Ex-Prison Guard Jailed for Smuggling Cocaine and Cannabis into Jail
A former prison guard caught red-handed smuggling drugs into Erlestoke Prison has been locked up for three years. Hannah Gaves, 27, from Gloucester, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply Class A and Class B drugs, plus trying to sneak tobacco into the jail.
Caught with Cocaine in Her Knickers
On January 27, 2019, Gaves was stopped on her way into work at Erlestoke Prison and searched. Officers found cocaine hidden in her underwear, along with black plastic bags of cannabis, five packets of tobacco, and rolling papers.
Further searches of her home in Chippenham uncovered cash and more herbal cannabis. A cell search of an inmate she was linked to revealed tobacco and a sim card – evidence of their dodgy dealings.
Police and Prison Staff Crack Down on Drug Smuggling
Detective Sergeant Garry Epps blasted Gaves’ illegal actions: “There is simply no tolerance for the behaviour shown by Gaves in this case. The sentence handed down highlights how serious this offence is and should deter anyone thinking of pulling a stunt like this.”
Local Inspector Chris Martin added: “We act swiftly on intelligence, monitoring movements both inside and around the prison to stop this kind of activity.”
Community Urged to Help Fight Prison Contraband
This case underlines the close teamwork between Wiltshire Police and HMP Erlestoke staff to bust drug smuggling. Anyone spotting suspicious behaviour near Erlestoke or with info should contact Wiltshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Gaves also faces paying a £170 victim surcharge along with her prison sentence.
