A Kentucky man who recently won more than $150 million in the Powerball jackpot found himself behind bars shortly after his big win.
James Shannon Farthing was incredibly fortunate on April 26, securing a massive Powerball prize with his mother, setting a record for the largest win in Kentucky’s history. However, his streak of good fortune ended quickly.
On April 30, the 50-year-old and his girlfriend were taken into custody at the TradeWinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida.
According to an affidavit, a confrontation occurred and Farthing was accused of striking another hotel guest in the face.
Furthermore, as a Pinellas County Sheriff’s deputy intervened, Farthing allegedly kicked the officer in the face.
Just two days prior, on April 28, Farthing and his mother, Linda Grizzle, were confirmed as the Powerball jackpot winners.
Their ticket, drawn on April 26, matched all five white balls and the Powerball number, which were 1-12-14-18-69, and the Powerball was two, according to Powerball.
They won an impressive $167.3 million and have the option of either 30 annual installments or a lump sum of $77.3 million.
This win sets a new record for the largest Powerball jackpot ever claimed in Kentucky, surpassing the previous largest win of $128.6 million in 2009, with the last jackpot win occurring in December 2010.
Kentucky Lottery President and CEO Mary Harville expressed excitement, stating: “Kentucky finally has a Powerball jackpot winner! And not just any Powerball jackpot prize, it is a record for Kentucky. It is $167.3 million.”
In addition to Farthing and Grizzle, Clark’s Pump N Shop in Georgetown will receive over $37,000 for selling the winning ticket.
Grizzle shared that the win would make for a “good Mother’s Day” and planned to use the money to settle her debts.
While the lottery win can alleviate financial burdens, it cannot resolve legal issues.
Farthing was arrested on April 30, accused of assault during the altercation, according to reports.
The affidavit notes that Farthing’s girlfriend was “yelling, screaming and making incoherent statements.”
Farthing has been charged with a parole violation, two misdemeanor counts of battery and resisting an officer, and one felony count of battery on a law enforcement officer.
His girlfriend faces a misdemeanor charge for disorderly conduct.