Ex-police chief serving time for murder and rape escapes Arkansas prison
An urgent manhunt is currently underway in Arkansas following the escape of Grant Hardin, a disgraced former police chief who was serving time for murder and rape. The incident took place at the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, AR, as confirmed by the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Hardin, 56, had been incarcerated at the North Central Unit since 2017, serving a 30-year sentence for first-degree murder and an additional sentence for rape. He was also identified as the former chief of police for the city of Gateway. The escape has prompted authorities to issue a call for information on Hardin’s whereabouts, urging the public to contact local law enforcement immediately.
The escapee’s criminal history includes a guilty plea for the 2017 murder of James Appleton, a city water employee who was found shot in the face inside his work truck. Additionally, Hardin’s DNA was linked to a cold case rape from 1997 involving Amy Harrison, a teacher at Frank Tillery Elementary in Rogers. Harrison recounted being raped at gunpoint by a man at the school, a crime for which Hardin pleaded guilty in 2019.
Nathan Smith, the prosecuting attorney for Benton County at the time, described Hardin as a highly dangerous individual capable of committing random and horrific acts of violence. Despite not initially appearing threatening, Hardin’s actions in both the murder and rape cases have underscored the severity of his crimes.
Hardin is described as a 6′ white male weighing approximately 259 pounds. The escape has raised concerns about public safety and the need to swiftly locate and apprehend Hardin to prevent further harm. Authorities are working diligently to track down the fugitive and ensure that he is returned to custody.
The escape of Grant Hardin serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals with violent criminal histories and the importance of effective prison security measures. The ongoing manhunt highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and the public in ensuring the safety of communities and swiftly bringing fugitives to justice.
