an additional $1. The cost of the prizes will also be larger, and the odds of winning the jackpot are set to improve as well. A significant change is coming to one of America's most popular lottery games. Starting Tuesday, April 8, the price of a Mega Millions ticket will rise from $2 to $5. But while players will pay more, they can expect larger prizes, better odds, and new features that promise to make the game more exciting than ever. The revamped ticket price includes the Megaplier - an optional feature that previously cost $1 additional fee. Now built into every ticket by default, the Megaplier multiplies non-jackpot prizes, turning even smaller wins into more substantial payouts. According to Mega Millions officials, the inclusion of the Megaplier and other structural changes will reshape the game's dynamics. For example, a prize that would have previously paid out just $2 under the old format could now be worth $10, $15, $25, or even $50, thanks to the automatic multiplier. The change also eliminates the traditional break-even $2 prize, shifting the lowest-tier wins into more rewarding territory. "This is not just a price increase," said a Mega Millions spokesperson. "This is a complete game enhancement that gives players more value for their money. Bigger prizes, more excitement, and better odds." Improved odds and bigger jackpots One of the most anticipated changes is the improved odds of winning any prize. Currently, the overall odds stand at 1 in 24. Under the new rules, those odds improve to 1 in 23, thanks to a slight adjustment to the number matrix - specifically, the removal of one of the 25 Mega Balls. While the odds of hitting the jackpot remain astronomically high, they will also improve a little - shifting from 1 in 302,575,350 to about 1 in 290,472,336. Additionally, secondary prize odds will remain the same, but their corresponding prize amounts will increase due to the built-in Megaplier. The jackpot structure is also undergoing a major overhaul. Under the current format, the starting jackpot resets to $20 million after a win. But starting April 8, that figure jumps to $50 million. Officials for the lottery also state faster jackpot rollovers due to increased ticket revenue, potentially pushing top prizes into record-breaking territory more often. "In the new version of the game, the average jackpot win is projected to exceed $800 million," the spokesperson noted, "compared to approximately $450 million in the current game." A rare price hike This change marks only the second time in Mega Millions history that the ticket price has increased. When the game launched in 2002, a single ticket cost just $1. That changed in 2017 when the price doubled to $2, a move that also introduced bigger jackpots and improved prize structures. Now, eight years later, the game is evolving once again to meet player demand and market trends. Mega Millions drawings take place every Tuesday and Friday night across 45 states, as well as in Washington, DC and the US Virgin Islands. The new $5 ticket price will take effect for all tickets purchased for the Tuesday, April 8 drawing and beyond. As players prepare for this new chapter in Mega Millions history, officials are optimistic that the changes will be well received. This is about giving players more chances to win and making those wins more meaningful, the spokesperson said.

The $1.2 billion prize winning ticket for Mega Millions has been redeemed in California. The lucky winner is a woman named Rosemary Casarotti, and she opted for the lump sum cash option. Casarotti bought the ticket at a Circle K in December of 2024, and she came forward to claim her life-changing prize this week. The winning ticket from the December 27, 2024, Mega Millions drawing, worth more than $1.2 billion, has finally been redeemed in the state of California. The lucky winner, Rosemary Casarotti, stepped forward this week to claim her massive prize, opting for the one-time lump sum payment instead of the full annuity payout. The winning ticket was purchased at the Circle K Sunshine Food and Gas store in Cottonwood, California, during the holiday season. The jackpot had actually rolled over a few times before reaching the staggering amount. While the winner had up to a year to come forward, Casarotti wasted no time in securing her life-changing payout. Lump sum payout over annuity Rather than taking the full $1.2 billion in annuity payments spread over 30 years, Casarotti elected to receive the lump sum cash option, which amounts to over $571 million. However, this amount is subject to federal taxes amounting to 37%, bringing her net payout down to approximately $360 million. One of the advantages for lottery winners in California is that the state does not consider lottery winnings as taxable income. This means Casarotti will not have to worry about additional state taxes on her prize, unlike winners in some other states where local taxes can significantly reduce winnings. California Lottery policies and public records California law mandates that lottery jackpot winners cannot remain anonymous. The rule is designed to promote transparency and public trust in the lottery system. While Casarotti's name was made public, she chose to forego a formal ceremony held by the California Lottery at the Circle K store where she purchased the winning ticket. Despite remaining mostly private, Carolyn Becker, the California Lottery spokesperson, shared some insights about the winner's reaction. "I had the pleasure of speaking with Rosemary by phone following her win, and I can tell you