James Shannon Farthing, who won a $167.3 million (£125m) Powerball jackpot in April, has been arrested for a fourth time since his win. The 51-year-old was taken into custody on July 26, just three months after his life-changing lottery prize.
Initial Arrests After the Win
Days after his April win, Farthing and his girlfriend were arrested on April 30 at the TradeWinds Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida. An arrest affidavit alleged that Farthing punched a hotel guest in the face during an incident. A Pinellas County Sheriff's deputy attempting to break up the fray was reportedly kicked in the face by Farthing.
Latest Charges
Farthing's most recent arrest involves charges of first-degree strangulation (domestic violence) and fourth-degree assault (domestic violence) causing minor injury to a woman. The woman told police that an argument after a boat trip turned physical, and Farthing allegedly “put both his hands on her neck, which restricted her breathing.” Deputy Zachary Bryant noted visible welts on the left side of her neck, and the incident was captured on a Ring camera.
Farthing entered a not guilty plea, according to reports. His bond was set at $15,000, and he was ordered to avoid contacting the woman and to wear a monitoring device. He remains in Scott County Jail and is due to appear in court on July 28.
Extensive Criminal History
Farthing has a long criminal past, having spent 30 of the last 50 years in prison. He has nine previous convictions in Kentucky, including drug-related offenses, bribing police officers, and domestic violence.
