Charleston, SC – Two Jamaican nationals are headed to federal prison after being convicted for their roles in a callous lottery scam that specifically targeted vulnerable elderly citizens across the United States. Rojay Lawson, 24, and Theresa Lawson, 53, each received a 78-month sentence from United States District Judge Bruce Howe Hendricks, a punishment intended to reflect the sheer scope and heartlessness of their crimes.
The scheme, meticulously detailed in court, operated by falsely informing victims they had won substantial sweepstakes prizes – often millions of dollars, new vehicles, or other high-value items. This initial deception was merely the hook. The Lawsons and their co-conspirators then demanded “fees” and “taxes” be paid upfront before the supposed winnings could be claimed, knowing full well no prizes existed. It’s a classic con, but one devastatingly effective when aimed at trusting, often isolated, seniors.
Victims were directed to send money through various means: prepaid cards, USPS and bank money orders, cash in the mail, personal checks, and even wire deposits directly into the defendants’ bank accounts. The money didn’t stay in the US for long. The Lawsons then wired the fraudulently obtained funds to their co-conspirators back in Jamaica, effectively laundering the stolen money and making recovery nearly impossible. The total haul? A staggering $700,000, pilfered from the life savings of at least 175 individuals.
The demographic targeted is particularly disturbing. Approximately 70 of the victims were over the age of 80, with the oldest being a heartbreaking 96 years old. These weren’t just financial losses; they were losses of security, trust, and peace of mind in the twilight years of their lives. The emotional toll on these victims is immeasurable, a fact Judge Hendricks clearly considered during sentencing.
Beyond the prison sentence, both Rojay Lawson and Theresa Lawson have been ordered to pay $405,401.00 in restitution to the victims, although the likelihood of full recovery remains slim. Following their release, they will also be subject to a three-year term of court-ordered supervision, contingent on them not being deported. Crucially, there is no parole in the federal system – they will serve the entirety of their 78-month terms.
The investigation was a joint effort by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), highlighting the federal government’s commitment to tackling transnational fraud. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Limehouse and Amy Bower prosecuted the case, bringing the Lawsons to justice and sending a clear message: preying on the elderly will not be tolerated. This case serves as a grim reminder to remain vigilant and protect our most vulnerable citizens from these predatory schemes.
Related Federal Cases
- Lottery Scam Kingpins Sentenced: Rojay & Theresa Lawson · South Carolina
- Lottery Scam Kingpins Sentenced in SC · South Carolina
- Marvin Songlin Gets 4 Years in Lottery Scam · South Carolina
- SC Attorney Meehan Jailed in UA Sorority Scam · Alabama
- Tyrone Goodrum Convicted in $18.5K Farm Aid Scam · South Carolina
Key Facts
- State: South Carolina
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
MORE FEDERAL CRIME NEWS
US NewsUS NewsUS NewsUS News