Atlanta Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Rhode Island Seniors in Sweepstakes Scam

The Georgia resident stole over $1 million from elderly victims through a fake Publishers Clearing House lottery scheme.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Patrick Dallas, a 38-year-old man from Atlanta, Georgia, has pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Dallas and two co-conspirators defrauded elderly individuals from Rhode Island and other states through a bogus 'Publishers Clearing House' sweepstakes scam, stealing at least $1 million from their victims.

Why it matters

Sweepstakes and lottery scams often target vulnerable senior citizens, exploiting their trust and desire to win big prizes. This case highlights the ongoing problem of elder fraud and the need for increased awareness and protection for the elderly population.

The details

The scammers told victims they had won large sums of money, often millions of dollars, in a PCH lottery or sweepstakes. They were then instructed to provide personal information for 'prize verification' and to pay upfront fees or taxes in order to collect their winnings. Some victims were even directed to send money, gift cards, or valuable items like Rolex watches and iPhones to addresses controlled by the defendants.

  • On February 12, 2026, Patrick Dallas pleaded guilty in federal court.

The players

Patrick Dallas

A 38-year-old man from Atlanta, Georgia, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, as well as conspiracy to commit money laundering, for his role in a sweepstakes scam that defrauded elderly individuals in Rhode Island and other states.

U.S. Attorney's Office

The federal law enforcement agency that announced the charges and guilty plea against Patrick Dallas for his involvement in the sweepstakes scam.

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What’s next

Dallas is scheduled to be sentenced on May 1, 2026, where he faces up to 40 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder for the elderly population to be vigilant against sweepstakes and lottery scams, which often exploit their desire to win big prizes. It highlights the need for increased education and protection measures to safeguard senior citizens from falling victim to these types of fraudulent schemes.