‘Do not approach’ warning issued after prisoner absconds from open prison

‘Do not approach’ warning issued after prisoner absconds from open prison

Police have issued a warning to the public after a prisoner escaped from an open prison near Bristol. Steven Stewart, aged 39, absconded from HMP Leyhill in South Gloucestershire on the evening of Saturday, November 9, 2024. Stewart, who was serving a sentence for wounding with intent, is considered dangerous, and the public is advised not to approach him. Instead, if spotted, individuals are urged to contact emergency services by dialing 999.
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Stewart was convicted in 2021 at Lewes Crown Court in Sussex for a violent attack on another individual. The court heard that he used a broken bottle to injure the victim during an altercation in a bar in Eastbourne. Following this incident, Stewart was sentenced to seven years and eight months in prison. Additionally, he faced further charges for threatening to harm police officers after being involved in a dangerous driving incident where he crashed his vehicle.

After serving three and a half years of his sentence, Stewart managed to escape from HMP Leyhill, prompting a manhunt by local authorities. Avon and Somerset police described Stewart as approximately 5ft 10ins tall, with a medium build, short dark hair, and distinctive tattoos on his arms and hands. He was last seen wearing a black baseball cap, dark zip-up jumper, jogging bottoms, and white trainers. The fugitive has known connections to Eastbourne and Brighton.

In a public statement, Avon and Somerset police reiterated the importance of not directly engaging with Stewart if seen. Instead, individuals are encouraged to report any sightings to the authorities immediately. The police provided reference number 5224295968 for emergency calls and advised that any additional information can be shared by contacting the non-emergency number 101.

The escape of Steven Stewart serves as a reminder of the potential risks posed by individuals with violent criminal histories who go missing from custody. It highlights the importance of public vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement agencies in ensuring community safety. The incident also underscores the challenges faced by the prison system in preventing such escapes and managing high-risk offenders effectively.

Authorities continue their search for Steven Stewart, urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward promptly. The escapee’s history of violence and threatening behaviour emphasises the need for swift action in locating and apprehending him. As the search unfolds, the public is reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious sightings to the police to aid in the swift resolution of this ongoing situation.