Mountain Home Woman Accused of Lottery Ticket Theft Nears Plea Deal

Mary Olivieri to pay restitution and enter plea on May 11 to avoid trial

Mar. 25, 2026 at 3:21pm

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A Mountain Home, Arkansas woman accused of illegally cashing in winning lottery tickets that she had not paid for is expected to enter a plea deal on May 11 to avoid going to trial. 35-year-old Mary Olivieri is accused of activating books of lottery "scratch off" tickets at the convenience store where she worked without paying for them, then cashing the winning tickets at local retailers, including the Mountain Home Walmart.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in cracking down on retail theft and fraud, especially when it involves a popular and widely accessible product like lottery tickets. The alleged actions by Olivieri undermined the integrity of the state lottery system and deprived the state of tax revenue.

The details

Under the plea deal, Olivieri will pay $8,000 in restitution by May 11, then enter a plea and repay the remaining balance during her probation. Her trial and other pre-trial dates have been reset in case the repayment agreement falls through. Olivieri has fired two previous attorneys and accused the judge and prosecutor's office of interfering with her legal representation, but the judge has rejected those claims.

  • Olivieri's case was filed in circuit court two and a half years ago.
  • Olivieri is due to appear on April 27 with a new attorney.
  • A pre-trial hearing is scheduled for July 6.
  • If necessary, a jury trial is set for August 10.
  • Olivieri is expected to enter a plea on May 11.

The players

Mary Olivieri

A 35-year-old Mountain Home, Arkansas woman accused of illegally cashing in winning lottery tickets that she had not paid for while working at a local convenience store.

Kerry Chism

The deputy prosecutor handling Olivieri's case.

Andrew Bailey

The circuit judge presiding over Olivieri's case, who has rejected her claims of improper conduct by the court.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.