Jason MacDonagh, Daniel Harty, and Barney Casey Escape Springhill Open Prison

A major manhunt is underway after three convicted burglars — Jason MacDonagh, Daniel Harty, and Barney Casey — escaped from Springhill Open Prison on Monday evening.

The men, all originally from Ireland, were serving long prison terms for their involvement in a series of high-value burglaries across the UK. The crimes saw them steal an estimated £300,000 worth of jewellery and cash from over 50 homes in 2023.

The Escape from Springhill Prison

According to Thames Valley Police, the trio absconded from the low-security prison at around 6 PM. At the time of the escape, all three were dressed in grey prison-issued tracksuits or jogging bottoms.

Police have issued detailed descriptions of the fugitives:

• Jason MacDonagh, 34, is a white male, 5ft 9in tall, with ginger hair, facial hair, and a medium build.

• Daniel Harty, also 34, is white, 5ft 9in, slim build, with black hair and a beard.

• Barney Casey, 24, is white, 5ft 9in, small build, with black hair, a moustache, and a goatee.

Background: Burglary Spree and Convictions

The men were members of a masked gang responsible for a burglary spree across the UK, including incidents in Bristol, Warwickshire, Leeds, and Bradford.

CCTV footage captured the group in the act — entering homes through bay windows in broad daylight and even during moments when victims were inside. One video shows a woman screaming in fear after the gang stormed her house.

Their arrest came after detectives pieced together CCTV footage, tracked phone records, and identified vehicles used during the burglaries, including an Audi R3 and a VW Golf. The cars were found with false number plates, and Jason MacDonagh was connected as the buyer and seller of one of the vehicles.

Arrest and Sentencing

Along with fellow gang member Darren O’Halloran, the men were arrested in Yorkshire and Wales in early 2023. The four were later convicted of conspiracy to burgle following a trial and were sentenced to a combined total of nearly 50 years in prison by Birmingham Crown Court.

Public Warning and Appeal for Help

Police warn the public not to approach the escaped men under any circumstances and to call 999 immediately if they are spotted. The fugitives are believed to have links to several areas across the UK and Ireland, including:

• Bristol

• West Midlands

• Leicestershire

• Leeds

• Bradford

• Northern Ireland

• Republic of Ireland

Claire Busby, a Police Staff Investigator with Thames Valley Police, said: “We are appealing to the public for any information on the whereabouts of MacDonagh, Casey, and Harty. Please contact police if you have seen them or know where they might be.”

How to Help

If you see Jason MacDonagh, Daniel Harty, or Barney Casey, or have any information on their current location, contact 999 immediately. You can also share anonymous tips through Crimestoppers.