Stolen Card Leads to Unexpected Lottery Proposal in Toulouse

After his credit card was stolen, Jean-David E found himself in a bizarre situation when thieves purchased a winning scratch card. He’s now proposing to share the €500,000 prize with the culprits, aiming for an amicable resolution amidst legal complications.

In an unusual turn of events in Toulouse, a man named Jean-David E recently extended a unique offer to two thieves who allegedly used his stolen credit card to win a €500,000 scratch card jackpot. In a broadcasted statement to RTL radio, Jean-David said he wishes to share the winnings equally, citing that “without me, they would not have won, but without them, I would not have bought this ticket.”

The predicament unfolded when Jean-David's backpack, containing his credit card, was stolen from his vehicle on February 3. After promptly notifying his bank, he learned that €52.50 had been charged via contactless payment at Tabac des Thermes, a local shop. Upon visiting the store to investigate, he discovered that two homeless men had purchased cigarettes and a handful of scratch cards with his stolen card.

To his astonishment, the duo informed the cashier of their newfound fortune—claiming the €500,000 jackpot—with the intent to visit Française des Jeux (FDJ) to claim the winnings. However, their inability to enter a PIN for one transaction raised suspicions, prompting Jean-David to alert the police, who then contacted the FDJ.

Now, with the winnings likely to be seized by authorities, Jean-David is hopeful that the thieves will reach out to him. He has made it clear that an amicable agreement could prevent legal action, stressing an opportunity for the thieves to change their lives. His proposal still stands: "Unless they contact my lawyer, the ticket is unusable. So why not settle amicably and do fifty-fifty?" He expressed willingness to use his half to alleviate his mortgage burden.

This strange situation puts a spotlight on the intertwining paths of crime and chance, as the deadline for claiming the scratch card winnings approaches, and hopes for a straightforward resolution hang in the balance. The FDJ and local police have yet to respond to requests for comments on the peculiar case.