Kentucky man wins $167 million in Powerball, arrested days later in Florida
James Farthing was arrested in Pinellas County for assaulting an officer just three days after claiming the largest lottery prize in Kentucky history.
A Kentucky man who won $167 million in the Powerball jackpot was arrested just days after receiving his prize. Georgetown resident James Farthing was arrested early Wednesday morning in Pinellas County, Florida, on charges of assaulting an officer, resisting arrest, and violating his probation.
Farthing bought the winning ticket for $2 at a Georgetown convenience store and was interviewed by local media over the weekend. On Monday, he posed for photos with the traditional giant check and announced he would share the winnings with his mother, who said she would use the money to pay off debts. The prize, the largest in Kentucky Lottery history, gave him the option of receiving annual payments for 30 years or a lump sum cash payment of $77.3 million.
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Arrest in Florida after hotel altercation
According to the police report, the incident occurred Tuesday night at a Florida hotel. Farthing was involved in an altercation when an officer attempted to intervene. According to the complaint, Farthing allegedly punched another person, kicked the intervening officer in the face, and repeatedly disobeyed police orders.
The arrest adds to a lengthy criminal record. Farthing was on probation until August 2025 for previous charges in Kentucky, including tampering with evidence, organized crime, drug offenses, receiving stolen property, and theft by unlawful taking. He is currently being held in a Pinellas County jail, where records show he has $295 in his commissary account.
From celebration to scandal in just three days
Farthing's rapid transition from lottery winner to prisoner has generated national media attention. His interview with WKYT following his win reflected excitement and family plans with the money, including a significant Mother's Day gift. The news of his arrest just 72 hours later has shocked the local community and put a spotlight on his criminal record.
At this time, it has not been confirmed whether the state of Kentucky will take action regarding the parole violation, nor whether his current legal issues could affect his winnings.
