Police have launched a major manhunt after two convicted burglars absconded from an open prison in Suffolk. James Dooley, aged 23, and Andrew Cash, aged 32, were reported missing from HMP Hollesley Bay in the early hours of Tuesday morning, prompting an urgent search operation by Suffolk Constabulary.
Details of the Escapees
Andrew Cash was serving a six and a half year sentence for burglary offences at the time of his escape. James Dooley had been sentenced to six years and three months for burglary offences, with an additional charge of intent to pervert the course of justice.
Physical Descriptions and Known Links
Police have released detailed descriptions of both men to aid the public in identifying them. James Dooley is described as white, standing 6 feet 1 inch tall, with brown hair. Andrew Cash fits a similar description, with a medium build. Authorities have emphasized that both individuals should not be approached if spotted.
Dooley has known links to several areas, including:
- Wood Green in north London
- Waltham Cross in Hertfordshire
- Slough in Berkshire
Cash is associated with:
- Newmarket
- Bury St Edmunds
- Southampton
Police Appeal for Information
Suffolk Police are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of James Dooley or Andrew Cash to come forward immediately. The public is asked to contact the South Response Investigation Team, using specific reference numbers for each escapee.
For Andrew Cash: Quote reference 37/10872/26
For James Dooley: Quote reference 37/10874/26
About HMP Hollesley Bay
HMP Hollesley Bay, also known historically as Hollesley Bay Colony, is a Category D men's prison. This classification indicates it is an open prison facility designed for inmates who are approaching the end of their sentences or have been assessed as posing minimal risk to the public.
The prison has a capacity of 485 prisoners and operates on a model where offenders spend most of their day away from their accommodation, typically engaged in study programs or work assignments. This environment is intended to facilitate rehabilitation and prepare inmates for reintegration into society.
The escape has raised questions about security protocols at open prison facilities, particularly concerning inmates with histories of serious offences like burglary. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the abscondment and are following multiple lines of inquiry to locate the missing prisoners.
