ST. PETE BEACH, FL – The celebration didn’t last long for James Farthing, a Kentucky man who had just won a $167 million Powerball jackpot — days later, he was face-down on a Florida resort floor, bleeding and under arrest after allegedly kicking a sheriff’s deputy in the face during a violent altercation.
The incident, which unfolded on April 29 at the TradeWinds Resort, was captured in body camera footage now released by authorities.
A responding deputy found Farthing in a scuffle with another man, who told police Farthing had punched him and that he was acting in self-defense.
As the deputy tried to detain Farthing, the situation escalated when Farthing allegedly kicked the officer in the face, prompting a furious reaction caught on video.
“Save your f—ing sorries for later!” the deputy shouted as Farthing, visibly injured and bleeding, offered an apology. The footage shows blood on the floor and Farthing attempting to flee before being tackled to the ground. Police later documented swelling and redness beneath the deputy’s right eye. The suspect, 50, was celebrating the lottery win at the resort with his girlfriend, Jacqueline Fightmaster, 42.
Both were arrested following the altercation. Farthing now faces charges including felony battery on a law enforcement officer, simple battery, and resisting arrest without violence. He pleaded not guilty. Fightmaster, who downplayed the incident to deputies, later pleaded no contest to misdemeanor disorderly intoxication. She served one day in jail and was ordered to pay $570 in fines and fees.
The Iowa man involved in the scuffle with Farthing told deputies he had only been defending himself. Authorities have not announced any charges against him.
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Key Points
- Powerball winner James Farthing arrested after Florida resort brawl
- Bodycam shows him allegedly kicking deputy in face during chaotic takedown
- Farthing and girlfriend were celebrating their $167M jackpot at the time
His lucky numbers hit, but James Farthing’s post-jackpot celebration ended with handcuffs and blood on the floor.