Authorities are continuing an intensive search for escaped inmate Grant Hardin (pictured bel0w), 56, who escaped from the North Central Unit of the Arkansas Department of Corrections on Sunday.
According to the Stone County Sheriff’s Office, Hardin escaped through the prison’s sally port. At the time, he reportedly wore a makeshift outfit resembling a law enforcement uniform. The Department of Corrections confirmed that Hardin was not wearing any official ADC-issued clothing and that all department equipment remains accounted for.
The search is a joint effort involving the Department of Corrections, Arkansas State Police, and multiple local and state law enforcement agencies.
Hardin has been incarcerated at the North Central Unit since 2017. He is serving a 30-year sentence for first-degree murder, along with a separate sentence for rape. Prior to his imprisonment, Hardin served as the police chief in Gateway, Arkansas, and has a background in law enforcement.
Authorities warn that Hardin should be considered extremely dangerous and not be approached. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact local law enforcement.
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ every weekday morning and afternoon. White River Now updates are also aired on weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5. Catch CBS News around the top of every hour on 1340 KBTA.
