Grant Hardin, the notorious ‘Devil in the Ozarks’ known for his violent crimes, was captured after evading law enforcement for weeks following his escape from an Arkansas prison on May 25. The multi-agency manhunt, involving local, state, and federal law enforcement as well as the U.S. Border Patrol, culminated in Hardin’s arrest approximately 1.3 miles from the prison. Identified through fingerprint analysis, Hardin was taken into custody without incident, marking the end of a tense and prolonged search. Authorities have not yet disclosed details on how he was located or if he received outside assistance during his escape. Investigations into the prison breach continue, with officials expressing gratitude for the efforts of all involved in the manhunt. Hardin, serving an 80-year sentence for the 2017 murder of James Appleton and a 1997 rape case, escaped through a sally port while wearing a makeshift prison uniform, according to ADC communications director Rand Champion. The successful capture brought relief to the Arkansas community, with Governor Sarah Sanders acknowledging the collective effort of law enforcement agencies, including the Trump administration and Secretary Kristi Noem, in securing Hardin’s return to custody.