Former Police Chief Escapes from Arkansas Prison

News Summary

Grant Hardin, a former police chief, has made a dramatic escape from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Arkansas. This incident has sparked a massive manhunt, as authorities work to locate Hardin, who has a history of serious crimes including murder and rape. The escape has put the local community on high alert, with law enforcement urging residents to report any suspicious activity. The situation raises concerns about community safety and the effectiveness of prison security.

Former Police Chief’s Shocking Escape from Arkansas Prison

A dramatic turn of events unfolded on May 25, 2025, when Grant Hardin, a former police chief with a dismal past, made a daring escape from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Arkansas. Hardin, who was serving a lengthy prison sentence for serious crimes, vanished around 3:40 p.m. using what officials are yet to disclose as the method of his escape. This incident has sparked a statewide manhunt and left many in the community on edge.

Hardin’s Dark Past

Grant Hardin’s criminal record is as shocking as his escape. He was convicted of first-degree murder for the tragic shooting death of James Appleton, a 59-year-old man who met a gruesome fate on February 23, 2017. At the time of the incident, Appleton was conversing with his brother-in-law, who was none other than the then-Mayor of Gateway, Andrew Tillman. Appleton’s lifeless body was discovered inside a car, a grim outcome that rocked the local community.

More Crimes Uncovered

Aside from the murder conviction, Hardin had also landed in hot water for a brutal rape case. In 1997, he was found guilty of raping an elementary school teacher, Amy Harrison. This case remained cold for years until DNA evidence linked him to the crime by matching samples taken from Harrison’s clothing back in 2003. This breakthrough led to a “John Doe” warrant that finally caught up with Hardin, who ended up pleading guilty to two counts of rape in 2019, receiving 25 years for each count.

Desperate Manhunt Underway

Since Hardin’s escape, authorities have launched a full-scale manhunt to locate him as quickly as possible. Given the serious nature of his past offenses, law enforcement agencies are urging residents to stay alert and report anything unusual. They have made it clear that anyone with information regarding Hardin’s whereabouts should reach out to their local law enforcement immediately.

Strong Community Ties

Compounding the urgency of the situation is Hardin’s strong connection to Benton County. His ties make it all the more critical that residents in the area keep their eyes peeled for any sign of the escaped inmate. The Benton County Sheriff’s Office has expressed their heightened vigilance in response to this unsettling development.

What’s Next?

Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies are joining forces to capture Hardin and ensure community safety. With Hardin’s physical description as a 6-foot tall white male weighing approximately 259 pounds, he might not be easy to miss. Reports indicate that Hardin was last seen wearing an Arkansas Department of Corrections uniform, which further raises concerns about how he managed to evade security.

A Call for Caution

The escape of a high-profile inmate like Grant Hardin raises alarm bells. Authorities are reminding everyone to be cautious and vigilant. Communities thrive on cooperation and communication in such tough times, and residents are encouraged to stay informed while looking out for one another.

Conclusion

The events surrounding Grant Hardin’s escape serve as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in our communities. As law enforcement continues its pursuit, keeping informed and alert could contribute to a swift resolution in bringing Hardin back behind bars. For now, let’s all stay safe and hope for the best.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• CBS News
• 5 News Online
• Fox News
• Wikipedia: Arkansas Prison
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Prison