St. Louis Duo Accused of Running Illegal Lottery Scheme

St. Louis Duo Accused of Operating Illegal Lottery SchemeSt. Louis Duo Accused of Operating Illegal Lottery Scheme Two St. Louis residents have been charged with conducting an illegal lottery scheme that allegedly defrauded numerous victims out of thousands of dollars. According to a federal indictment, Michael Anthony Brewer, 42, and Jessica Marie Davis, 38, operated a pyramid scheme under the guise of a lottery club called “St. Louis Lottery Club.” The indictment alleges that Brewer and Davis recruited members by promising them large winnings in exchange for a monthly fee. Members were instructed to purchase lottery tickets and then turn them over to the club. However, the indictment claims that Brewer and Davis used the funds to pay their own expenses and provide payouts to existing members, rather than redeeming winning tickets. As the scheme progressed, new members were needed to sustain the payouts, resulting in a classic pyramid structure. Authorities executed a search warrant at the defendants’ residence in January 2023, seizing evidence including lottery tickets, bank records, and electronic devices. Brewer and Davis have been charged with conspiracy to conduct an illegal lottery and wire fraud. They made their initial court appearances on March 1, 2023, and pleaded not guilty. If convicted, Brewer and Davis could face substantial prison sentences and fines. The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be filed. The FBI and the Missouri State Lottery Commission are urging the public to be wary of any lottery schemes that promise large winnings with minimal effort. Legitimate lottery organizations operate legally and transparently, and they do not require membership fees or require members to purchase tickets on their behalf.