with certainty how grateful she is and how happy she is to have won this money and to have supported public schools," Becker said. Supporting education in California The California Lottery plays a crucial role in funding the state's education system. According to officials, during the four months leading up to Casarotti's historic win, the lottery raised approximately $89.5 million for K-12 public schools, colleges, and universities in the state. Harjinder Shergill Chima, California Lottery Director, extended congratulations to Casarotti and acknowledged her contribution to the state's educational programs. "We offer Rosemary our heartfelt congratulations for her historic win and our gratitude for her part in supporting the California Lottery's mission to provide extra money for public education," Chima said. Circle K's big win While Casarotti took home the grand prize, the Circle K in Cottonwood, where the ticket was sold, also became a big winner. The store received a $1 million commission from the California Lottery for selling the jackpot-winning ticket. "It's an amazing feeling to know that our store played a part in making lottery history," stated Ishar Gill, whose family owns the Cottonwood Circle K. "Our customers are the heart of our business, and we're grateful to be a part of such an amazing community." A historic win in lottery history Casarotti's jackpot win ranks as the ninth-largest lottery prize in US history along with the fifth-largest in the history of Mega Millions. The game, which debuted in 1996 as The Big Game, has since become one of the most popular lotteries in the country. The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot remain astronomical, with a lone ticket having a 1 in 302,575,350 chance of matching all five white balls along with the gold Mega Ball. Starting next month, the cost of playing Mega Millions will increase from $2 to $5 per ticket. The Megaplier, an add-on currently costing $1, will be automatically included in all future purchases. For now, Rosemary Casarotti joins the ranks of history-making lottery winners, taking home a fortune that will undoubtedly change her life forever.

A man from Mooresville in North Carolina has just won the lottery in the state. He was able to split the Quick Pick jackpot prize after he bought the ticket online. He is now $324,000 richer - and the odds of him winning the Quick Pick were one in almost a million! A North Carolina man's decision to try his luck online turned into a life-changing moment after he secured a share of a six-figure lottery jackpot. Chad Welch, a resident of Mooresville, was able to purchase a Quick Pick ticket online - and it matched all five white ball numbers in the 6th of October North Carolina Education Lottery drawing. His lucky ticket was one of two that correctly matched the winning numbers, resulting in a split of the $649,128 jackpot. Welch walked away with an impressive $324,564 before taxes. With the odds of hitting all five numbers in a Quick Pick drawing standing at a staggering 1 in 962,598 (almost one in a million), Welch's win was nothing short of extraordinary. He just collected his winnings this week and, after mandatory federal and state tax deductions, took home just over $232,000. Winning from the comfort of home Welch's victory demonstrates the convenience of the North Carolina Education Lottery's online platform. Cash 5, the game he played, is one of six lottery games in the state of North Carolina that offers an online purchasing option. Players can buy their tickets through the lottery's official website or through the mobile app, in addition to being able to purchase from physical retail locations. For Thursday's upcoming drawing, the Cash 5 jackpot has reset to $100,000, giving players another chance to test their luck. The impact of the lottery on local education While Welch's personal fortune has taken a positive turn, the North Carolina Education Lottery also continues to benefit communities across the state. According to the lottery's official website, more than $10 million was raised last year for education programs in Iredell County, where Mooresville is located. Proceeds from the lottery support initiatives such as school construction, college scholarships, and transportation assistance for students. The lottery has been a vital funding source for education in North Carolina, contributing millions annually to public schools and related programs. Responsible Gambling awareness Though stories like Welch's highlight the exciting possibilities of winning big, officials continue to emphasize responsible gambling. The lottery provides resources for those who may be struggling with gambling-related issues. Anyone concerned about their gambling habits or those of a friend or family member can reach out to the North Carolina Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-877-718-5543. Additionally, the National Helpline for problem gambling is available at 1-800-522-4700. A life-changing moment Winning a significant lottery prize can be life-altering, and Welch's success serves as inspiration for many hopeful players in the state and beyond. Whether they choose to buy a ticket online or at a store, each draw presents the unique opportunity to dream big. As the Cash 5 game continues with its daily draws, players across North Carolina will be eager to see if luck is on their side - just as it was for Welch. For those feeling lucky, the next drawing is just around the corner. But as always, the golden rule of lottery play remains: Play responsibly and within your means.

