Canadian Lottery winners under investigation before they can claim $50m prize
ONTARIO, CANADA - A couple from Ontario waiting to claim a $50-million lottery prize says they’re confident they’ll be able to collect their money despite an investigation into their winnings.
The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission (OLG) probe is routine procedure when lottery retailers win prizes. Prior to winning the Dec. 30 draw, the couple owned a convenience store
Under the “No Play at Work” policy, OLG retailers can not buy, check or redeem their tickets at their place of employment. Luckily for the couple they purchased and redeemed their ticket at another local convenience store.
“When we won the ticket, we knew, ‘Oh boy, are they going to be looking into us,’” they told CTV’s Canada AM on Thursday. “We have no problem with it.”
The prize will be reviewed separately by OLG and the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.
“The claimants… have each been employed as lottery retailers within the past year, their prize claim is subject to OLG’s Insider Wins process,” said a statement issued by the agency. “The payment of prizes to Insiders is held for 30 days to allow anyone with concerns regarding the prize to come forward.”
The couple plans to give money to their family and buy some new things, but also are looking to support their local food bank and hospital.
source: CTV.ca
Published: January 9, 2012
