Manhunt after burglary gang members flee prison
MacDonagh, born into a traveller family, played a 'leading role' and took part in 46 of the raids. He was sentenced to 13 years. Casey was connected to 36 burglaries and was jailed for 10 years and six months. Harty took part in 22 break-ins and was jailed for 12 years.
The absconding comes three weeks after prison governors expressed concern over a rule change that allows serious offenders to be transferred early to open prisons to tackle the jail overcrowding crisis.
The Prison Governors' Association (PGA) protested over the change that will allow potentially dangerous criminals to be moved to open prisons up to three years before they are due to be released.
MacDonagh is described by police as a white man, at around 5ft 9inches tall, of medium build and with ginger hair.
Casey is a white man, at around 5ft 9inches tall, of small build and has black hair. He has slight facial hair and a moustache and goatee beard.
Harty is a white man, at around 5ft 9ins tall, of slim build with black hair and a black beard.
All three of the escaped prisoners were last seen wearing grey tracksuit bottoms.
The three are known to frequent Bristol, the West Midlands, Leicestershire, Leeds, Bradford, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
A Thames Valley spokesman said: 'We would advise members of the public not to approach them, but call 999 instead. If you have any information as to where they may be, you can call 101 or make a report online, quoting 43250312586.
'Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity, Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.'
It is the second escape this year from HMP Spring Hill. In March a man who was jailed for a life-threatening firearms offence failed to return to the jail.
Brian Odour, 34, was previously granted a temporary licence of leave from the open prison, but was told he needed to return after it was revoked.
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