Massive 72-million-euro lottery win eludes elderly recipient, leaving them empty-handed
In the world of lotteries, the state of Texas has been embroiled in a controversy surrounding the lack of comprehensive regulations on lottery ticket delivery (courier) services. This issue has raised concerns about the integrity, security, honesty, and fairness of lottery games, especially in light of recent high-stakes winnings.
One such instance involves an 83-year-old woman named "Jane Doe" who won a staggering 72 million euros in "Lotto Texas" on February 17, 2025. However, her journey to claim her winnings has been complicated by the absence of clear regulations. The woman purchased her winning ticket online through the unregulated service, Jackpocket.
The lack of regulations has allowed couriers to bypass purchase limits and acquire massive ticket volumes, which has impacted jackpot sizes and winners’ claims. For instance, in 2023, a bulk buying scheme was uncovered where couriers purchased almost all possible number combinations for a Lotto Texas game valued at $95 million, casting doubts on the fairness and integrity of the game.
In response to these problems, the Texas legislature passed SB 3070 in 2025. This legislation bans lottery ticket courier services entirely, limits ticket purchases to 100 tickets per individual per transaction, and transfers lottery oversight from the Texas Lottery Commission (TLC) to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). It also includes criminal penalties for violations and mandates increased transparency, security, and annual audits.
The controversy surrounding Jane Doe's winnings may be a result of this regulatory vacuum. Reports suggest that the winner of a large Texas lottery prize is pursuing legal action to claim her winnings amidst these regulatory changes. The Texas Lottery Commission, however, remains tight-lipped about ongoing legal disputes and investigations.
The woman's lawsuit is demanding her winnings of 83.5 million dollars. The commission spokesperson stated that the case is being reviewed and is the subject of external investigations. Interestingly, the lawsuit mentions Sergio Rey, who took over as interim CEO after the former CEO, Ryan Mindell, resigned during an ongoing investigation.
The ban on unregulated delivery services was enforced a week after Jane Doe's win. Fox News reported on this case, among others, highlighting the issues that unregulated services can cause. The lack of regulations for lottery ticket delivery services in Texas has proven to be the woman's downfall, underscoring the need for stricter regulations in the future.
In conclusion, the absence of clear regulations on lottery ticket courier services in Texas has led to bulk purchase abuses and legal controversies, prompting legislative action in 2025 to ban courier services, limit ticket sales, and overhaul lottery governance. This has affected the treatment and security of recent winners' prizes like Jane Doe’s. As the legal proceedings continue, the outcome of this case may set a precedent for future lottery regulations in Texas.
- The lack of regulations in Texas's lottery ticket delivery services, as exemplified by the case of Jane Doe, has raised concerns about personal-finance security and the integrity of the lottery system.
- In light of cases like Jane Doe's, where the lack of regulations in personal-finance matters such as lottery ticket deliveries has led to complications and legal disputes, it is clear that stricter regulations are necessary for fairness and safety.
