Carl McCain Wins Mega Millions, Faces Debt Due to Identity Theft
A recent lottery win turned into a significant challenge for Carl McCain from Timberlake, North Carolina. He participated in the Mega Millions drawing on November 4, where he successfully matched four numbers, winning $800.
Carl McCain’s Lottery Journey
To claim his prize, McCain traveled to the North Carolina Education Lottery regional office in Raleigh. Upon arrival, he filled out the necessary forms and submitted his winning ticket, anticipating a smooth process. Unfortunately, he received unexpected news that would complicate his prize collection.
Debt Complications Due to Identity Theft
According to the North Carolina State Lottery Act, outstanding debts to state or local agencies can be deducted from lottery winnings. McCain was informed he owed debts to Lenoir and Wayne Counties, despite having no prior knowledge of any such obligations. “I never been there before. I don’t know anybody there,” he expressed in disbelief.
In an effort to clarify the situation, McCain contacted both counties and provided his name and birthdate. Initially, he was told there was no debt under his name. However, when he provided his Social Security number, he was shocked to discover there was an issue associated with another individual’s name linked to his number.
Seeking Help from the Media
After waiting over a month for a resolution, McCain decided to reach out to local media for assistance, contacting ABC11 Troubleshooter Diane Wilson. He was hopeful that Wilson could help, recalling her successful interventions for community members in the past.
Wilson contacted the North Carolina Education Lottery, which confirmed that McCain’s winnings had been directed to Lenoir County. The county’s officials acknowledged they were investigating the situation but had yet to reach a definite conclusion.
Resolution and Happy Ending
Following Wilson’s inquiry, progress was made. McCain was informed that the erroneous link to his Social Security number was deleted from the county’s records. Within days, he received his $800 check, minus required taxes, finally able to celebrate his lottery win.
Reflecting on the incident, Carl McCain expressed gratitude for the intervention: “I was glad that you intervened and came to my rescue.” The troublesome debt tied to his Social Security number dated back over a decade and was apparently a case of mistaken identity.
Conclusion
Carl McCain’s experience highlights the complexities that can arise from identity theft. Despite facing challenges, he ultimately received his winnings and remains hopeful about future lottery success.
