**Gwent Police Seek Public’s Help in Search for Woman Recalled to Prison**
Police in Gwent are appealing to the community for assistance as they look to trace a woman who has been recalled to custody after breaching the terms of her prison release. Officers have identified the individual as 27-year-old Lucy Hayden, who is believed to be from the Ebbw Vale area in South Wales.
According to official sources, Hayden had recently been released from prison after serving part of a sentence handed down by Newport Magistrates’ Court in late 2024. She was originally sentenced to seven months and twelve days for charges related to theft. Despite her release in February earlier this year under licence, police state that she has not complied with the strict conditions required as part of her supervision in the community.
Gwent Police issued a statement on Wednesday, confirming: “Lucy Hayden, of Ebbw Vale, has failed to comply with her licence conditions and is now wanted for recall to prison.” Officers are urging anyone who might know of Hayden’s whereabouts to get in touch, underlining the importance of public vigilance in such cases. Recalls to prison usually occur when individuals are perceived as posing a risk to the public or failing to keep to the terms imposed upon their release.
Communities are often reminded by police that breaches of licence are taken seriously, because individuals released on licence are expected to adhere to particular requirements, including maintaining contact with probation services, residing at approved addresses, and complying with behaviour standards set by the court or probation authority. The consequences of breaching these rules can mean a swift return to custody to serve the remainder of the original sentence.
The police appeal has been widely shared on social media in hopes of harnessing the broader reach of these platforms. Members of the public who may have recently seen Hayden, or have any information about her movements, are encouraged to contact Gwent Police either by phoning 101 and quoting reference number 2500190790, or by using direct messaging on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), as well as through the police’s official website.
Such appeals highlight the ongoing collaboration needed between local police forces and the communities they serve. Public support frequently proves vital in resolving situations where individuals evade contact or attempt to go to ground following breaches of licence. In recent years, local authorities have credited community-spirited individuals with providing key information leading to the safe location and apprehension of such persons.
The release mechanism for prisoners, especially those serving shorter sentences, is designed to aid rehabilitation and reintegration. However, the system requires commitment from all parties, with licence conditions ensuring both public safety and the support of those transitioning from a custodial to a non-custodial lifestyle. When those conditions are not respected, the authorities must act quickly to uphold the integrity of the process.
Officers and local leaders are reiterating the message that anyone assisting or harbouring a wanted person could themselves be committing an offence and facing legal consequences. The advice remains clear: do not approach Ms. Hayden if you see her, but contact the police straight away using the available channels.
As the search continues, Gwent Police are expected to provide updates should circumstances change. They are reminding the public to remain alert and to report any sightings or information promptly. The police emphasise that all reports are treated in confidence, with the focus on maintaining public safety above all.