Work break scratch session erupts into $100k payday
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Work break scratch session erupts into $100K payday

by
February 13, 2026
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Haircut stop turns into $100000 scratch off shock for Baltimore corrections officer

JESSUP, MD — A routine haircut and a co-worker’s advice led a Baltimore corrections officer to a $100,000 top prize after he decided to try a higher-priced scratch-off for the first time.

The 26-year Maryland Correctional officer said he typically played $1 scratch-offs until a colleague suggested he try games with larger price points. Taking that advice, he purchased $50 worth of tickets, including two $10 50X the Cash scratch-offs.

The tickets were bought at Travel Centers of America, 7401 Assateague Drive in Jessup, following his haircut.

Later, while on break at work, he scratched the tickets and uncovered a 10X symbol over a $10,000 prize on one of them, resulting in a $100,000 win.

He said he scanned the ticket three times using the Maryland Lottery app before believing the result was accurate. After confirming the prize, he called his mother to share the news.

The winner said he plans to place the money in savings and use a portion for travel vacations.

Travel Centers of America will receive a $1,000 bonus for selling the top-prize-winning ticket.

The $10 50X the Cash game launched Jan. 9 as part of the X the Cash family of games, which includes tickets ranging from $1 to $30. Players may enter non-winning tickets for a chance to win cash prizes up to $75,000 in promotional drawings.

For one Baltimore corrections officer, a small shift in lottery strategy has now delivered a $100,000 payout.

Key Points

  • A Baltimore corrections officer won a $100,000 top prize on a $10 50X the Cash ticket
  • The ticket was purchased at Travel Centers of America in Jessup
  • The retailer will receive a $1,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News