Powerball Winner Turned Defendant: Kentucky Man Arrested in Florida Just Days After Claiming $167M Prize
PINELLAS COUNTY — In a stunning turn of events, James Farthing — the Kentucky man who made headlines over the weekend for winning the largest Powerball prize in the state’s history — is now facing multiple criminal charges after a violent arrest in Florida just days after receiving his $167 million jackpot.
According to Pinellas County authorities, Farthing, 42, of Georgetown, Kentucky, was taken into custody in the early hours of Wednesday morning after allegedly punching a man during a fight at a Florida hotel and kicking a responding officer in the face.
The incident occurred less than 72 hours after Farthing posed proudly for press photos in Frankfort with a massive ceremonial check for his share of the $167 million Powerball win — a record-breaking moment for the Kentucky Lottery and a supposed turning point in Farthing’s troubled life.
Instead, he’s now being held on multiple charges including:
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Battery on a law enforcement officer
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Resisting arrest with violence
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Battery (misdemeanor)
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Violation of parole
A History That Followed the Money
Farthing’s criminal history is extensive. Court documents from Kentucky show a pattern of prior convictions, including tampering with physical evidence, drug trafficking, engaging in organized crime, theft by unlawful taking, and receiving stolen property. He was reportedly still on parole until August 2025 at the time of his arrest in Florida.
Law enforcement sources in Pinellas County say the officer involved in Tuesday night’s altercation was responding to a fight in a hotel where Farthing had been staying. One of the victims in the brawl told officers that Farthing initiated the violence by punching him without warning.
When police attempted to intervene, Farthing allegedly became combative. The arrest affidavit notes he kicked one of the responding officers in the face, resisted being handcuffed, and had to be physically restrained.
From Powerball Glory to Police Custody
On Monday — just two days before his arrest — Farthing stood alongside his mother at a press conference, celebrating the monumental win. Farthing had purchased a $2 Powerball ticket that matched all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing, securing the largest prize ever awarded in the state of Kentucky.
Farthing and his mother announced their intention to split the winnings. His mother said she planned to use her share to pay off long-standing debts and help extended family. Farthing did not specify how he intended to spend the money — though he told one outlet he hoped to “start fresh.”
Instead, he now faces the grim reality of possibly heading back to prison — this time, as one of the most high-profile parole violators in recent memory.
Florida Law Enforcement: “No One Is Above the Law”
A spokesperson for the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office commented briefly:
“While we understand the public’s interest in this individual due to his recent lottery win, all suspects are treated equally under the law. Mr. Farthing’s financial status has no bearing on how the charges will be handled.”
Farthing is currently being held in custody without bond pending a parole violation hearing. Kentucky parole officers are reportedly working with Florida officials on next steps, including a potential extradition.
A Fortunate Fall From Grace
For many South Floridians — and Americans in general — the story of James Farthing may serve as a sobering reminder that money can change your bank account, but it doesn’t always change your behavior. Whether Farthing’s riches will now be used for legal defense instead of a new beginning remains to be seen.
SFL.Media will continue to follow the story as it unfolds, including any updates on court proceedings or further charges.
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