Fake Nurse Who Stole Propofol from Multiple Hospitals Arrested

Marissa Jean Denton was arrested after successfully impersonating a nurse to steal medication from two separate hospitals, days apart. 

Vanderbilt University Medical Center Incident

On September 15, 2025, 36-year-old Marissa Jean Denton was arrested after successfully impersonating a nurse to gain unauthorized access to a Vanderbilt University Medical Center Critical Care Unit, where she stole 100 milliliters of Propofol, a potent anesthetic medication.

According to police reports, Denton entered the sixth-floor Critical Care Unit wearing blue scrubs, presenting herself as a legitimate medical professional despite having no valid nursing license in any state. The unit's security protocols typically require either staff assistance through a secured entry system or an authorized employee badge—measures Denton managed to circumvent.

St. Thomas Midtown Hospital Incident

According to an arrest report, Marissa Jean Denton entered a patient’s room at St. Thomas Midtown Hospital on September 17 and allegedly removed medication from an active IV drip. Police say Denton used a plastic syringe to draw out about 4 milliliters of Propofol, a powerful sedative and anesthetic often used to relax patients or put them to sleep.

Authorities confirmed that Denton had previously worked at the hospital until January 2024, though it’s unclear what her role was.

Metro Nashville Police said Denton’s actions were dangerous and unauthorized. “This act is absolutely not authorized by the subject and could have caused serious medical issues for the patient,” investigators stated.

Hospital staff quickly intervened and stopped Denton before more medication could be taken. She was later arrested by Metro Police.

A Pattern of Behavior

This incident represents more than an isolated security lapse. Investigators discovered that Denton had established a pattern of similar behavior, having previously impersonated medical personnel at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital and while working for home health services, where she allegedly stole medications and supplies from vulnerable patients. As a controlled anesthetic, Propofol requires careful monitoring and secure storage. 

Following her arrest, Denton faces charges of theft and impersonation of a licensed professional. Her bond is set at $75,000, and she is not eligible for release.

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