Unlawfully at Large: 5 Men Missing in Northern Ireland, One for 22 Years
The Department of Justice (DoJ) has confirmed that five men are currently unlawfully at large in Northern Ireland. Being unlawfully at large occurs when a person serving a term of imprisonment escapes lawful custody and is free in the community. The longest-serving inmate to fail to return to prison is Brendan McGuinness, who has been unlawfully at large for a staggering 22 years. According to the DOJ’s website, McGuinness was just 19 years old when he failed to return to HMP Hydebank Wood in May 2002, after being granted pre-release for drug offenses.
Different Situations of Being Unlawfully at Large
There are various situations where an adult offender can be considered unlawfully at large. These include when a prisoner escapes from lawful custody, fails to surrender to custody while on bail, does not return after temporary release on license, absconds after being recalled while on license, or runs away after being released early from the custodial part of their sentence on home detention curfew.
Profiles of the Missing Men
1. Thomas McCabe
Thomas McCabe, unlawfully at large since August 23, 2023, is 59 years old and was serving a life sentence at HMP Maghaberry before it was revoked. He is described as slim, 1.7m tall, with blue eyes, and brown hair. McCabe has various distinguishing marks such as tattoos on his arms and fingers, scars on his ear and arms, as well as a broken nose.
2. Elijah Martin Gavin
Elijah Martin Gavin has been unlawfully at large since April 13, 2022. At 26 years old, he was serving time at HMP Magilligan for various offenses including using a motor vehicle without insurance, burglary, and possession of a controlled drug. Gavin is 1.77m tall, with green eyes, and brown hair. He has tattoos on his arms, shoulders, and chest.
3. Patrick McCarthy
Patrick McCarthy has been unlawfully at large since August 20, 2020. At 40 years old, he was serving time at HMP Magilligan for offenses such as burglary, theft, assault, and dangerous driving. McCarthy is 5ft 6ins tall, with a stocky build, ruddy complexion, blue eyes, and dark brown hair. He has tattoos of a gun and a cross on his arms.
4. Thomas O’Brien
Thomas O’Brien has been unlawfully at large since July 16, 2012. At the time, he was 33 years old and serving time at HMP Magilligan for causing death by dangerous driving. O’Brien is described as 5ft 4ins tall, with a medium build and a fresh complexion. He has blue eyes, dirty fair hair, and various tattoos on his arms.
5. Brendan McGuinness
Brendan McGuinness has been unlawfully at large since May 2, 2002. At the age of 19, he failed to return to HMP Hydebank Wood after being granted pre-release for drug offenses. McGuinness is 5ft 10ins tall, with a light build, brown eyes, and fair hair.
Seeking Assistance
If you see anyone matching the descriptions of these missing men, please contact your nearest police station or Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. It is crucial to report any sightings to ensure the safety of the community and assist in bringing these individuals back into custody.
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