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Woman behind 30+ hour barricade on Richmond Hwy. charged with kidnapping

The victim was reported missing days before the barricade began.

LAUREL, Md. — A Maryland police department has filed kidnapping charges against a woman who was involved in a multi-day standoff on Richmond Highway in Fairfax County, Virginia. 

According to a release from the Laurel Police Department, officers have filed charges against 29-year-old Brittany A. Copelin for Kidnapping, Home Invasion, First Degree Assault, Second Degree Assault, Third Degree Burglary, Firearm Use in the Commission of a Felony, Loaded Handgun on Person, and False Imprisonment. 

Investigators say the incident began when the victim 25-year-old Lauren L. Kingsbury was reported missing by her mother on Friday, March 24.

Kingsbury's mother told police her daughter was last seen on a doorbell video leaving her home with Copelin.

Detectives are still working to fill in the details of what happened in the days leading up to the reported kidnapping and during the time Kingsbury was missing. 

Fairfax County Police located the missing woman days later and she told officers she had been kidnapped by Copelin. 

During the investigation, a standoff ensued between Copelin and the Fairfax County Police Department that spanned over 34 hours.

"The Laurel Police Department commends the Fairfax County Police Department for their commitment and perseverance in finding a peaceful resolution in bringing Ms. Copelin into custody," Laurel Police said in a release. "We would also like to thank the Charles County Sheriff's Office for their cooperation in assisting with our investigation." 

Detectives ask anyone with information regarding this case to call the Laurel Police Department at 301-498-0092, anonymous tips can also be sent to LPDtips@laurel.md.us.

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