A man from California who sued the California Lottery for the winning prize money of $197.5 million has been contested by the California Lottery in the lawsuit. The California Lottery stated that it does not owe him the remaining $197.5M because he has lost the ticket. According to Faramarz Lahijani, he bought the two winning lottery tickets amounting to a win of $394 million. But since he could not show the other ticket, he was only able to claim half of the supposed total prize money. The California Lottery has pushed back against a lawsuit demanding a $197.5 million payout from a man who claims he purchased two Mega Millions tickets from the same gas station - and he lost one of them. Lawyers for the state lottery argue that without a valid ticket, the claim is invalid under state regulations. A resident of Encino, California, Faramarz Lahijani collected half of the Mega Millions jackpot, which was drawn on the 8th of December, 2023 - a sum of $197.5 million - in June of 2024. The jackpot, totaling $394 million, was split between two winning tickets, both purchased from the Chevron gas station in Encino, California. While Lahijani initially remained silent about his win, declining media interviews, he made headlines again in December of 2024 when he filed a lawsuit against the California Lottery, asserting he was entitled to the remaining prize money of $197.5 million. Lottery officials stand firm Lahijani argues that he purchased both tickets and, as the 'sole winner,' should receive the full jackpot. However, he admitted that he has been unable to find the second ticket. His legal team stated that the lawsuit was filed before the ticket's expiration date to ensure he preserved his right to claim the full prize. Despite this, the California Lottery remains steadfast in its stance. In a recent court filing ahead of a hearing on October 29, attorneys for the California Lottery emphasized that rules strictly prohibit payouts without a valid ticket. "Payment of a Mega Millions prize without the submission of a valid winning ticket is expressly barred by the Mega Millions game rules and by applicable California statutes and regulations," the filing states. The mystery behind two identical tickets A significant question remains: Why did Lahijani purchase two identical tickets? According to him, he has been using the same numbers - 21, 26, 53, 66, 70, and the Mega Number 13 - for 30 years, as they were chosen by his children. The California Lottery confirmed that both winning tickets were bought in two separate transactions, a highly unusual occurrence. Possible explanations include: A superstitious ritual, where he routinely purchased duplicates. A habitual purchase mistake, where he unknowingly bought the same numbers twice. The possibility that the second ticket was meant for another individual, though Lahijani denies this. The legal battle over contractual rights Lahijani maintains that the California Lottery has enough evidence to confirm his rightful claim to the entire jackpot. His lawsuit argues that purchasing a lottery ticket establishes a contractual relationship between the buyer and the lottery. By refusing to pay out the remaining winnings, the lawsuit claims, the lottery is violating that agreement. However, legal experts note that lottery rules clearly state that a winning ticket must be presented to claim the prize. Without the missing ticket, Lahijani's case may face significant hurdles in court. The upcoming October 29 hearing before Judge Lia Martin will be a pivotal moment in the case, determining whether Lahijani's lawsuit will move forward or be dismissed. For now, the California Lottery remains firm: No ticket, no prize.

Robbers in France who stole a man's backpack and bought lottery scratch-off tickets with the money in the man's wallet have won over $500K - but they have a huge dilemma now. They can't redeem the winning ticket for fear of being arrested. But the man from whom they stole the backpack has a unique proposal: they could share the winnings and not go to prison. A pair of thieves who stole the backpack of a man, including his wallet, have won a staggering €500,000 (US$526,224) jackpot after purchasing a scratch-off lottery ticket with the stolen funds. However, their newfound fortune has placed them in a precarious position, as they are now fugitives wanted by the police. The victim of the robbery, in a surprising turn, is willing to share the winnings if the criminals come forward. The unbelievable stroke of luck The dramatic story unfolded in Toulouse, France's fourth-largest city, when a man identified in police records as Jean-David E. discovered his backpack had been stolen from his vehicle. Inside the bag was his wallet, containing his debit and credit cards. Realizing what had happened, Jean-David promptly reported the theft to the police and contacted his bank to freeze his accounts. That's when he learned that suspicious transactions had been made with his stolen cards, including the purchase of several scratch-off lottery tickets. The purchases were tracked to a local Toulouse shop where detectives conversed with a cashier who recalled two homeless-looking men buying multiple scratch-offs. To their astonishment, one of the tickets turned out to be the grand prize winner of €500,000. The cashier said that they were so happy they forgot their cigarettes and belongings and walked out like crazy people, said Jean-David's attorney, Pierre Debuisson, recounting the moment of the win. The criminals' dilemma Despite holding a life-changing ticket, the thieves now face a serious problem: redeeming it would likely result in their immediate arrest. Authorities are aware of their windfall and could seize the winnings, considering they were obtained through fraudulent means. France's national lottery operator, La Francaise des Jeux (FDJ), has not disclosed the specific game in which the jackpot was won but has confirmed that a significant prize remains unclaimed. Under French law, lottery winnings can be subject to seizure if they are linked to criminal activity. This places the two fugitives in a difficult position - either claim the money and risk legal repercussions or forgo their fortune altogether. A compelling offer from the victim While the law is clear, Jean-David's lawyer has presented an alternative solution. In an unexpected move, Debuisson is offering the thieves a chance to negotiate a deal. "You risk nothing. We will share with you, and you will be able to change your lives," Debuisson said, inviting the fugitives to his office to work out a settlement. It remains uncertain whether the two individuals will take him up on the offer or remain on the run. However, even if they do accept, there is no guarantee that authorities will allow them to keep the money. The police may seize the funds as illegally obtained gains, leaving both the thieves and Jean-David without a share of the jackpot. Legal precedents and implications Lottery disputes are not uncommon, and courts have typically ruled that possession of a winning ticket is paramount. In a high-profile US case that we covered recently, Edwin Castro, winner of the record-breaking $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot in 2023, faced a lawsuit from a man claiming the ticket was stolen. However, a Los Angeles court ruled that possession is key, stating that the player in control of the ticket is the presumed owner. This case in France presents a unique legal question: Can lottery winnings be considered legitimate if the funds used to purchase the ticket were stolen? The outcome may set a new precedent in France’s lottery laws. A high-stakes gamble For now, the fate of the €500,000 jackpot remains in limbo. The thieves, aware that their lucky ticket could lead to their arrest, have yet to make a move. Jean-David's offer of a share may tempt them out of hiding, but the legal consequences could still prove too great.

