Manhunt Underway for Escaped Former Police Chief

Manhunt for Escaped Police Chief

News Summary

Grant Hardin, a former police chief serving long sentences for murder and rape, escaped from prison in Arkansas. Authorities are on high alert as they search for him, warning the public to stay away due to his dangerous history. The manhunt is ongoing, with local law enforcement urging anyone with information to come forward. The community is understandably anxious, grappling with the implications of a former officer being a convicted criminal on the run.

Manhunt Underway for Escaped Former Police Chief Convicted of Murder and Rape

In a shocking turn of events, **Grant Hardin**, a **56-year-old** former police chief, made a daring escape from the North Central Unit prison in Calico Rock, Arkansas, late Sunday afternoon. This incident is alarming, especially since Hardin was serving a **30-year sentence** for first-degree murder and an additional **50 years** for rape. To think someone who once had a badge and the sworn duty to protect was found guilty of such heinous crimes is unsettling.

The Details of the Escape

The escape happened between **2:50 PM and 3:40 PM**, a relatively short window that left authorities scrambling. Hardin did not just slip away unnoticed; he was clever in his approach. He fashioned a makeshift outfit that made him look like he might still belong to law enforcement, although it was not the official uniform of the Arkansas Department of Corrections. This disguise adds another layer of concern, as it may potentially allow him to blend into certain environments.

Crimes and Convictions

Hardin’s criminal history is alarming. He pleaded guilty to murdering **59-year-old James Appleton**, who was shot in the head in **February 2017** while speaking to the then-mayor of Gateway, Andrew Tillman. Additionally, Hardin was also linked to a **1997 rape case involving Amy Harrison**, an elementary school teacher, through DNA evidence. After admitting to the multiple rapes in 2019, he was sentenced to **25 years for each count**.

Heightened Vigilance

Authorities are taking no chances with Hardin’s escape. The **Stone County Sheriff’s Office** is heavily involved in the manhunt, implementing roadblocks and shutting down access points into **Izard County** to check vehicles. **Hardin is considered extremely dangerous**, and local law enforcement agencies have issued warnings urging the public to stay away from him if spotted. This is serious stuff, and the warning certainly feels warranted.

How You Can Help

Anyone with information regarding Hardin’s whereabouts is urged to contact local law enforcement immediately. Drones and other resources are actively being deployed to track him down, and authorities are diligently following up on any leads. Hardin is described as approximately **6 feet tall and weighing around 259 pounds**, making him difficult to miss—but don’t try to approach him.

Community Response

The community is understandably anxious as they come to terms with the implications of Hardin’s escape. His ties to **Benton County** are sending a ripple of concern through local law enforcement agencies, prompting them to be on high alert. Given his former position as police chief, there is a palpable sense of betrayal within the community. It’s unsettling to think that someone who once held a position of authority could turn out to be capable of such horrific acts.

Manhunt Status

As of **11:30 PM** Sunday night, the manhunt is still ongoing, and the hunt for Grant Hardin remains a top priority for law enforcement. The local streets and communities are on high alert as they navigate this alarming situation. Everyone is hoping for a swift resolution to ensure the safety of all community members.

If you happen to see someone who fits Hardin’s description, remember to keep your distance and contact the authorities right away. Your vigilance could be a crucial part of bringing this chilling manhunt to a close. Stay safe, everyone!