A former police chief from Gateway, Arkansas, is on the run after escaping from prison on Sunday. Grant Hardin, who has been serving multiple lengthy sentences for serious offenses including first-degree murder and rape, vanished from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock where he has been incarcerated since 2017. Details about the circumstances of his escape remain scarce, but corrections officials indicated that Hardin disguised himself in a makeshift law enforcement outfit to facilitate his escape.
Authorities, including the Division of Correction and the Division of Community Correction, are actively pursuing leads with assistance from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.
Hardin’s criminal history is particularly troubling; he pleaded guilty in October 2017 to the murder of 59-year-old James Appleton, who was killed near Garfield. The investigation revealed that Appleton was shot in the head while conversing with his brother-in-law, then-mayor Andrew Tillman. Additionally, Hardin received a 50-year sentence for the 1997 rape of an elementary school teacher, with DNA evidence ultimately linking him to that crime when he was imprisoned for Appleton’s murder.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in managing dangerous offenders and maintaining prison security. There is hope that swift action by authorities will lead to Hardin’s capture and restoration of public safety.
With active efforts underway to locate him, the community is reminded of the importance of vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement.