Escaped ‘Devil in the Ozarks’: Grant Hardin on the Run

A manhunt is underway in the rugged Ozark Mountains of Arkansas for Grant Hardin, a former police chief known as the “Devil in the Ozarks,” who escaped from prison this past weekend.

How Hardin Escaped

Hardin, who was serving lengthy sentences for murder and rape, managed to walk out of the North Central Unit, also known as the Calico Rock prison, by impersonating a corrections officer. According to court documents, he was able to convince an officer to open a secure gate for him, using clothing that did not resemble standard inmate or correctional uniforms.

“There’s nothing inside the prison that looks like that, so that’s one of the challenges we’re going through to find out what that was and how he was able to get that or manufacture it,” said Rand Champion, a spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Corrections.

Search Efforts and Challenges

Authorities are utilizing canines, drones, and helicopters to search the challenging terrain. Champion noted that the escape happened in an area known for its ruggedness, which both limits Hardin’s options and complicates the search. Heavy rains in recent days have also added to the difficulties.

“It’s called Calico Rock for a reason, because it’s very rocky,” he added.

Community On Edge

Cheryl Tillman, whose brother James Appleton was killed by Hardin in 2017, expressed fear and worry about Hardin’s escape. “We were there at his trial when all that went down, and he seen us there, he knows,” she told The Associated Press.

Local law enforcement has urged residents to remain vigilant, lock their homes and vehicles, and report any suspicious activity to 911.

Hardin’s Past Crimes

Hardin pleaded guilty in 2017 to the first-degree murder of Appleton, a water department employee who was shot in the head. He was sentenced to 30 years for this crime. Hardin is also serving a 50-year sentence for the 1997 rape of an elementary school teacher.

The case against Hardin has gained national attention, with a 2023 documentary titled “Devil in the Ozarks” shedding light on his horrific crimes.

Expert Opinion

Craig Caine, a retired U.S. Marshals inspector, believes Hardin’s escape into a rural area could eventually work against him. “At some point in time, he’s going to run out of provisions,” Caine said. “In more rural areas, most people know one another. It could be detrimental to him.”