Former Arkansas Police Chief Grant Hardin Captured After Two-Week Manhunt
Grant Hardin, a convicted killer and former police chief, was recaptured after escaping from an Arkansas jail, ending a two-week manhunt involving multiple agencies.
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
- Grant Hardin, a former police chief, escaped from an Arkansas jail by impersonating a law enforcement officer, leading to a two-week manhunt.
- He was serving an 80-year sentence for murder and a 1997 rape case when he escaped, raising concerns about public safety.
- Law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Border Patrol, utilized various search methods, including tracking dogs and drones, to locate him.
- Hardin was captured approximately 1.5 miles from the prison, with his identity confirmed through fingerprint analysis after his escape.
- Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed relief over Hardin's capture, emphasizing community support during the manhunt.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Emphasizes Hardin's capture following his escape and connection to past crimes through DNA evidence.
"Authorities say he was wearing a disguise to appear as if he was a law enforcement officer when he broke out."
BBC News"Thanks to the great work of local, state and federal law enforcement Arkansans can breathe a sigh of relief and I can confirm that violent criminal Grant Hardin is back in custody."
ABC News"There is no longer an active threat to public safety."
CBS News"The escape followed the May 16 jailbreak of 10 inmates in New Orleans – several of them charged with murder – which drew national attention and caused consternation in area communities."
USA TODAY"Hardin, who has a background in law enforcement, was in prison for killing Gateway city water employee James Appleton in 2017 and raping teacher Amy Harrison in 1997."
NBC News"A former police chief and convicted killer known as the “Devil in the Ozarks” was captured by law enforcement 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) northwest of the prison he escaped from following massive, nearly two-weeks-long manhunt in the mountains of northern Arkansas, authorities announced on Friday."
Associated PressArticles (8)
Center (6)
FAQ
Grant Hardin was a former police chief before his conviction for murder and rape. He escaped from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Arkansas, by using his knowledge of law enforcement procedures, which gave him an initial edge in evading capture.
Law enforcement agencies used various methods to search for Grant Hardin, including geo-fencing, license plate readers, drones, thermal imaging, and surveillance of known associates.
Grant Hardin was recaptured approximately 1.5 miles from the prison where he escaped. His identity was confirmed through fingerprint analysis.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.