Former $5M lottery winner, Millbrae city employee accused of stealing gardening tools

(KRON) — A man who previously won $5 million in the lottery is accused of stealing gardening tools and electronics from his Millbrae Public Works Department job, according to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.

Evan Adrian Ramirez, 30, of Manteca, faces two felony charges in connection with the alleged thefts, including:

• Embezzlement by a public officer
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• Public officer crime

According to prosecutors, between Oct. 1, 2023, and Oct. 7, 2025, Ramirez stole city property, such as weedwackers and other tools, and then sold them on his personal Offer Up account. He is also accused of using the Millbrae Public Works credit card to make personal purchases for himself, including a video soundbar and a pro press machine.

The total loss is $7,412.82, according to the DA’s office. The thefts were discovered after Ramirez’s supervisor noticed tools and property were missing and began to investigate.

The DA’s office said that Ramirez “committed the thefts despite winning $5 million with another person in the lottery.”

Ramirez is set to be arraigned on charges Wednesday.