Ex-Police Chief Serving Murder Sentence Escapes Arkansas Prison

Grant Hardin, a former Arkansas police chief convicted of first-degree murder and rape, escaped from the North Central Unit prison in Calico Rock by disguising himself in a makeshift law enforcement uniform and exiting through a sally port. Hardin, serving a 30-year sentence for the 2017 murder of James Appleton and a 50-year sentence for a 1997 rape linked to him through DNA evidence, has a background as a police officer, police chief, county constable, and corrections officer, which officials fear could aid his evasion. The escape occurred during rainy conditions which have hampered search efforts involving multiple agencies across the area, particularly in Benton and Stone counties where Hardin has many connections. A former Benton County prosecutor expressed shock over the escape and noted the lack of motive in Hardin's crimes, emphasizing the impact on victims' families. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any information to help locate Hardin, highlighting concerns about community safety and prison security. This incident underscores the challenges correctional facilities face in preventing escapes, especially when the escapee has law enforcement experience.