Polk County deputies arrested 58-year-old Mark Raymond Gibbon, of Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire, on charges that he violently confronted the woman over her alleged inappropriate relationship with his grandchildren.
Gibbon intentionally held the woman's head underwater, keeping her from breathing numerous times, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
The situation unfolded around 5. Around 2.20 pm local time, police were called to a backyard swimming pool where the disturbance was reported.
Witnesses claim the brutality only ceased when holidaymakers nearby told them that they had called the police. The woman's nine-year-old daughter tried to save her mother by jumping into the pool during one of the attacks.
Arrest and Charges
Gibbon was arrested at the scene and transported to the Polk County jail. He's now looking at charges of attempted second-degree murder and battery.
The arrest comes amid Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd's criticism of tourists, saying in a statement.'' This is simply unacceptable behavior whether from visitors or those who live here. Mr Gibbon may be spending an awful lot of time visiting the Sunshine State if he has a hard time keeping his temper at bay.
Authorities have not released any additional information on the condition of the victim, but they stated that an investigation is ongoing. The family connection and sensational allegations have made the case a high-profile one.
