Robber on probation can keep $1M jackpot

**Buttercup** · 01-20-08, 10:37 AM

Robber on probation can keep $1M jackpot

By MATT PITTA, Associated Press Writer

The luck keeps rolling for a convicted bank robber who won a $1 million lottery prize: Though he violated his probation by buying the ticket, a judge says he can keep the money.

A lawyer for Timothy Elliott, 55, called the violation minor, and the Massachusetts lottery commission previously has said there was no basis for withdrawing the prize.

Barnstable Superior Court Judge Richard Connon on Friday approved the probation department's agreement that he could keep the winnings. The only change is that Elliott now must pay a monthly $65 probation supervisory fee, previously waived because he had been indigent.

Elliott declined to comment Friday. He lives in Bourne under the supervision of the Department of Mental Health.
Probation department spokeswoman Coria Holland would not comment further on the case.

In October 2006, Elliott pleaded guilty to unarmed robbery for a heist at a bank on Cape Cod and was placed on five years' probation. The terms required him to not "gamble, purchase lottery tickets or visit an establishment where gaming is conducted ..."
The jackpot was won on $10 ticket for the "$800 Million Spectacular" game that Elliott bought at a supermarket in Hyannis. He already has received the first of 20 annual $50,000 checks from the lottery commission.

**gopherpuckfan** · 01-20-08, 10:43 AM

Boy, I love how his probation conditions had some teeth to them. Almost as strict as UN sanctions against Saddam Hussein.

**adroitcuffs** · 01-20-08, 11:31 AM

Yeah, I've been watching this case.... ugh! Freaking defense attorney said his client should be able to keep the money 'cause it was "only a minor violation"!!! Hello? A violation is a violation, plain and simple. This guy bought the ticket knowing full well that the mere purchase of the lottery ticket was a violation of his probation. Of course, the defense attorney is happy 'cause he gets paid out of those winnings, LOL!

Interestingly enough, he is in arrears to his ex-wife for child support he hasn't paid since 1979. I believe he owes her around $37,000. He's scheduled to appear in court on that matter. Let's see what whiney excuse he gives for that!