Cov. Police Charge Man With Eight Felonies   Covington, Va (June 1, 2021) - On Monday, May 31, 2021 at approximately 10:38 pm, Officers from the Covington Police Department, Deputies from Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office and Troopers from the Virginia State Police located a suspect that was involved in a hit and run accident the day prior and was wanted out of Fauquier County. The suspect was located at the 220 Express gas station, on the corner of S. Monroe Ave and Route 220. Officers attempted to identify the two occupants of the vehicle, who were uncooperative. After several minutes of verbal contact with the male passenger, who initially gave false information to police, the individual was positively identified and confirmed to be wanted. Stuart Lee Simpson, a 28 year old male from Bealeton, Virginia, refused to exit the vehicle or cooperate with police. He disregarded all commands and subsequently moved to the driver’s seat of the vehicle and attempted to flee the scene. In this attempt, Simpson struck three police vehicles and placed all Officers on scene, his mother who was outside of the vehicle, as well as, the back passenger, in imminent danger. Officers took immediate action to contain the vehicle and apprehend the suspect who suffered only minor injuries. The other passenger in the vehicle sustained minor injuries as well and was released at the scene. No injuries were reported by law enforcement. Stuart Simpson was transported to the Alleghany County Regional Jail after being treated for his injuries at the hospital. Simpson was charged with eight felonies and one misdemeanor. The charges include attempted malicious wounding, five counts of assault and battery on Law Enforcement Officer, three counts of destruction of property and giving a false identity to Law Enforcement. Simpson is being held without bond and more charges may be placed at a later date. “All of the Law Enforcement Officers involved in this incident did an outstanding job. Their ability to contain a dangerous situation and minimize property loss and injury, speaks to the level of professionalism each agency provides.” Said Chief Smith. The Covington Police Department thanks the Alleghany Sheriff’s Office and Virginia State Police for their support.

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