Grant Hardin, a convicted murderer and former police chief known as the “Ozarks Devil,” has been recaptured 1.5 miles from the prison he escaped in northern Arkansas after a nearly two-week manhunt. Hardin, who had been serving time since 2017 for first-degree murder and rape, impersonated an officer to escape Calico Rock Prison.
After he fled on May 25, law enforcement utilized various search tactics, including drones and horses, but faced challenges due to weather conditions. His capture occurred when he attempted to flee from approaching officers but was soon tackled. Checks for dehydration were conducted, but he showed no significant injuries.
The search involved federal assistance from a U.S. Border Patrol tactical team. Hardin’s criminal history includes the 2017 murder of James Appleton and a 1997 sexual assault, which solidified his notorious reputation. His capture has been a relief for victims’ families, with Appleton’s sister expressing gratitude that the community no longer has to live in fear.
Hardin’s problematic history in law enforcement included a brief tenure as police chief and past incidents of excessive force, culminating in a checkered career across various police departments in northwest Arkansas. His tenure was plagued by issues that ultimately hindered his law enforcement career.
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