Convicted Killer Grant Hardin Captured After Two-Week Arkansas Manhunt

Grant Hardin, a former police chief in Gateway, Arkansas, known as the “Devil in the Ozarks,” was recaptured after a nearly two-week manhunt following his escape from the Calico Rock medium-security prison. Hardin, who was serving a 30-year sentence for murder and a 50-year sentence for a 1997 rape, escaped on May 25 by impersonating a corrections officer and walking out undetected. His identity was confirmed through fingerprinting after being apprehended about 1.5 miles northwest of the prison, near Moccasin Creek in Izard County. The extensive search involved hundreds of local, state, and federal agencies, including an elite Border Patrol Tactical Team (BORTAC), bloodhounds, drones, helicopters, and officers on horseback. Arkansas Governor Sarah Sanders expressed relief and gratitude towards all the law enforcement agencies involved, specifically thanking the Trump administration and Secretary Kristi Noem for their support. Officials noted a security lapse in the prison that allowed Hardin's escape, which is now under investigation, and investigators are eager to question Hardin following his capture.