Grant Hardin, a former police chief and convicted murderer, escaped from an Arkansas prison last month, raising significant security concerns. Disguised in an outfit resembling a law enforcement uniform, he walked out of the North Central Unit in Calico Rock while pushing a cart of wooden pallets. This escape, reminiscent of a recent mass jailbreak in New Orleans, sparked a two-week manhunt involving numerous law enforcement agencies battling adverse weather conditions. Hardin was ultimately captured near an Izard County creek, approximately 1.5 miles from the prison.
The escape highlighted a critical lapse in security, attributed to an employee’s failure to follow procedure. The officer in the control tower mistook Hardin for a staff member and allowed him to exit through a back gate. A headcount only revealed his absence about 20 minutes later. Residents felt anxious during the manhunt, with businesses closing early and heightened police presence creating a tense atmosphere.
Hardin is serving a 30-year sentence for fatally shooting city employee James Appleton and sexually assaulting teacher Amy Harrison, cases featured in the Max documentary “Devil in the Ozarks.” His history as a model inmate contributed to his ability to execute the escape plan, utilizing built-up trust. The investigation into his escape continues, although officials believe he acted alone, aided in part by challenging weather conditions that hindered law enforcement efforts.
After his capture, Hardin was transferred to Varner Supermax prison, the state’s most secure facility. Community members expressed relief at his apprehension, feeling safer with him back in custody.
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