Winning a record-breaking lottery jackpot is often seen as a life-changing moment. But for one Kentucky man, the months following his historic Powerball win have been marked by a series of legal troubles.
James Farthing, who won Kentucky’s largest-ever Powerball jackpot in 2025, was arrested again over the weekend. The latest arrest marks the fourth time he has been taken into custody since claiming the $167.3 million prize.
Arrest
James Farthing, 51, of Georgetown, Kentucky, was arrested on Sunday following an alleged domestic violence incident after a boating trip.
According to police, an argument occurred after the pair returned from the outing. Authorities say the woman involved reported that Farthing allegedly placed both hands around her neck, restricting her breathing.
Farthing was booked into the Scott County Jail and faces the following charges:
| Charge | Description |
|---|---|
| First-degree strangulation | Domestic violence-related |
| Fourth-degree assault | Domestic violence causing minor injury |
The allegations remain pending in court.
Court
Farthing pleaded not guilty during a hearing Tuesday in Scott County District Court.
A judge set his bond at $15,000 and ordered him to have no contact with the alleged victim. The court also required him to wear an electronic monitoring device designed to alert authorities if he violates the no-contact order.
The case is expected to continue through the Kentucky court system.
Jackpot
Farthing first gained national attention in April 2025 after purchasing the winning $2 Powerball ticket in Georgetown.
The ticket matched the numbers for a $167.3 million jackpot, the largest lottery prize ever won in Kentucky.
At the time, Farthing said he planned to split the winnings with his mother, Linda Grizzle.
Speaking after the win, Grizzle said the money would help pay off her debts and described it as a memorable Mother’s Day gift.
Timeline
Since claiming the jackpot, Farthing has been arrested four separate times.
| Date | Incident |
|---|---|
| April 2025 | Won $167.3 million Powerball jackpot |
| April 2025 | Arrested in Florida after altercation at beach resort |
| February 2026 | Arrested in Georgetown on intimidation charge |
| March 2026 | Arrested on burglary and marijuana possession charges |
| July 2026 | Arrested on domestic violence allegations |
The latest arrest adds to a growing list of legal cases that have followed Farthing since his lottery win.
Florida
Only days after collecting the jackpot, Farthing was arrested in Florida following a late-night disturbance at a beach resort.
Authorities alleged that while deputies were responding to a fight, Farthing kicked a Pinellas County sheriff’s deputy in the face and attempted to flee before officers used a Taser to detain him.
He later pleaded guilty and received a sentence of time served along with $1,000 in fines.
Following that incident, Farthing told local television station WKYT that he hoped to make better decisions and improve his life.
Investigation
In February 2026, Farthing was arrested again after a woman called 911 and reported fearing for her safety inside a Georgetown home.
According to investigators, officers found the woman hiding beneath a desk. She told deputies Farthing had picked her up for a gathering and allegedly pressured her to consume a “gummy.”
During a search of the residence, authorities reported finding a handgun, ammunition, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Those allegations remain part of an ongoing legal process.
Burglary
One month later, in March 2026, Farthing faced additional charges of second-degree burglary and marijuana possession.
Police said security camera footage allegedly showed him entering a home in Lexington, where investigators claim approximately $12,000 in cash was taken.
He was booked into the Fayette County Detention Center before later being released on bond while the case moved forward.
Background
According to WKYT, Farthing’s criminal history dates back to 1994.
Court records reportedly include arrests across multiple Kentucky counties involving allegations such as burglary, drug-related offenses, engaging in organized crime and escaping from a detention facility.
Under Kentucky law, adults aged 18 or older may legally purchase lottery tickets even if they have a criminal record, unless restrictions apply under the terms of probation or parole.
The latest arrest does not affect Farthing’s lottery winnings, but it adds another legal case to a series of incidents that have occurred since his historic Powerball victory. As with the previous matters, the newest allegations will be resolved through the court process, where Farthing is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
FAQs
How much did James Farthing win?
He won a $167.3 million Powerball jackpot.
How many times has he been arrested since winning?
Four times since claiming the jackpot.
What are the latest charges?
Strangulation and assault related to domestic violence.
Did Farthing plead guilty?
No. He pleaded not guilty to the latest charges.
Can people with criminal records buy lottery tickets?
Yes, if they meet Kentucky’s legal requirements.
