Powerball winner James Farthing waives preliminary hearing in domestic violence case

GEORGETOWN, Ky. (WKYT) – James Farthing, the Scott County man known for winning millions in a Powerball jackpot who has since had legal trouble, appeared Thursday afternoon in Scott District Court for what was scheduled to be a preliminary hearing in a domestic violence case against him.

Farthing, who is out on bond, appeared before Judge Sarah Hays Spedding. He is facing charges of first-degree strangulation and fourth-degree assault, both for domestic violence.

According to police, the victim said a verbal argument turned physical when Farthing began strangling her. According to authorities, marks were on the victim’s neck.

Attorney waives hearing to grand jury

Thursday afternoon’s proceeding was supposed to be a preliminary hearing. Those plans changed when Farthing’s attorney, Abe Mashni, addressed the court.

“Thank you, your honor. I’ve advised him of his right to have a preliminary hearing, he chose to waive that to the Scott County grand jury at this time,” Mashni said.

“And that’s what you want to do, correct, waive it to the Scott County grand jury,” Judge Spedding said.

Farthing shook his head in agreement.

Attorney issues statement

Attempts to speak with Mashni after court about the decision to waive the matter to the grand jury were unsuccessful. He provided a written statement instead.

“Today, after careful consideration and a thorough strategic review of the case, Mr. Farthing waived his preliminary hearing and elected to have the matter proceed directly to the Scott County Grand Jury. This was a deliberate strategic decision made by the defense and should not be interpreted as an admission or concession of any kind,” the statement said.

The statement goes on to say Farthing will continue to defend the charges as the case moves forward.

Mashni says the grand jury could make its decision on this case within 60 days.