(TheConservativeTimes.org) – The winner of the $1.35 billion Mega Millions lottery jackpot in January has sued the mother of his daughter after she told his parents about their son’s newfound wealth.
The winner, an unidentified man from Maine, reportedly had the woman sign a non-disclosure agreement, or an NDA, stipulating that she would keep his lucky win a secret until 2032. The woman, who was identified as a “Sara Smith” in the lawsuit, agreed to sign the agreement, which would last until their daughter turned 18 – the year that the NDA expires. The plaintiff was named “John Doe” in the court filing.
The lawsuit said that the defendant agreed to the agreement “due to the unique safety, security, and privacy concerns” that are involved with someone winning a lottery, as well as “to avoid the irreparable harm” caused by revealing the plaintiff’s identity.
The man won the jackpot on the January 13, 2023 drawing for the lottery, hitting the numbers 30, 43, 45, 46 and 61, with a gold Mega Ball of 14. He had a 1-in-302,600,000 of winning what is now the fourth largest lottery win in U.S. history. The man purchased the ticket at Hometown Gas & Grill, located in Lebanon, Maine. He opted to receive a one-time lump sum payout, which amounted to $723.5 million, or close to $500 million after taxes.
The winner has wisely kept his identity secret, but the defendant not only ignored the stipulations in the NDA, but spread the news to several people. Smith is now being asked to recall how many people she told the confidential information to, and is being asked to pay $100,000 for each instance.
People who win the lottery are often advised to remain anonymous, primarily for security reasons. Other recommended steps to ensure one’s privacy in this kind of situation include renting a post office box as well as hiring an attorney and money manager or accountant to help with estate and financial planning. Winners are also advised to avoid putting themselves “in a spotlight”.
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