The Big Game: Yacht Stolen From Co-Winner of Record Big Game Lottery JackpotA yacht was stolen from a lottery winner in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, so that the thief could impress his girlfriend.
Larry Ross made headlines in 2000 when he became one of two winners of the largest North American lottery jackpot ever. The record $363 million Big Game lottery jackpot still stands today as the largest single lottery jackpot prize. But part of Ross' fortune was stolen from him when his 55-foot Viking yacht turned up missing on Father's Day from Jefferson Beach Marina.
"I was astounded," said Capt. Steve Dzwonkiewecz, a friend of Ross'. "It seemed like someone had been on the boat before, but to actually just up and take it, it's unreal."
The U.S. Coast Guard in St. Clair Shores recovered the $1.7 million yacht and took 32-year-old Kristopher Dorn into custody.
"They just took it for a joy ride up to Port Huron," said Dzwonkiewecz.
Ross told authorities that Dorn made a copy of his keys then took the boat — without Ross' permission — to impress his new girlfriend and her family.
Ross allegedly caused about $30,000 worth of damage to the boat and its currently under repair, the station reported.
Dorn, who was charged with a misdemeanor, is expected to appear for a preliminary examination in court on Friday.
