An 80-year-old woman from Las Vegas has finally pleaded guilty. Barbara Trickle admitted to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud after orchestrating a nationwide prize scam that raked in over $15 million.

Prosecutors revealed that Trickle, who ran her own printing and mailing business, masterminded a scheme that sent millions of fake “prize notices” to innocent Americans, falsely promising them large cash rewards in exchange for fees ranging from $20 to $50. Many victims were senior citizens—individuals who spent a lifetime building this country—only to be targeted in their golden years by a heartless fraud operation.

The scam ran unchecked from 2012 until early 2018, when federal authorities finally cracked down. It took the execution of multiple search warrants and a court-ordered shutdown to put an end to the deception. Yet again, it highlights the urgent need for personal responsibility and vigilance in an era when bad actors exploit technology, trust, and weak deterrents.

Despite the scale of the fraud, no victim ever received the promised “prize.” This wasn’t a one-time mistake—it was a calculated, ongoing theft from America’s most vulnerable citizens.

The Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch has urged Americans, especially seniors, to stay alert for similar lottery, sweepstakes, and prize scams. They encourage anyone age 60 or older who has fallen victim to financial fraud to call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11.

Fraudsters continue to exploit regulatory gaps and America’s aging population. As patriotic Americans, we must stay informed, demand stronger penalties for these scams, and protect the dignity of those who built this nation.

Source: KTNV Las Vegas