A 32-year-old man has pleaded guilty to stealing an ambulance with a patient inside at Royal Stoke University Hospital in Staffordshire. Marshall Leese, from Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, admitted charges including false imprisonment, aggravated vehicle-taking, and dangerous driving. The incident occurred on March 25.

Leese also entered guilty pleas to failing to provide a specimen for analysis and driving without insurance. He appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court, where he was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing. Judge Sally Halcox described the case as “unusual” due to the circumstances involving a patient inside the vehicle at the time of the theft.

The offenses stem from the unlawful taking of a Fiat Ducato ambulance belonging to the hospital. The presence of a patient raised serious concerns about safety and the potential risks posed by the defendant’s actions. The court will consider these factors during the sentencing phase.