Just a day after we announced that Lt. Governor Dan Patrick is seeking to investigate lottery fraud allegations, a statement released today by the Texas Lottery has officially banned lottery courier services from operating in the state. The rules will be formally set forth to the Commission Board on the 4th of March. The Texas Lottery Commission has taken decisive action against lottery ticket courier services, issuing a policy statement that prohibits their operation within the state. Ryan Mindell, Texas Lottery Commission Executive Director, announced the move on Monday, February 24, citing concerns over security, integrity, and legal compliance. The policy, effective immediately, aligns with state legislative efforts to address growing concerns regarding unregulated third-party lottery couriers. Under the proposed amendments, any licensed retailer found collaborating with a lottery courier service will face revocation of their lottery ticket sales agent license. The Texas Lottery Commission plans to formally propose these rule changes at an open meeting set for Tuesday, the 4th of March, with the goal of adoption in April following a public comment period of 30 days. Concerns over unregulated lottery couriers Lottery courier services operate as independent, unregulated entities that purchase lottery tickets on behalf of customers. Customers place orders and submit payments through the courier, which then buys the tickets from a licensed retailer with whom they have a private arrangement. Couriers typically retain the physical ticket while sending customers a scanned image, charging fees for their services. The absence of regulatory oversight has raised concerns about consumer protection, compliance with state law, and potential criminal activity. Mindell emphasized that the Texas Lottery was designed to provide a secure and transparent system where players purchase tickets directly from licensed brick-and-mortar retailers. "Lottery courier services operating in Texas have been a significant concern for many of our stakeholders," stated Mindell. "Previously, the agency interpreted its authority as not extending to the regulation or prohibition of these services." He continued that after conducting a thorough review of their authority under the State Lottery Act and investigating recent retailer activities, they are moving forward with a formal prohibition. Maintaining public trust and regulatory compliance The move to ban lottery courier services reflects growing concerns from both the public and state officials about the integrity of Texas Lottery operations. Chairman of the Texas Lottery Commission, Robert G. Rivera, reinforced the agency's commitment to maintaining a well-regulated lottery system. "Our priority is to protect the security and integrity of the Texas Lottery and the public's confidence in our games," said Rivera. "By this rule proposal, the agency will take decisive action to ensure that ticket sales remain in full compliance with state law. Maintaining a well-regulated lottery system... is essential to fulfilling our mission of responsibly generating important revenue for public education and veterans' services in our state." Legislative scrutiny and recent investigations Concerns about the legality of lottery couriers have been mounting among policymakers and state leadership. Several legislative proposals, such as SB79, HB389, and SB28, filed during the 89th Texas Legislature, aim to prohibit the operation of these services. The Texas Lottery Commission's decision follows an intensified focus on courier services after a high-profile Lotto Texas jackpot win involving a ticket purchased by a courier service. The jackpot win, which occurred on February 17, prompted further scrutiny and an investigation by the agency. Just days before this event, the Texas Lottery Commission had submitted a request for an opinion from the Attorney General's Office regarding its authority over couriers. Following these developments and recent investigations, the agency has decided to take direct action to prohibit the operation of lottery couriers and to ensure that all ticket sales comply with state law. The role of the Texas Lottery in state revenue Since its inception in 1992, the Texas Lottery has produced over $40 billion in state revenue, awarding over $90 billion to players in prize money. The proceeds contribute significantly to the Foundation School Fund, a fund aimed at supporting public education in Texas, and the Fund for Veterans' Assistance. Since the launch of veterans-themed scratch tickets in 2009, the Texas Lottery has provided more than $262 million in funding for programs that assist veterans in Texas. The agency continues to emphasize responsible play and strict regulatory compliance to uphold public trust and ensure that lottery operations remain a secure and reliable source of state funding. The proposed rule amendments will be presented at the March 4 open meeting, allowing the public to provide input during a 30-day comment period before the final adoption in April. In the meantime, the policy statement prohibiting lottery courier services remains in effect, signaling a firm stand by the Texas Lottery Commission against unregulated third-party ticket sales.

