Florida officials released body camera footage on 12/8 showing 50-year-old James Farthing attacking a police officer at the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort on St. Pete Beach in Pinellas County.
The incident occurred on 29/4. Resort security called police after Farthing allegedly punched another guest in the face. Upon arrival, officers found a man wrestling with and pinning Farthing to the ground.
As the officer restrained the man, Farthing got up. He then ran towards the man, seemingly attempting to kick him in the head, but missed and struck the officer's leg instead.
The officer drew his taser and ordered Farthing to face the wall, but Farthing fled. Another officer tackled him, while the first officer fired his taser and apprehended Farthing.
James Farthing arrested at the Florida resort on 29/4. Video: WFLA
Just the day before the altercation, Farthing had claimed a $167.3 million Powerball jackpot, the largest in Kentucky history. He had decided to split the winnings with his mother as a Mother's Day gift.
Following his arrest, authorities discovered Farthing had a criminal record in 9 Kentucky counties, including charges of assaulting a woman, bribing an officer while in jail, and selling cocaine to an undercover police officer.
Farthing was charged with resisting arrest, battery on a law enforcement officer, and violating his parole.
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James Farthing claiming his Powerball jackpot with family members on 28/4. Photo: NYP |
James Farthing claiming his Powerball jackpot with family members on 28/4. Photo: NYP
Duc Trung (NY Post, USA Today)
