Reward Offered for Capture of Escaped Former Arkansas Police Chief

Reward Offered for Capture of Escaped Former Arkansas Police Chief

The FBI has announced a $10,000 reward for information leading to the recapture of Grant Hardin, a former police chief serving time for serious crimes including murder and rape. Known as ‘the Devil in the Ozarks,’ Hardin escaped from a medium-security prison on May 25.

Grant Hardin, aged 56, was last seen at the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Arkansas — a facility managed by the Arkansas Department of Corrections. His escape has generated significant concern among law enforcement agencies.

Law Enforcement on High Alert

The FBI is collaborating with the U.S. Marshal Service, the Arkansas Department of Corrections, and the Arkansas State Police in their efforts to locate and apprehend Hardin. An FBI wanted poster meticulously outlines the search operations that are in motion.

Hardin has established connections to several areas, including Garfield, Eureka Springs, Holiday Island, and Huntsville, making his whereabouts particularly difficult to trace.

Insights from Former Federal Agents

Rob D’Amico, a former FBI agent, shared insights on the challenges posed by Hardin’s background. During an interview, he emphasized that Hardin’s experience as a police chief could provide him with an operational advantage while on the run.

He stated, “His knowledge of police procedures and investigative techniques makes the hunt for him quite complex. He understands how investigators work and what surveillance methods they employ.” This expertise could make it harder for law enforcement to track him down effectively.

Environmental Factors and Escape Route

D’Amico also pointed out the potential hiding spots that Hardin could exploit. The authorities believe there are numerous unlocked cabins and sheds in the wooded regions surrounding Stone County, which lies east of the Ozark Mountains. The terrain in this area offers several opportunities for concealment.

During a press conference, Arkansas Department of Corrections Communications Director Rand Champion expressed confidence in the authorities’ understanding of Hardin’s escape route. According to Champion, the team has reason to believe he remains in close proximity to the area.

Perimeter Established and Safety Concerns

Although authorities have established a perimeter in Stone County, Champion cautioned that Hardin could use a vehicle to flee the vicinity. He stressed, “It only takes one vehicle for him to travel far from this area.” Nevertheless, officials maintain a firm belief that Hardin could still be located nearby.

Champion advised the public to perceive Hardin as a dangerous individual, emphasizing the risk that he may commit further crimes while at large. His escape raised serious safety concerns among local residents as he could be desperate for resources.

Details of the Escape

The escape occurred swiftly, with prison officials noting Hardin’s absence in under 30 minutes. Images released by the Stone County Sheriff’s Office depict Hardin in an ADC-style uniform during his escape. However, Champion clarified that the uniform he was wearing was not an official prison uniform.

Background on Grant Hardin

Hardin was sentenced to 30 years in prison for murder and additional time for rape. He pleaded guilty to the 2017 murder of James Appleton, a city water department employee. Appleton’s lifeless body was discovered with gunshot wounds in his work truck. During Hardin’s booking, a DNA sample led to his eventual linkage to a rape case dating back to 1997, culminating in a guilty plea in that instance in 2019.

Hardin’s escape arrives just days after a mass prison break in New Orleans, which heightened concerns regarding the safety of inmates and the security of correctional facilities across the country.

Community Urged to Remain Vigilant

Authorities have issued a detailed description of Hardin. He is a six-foot tall white male weighing approximately 259 pounds. The FBI urges anyone with pertinent information about Hardin’s whereabouts to reach out at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

As law enforcement officials continue their search, they emphasize the importance of community vigilance and cooperation. The responsible actions of citizens could play a crucial role in ensuring Hardin is brought back into custody swiftly.

Contributions from Fox News’ Stepheny Price and Louis Casiano were invaluable in reporting this story.