Arrest of the Third Suspect in a Suspected Texas Lottery Scheme

A third suspect has been arrested in connection with a fraud scheme involving the Texas Lottery, which allegedly cost a Wichita Falls gas station over $239,000. The investigation has now led to multiple arrests as authorities continue to uncover the full extent of the scam.

Felix Medina Arrested for Organized Criminal Activity

Felix Edward Medina, 24, of Wichita Falls, was arrested on Monday, March 24, 2025, and booked into the Wichita County Jail. He has been charged with engaging in organized criminal activity, and at the time of publication, remains in custody on a $50,000 bond.

His arrest follows earlier charges against Brandy Hays and Madelyn Santiago, both of whom were allegedly involved in the same scheme.

Timeline of Other Arrests

Brandy Hays: Arrested on March 17, released on March 19 on a $150,000 bond
Madelyn Santiago: Arrested on March 18, remains in custody on a $150,000 bond

Santiago was previously listed on Wichita Falls Area Crime Stoppers’ Manhunt Monday.

What the Investigation Revealed

According to an arrest affidavit, the Chisholm Corner Sunoco on Central Freeway filed a report on February 10, alleging a lottery ticket fraud involving Hays, Medina, and Santiago.

Brandy Hays, who was the store manager, allegedly used her position and training to manipulate sales reports, making it appear as if everything balanced when, in fact, lottery ticket sales and payouts were being altered to cover up theft.

A business audit report later confirmed that the store had suffered losses of more than $239,671.

How the Scheme Was Carried Out

Statements given by both Santiago and Medina claimed they took lottery tickets from store bundles and checked them for winners without buying them. They alleged this was done under Hays’ direction, who reportedly demanded a percentage of any winning amount.