The Lt. Governor of Texas, Dan Patrick, has started investigating an alleged case of lottery fraud. The winning lottery ticket won more than $83 million and was sold at a store in North Austin. The Lt. Governor has long been vocal about abolishing regulated sports betting in the state, and now, amid reports of lottery fraud, he has also set his sights on state lottery services and couriers. The Texas Lottery is facing growing scrutiny as an active lawsuit and allegations of fraud threaten its credibility. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has raised concerns over the legality of lottery couriers and their role in recent lottery transactions, following the sale of an $83.5 million winning ticket at a North Austin retailer. Suspicion surrounding the Texas Lottery The controversy centers around a winning Lotto Texas ticket sold at Winner's Corner, a well-known lottery retailer on Rockwood Lane. The jackpot, one of the largest in Texas history, has led to increased attention regarding the fairness and transparency of lottery operations. Lt. Gov. Patrick voiced concerns over the integrity of the system, particularly regarding the role of courier services that facilitate online lottery purchases. The winner, who has chosen to remain anonymous, matched all six numbers in the drawing: 19, 21, 25, 45, 47, and 52. The $83.5 million jackpot was the fifth-largest in the game's history. According to Peter Sullivan, Senior Vice President of Lottery at DraftKings, the winner spent $20 on ten games the night of the draw. However, the ticket's purchase location and the involvement of a courier service have drawn scrutiny, fueling an ongoing lawsuit against the Texas Lottery Commission. The lawsuit alleges manipulation of lottery outcomes, fraud, and money laundering, further shaking public confidence in the system. The legality of lottery couriers in question Lottery courier services, such as Jackpot and DraftKings, allow players to purchase tickets online or through mobile apps. Once an order is placed, couriers buy physical tickets from licensed retailers and provide digital copies to customers. Peter Sullivan defended the practice, stating, "There is a misconception that Jackpot, as a courier, is buying all these tickets for itself. We are buying them on behalf of customers, who have been age and geo-verified and are playing the games on an individual basis, not a bulk purchase basis." Jackpot and DraftKings are not involved in the lawsuit. Despite this, the allegations remain. The lawsuit targets the Texas Lottery Commission's former Executive Director, IGT Solutions Corporation, Rook Tx LP, and Lottery.com, accusing them of manipulating lottery outcomes and money laundering through courier services. The winning ticket's purchase through a courier has intensified these concerns. Lt. Gov. Patrick's investigation and legislative push Lt. Gov. Patrick has questioned the ethics and legality of courier services. Jackpot, which acquired DraftKings' lottery business in May of 2024, also owns Winner's Corner, the store that sold the winning ticket. People buy lottery tickets at convenience stores, not specialty stores that primarily sell board games, noted Patrick, referring to a state law requiring lottery retailers to sell multiple items. He expressed concerns that a single retailer, owned by a courier service, issued the winning ticket, potentially eroding public trust in the lottery system. In a video posted on X, Patrick questioned the fairness of a courier service facilitating the winning transaction at its own retail location. "Do you not see an issue where the public might lose confidence if the courier service, which owns the retail store, sold an $83 million winning ticket?" he asked. Patrick is now pushing for legislative action to ban lottery courier services entirely. He stated that they passed a bill last year to ban couriers, and it passed 29-to-2 in the Senate, but it died in the House. "We're going to pass that same bill again," he concluded. Potential end of the Texas Lottery? The future of the Texas Lottery hangs in the balance as lawmakers revisit the issue. Every state agency undergoes a 'sunset' review process every 12 years, and the Texas Lottery is currently up for renewal. "If we don't pass the sunset bill this session, the Texas Lottery will be out of business," Patrick warned. This could have significant implications for Texas, as the lottery generates substantial revenue for education and other public programs. Patrick's firm stand on banning couriers suggests that without legislative action, the entire lottery system could be in jeopardy. Top retailer under the spotlight Winner's Corner, the store that sold the winning ticket, has long been the top lottery retailer in Texas. In 2023, it recorded over $127 million in sales, significantly outperforming its closest competitor, Round Rock's Luck Zone, which sold nearly $100 million less. Despite its success, Patrick remains skeptical, noting that Winner's Corner "doesn't look like a typical lottery retailer." Its connection to Jackpot has further fueled suspicions that lottery operations may not be as transparent as they appear.

