## Family Pleads for Answers as Year Passes Since Cardiff Woman’s Disappearance
The family of Charlene Hobbs, who vanished from Cardiff nearly a year ago, has spoken out about their ongoing anguish as South Wales Police continue to treat her disappearance as a suspected murder. In the absence of a body or conclusive evidence of her fate, the Hobbs family remain trapped in uncertainty and deep distress, desperate for answers and closure.
Charlene was last seen in the early hours of 24 July 2024. A photo captured on a mobile phone at a property on Broadway, Adamsdown, marks the final confirmed sighting. The day prior, CCTV footage placed her at a Morrisons Local in Adamsdown, her distinctive dragon tattoo visible—a detail that her loved ones hope might still help jog the public’s memory.
In the months following Charlene’s disappearance, police have mounted an extensive investigation. According to South Wales Police, the case has involved widespread media appeals, consultations with over 400 individuals, the visiting of 629 properties, and rigorous searches extending to derelict buildings, open land, and waterways. Despite these efforts and a £20,000 reward from Crimestoppers for information leading to a conviction, concrete leads remain elusive. A 45-year-old man arrested in connection continues to be on police bail, yet no one has come forward with definitive information about Charlene’s whereabouts or fate.
For her family, the absence of answers has proved unbearable. Dean Hobbs, Charlene’s cousin, spoke candidly about the torment of not knowing what has become of her. He voiced concern that initial responses to Charlene’s disappearance were lacking, citing that she had been reported missing three times across a six-week span before a formal police investigation commenced. Dean believes this delay may in part be due to Charlene’s personal circumstances—she had experienced homelessness and was known to law enforcement, factors that he fears contributed to her being overlooked.
Dean explained how the family instinctively knew something was wrong, as Charlene rarely lost contact except when in prison, where she was easily traceable. The lack of urgency in the early investigation, he argues, might have cost investigators valuable evidence. South Wales Police have since acknowledged the family’s concerns and are reviewing their handling of the earlier missing person reports.
As the case continues, the Hobbs family has had to endure not only uncertainty, but also painful speculation and unkind commentary on social media about Charlene’s life. Dean shared that Charlene suffered significant trauma in her past, leading to life on the streets, struggles with addiction, and involvement in sex work during her last year. Yet, he emphasised, her vulnerabilities should not diminish the seriousness with which her disappearance is treated. Charlene, he said, is a beloved daughter, sister and mother, and deserves the same compassion and diligence as any other missing person.
Despite her challenges, Dean described Charlene as an “introverted, lone soldier” who, nonetheless, was recognised and known throughout Cardiff. He reminisced about happier times they shared growing up, highlighting that every person’s life story is shaped by circumstances often beyond their control. The family has worked tirelessly, organising and joining search parties, speaking with those who knew her, and following up any lead, no matter how faint the hope.
The family’s agony is compounded by conflicting theories surrounding Charlene’s fate. Dean referred to this state of limbo as “torture,” yet the family still clings to hope that Charlene may one day be found alive and well. Should the worst have happened, they assert she deserves a proper farewell and for her loved ones to find peace.
South Wales Police Detective Chief Inspector Matt Powell reiterated the commitment of his team to uncovering the truth. “The investigation into Charlene’s disappearance is both complex and meticulous,” he said, urging anyone with information, however minor, to come forward for Charlene’s sake and that of her family. Police have set up channels for the public to submit information or footage that could help the investigation.
As the one-year milestone approaches, the Hobbs family continues their appeal to the public. Dean’s message is heartfelt: “If anyone knows anything, please come forward. Even the smallest detail may be crucial.” Their enduring hope is for answers that will finally bring Charlene home, or at the very least, allow her family the chance to say goodbye with dignity.