A young woman in Moncton faced a judge after a startling incident unfolded last November. Lauryn Donovan, just 20 years old, triggered a frantic 911 call and a full emergency response with a reckless act inside an apartment building.
The incident began with Donovan, at a friend’s apartment, consuming alcohol. Intoxicated, she wandered into an elevator and discharged a fire extinguisher, filling the enclosed space with a cloud of suppressant. The impulsive act was immediately followed by a fabricated emergency – a 911 call reporting a fire that simply wasn’t there.
Sirens wailed as multiple fire trucks raced to the Millennium Boulevard address, lights flashing, prepared to battle a blaze. Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a disturbing truth: no fire existed, only a discharged extinguisher and a young woman consumed by regret.
The prosecutor emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting the unnecessary strain placed on emergency services. Valuable resources were diverted from potential real emergencies, tied up by a false alarm with potentially dangerous consequences.
Donovan’s lawyer painted a picture of a desperate plea for help, revealing a history of struggles with addiction and mental health. He assured the court that Donovan was now sober, actively working to complete her high school education, and unlikely to re-offend.
The judge acknowledged the dangerous nature of Donovan’s actions, emphasizing the risks associated with emergency vehicle responses. He pointed out the potential for serious accidents as fire trucks navigate roadways, prioritizing speed over all else.
Ultimately, the court opted for a path of rehabilitation rather than punishment. Donovan received a 12-month probationary period, coupled with a requirement for addiction and mental health assessments and treatment. She was also ordered to reimburse the building owners $216 for the cleanup costs.
However, a significant condition was attached to this sentence: successful completion of the probationary terms would result in a discharge. This means Donovan will avoid a criminal record, offering her a chance to rebuild her life without the lasting stigma of a conviction.
Before the court, Donovan offered a brief apology for her actions, a small gesture acknowledging the disruption and fear she caused. The judge’s decision reflects a belief in her potential for change and a hope for a future free from the burdens of the past.
