Ep 13. Jamaican Lottery Scam
- TV-PG
- July 14, 2016
- 42 min
In season 10 episode 13 of American Greed, viewers are introduced to the Jamaican Lottery Scam. This scam involves con artists calling victims in the United States and pretending to be representatives of a Jamaican lottery, informing the victim that they have won a large sum of money. In order to receive their winnings, the victim is asked to send money to cover taxes and fees.
The episode follows the case of Lavrick Willocks, the mastermind behind one of the largest Jamaican lottery scams in history. Willocks and his associates targeted elderly individuals, convincing them to send thousands of dollars to Jamaica in hopes of receiving their supposed winnings. The victims were coerced into sending more money to cover additional fees, and were even threatened with physical harm if they refused to comply.
American Greed interviews law enforcement officials who worked tirelessly to bring Willocks and his team to justice, including a retired FBI agent who notes the extensive financial records and wire transfers required to track the money trail from Jamaica to the United States. We also hear from victims of the scam who recount their experiences of believing they had won the lottery and then feeling taken advantage of when they realized it was all a hoax.
Through these interviews and expert analysis, viewers are given a closer look at the tactics used by scammers to manipulate vulnerable individuals into handing over their life savings. The episode also delves into the consequences faced by those involved in the scam, including prison sentences and financial restitution to the victims.
Overall, season 10 episode 13 of American Greed sheds light on the devastating effects of financial fraud and the hard work of law enforcement officials to bring perpetrators to justice. It serves as a cautionary tale for viewers to remain vigilant and informed in order to avoid falling victim to similar scams.