Abraham Shakespeare was a construction worker from Mississippi who became the unwitting centerpiece of a high-profile financial fraud case involving Dee Dee Moore. Moore falsely claimed to manage his lottery winnings, built a fabricated public persona, and misled friends, media, and authorities about her relationship with him.
This case attracted national attention because it exposed how easily a vulnerable individual can be exploited through lies, charm, and aggressive financial manipulation. Understanding the facts and timeline helps clarify what really happened between Abraham Shakespeare and Dee Dee Moore.
| Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Abraham Shakespeare | Born April 1972, construction worker, $31 million lottery winner in 2006, murdered in 2009 |
| Dee Dee Moore | Con artist and convicted felon, posed as his financial manager, stole funds, fabricated stories, sentenced to 30 years |
| Lottery Win | $31 million after taxes, awarded November 2006, managed poorly due to Moore’s intervention |
| Crime & Outcome | Murder in 2009, body discovered buried under concrete, Moore arrested in 2011, convicted in 2012 |
Profile Of Abraham Shakespeare
Abraham Shakespeare grew up in a modest household and entered the workforce as a day laborer in construction. His life changed in November 2006 when he won a $31 million Florida lottery prize. Despite the windfall, he remained grounded, helping family and neighbors, which made him an easy target for exploitation.
Dee Dee Moore’s Manipulation Tactics
Building Trust
Moore approached Shakespeare by claiming she could help him manage the money safely. She offered to handle paperwork, shield him from requests, and create an LLC to control the funds, playing on his trust and inexperience with finance.
Exploitation And Control
Once she gained access, Moore took charge of his bank cards, changed addresses on official notices, and isolated him from friends and family. She spun elaborate stories to explain his absence and discouraged direct contact, effectively controlling his environment.
Investigation And Criminal Case
After months of no contact, concerned friends reported Shakespeare missing. Law enforcement traced communications and financial activity back to Moore, leading to her arrest in 2011. Investigators uncovered that she had moved his belongings and used his identity to secure apartments and vehicles.
The trial revealed text messages, bank records, and false statements Moore made to investigators and media. Her motives centered on maintaining access to his funds and avoiding scrutiny. The jury convicted her on multiple counts, resulting in a 30-year sentence.
Media Representation And Public Perception
News coverage framed the story as a cautionary tale about wealth, trust, and vulnerability. Documentaries, television segments, and crime shows revisited the crime, often emphasizing how Moore manipulated legal and financial systems. The case prompted discussions on protections for lottery winners and financial abuse prevention.
Key Takeaways And Protections
- Verify credentials and licenses before granting financial control to anyone.
- Require multiple signatories for large transactions involving lottery or inheritance funds.
- Keep critical documents, keys, and contact information in a secure, personal location.
- Maintain direct communication lines with lawyers, accountants, and trusted family members.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Abraham Shakespeare meet Dee Dee Moore?
Abraham Shakespeare met Dee Dee Moore after winning the lottery, when she contacted him claiming she could professionally manage his prize money.
What financial control did Dee Dee Moore gain over Abraham Shakespeare?
Dee Dee Moore gained access to his bank accounts, controlled his lottery payments, and isolated him from financial advisors and family.
Why was Dee Dee Moore sentenced to 30 years in prison?
She was convicted of murder, theft, and fraud against Shakespeare, with evidence showing she killed him to hide her theft and maintain access to his funds.
What lessons can people learn from the Abraham Shakespeare and Dee Dee Moore case?
Individuals should seek independent financial advice, verify credentials, and limit access to funds when working with third parties handling large sums.