A tattooed violent offender jailed for slashing a man’s face with a knife in Swindon has absconded from prison.
45-year-old Martin MacDonald left Spring Hill Prison, which is a Category D open facility, at around 7pm on Monday (21 September).
Thames Valley Police is appealing for help to trace the criminal, who is known to frequent Swindon and Reading.
In September 2022, MacDonald was jailed for nine years grievous bodily harm with intent, possession of a weapon in a public place and possession of a Class B drug.
The sentence followed a knife attack behind Culvery Court, Swindon, on 18 May 2022.
MacDonald approached a man in his 30s at around 5.50pm before putting him in a headlock and cutting his face with a knife.
The victim suffered a 10cm-long deep wound from his mouth to his ear, which required stitches and left him permanently disfigured.
Police have now warned members of the public not to approach MacDonald if they see him.
He is described as a white man, around 6ft tall and of medium build, with very short brown hair.
MacDonald has a cut to his forehead at the hairline and a tattoo on the right side of his neck reading “19/01/81”.
He also has the word “fear” tattooed across his left knuckles and “love” tattooed on his right knuckle.
Police staff Evelina Kersyte said: “If you see Martin MacDonald, do not approach him and call 999 instead.
“If you know where he is or may have seen him, please call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43260491390.
“Alternatively, you can provide information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.”
