Grant Hardin, a former police chief who was convicted of murder and rape, escaped from the North Central Unit prison in Arkansas by cleverly disguising himself and exploiting a security lapse. Dressed in black and pushing a cart resembling a law enforcement vehicle, Hardin walked past an unaware guard at a sally port gate, designed for vehicle access. This lapse was attributed to a guard not following protocol, as he mistook Hardin for an officer. The escape occurred on May 25, and it took nearly two weeks for authorities to track him down.
Once discovered missing during a routine head count, a comprehensive manhunt ensued, involving various law enforcement agencies confronting challenging weather and terrain. Hardin was eventually captured near a creek about 1.5 miles from the prison after tracking dogs located his scent.
Hardin had previously been sentenced to 30 years for fatally shooting James Appleton, a city water employee, and sexually assaulting Amy Harrison, a teacher. These crimes made him infamous, earning him the nickname “Devil in the Ozarks.” His escape resurfaced trauma for victims and their families, particularly concerning security at the prison. Initially considered a model inmate, his meticulous planning for the escape raised questions about how he could execute it without drawing attention.
Following his recapture, Hardin was moved to Varner Supermax prison, which is more secure and houses high-profile inmates. The community expressed relief at his capture, highlighting the dread his escape had instilled in local residents. Authorities are conducting an investigation into the escape, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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