Powerball Winner Pleads Guilty to Misdemeanor in Florida Assault Case
A Kentucky Powerball winner who hit a $167.3 million jackpot last year has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge in Florida after being arrested for allegedly assaulting a police officer—just days after claiming his prize.
From Jackpot Celebration to Arrest
James Farthing, 51, of Georgetown, Kentucky, won the April 26, 2025, Powerball drawing alongside his mother, Linda Grizzle, and girlfriend, Jacqueline Fightmaster. The group claimed the prize and posed with the ceremonial check.
But on April 29, 2025—only three days later—Farthing was arrested at the Island Grand Hotel in St. Pete Beach, Florida. Deputies responded to a fight at the resort. According to the arrest report and bodycam footage, Farthing allegedly kicked an officer in the face while officers intervened, then attempted to flee and resisted commands.
He was initially charged with felony battery on a law enforcement officer and spent nine days in Pinellas County Jail before posting bail.
Plea Deal Reached
In a plea agreement accepted by prosecutors (finalized in late February 2026), the felony was reduced to misdemeanor battery. Farthing pleaded guilty and was sentenced to pay about $1,020 in fines and costs—no additional jail time or probation required.
Prior conditions included no contact with the other party in the incident and staying 500 feet away from the victim’s home, vehicle, and workplace.
Lengthy Criminal History
Farthing has a documented history of felony convictions spanning decades in Kentucky and Florida, including charges for assaulting a partner, attempting to bribe officers, drug trafficking, burglary, and more. He reportedly served over 30 years in prison prior to his lottery win.
After taxes and choosing the lump-sum option, the family split roughly $45.6 million (about $22.8 million each).