The largest Powerball winner in US history, Edwin Castro, who won the prize of $2.04 billion in late 2022, has lost one of his homes during the California wildfires that devastated Malibu, among other places. The Powerball winner purchased three homes in California as well as cars and lavish vacations, and he has also won a lawsuit claiming that he stole the winning Powerball ticket from another man. But when the wildfires struck, it seemed his luck had turned. The fortunes of Powerball jackpot winner Edwin Castro have taken a dramatic turn as one of his multimillion-dollar properties was destroyed in the recent Los Angeles wildfires. Castro, who won a record-breaking $2.04 billion lottery prize in November 2022, lost his Malibu residence when the devastating fires swept through the area in early 2025. Lottery jackpot turns to real estate investments Castro, a former Altadena mechanic, became an overnight billionaire when he claimed the historic Powerball jackpot on the 7th of November, 2022. Opting for a lump sum payout, he walked away with around $997.6 million prior to federal taxes, leaving him with around $628 million after deductions. Following his windfall, Castro embarked on a high-profile real estate spending spree, purchasing multiple luxury homes in Southern California. His acquisitions included a sprawling $25.5 million Hollywood Hills mansion and a $4 million residence in Altadena, reportedly bought for his parents. Among his notable purchases was a $3.85 million beachfront property in Malibu, which offered stunning Pacific Ocean views. However, disaster struck when a wildfire erupted near Runyon Canyon on January 7, 2025. The raging inferno rapidly spread, engulfing homes in Malibu. By January 8, Castro's oceanfront residence was completely razed, leaving nothing but ashes in its wake. Despite multiple requests for comment, Castro has remained silent on the loss. Extravagant lifestyle and financial risks Since winning the jackpot, Castro has led an opulent lifestyle, reportedly under the financial guidance of his younger brother, Jesse, a banker. In addition to real estate, Castro has indulged in high-end vehicles, including two Porsche 911s and a $500,000 Porsche 911 GT2RS. He also treated friends to a lavish vacation in Fiji soon after his win. Among his most talked-about personal investments is his relationship with 24-year-old model Payton Vincent, who is very active on Instagram. Social media users have speculated about Vincent's intentions, with some questioning whether she is drawn to Castro himself or his immense fortune. Experts have questioned the risks associated with Castro's lavish spending habits, particularly his heavy investments in luxury real estate. A recent Fortune report warned about the financial pitfalls of owning multiple high-value properties, especially in a volatile post-pandemic market. For instance, the maintenance costs alone for his Hollywood Hills mansion, featuring five bedrooms and six bathrooms as well as a home theater, game room, wet bar, wine cellar, gym, steam shower, cold plunge, and sauna, are estimated to range from $255,000 to more than $1 million annually. Legal battle resolved While Castro may be facing the loss of his Malibu home, he recently scored a significant legal victory. In October of 2024, a Los Angeles judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by Jose Rivera, who claimed Castro had stolen the winning Powerball ticket. Rivera alleged that his landlord had taken the ticket from his home before it ended up in Castro's possession. However, Judge Donna Hollingsworth made the ruling against Rivera, stating that lottery players are solely responsible for securing their tickets and ensuring their protection against theft or loss. The lawsuit was thrown out due to lack of evidence connecting Castro to Rivera’s claims. What's next for Castro? Despite losing his Malibu residence, Castro still retains his multimillion-dollar properties in Hollywood Hills and Altadena. However, the question remains whether he will reconsider his investment strategies and lifestyle choices following this devastating setback. For now, the Powerball winner remains out of the public eye, maintaining his preference for privacy as he navigates the challenges that come with sudden and immense wealth.

