September 5, 2025

Three Arrested in South Carolina Lottery Fraud Cases

News Summary

Three individuals have been arrested in connection with separate lottery fraud cases in South Carolina. Luke Michael Nickles faces charges for using counterfeit tickets. Franklin Alfonso Grant Jr. was apprehended for attempting to redeem fake tickets, while Alexandria Renee Talley is accused of stealing scratch-off tickets. These arrests come amid rising Powerball jackpots, prompting heightened scrutiny by authorities to protect the integrity of lottery operations.

Dorchester County, South Carolina – Three individuals have been arrested for their alleged involvement in separate lottery fraud cases, as the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced on Friday. The arrests come as the Powerball prize reaches record highs, amplifying concerns regarding illegal activities surrounding lottery games.

Arrests and Charges

The first arrest was made on September 3, when Luke Michael Nickles was charged with intent to defraud using counterfeit lottery tickets. An investigation initiated a month earlier revealed that he had cashed in several South Carolina Education Lottery tickets at Spinx #218 convenience store in Boiling Springs. Surveillance footage captured Nickles stealing the tickets while employed at the store. He remains in custody at the Spartanburg County Detention Center and faces prosecution from the Seventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

On August 22, Franklin Alfonso Grant Jr. was arrested and charged under similar allegations of intent to defraud using counterfeit game tickets. Grant allegedly attempted to redeem two lottery tickets at Dorchester Mini Mart in North Charleston on June 26. Reports indicate that he used images of actual tickets that belonged to another individual without authorization, receiving $790 in cash prizes from the fraudulent transaction. He is currently held at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center in Charleston County, awaiting prosecution by the Ninth Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

The third arrest occurred on August 25 and involved Alexandria Renee Talley, who faces charges of intent to defraud and attempt to influence a game by coercion. Talley was suspected of stealing instant scratch-off tickets from Carter’s Fast Stop #3 in Ridgeville between July 14 and July 17. Video evidence captured her attempting to redeem the stolen tickets. She is currently in custody at the Dorchester County Detention Center and will be prosecuted by the First Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

Investigation Overview

The South Carolina Education Lottery prompted SLED to initiate investigations into the aforementioned fraud cases as they raised alarm regarding the integrity of lottery operations amid growing prize amounts. With lottery games at new levels, authorities have heightened scrutiny over activities that may compromise the system.

Context and Implications

As Powerball jackpots escalate, the interest and participation in lottery games tend to increase. This also results in a surge in fraudulent activities targeting unsuspecting players and the lottery system itself. Law enforcement agencies like SLED remain vigilant to identify and prosecute those engaging in deceptive practices. The recent arrests highlight the ongoing efforts to combat lottery fraud in South Carolina and protect the interests of legitimate players.

The actions taken against Nickles, Grant Jr., and Talley showcase a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the state’s lottery games. While lottery fraud is not a new phenomenon, the simultaneous arrests underline the systemic issues surrounding illegal lottery schemes and the necessity for constant vigilance as prize amounts continue to rise.

Residents and players are encouraged to remain aware of the risks associated with lottery games and report any suspicious behavior to law enforcement. Ongoing investigations and successful arrests may deter future fraudulent activities, ensuring that lottery operations remain fair and enjoyable for all.

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