Diver Accused of Air Supply Tampering Faces Attempted Murder Charge

A man accused of tampering with another diver’s air supply during a lobster diving dispute has been charged with attempted murder. The incident took place off the coast of Florida during the state’s annual lobster mini-season.

Michael Joseph Simpson, aged 51, surrendered to authorities in Miami-Dade County, where he faces an attempted murder charge. His bail has been set at $10,000.

According to reports, the altercation began around 7 a.m. on July 29 near Fisher Island. Simpson allegedly approached another vessel at high speed, circled it several times, and anchored close by.

Investigators allege the confrontation escalated when Simpson claimed ownership of the diving spot. He then purportedly threatened to cut off the air supply of an 18-year-old diver.

Law enforcement reports indicate Simpson went into the water and turned off the diver’s air system. Witnesses from the boat shouted warnings about the diver below as the distressing event unfolded.

The diver’s boat owner leaped into action, retrieving the young diver from the water. The diver, although disoriented and struggling to breathe, was unharmed.

Simpson left the scene before officers arrived but later surrendered. His lawyer, Howard Srebnick, disputes the charges, claiming investigators overlooked supportive evidence and witness statements.

Srebnick insists Simpson was on his boat with friends and family and did not interfere with any equipment. He says video evidence and several eyewitnesses corroborate this version of events.

The attorney contests the notion that Simpson fled, suggesting his client merely moved his boat to prevent further conflict and cooperated with authorities afterward.

Srebnick remains hopeful that the charges will be dropped after a full review of the evidence and witness testimonies.

The case continues as local law enforcement agencies gather more details.