A hardworking couple from Pennsylvania just got the surprise of their lives: they recently took home the big prize of $7 million in Cash4Life, the multi-state lottery game. The couple expressed their plans for their newfound wealth, stating that they will use some of the funds for education, buy a house, take their kids to Disney World, and add further improvements in their lives. A hardworking couple from Pennsylvania is celebrating a life-changing windfall after winning $7 million in Cash4Life, the multiple-state lottery game. The residents of Monroe County, Stephen and Shana Juhasz, are now making plans for their newfound fortune, which will help them further their education, support their family, and fulfill long-held dreams. A life-changing decision Both Stephen and Shana work hard to provide for their family. Stephen is a manager at a McDonald's, while Shana balances her job as a nurse with her ongoing education. The couple has three children, and they see the lottery win as an opportunity to invest in their future. Shana purchased the winning ticket in Northampton County's Giant Food Stores for drawing on January 3. She had initially gone to the store to buy donuts and ice for their daughter and decided to pick up lottery tickets while she was there. "Shana usually buys Powerball and Mega Millions tickets, and sometimes she'll grab a random one," Stephen said in a statement released by the Pennsylvania Lottery office. "This time, she randomly bought Cash4Life and used the Quick Pick option." An unbelievable moment The following day, while Stephen was at work, Shana checked their tickets on the PA Lottery app. What she found left them both in shock. "I told her to scan the ticket, and as she read the results to me, I asked her to read them again," Stephen recalled. "When I realized we had won, I screamed and ran out of work. I immediately called my boss to let him know I had to leave." The couple opted for the one-time lump sum payment of $7 million instead of the $1,000-a-day-for-life prize. After federal and state taxes, they will take home an estimated $5,105,100. Making dreams a reality With their winnings, the couple has several goals. Education is a top priority - Shana plans to continue her studies to become a nurse practitioner, while Stephen wants to return to school to study finance. He works at a McDonald's now, but he's going to learn more about finance. For the immediate future, he intends to keep his restaurant job. Aside from furthering their education, the couple wants to purchase a home, pay off their student loans, and set aside money for their children's college education. Another major goal is to take their family on a dream vacation to Disney World. "I've always dreamed of taking them to Disney," Shana said. Thanks to their win, that dream is now a reality. A historic win for Pennsylvania This win marks the first time the Pennsylvania Lottery has awarded a $7 million top prize in the Cash4Life game. The game, which Pennsylvania joined in 2015, offers a top prize of either $1,000 a day for life or a one-time $7 million payout. Pat Browne, Pennsylvania's Secretary of Revenue, expressed excitement over the win. "We are thrilled that this historic win in Pennsylvania is delivering a life-changing prize to Stephen, Shana, and their family," he said in a statement. The retailer that sold the winning ticket, Giant Food Stores, will also receive a $10,000 bonus for their role in the lucky transaction. How Cash4Life works Cash4Life is a multi-state lottery game that costs $2 per play. Players select five numbers between 1 and 60, plus a green Cash Ball number between 1 and 4. They can either choose their own numbers or opt for a Quick Pick. Since joining the game, Pennsylvania has awarded 17 Cash4Life prizes, all in the second tier. For Stephen and Shana, their lucky Quick Pick ticket has changed their lives forever. With smart financial planning, education, and a little bit of fun, their $7 million windfall is set to provide lasting benefits for their family's future.

A Mega Millions winner has been proclaimed - an anonymous winner from Arizona ordered the ticket from the Jackpocket lottery app, and the winner matched all six numbers to take home the $112 million lottery prize. The win marks the biggest win ever to happen on a lottery courier app. Just weeks into the new year, the Mega Millions lottery has given its first jackpot winner of 2025 a monumental $112 million prize. What makes this victory even more extraordinary is that the winning ticket was ordered through Jackpocket, which is America's leading lottery app, marking the largest jackpot ever won using such a platform. The winning ticket, purchased in Arizona, matched all the six numbers from Mega Millions drawn on Friday: the white balls (8, 10, 37, 54, 69) and the gold Mega Ball, which is 22. This historic win shows the growing popularity of digital lottery platforms as a convenient way for players to participate in life-changing games. A milestone moment for lottery history "This is a transformative moment in lottery history, marking the largest jackpot ever won from a ticket ordered using a lottery courier service," stated Pete Sullivan, DraftKings' Senior Vice President of Lottery. "As more customers turn to apps like Jackpocket to order their lottery tickets, we are thrilled to be part of this groundbreaking moment." The $112 million jackpot win is a testament to Jackpocket's prominence in the industry. To this date, users of the app have won an impressive 61 prizes amounting to $1 million or more, marking its reputation as a trusted leader in the lottery courier space. Boosting Arizona's lottery legacy The Arizona Lottery also celebrated this momentous occasion, as it highlighted the positive impact lottery sales have on state programs. "We are thrilled that an Arizona Lottery player won the first Mega Millions jackpot of the year and grateful to our network of 3,500+ retailers," expressed Alec Thomson, the Arizona Lottery's Executive Director. "Through their efforts, the Arizona Lottery can fund vital programs and services that benefit communities throughout the state." Arizona Lottery proceeds are used to support public initiatives, including education, health services, and environmental conservation, ensuring that every ticket sold contributes to the well-being of the state. A digital shift in lottery participation The record-setting jackpot reflects the ongoing shift in consumer behavior, with more players opting for digital solutions to participate in lotteries. A survey held recently revealed that 40% of US residents who played the lottery in the past six months used a website or a mobile app to purchase tickets, showcasing the growing appeal of digital platforms like Jackpocket. Available in 19 jurisdictions, Jackpocket allows users to order tickets for Mega Millions, Powerball, and local lottery games directly from their smartphones. Additionally, users in Colorado, Arizona, Massachusetts, Ohio, Texas, and Oregon can use the app to request digital scratch-off tickets, further expanding their lottery options. More on Jackpocket Jackpocket, the first-ever licensed lottery courier application in the United States, is transforming how people engage with the lottery. The app provides a secure and convenient way to order official state lottery tickets, making the lottery more accessible to a new generation of players. Jackpocket operates in numerous states, such as New York, New Jersey, Texas, Washington DC, and many more, and plans to expand to additional jurisdictions in the near future. As a subsidiary of DraftKings Inc., Jackpocket is committed to creating a responsible and enjoyable lottery experience. As 2025 begins, this $112 million Mega Millions jackpot win has already made headlines as a defining moment in the lottery industry. It demonstrates how technology continues to revolutionize traditional games, offering players unprecedented convenience and accessibility. With Jackpocket leading the way, this historic win is likely just the beginning of a new era in digital lottery participation.

