Kentucky Powerball Winner Arrested for Home Burglary

James Farthing, who won $167 million last year, faces new charges for allegedly stealing $12,000 in cash.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 5:05pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled wad of $100 bills, the harsh flash creating dramatic shadows and textures to convey a sense of the dangers of sudden wealth without proper guidance.The latest arrest of a recent Kentucky Powerball winner exposes the risks of unchecked wealth and the need for better support systems to help lottery recipients adjust.Lexington Today

A Kentucky man who won a $167 million Powerball jackpot almost a year ago has been arrested again, this time on charges of burglary and possession of marijuana. Security camera footage allegedly captured James Farthing, 51, entering a Lexington residence and fleeing with $12,000 in cash.

Why it matters

The arrest of a recent Powerball winner on burglary charges raises questions about the long-term impacts of sudden wealth and whether it can lead to criminal behavior, as well as broader concerns about repeat offenders and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.

The details

According to the arrest citation, Farthing allegedly entered the Lexington home around 7 p.m. on Saturday and was captured on security cameras. The victim reported hearing a loud noise that sounded like the door being broken into. Farthing then allegedly fled the scene in a black Porsche before police arrived. The victim said $12,000 in cash was taken from the home.

  • Farthing was arrested around 9 p.m. on Saturday in the Red Mile Gaming parking lot.
  • Farthing was previously arrested in Florida in April 2025 on misdemeanor charges of battery and resisting an officer, to which he pleaded guilty earlier this month.
  • Farthing also has an active case in Fayette County for a hit-and-run charge and an intimidation charge in Scott County.

The players

James Farthing

A 51-year-old Kentucky man who won a $167 million Powerball jackpot almost a year ago and has now been arrested on charges of burglary and possession of marijuana.

Lexington Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Farthing and filed the arrest citation detailing the alleged burglary incident.

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What’s next

Farthing is being held at the Fayette County Detention Center, and a judge will determine whether to grant him bail on the new charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex challenges that can arise when individuals suddenly come into large sums of money, underscoring the need for comprehensive financial and mental health support to help Powerball winners navigate their newfound wealth responsibly.