Escaped Former Police Chief Grant Hardin Remains at Large in Arkansas Following Prison Break

Escaped Former Police Chief Grant Hardin Remains at Large in Arkansas Following Prison Break

Seventy-two hours have passed since Grant Hardin, a former police chief from Arkansas, escaped from prison. Hardin, who is serving a lengthy sentence for murder and rape, vanished from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock on Sunday afternoon. Authorities from the Arkansas Department of Corrections are actively searching for the escaped convict.

Prison Escape Details

Hardin, 56 years old, was last seen in the prison area before his disappearance was noted by staff. Rand Champion, the communications director for the Arkansas Department of Corrections, shared insights during a press conference on Wednesday. He stated that officials have a clear understanding of Hardin’s possible escape route and the circumstances surrounding it.

Champion expressed that based on gathered intelligence and the experience of the search teams, there is a strong belief that Hardin remains nearby. Still, he cautioned that one vehicle could enable Hardin to travel farther from the vicinity.

Search Efforts and Public Safety

Local law enforcement has established a perimeter around Stone County to assist in the ongoing search. The community is advised to treat Hardin as a dangerous individual who may pose risks for additional crimes during his time on the run. Authorities emphasized the importance of public vigilance.

Timeline of the Escape

The prison administration noticed Hardin’s absence in under 30 minutes, prompting an immediate search. Social media posts from the Stone County Sheriff’s Office revealed images of Hardin in what appeared to be a prison uniform during his escape. However, Champion clarified that the attire worn by Hardin did not correspond to an official uniform.

Authorities speculated that the garment either originated from a homemade source or was somehow smuggled into the facility. Clarifying the situation further, Champion stated, “It had to have either been homemade or brought in somehow.”

Background on Grant Hardin

Hardin has gained infamy as the