Reward Offered in Search for Missing Florida Lottery Winner

LAKELAND, Fla. – A $5,000 reward is being offered in the search for a missing Florida Lottery winner from Polk County.

Abraham Shakespeare won $31 million in 2006. The 43-year-old was last seen in the Lakeland area in early April.

The reward was announced Tuesday by the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

Spokeswoman Donna Wood had previously said that perhaps Shakespeare does not want to be found, but authorities still need to ask for the public's help in locating him.

In April 2007, Shakespeare was sued by a co-worker who alleged that Shakespeare had stolen the tickets from him.

Authorities say Shakespeare won the suit in October 2007.

Anyone with information should call (863) 534-6379 or ( 863) 534-6200.