This March 2012 photograph shows Amanda Clayton holding a ceremonial check after winning a lottery in Michigan. Clayton was later charged with welfare fraud for collecting food stamps despite the winnings; she was found dead Saturday. (AP Photo/Michigan Lottery via Detroit News)
Troubled Lottery Winner Found Dead
A recent lottery winner in Michigan was found dead in a friend’s home. Amanda Clayton, from the Detroit area, had won a $1 million jackpot last September.
She made headlines by continuing to collect Food Stamp assistance after receiving her lottery payout. Clayton, after a plea of no contest, was sentenced to probation and repaid the assistance money she had collected.
A recent dispute with neighbors again brought Clayton to the attention of authorities. An argument over grass clippings escalated and led to the arrest of four people. A toy gun, baseball bat, and knife were also involved.
Clayton apparently died from a prescription drug overdose in the Ecorse home of a friend. Local police Sgt. Cornelius Herring confirmed she was found about 9 am on Saturday, September 29th. The 25-year-old was found on a bed with her 1 ½-year-old son. The details of her death are still being investigated.
Clayton’s case led to a change in Michigan law which means tested government assistance on assets as well as income.
Clayton’s winnings were actually less than $400,000 since she opted to take the lump sum payment and had to pay high taxes on the winnings. This is another tragic story of someone who could not handle the money and fame of winning the lottery.
Sources:
Fox News
Click On Detroit
NY Daily News
