NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Miami, FL, February 26, 2026: Rakesh Tanguturi, 34, a convenience store manager in Miami, was arrested this week on felony charges of organized fraud involving $50,000 or more and first-degree grand theft in connection with the alleged theft and redemption of Florida Lottery scratch-off tickets, according to police.
Authorities say Tanguturi managed Bargain Stop Market II in the city’s Little Haiti neighborhood. The investigation began after the store owner noticed irregular bank account activity related to lottery transactions and discovered multiple scratch-off ticket books missing from inventory. Police allege that the total value of the missing ticket books exceeded $300,000. After accounting for redeemed winnings and partial recovery of funds, investigators estimate the confirmed financial loss at approximately $60,500.
According to the arrest report, Tanguturi initially denied involvement. Investigators say he later sent a text message admitting to taking the ticket books, redeeming winning tickets, and using the proceeds for personal expenses. He also allegedly confessed in person to the store owner and a Florida Lottery investigator. Authorities further stated that the tickets were redeemed in bulk at a single retailer, a pattern that raised red flags during the investigation.
Tanguturi was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. His bond was set at $30,000. Officials also confirmed that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer has been placed on him.
The case remains under investigation.
