A former Arkansas Lottery security official has pleaded guilty to stealing and cashing almost a half-million dollars' worth of tickets.
The lottery suspended Remmele Mazyck in October and fired him three weeks later.
Mazyck pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges Friday in federal court.
State gaming officials say the thefts started shortly after the games began in September 2009.
Lottery Director Bishop Woosley said between November 2009 and October 2012, Mazyck cashed 22,710 tickets worth about $478,000.
Mazyck's lawyer, John Wesley Hall, said 34-year-old Mazyck has been released on his recognizance.
His sentencing date hasn't been set yet.
The Arkansas Lottery said its insurer would cover the losses.