Police are searching for Daniel Buckley after he escaped from HMP Thorn Cross in Warrington and was last seen there on the morning of Saturday May 30. Officers are carrying out enquiries to trace him, and the public has been told not to approach him if they see him.
Buckley is 37, stands 5ft 10in, has a medium build and dark hair. He was last seen wearing a grey t-shirt, grey jacket, black joggers and grey Nike trainers, and was carrying a white shopping bag. Police say anyone with information about his whereabouts should call Cheshire Police on 999 and quote IML-2340086, or pass information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The search is drawing attention because Buckley was jailed in January 2024 for 16 years and four months after playing a leading role in an organised crime group. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine, conspiracy to supply amphetamine, entering into or becoming concerned in a money laundering arrangement and possessing amphetamine with intent to supply. He is known to have links to the Manchester area, including Failsworth and Openshaw, which may help explain why officers are trying to build a faster picture of his movements now.
A Prison Service spokesperson said public protection is their priority and that prisoners who fail to return following temporary release face strict punishments, including a return to a closed prison and being prevented from moving to open conditions for up to two years. The spokesperson also said police were working urgently to recapture Buckley and urged anyone with information to go to the police. What remains unclear is how he got away from HMP Thorn Cross in the first place, and that gap will shape the next stage of the search.
