By Gordon Currie
A supermarket worker from Scotland, Melanie Davies, has been warned she could face prison time after defrauding the National Lottery of nearly £50,000. The 35-year-old admitted to a scheme that netted her £47,000 within a year while working as a till cashier at an Asda branch.
Davies, who resides on Scott Street in Brechin, tampered with winning tickets on multiple occasions, convincing the National Lottery that higher payouts were due. She worked at the Milton of Craigie store between August 23, 2022, and July 12, 2023, during which the fraudulent activities took place.
In court, fiscal depute Sam Craib explained that Davies manipulated claims to induce the National Lottery to pay out more than what was warranted, pocketing the excess cash. Despite having no prior convictions, details of her fraudulent actions will be discussed at her next court appearance.
Sheriff Neil Kinnear has deferred sentencing for social work background reports, indicating that options could range from community payback to imprisonment. He remarked on the substantial amount involved, suggesting the seriousness of the case.
According to a source familiar with the matter, the supermarket typically pays out on winning tickets before claiming the amount back from the National Lottery. It appears that Davies managed to submit claims for inflated amounts, allowing her to skim extra cash while ensuring customers received their rightful winnings.
Initially charged with taking over £52,000, Davies accepted a reduced figure of £47,000. Her next court date is set for November 4, where further details will emerge.