What began as a celebration of fortune quickly turned into a headline-making incident as James Farthing, a recent Powerball winner from Kentucky, was arrested at a Florida resort after allegedly assaulting a deputy. The shocking event was captured on newly released bodycam footage that has since gone viral, showing the millionaire lottery winner in a violent altercation with law enforcement.
The arrest occurred on April 29 at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida. Farthing, 50, who had recently claimed a $167.3 million Powerball jackpot with his mother, was taken into custody after he allegedly kicked a responding deputy in the face during a physical altercation. The incident took place just weeks after Farthing and his mother, Linda Grizzle, became the biggest Powerball winners in Kentucky history.
Why Was the Powerball Winner Arrested in Florida?
James Farthing was charged with one felony count of battery on a law enforcement officer, along with two misdemeanor counts—simple battery and resisting an officer. According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to break up a fight at the Tradewinds Resort, where they found two men physically fighting and a woman lying on the ground.
Witnesses say Farthing had punched another resort guest in the face before law enforcement arrived. When deputies tried to de-escalate the situation, Farthing reportedly kicked one of the officers in the face. The altercation escalated quickly, and Farthing attempted to flee the scene. Officers used a taser to subdue him before placing him under arrest.
Farthing’s girlfriend, Jacqueline Fightmaster, was also arrested during the incident. She was charged with misdemeanor disorderly intoxication after reportedly trying to fight other patrons at the resort bar.
How Farthing’s Criminal History Adds Context to His Arrest
Although now a millionaire, James Farthing’s past is far from clean. Reports confirm that Farthing has spent over 30 years in various Kentucky correctional facilities and has a lengthy criminal record across nine counties. His convictions include assault, drug trafficking, bribery, and domestic violence charges.
At the time of his arrest in Florida, Farthing was still on parole for previous offenses in Kentucky. According to court records, he later waived his right to a probable cause hearing in June and opted to serve the remainder of his sentence. His release is expected later this month.
The arrest has shocked many who had followed Farthing’s rags-to-riches lottery story. Just weeks before the Florida incident, he had purchased a $2 Powerball ticket from a gas station in Georgetown, Kentucky. Matching all the winning numbers, he and his mother walked away with a record-breaking $167.3 million jackpot, making them local celebrities overnight.
With his newfound fortune, Farthing could have started a new chapter in life. However, the arrest could jeopardize more than just his parole status. Legal analysts suggest that Farthing’s actions might prompt parole violations that could land him back in prison—despite his multimillion-dollar bank account.
The public reaction has been intense, with many expressing disbelief over how someone so recently rewarded with wealth could so quickly find themselves behind bars. The viral bodycam footage showing the alleged assault has only added fuel to the public’s curiosity and outrage.
Officials at the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office have not commented further on the status of the case, but the footage and charges speak volumes. Farthing’s legal team has yet to issue a statement.
Despite the shocking turn of events, this case serves as a stark reminder that money doesn’t erase one’s past—or excuse criminal behavior.
For your information:
What charges is James Farthing facing after his arrest?
He is facing one felony count of battery on a law enforcement officer and two misdemeanors—simple battery and resisting arrest. These stem from his alleged attack on a deputy during a resort altercation.
Where and when did the arrest take place?
James Farthing was arrested on April 29 at the Tradewinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida, during a fight involving multiple people.
Who is Jacqueline Fightmaster and why was she arrested?
Jacqueline Fightmaster is Farthing’s girlfriend. She was charged with disorderly intoxication after reportedly attempting to start fights with other bar patrons.
Was James Farthing already on parole before his arrest?
Yes, Farthing was on parole in Kentucky for previous convictions and waived his right to a hearing in June after this incident.
How much did James Farthing win in the Powerball lottery?
He and his mother won $167.3 million—the largest Powerball jackpot in Kentucky history.
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