A lottery winner from Surrey in Metro Vancouver, Mandeed Singh Maan, has won $2 million in the lottery. He was then sued by his co-workers, who claimed that he was part of an informal lottery syndicate with them. But Maan won, as the lottery syndicate was infrequent and irregular, and the plaintiffs failed to prove their case. In a high-stakes legal battle that captured the attention of Metro Vancouver, a truck driver from Surrey, British Columbia, has been cleared to keep his $2 million lottery winnings. The ruling, delivered Monday by Justice Liliane Bantourakis, determined that Mandeep Singh Maan is under no legal obligation to share his BC/49 jackpot with four coworkers who claimed entitlement to a share of the prize. Maan's good fortune came in August 2023 when he won the life-changing jackpot. Initially, he kept his win private, but the secret unraveled when his photograph appeared on the BC Lottery Corporation's website, proudly holding a $2 million check. This revelation prompted his co-workers - Sukhjinder Singh Sidhu, Balvinder Kaur Nagar, Jeevan Pedan, and Binipal Singh Sanghera - to demand a fifth of the winnings, claiming they had participated in a lottery syndicate with Maan. An informal arrangement, not a legal obligation The plaintiffs argued that Maan had been part of an informal ticket-pooling arrangement that dated back to 2021. According to them, they regularly bought tickets together as a group and had contributed funds to purchase tickets, including the one that clinched the jackpot. However, Justice Bantourakis found the evidence presented by the plaintiffs insufficient to prove their claims. "The parties' interactions leading up to and after the winning ticket purchase are disputed, the alleged lottery pool agreement was not set out in writing, and the documentary record is sparse," she noted in her ruling. WhatsApp records submitted in court revealed only 16 instances of group lottery purchases over a span of 14 months, suggesting the arrangement was irregular and sporadic. Furthermore, BC Lottery records confirmed that the winning ticket was purchased at a Chevron gas station for $12, with no indication of a group purchase. Inconsistent testimonies The case suffered further setbacks for the plaintiffs when one of their key testimonies was deemed unreliable. Justice Bantourakis found inconsistencies in the account of a plaintiff who claimed to have given Maan money to buy tickets, undermining the credibility of their claims. "The fact that the parties bought lottery tickets together, even if they did so with frequency, is not sufficient to discharge the plaintiffs' burden of proving on a balance of probabilities that they entered into a binding oral agreement with the defendant that would give them a claim over the winning ticket," Bantourakis wrote. No suspicion of wrongdoing The plaintiffs also suggested Maan's reluctance to share news of his win was suspicious, hinting at guilt or wrongdoing. However, Justice Bantourakis disagreed, describing Maan's behavior as more likely reflecting "understandable, if unfortunate, concern over how his coworkers might react." Maan's relief was palpable following the ruling. "I'm so relieved right now," he told The Vancouver Sun. "The reputation of my family was on the line." A new chapter, but the same job Despite his significant windfall, Maan has chosen to continue working at the Surrey-based freight company where the dispute originated. "I didn't want to run away like a loser or a liar," he explained. For Maan, the decision represents more than just financial security - it's a vindication of his character. The ruling also demonstrates the importance of clear, documented agreements when participating in group lottery pools to avoid similar conflicts in the future. This case serves as a cautionary tale for lottery enthusiasts across Canada, especially showing the potential pitfalls of informal arrangements in the high-stakes world of jackpot winnings. For Maan, however, it marks the beginning of a brighter, controversy-free future.