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“Scuba Steve” Arrested on Felony Impersonation Charge After Picayune Festival Incident
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PICAYUNE, Mississippi — A man known locally as “Scuba Steve” has been arrested and charged with felony impersonation of a law enforcement officer after an incident during the Spring Street Festival in downtown Picayune, according to police.
Authorities say Steve Johnson, founder of Scuba Steve Clothing Company, was asked by an officer to move a vehicle that had been parked inside a barricaded area near his vendor booth. Picayune Police Chief Joe Quave said Johnson then identified himself as a law enforcement officer, claimed he had left his badge at home, and walked away when asked what agency he worked for.
Johnson was later arrested Monday by Gulfport Police on a warrant issued by the Picayune Police Department. He has since posted bond.
Johnson’s attorney says the situation was a misunderstanding and disputes that his client was attempting to impersonate an officer. The attorney also said Johnson had permission to park near the booth because of ongoing health issues related to radiation treatments.
Chief Quave said the department takes impersonation cases seriously because it can damage public trust and create doubt about who is a real officer during legitimate encounters. If convicted, Johnson could face up to three years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
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