Man accused of posing as medical student in hospital for months

A man allegedly posed as a medical student for several months and accessed Aberdeen hospital wards and files.

Stephen Simpson, 22, is accused of wearing medical scrubs and NHS branded clothing at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (ARI), as well as having a stethoscope. He also faces allegations of theft.

The main fraud charge dates between 22 September 2023 and 26 January 2024.

Simpson appeared at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, where the case was continued without plea.

It is alleged Simpson, of Aberdeen, pretended to employees he was a medical student authorised to be in ARI, and did "in furtherance of said pretence" wear medical scrubs and NHS branded clothing, and have a stethoscope and pager.

The charge states he induced employees to allow him to remain in the hospital and gain access to restricted areas and files, staff-only areas, wards, and the hospital grounds, and had access to medical files and other correspondence, by fraud.

There are also allegations of stealing items of NHS branded clothing, a quantity of prescription medication, a pager, a charity box, a money box, perfume, and a cup, in December 2023.

The case is due to call again next month.