Spokane Business Target of $12,500 Pull-Tab Theft

SPOKANE, Wash. — A Spokane establishment suffered a substantial financial blow after a thief made off with $12,500 worth of pull-tab tickets, prompting a police investigation, officials reported on Monday, April 7, 2025.

Pull-tabs, which are popular lottery-style games frequently sold in taverns, social clubs, and retail locations, represent a significant source of revenue and entertainment for local operations. The incident, which took place during business hours, involved the unauthorized removal of a large quantity of these tickets. Management discovered the theft after noting discrepancies in inventory and cash drawer reconciliation.

The Mechanics of Pull-Tab Theft

Pull-tab theft is a specialized form of retail crime. Because these tickets can be redeemed for cash prizes on-site or at authorized locations, they are highly attractive targets for thieves. Investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage to identify the suspect and determine how they were able to access and transport such a large volume of tickets unnoticed.

Spokane business owners are advised to keep pull-tab inventories secure, limit access to authorized personnel only, and ensure that POS areas are under continuous video surveillance to prevent similar occurrences.

Ongoing Investigation

No suspects have been publicly named, and police are urging anyone with information about the incident or individuals attempting to cash out large quantities of pull-tab tickets to contact the Spokane Police Department.