Death in Custody Update 

August 21, 2025 – Lassen County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Thursday, August 14, 2025, the Susanville Police Department (SPD) arrested 55-year-old Robert Wayne Simpson for disturbing the peace, which they believed was likely to continue. He was booked into the Lassen County Jail after Officers determined he was under the influence of drugs. Mr. Simpson was expected to be released once he had sobered.

Later that evening, Mr. Simpson was set to be released from custody after signing a citation. While being escorted out of the jail through the vehicle sally port, for release, he suffered a medical emergency. Jail medical staff, along with personnel from the Susanville Fire Department and SEMSA ambulance, responded within minutes. Despite extensive life-saving efforts, Mr. Simpson passed away.

Related: Lassen County Sheriff Reports Investigation into In-Custody Death at Lassen County Jail

The Lassen County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Unit was called to investigate the incident. In addition, an external law enforcement agency will conduct a separate investigation to ensure the circumstances surrounding Mr. Simpson’s death are thoroughly examined.

Source: Lassen County Sheriff's Office