A convenience store worker is now in a legal battle after allegedly purchasing a $12.8 million lottery ticket that had been left behind by a customer. The dispute centers around Robert Gawlitza, a manager at a Circle K location in Scottsdale, Arizona.
According to 12News, a complaint filed in Maricopa County Superior Court states that the incident occurred on November 24. A customer reportedly asked Gawlitza to replay numbers for “The Pick” drawing. A worker printed $85 worth of $1 tickets. However, the customer allegedly paid only $60 and left the remaining 25 tickets sitting on the counter.
Those tickets remained there overnight. The next day, after learning that the winning ticket had been sold at the store, Gawlitza allegedly scanned the remaining tickets. That’s when he reportedly discovered that one of them was worth $12.8 million.
The Purchase That Sparked the Lawsuit
According to the complaint, Gawlitza clocked out of his shift. He then removed his work uniform. After that, he allegedly purchased the leftover tickets, including the winning one, from another employee for $10.
Store management was notified. Corporate reportedly ordered that the ticket be held at its office until a judge determines who legally owns it. The company claims it is entitled to the winnings. Their argument relies on the Arizona Administrative Code, which states that retailers can hold property claims to lottery tickets that customers refuse to pay for.
What the Arizona Lottery Says
Arizona Lottery officials said they were not previously aware of the situation and described it as unique. Under Arizona Lottery rules, whoever is determined to be the legal owner has 180 days to claim the prize. Additionally, retailers earn a 6.5% commission on lottery sales. However, this case could determine whether that commission turns into something much larger.At the moment, the $12.8 million prize remains in limbo.