Lottery Prize Seized as Woman Accused of Fraud for Claiming Roommate's Winnings

Sandra Jean Crow of Iowa experienced a devastating turn of events after cashing in a $30,000 lottery prize. The joy of her fortune quickly turned sour when authorities accused her of fraud. According to police, Crow was not the rightful owner of the winning ticket but had acted as a "straw man" as part of a scheme to shield her roommate's outstanding debts. Alvin Hans Larsen III, the actual purchaser of the ticket, feared that cashing it himself would lead to the winnings being used to pay off his debts, including $919 owed to the city of Evansdale.

Crow proudly posed for a photo, holding a large novelty check, after claiming the winnings from the Iowa Lottery's regional office in Cedar Rapids. However, their alleged plan began to crumble when a domestic dispute at their residence brought the truth to light.

Police responded to the argument and discovered Larsen packing his belongings, preparing to leave the home. During the altercation, officers overheard Crow admitting that she was not entitled to the money, while Larsen acknowledged the fraud. Crow later changed her story, claiming that Larsen had gifted her the ticket, but Larsen denied this version of events.

As a result, both Crow and Larsen now face felony charges of lottery fraud. Crow was released from jail pending trial, while Larsen had his bond set at $5,000.