James Farthing, a 51-year-old man who became a multi-millionaire after winning the Kentucky Powerball jackpot of $167.3 million, has been arrested for allegedly stealing $12,000 from a Lexington home during a burglary. The arrest marks Farthing’s third since winning the lottery nearly a year ago.
Burglary and Arrest
Farthing was arrested on Saturday for second-degree burglary and marijuana possession after security footage showed him breaking into a residence in Lexington.
He allegedly stole $12,000 in cash and fled the scene in his black Porsche. Police apprehended him shortly afterward and found marijuana in his car, including a blunt in plain sight.
Farthing was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Fayette County Detention Center.
A Life of Crime and Lottery Win
Before his massive Powerball win, Farthing had spent much of his life behind bars, with a history of crimes that included theft and reckless driving. He had been incarcerated in 25 different correctional facilities.
Farthing won the state’s largest-ever lottery jackpot in April 2022, alongside his 77-year-old mother, Linda Grizzle, and girlfriend, Jacqueline Fightmaster.
However, Farthing’s life of crime didn’t end with his sudden wealth. Days after celebrating his win, Farthing was arrested in Florida for allegedly assaulting a hotel guest and kicking a deputy.
He later pleaded guilty to the charges. In addition, he violated his parole by leaving Kentucky without informing his parole officer.
Other Legal Troubles
Farthing has had numerous run-ins with the law since his Powerball win. In February, he was charged with intimidating a participant in the legal process after allegedly pressuring a woman to take marijuana gummies, during which police found marijuana and a gun. He is set to appear in court for that case in April.
In addition, Farthing faces a hit-and-run charge in Fayette County, and he has several other active cases still pending.
From Prison to Jackpot
Farthing’s criminal history began at a young age. He committed his first crimes as a teenager and spent much of his adult life in prison. Despite his troubled past, he earned his GED while incarcerated.
His unexpected rise to wealth has done little to change his criminal behavior, with his latest arrest highlighting his ongoing legal issues.
