SOLOMONS, Md. – In a notable incident, Lauren Ann Simpson has been charged with multiple offenses following a series of events on June 20, 2024, in Solomons, Calvert County, Maryland. The official court documents indicate Simpson was involved in unauthorized vehicle use, interference with emergency services, and other related charges.
According to court documents, the series of events began when the Solomons Volunteer Rescue Squad Fire Department (SVRSFD) reported the unauthorized use of one of their ambulances. On the day in question, emergency medical services personnel were responding to a call at an apartment complex. While the ambulance crew was inside the residence attending to a patient, the ambulance was moved from its original parking spot.
Witness statements and surveillance footage revealed that Lauren Ann Simpson was seen attempting to move the ambulance by releasing the parking brake. Unable to complete the maneuver herself, an unidentified man assisted her by opening the passenger door and providing instructions. This act of interference caused significant disruption to the emergency response and led to multiple charges against Simpson.
Court documents further reveal that Simpson was found driving the ambulance without consent, and upon returning to the scene, the emergency personnel noticed the vehicle had been moved. This led to an in-depth investigation, with additional evidence collected through surveillance footage and witness testimonies.
Simpson faces several charges, including climbing into any vehicle with malicious intent, manipulation or attempted manipulation of any vehicle with malicious intent, driving a vehicle without the owner’s consent with the intent to deprive the owner, and willfully tampering with a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent. Additionally, she is charged with obstructing firefighters and being a rogue and vagabond, as indicated in the court documents.
The statements from the emergency responders, supported by video evidence, played a crucial role in the investigation. The president of the firehouse, Anderson, provided a flash drive containing dash cam footage, which captured Simpson’s actions. Further corroborating evidence came from interviews and the body-worn camera footage of the responding officer, which was instrumental in positively identifying Simpson.
Simpson’s actions are particularly concerning given that the ambulance, fully equipped, is valued at approximately $600,000. This highlights the significant impact of such interference on emergency services and the substantial cost associated with the vehicle.
Simpson is expected to face a preliminary hearing on August 12, 2024.
The Calvert County Sheriff’s Office continues to handle the case, emphasizing the importance of cooperation from the public and the emergency services community to ensure justice and prevent such incidents in the future.
We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
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