An East Meadow father and son were arrested after they allegedly tried to steal a $1 million lottery ticket and keep the winnings for themselves.
According to police, on Thursday, at 4:01 p.m., the 34-year-old male victim entered Peninsula Deli & Grocery in Hempstead and purchased a $10 "Unwrap the Cash" ticket. After believing he won, he handed the ticket to Karim Jaghab, 26, the store owner's son.
Jaghab ran the ticket through the machine and got the following message. "File Claim: Jackpot Winner - Please Return Original Ticket To The Customer Along With A Claim Receipt."
Jaghab told the victim he won $1,000, which he was paid in cash, disobeying the New York Lottery's protocol. The winning ticket was for $1 million. On Friday, the victim returned to the store, believing he had won more.
"Ok, I will pay you $10,000 as long as you don’t involve the police," Jaghab said.
Nabil Jaghab, 57, confirmed his son's account, saying the victim was entitled to $10,000. The victim called police.
Both father and son were arrested without incident and were charged with second-degree grand larceny. Their arraignment is scheduled for Saturday at First District Court in Hempstead.
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