James Shannon Farthing, who won a historic $167.3 million Powerball jackpot in Kentucky, was arrested shortly after claiming his prize. The 50-year-old bought the ticket in Georgetown and planned to share the money with his mother, Linda Grizzle, who said it would help clear her debts.
Despite the joy, Farthing and his girlfriend were arrested at a Florida resort after an alleged fight where he reportedly assaulted a guest and a sheriff’s deputy. He posted $11,000 bail and faces arraignment on July 14, pleading not guilty.
Farthing’s criminal record is extensive, with about 30 years spent in prison for offenses including assault, bribery, and drug dealing across nine counties. His criminal activities started in his youth and included smuggling drugs into prison, sometimes involving his mother.
His lottery win is the largest Powerball jackpot in Kentucky history, with the option to receive payments over 30 years or a lump sum of $77.3 million.
