Local Georgians Win Big in Lottery Amid Ongoing Election and Scam Alerts

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Two local residents recently struck it rich in the Georgia Lottery. A player from Sparta won $1 million from the 2nd Edition Billionaire Club scratch-off game on May 16, opting for a lump sum payout of $535,398.06. The winning ticket was bought at Texaco.

Meanwhile, a Hephzibah resident also celebrated a fortunate win, scoring $313,390 playing the Jackpot Jewels Diggi Game on Monday. Over the past week, Georgia Lottery players collectively won over $43 million through scratch-off games.

On another front, early voting has begun for the statewide Special Primaries affecting two crucial seats on the Georgia Public Service Commission. The PSC plays a significant role in determining utility rates for services like electricity and natural gas. Voting is available from Tuesday through June 13, with polls open on primary election day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Voters are reminded to present an acceptable form of photo ID at their designated precincts. Eight candidates are vying for positions in District 2 and District 3, originally slated for elections in November 2024 but postponed due to legal challenges.

In a separate warning, local authorities, including the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and Georgia Department of Driver Services, are alerting residents about a text message scam targeting drivers. The texts, purportedly from a non-existent “State Department of Motor Vehicles,” ask recipients to pay outstanding traffic tickets via a fraudulent link.

Officials state that these messages are scams aimed at stealing credit card information. They advise against clicking any links and recommend deleting any suspicious texts that reference financial obligations.

Georgia Department of Driver Services Commissioner Angelique McClendon emphasized that no government agency asks for payment through text messages. Victims often make the mistake of entering multiple credit cards after initial attempts fail, putting them at greater risk of financial loss.

Residents are encouraged to report such scam texts and remain cautious. With summer activities in full swing, it’s important to be vigilant against potential fraud.