The Arkansas Department of Corrections (ADC) has released an updated photo of Grant Hardin, a former police chief serving a life sentence for murder and rape, following his recent escape from a medium-security prison. Hardin, 56, fled from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock on May 25, and authorities are intensifying their search as the FBI and U.S. Marshals offer a $25,000 reward for information leading to his capture. The ADC stated that the photo reflects possible changes in Hardin’s appearance, emphasizing the ongoing urgency of the manhunt.
Hardin, who was previously known as the ‘Devil in the Ozarks,’ had been serving decades in prison for his crimes. His escape from a medium-security facility has raised concerns about prison security and the potential risks he poses to the public. Authorities have emphasized that Hardin is a dangerous individual who may commit further crimes while on the run.
The FBI and U.S. Marshals have joined the search efforts to locate Hardin, offering a combined $25,000 reward for any information that leads to his capture. They have urged the public to report any sightings or tips, citing the importance of community involvement in ensuring his swift apprehension. The search has spanned multiple jurisdictions within Arkansas, with a focus on the north central region where Hardin is believed to be hiding.
Hardin’s escape followed a series of other prison breaches in the region, including a recent incident in New Orleans where 10 prisoners broke free, with eight of them already recaptured. Despite the number of fugitives at large, officials remain confident that Hardin is still within the state. His movements have been tracked through surveillance and tips, with officials confident in the route he might have taken upon his escape.
Hardin’s criminal history is extensive, with a guilty plea to the 2017 murder of James Appleton, a city water employee who was found shot in the face inside his work truck. His DNA was also linked to a rape cold case from 1997, which he pleaded guilty to in 2019. These convictions have contributed to his long prison sentence, with the ADC noting that he was serving decades in detention for these crimes.
Authorities have also highlighted the challenges posed by Hardin’s escape, particularly given his background as a former law enforcement officer. His knowledge of the region, coupled with his experience in police work, has made the search more complex. Experts have noted that his unique background presents a unique challenge to the manhunt, requiring a tailored approach to locate and apprehend him safely.
As the search continues, the ADC has urged the public to stay vigilant and provide any information that may aid in finding Hardin. The ongoing manhunt has drawn significant media attention, with outlets such as Fox News providing updates on the case. The public’s assistance is crucial in ensuring the swift resolution of this high-profile escape, which has captured the attention of law enforcement and the media alike.