September 5, 2025

Three Arrested for Lottery Fraud Amid Record Powerball Jackpot

News Summary

Three individuals have been arrested in Dorchester County, South Carolina, for their involvement in separate lottery fraud cases. Luke Michael Nickles, Franklin Alfonso Grant Jr., and Alexandria Renee Talley face various charges including using counterfeit tickets and defrauding the lottery system. These arrests come as the Powerball jackpot reaches record levels, highlighting concerns over fraudulent activities during this unprecedented time. Law enforcement agencies are reinforcing their efforts to protect the integrity of the lottery.

Three Arrested in Dorchester County for Lottery Fraud Amid Record Powerball Jackpot

Dorchester County, South Carolina — law enforcement authorities announced the arrests of three individuals linked to separate lottery fraud investigations, coinciding with the record-breaking Powerball jackpot payout. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) confirmed the arrests on Friday, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat lottery-related criminal activity.

Details of the Arrests

Luke Michael Nickles

Nickles was taken into custody on September 3 and faces charges of intent to defraud through the use of counterfeit game tickets. The investigation into his activities began approximately a month earlier, between August 9 and August 11. Authorities allege that Nickles cashed multiple South Carolina Education Lottery tickets at the Spinx #218 convenience store in Boiling Springs, South Carolina. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Nickles stealing the tickets while employed at the store. He is currently detained at the Spartanburg County Detention Center, and his case will be prosecuted by the Seventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

Franklin Alfonso Grant Jr.

Grant was arrested on August 22 and is charged with intent to defraud by using counterfeit lottery tickets. The investigation revealed that Grant attempted to redeem two fraudulent tickets at the Dorchester Mini Mart in North Charleston on June 26. It is alleged that he used images of authentic tickets belonging to an unidentified victim, without permission. The man received a cash payout totaling $790 from the fraudulent tickets. Grant is now held at Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in Charleston County, with the Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office handling prosecution.

Alexandria Renee Talley

Talley was arrested on August 25 and faces charges including intent to defraud and attempting to influence a game through coercion. The incident involved Talley stealing instant scratch-off tickets from Carter’s Fast Stop #3 in Ridgeville between July 14 and July 17. Authorities confirmed she was caught on surveillance camera attempting to redeem the stolen tickets. Talley is now detained at Dorchester County Detention Center, with her case being prosecuted by the First Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

Context and Background

The South Carolina Education Lottery prompted an investigation by SLED following multiple reports of potential lottery fraud. As the Powerball jackpot reached unprecedented heights, concerns over fraudulent activities aimed at exploiting lottery systems increased. The arrests serve as a reminder of law enforcement efforts to protect the integrity of lottery operations and ensure fair play among participants.

Law Enforcement Response and Ongoing Efforts

Authorities have emphasized their commitment to tackling lottery fraud and protecting consumers. The arrests of Nickles, Grant, and Talley demonstrate active investigations into individuals suspected of attempting to manipulate or cheat the system. SLED and local agencies continue to monitor lottery activities and investigate suspicious incidents to prevent future scams and uphold the credibility of the lottery system.

Implications for Lottery Participants

Officials advise players to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to lottery tickets. It is important for consumers to verify their tickets and only purchase from authorized retailers. Law enforcement urges the community to cooperate in identifying and reporting potential fraud to maintain a fair and secure gaming environment.

The recent arrests highlight ongoing efforts to combat lottery fraud amidst record lottery jackpots, reinforcing the importance of integrity and trust in state-sponsored gaming initiatives.

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Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL

The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.

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