A Kentucky man, James Farthing, has been arrested just days after winning a record-breaking $167 million Powerball jackpot. Farthing, 50, was taken into custody on April 30 in Pinellas County, Florida, for allegedly assaulting a law enforcement officer.
According to police, Farthing was involved in a fight at the TradeWinds Resort in St Pete Beach, Florida, where he allegedly punched a man in the face. When Deputy Nicholas Areostatico attempted to intervene, Farthing reportedly kicked the officer in the face and resisted arrest.
Farthing faces charges of battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting an officer, and battery, as well as violating his parole. His bond was set at $11,500, but he remains in custody due to a felony parole violation warrant from Kentucky.
Interestingly, Farthing had posed for photos with a giant check just two days before his arrest, celebrating his win with his mother, Linda Grizzle, and girlfriend, Jacqueline Fightersmaster. Grizzle expressed her excitement about the windfall, stating that the money would help pay off her debt.
Farthing had not yet chosen between taking the prize as annuity payments or a one-time $77.3 million payout. However, his recent arrest may complicate his ability to enjoy his winnings. His court records include convictions of tampering with evidence, engaging in organized crime, drug charges, receiving stolen property, and theft by unlawful taking.
In a recent development, Farthing has requested to serve out his sentence, although the details of the sentence are unclear.