A woman, Megan Campbell, has been arrested after police say she made a fake report about being stabbed while on an East Valley trail early last month.
According to the Queen Creek Police Department, the 39-year-old Campbell reported that the attack happened during the early morning hours on Sunday, May 5, 2024.
At that time, officers responded to the Queen Creek Fire/Medical station located at 20678 E Civic Parkway. Upon arrival, they were informed by Fire/Medical staff that Campbell had driven to the location to report an attack that allegedly happened 15-30 minutes prior in an area near Crismon and Riggs Rd. She claimed she had been running on a trail in the area when she was suddenly attacked from behind and rendered unconscious. She explained that sometime during the encounter, she was injured, receiving a laceration on her neck.
Early in the investigation, the complainant became uncommunicative and eventually stated she would no longer participate in the investigation.
As detectives gathered and sifted through the evidence, they discovered a significant pattern of inconsistencies. Much of the evidence gathered directly contradicted the complainant’s account of the attack. Eventually, detectives concluded that the facts about the reported attack, as provided by the complainant, were completely unfounded.
In addition, investigators uncovered that these circumstances and other prior incidents provided a pattern of harassment targeting another individual who had a previous relationship with the complainant.
Based on the totality of the facts and evidence gathered during the investigation, Campbell was taken into custody, and charges of identity theft, false reporting, and harassment (domestic violence) will be forwarded to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.
“The circumstances of this incident are disturbing, frustrating, and tragic,” stated Queen Creek Chief of Police Randy Brice. “The acts perpetrated by this person not only harassed another individual but tied up police resources that could have been deployed for a better purpose. Unfortunately, this false report has created fear of a crime that never occurred.”
“I want to point out a few very important things that are associated with this investigation,” Chief Brice continued. “First and foremost, the Queen Creek Police Department is dedicated to the safety of this community. Second, we want those who are victims of crime to come forward and be heard. Third, we are committed to fully investigating all reported crimes, and we will be relentless in uncovering the truth and pursuing justice for those who have been victimized. I am proud of the effort and dedication my staff exhibited in ensuring a fair and comprehensive investigation. Lastly, I want to thank the community for the ongoing support demonstrated during this particular situation.”