Jamaican Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Lottery Scam Targeting US Seniors

Antony Linton Stewart, a 40-year-old Jamaican national, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for orchestrating a lottery scam that targeted elderly Americans over a six-year period. Stewart was found guilty of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, having falsely informed victims that they had won money and prizes in a nonexistent lottery, requiring them to pay fees and taxes to claim their winnings. In total, he was ordered to pay more than $1.1 million in restitution to the victims. Acting Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate emphasized that such overseas lottery schemes are a common tactic used by criminals to exploit U.S. citizens, particularly seniors. U.S. Attorney Dena J. King condemned Stewart's actions, highlighting the despicable nature of stealing from elderly individuals and reaffirming that justice will be served against fraudsters. This case is part of a larger initiative by the Justice Department to dismantle fraudulent schemes originating from Jamaica.