Mega Millions Winner Wishes Cashier ‘The Best’ After She Allegedly Attempted to Steal Ticket

The winner of a $3 million Mega Millions ticket, allegedly stolen by a convenience store cashier, extended well-wishes for the accused, Mass Live reported.

Lakeville, Massachusetts resident Paul Little made comments regarding the cashier when he claimed his prize at the Massachusetts State Lottery headquarters on Tuesday. "I'm going to wish her the best. I know she's put herself in a difficult spot, but hopefully, she'll work her way to a better life," Little told reporters.

Little initially purchased the winning Mega Millions ticket in January but reportedly left it at the counter. According to authorities, cashier Carly Nunes stole the ticket and attempted to claim it as her own. Lottery employees became suspicious, and surveillance video confirmed the ticket belonged to Little.

In May, Nunes and her coworker were both indicted by a grand jury on charges of larceny, presentation of a false claim, and witness intimidation. She pleaded not guilty to the charges on Tuesday and was held on $10,000 bail, as reported by the outlet.

Nunes was scheduled for arraignment on June 12 but evaded law enforcement until Tuesday morning when she was apprehended.

Despite his newfound wealth, Little said he plans to continue working as a diesel mechanic, according to a state lottery release.

"The first thought is that there's a lot of things that I'm going to be able to do that I wasn't able to do in the past, and that's exciting," Little stated. "What I'm hopeful for is that I utilize this money to not only help my family but to also help other people. One of the first things I'm going to do is pay off the mortgage on my house."