Cancer-Fighting T-Shirt Designer’s Arrest Sparks Controversy

Stephen Michael Johnson, popularly known as “Scuba Steve,” insists that his recent run-in with the law was simply a misunderstanding. His troubles began at a local arts festival, where he was asked by authorities to relocate his car and was subsequently arrested on accusations of impersonating a police officer.

Johnson, the founder of the Scuba Steve Clothing Company, was vending at the Spring Street Festival in downtown Picayune, Mississippi, when the incident occurred. According to Picayune Police Chief Joe Kveve, when an officer instructed him to move his vehicle from a restricted zone, Johnson claimed he had left his badge and ID at home and then drove away.

Later, authorities discovered that Johnson’s statement was false, leading to a warrant for his arrest. Gulfport police apprehended him this week and charged him with felony impersonation of a law enforcement officer.

However, Johnson’s attorney, Mitch Owen, contended that the whole affair was a major “misunderstanding,” asserting his client had been allowed to park in that area due to his health condition. “We contest the idea that he tried to impersonate law enforcement, which is, you know, unfortunate,” Owen stated.

According to Owen, Johnson, who was participating in the festival, had made arrangements with its organizers to park his car near his booth because he was recovering from radiation therapy. The attorney mentioned that Johnson believed the police had been informed about his situation ahead of time.

Interestingly, while police could have charged Johnson with a misdemeanor, they opted for a felony charge instead, Owen noted. If found guilty, Johnson could potentially face up to three years in prison and a hefty fine of $5,000.

Amidst all of this, Johnson took to social media to express his gratitude to the local community. “Thank you, everyone in Picayune, for all the love and hugs,” he shared without referencing the arrest, adding, “I just woke up exhausted after a hard night dealing with cancer. I wanted you to know how much I appreciate you.”

Johnson is a familiar figure in south Mississippi, having become well-known after his cancer diagnosis in 2015, which informed both the launch of his T-shirt printing business and his resilient journey as a cancer survivor. After enduring several rounds of chemotherapy, he was declared cancer-free in 2017. Interestingly, the nickname “Scuba Steve” was bestowed upon him by friends during his high school days.