Fugitive ex-police chief Grant Hardin escapes prison amid manhunt

In the United States, specifically Arkansas, escaped prisoner Grant Hardin is evading capture after breaking out from the North Central Unit prison in Calico Rock. This occurred on May 25, 2025, just before 3 p.m. Hardin is a convicted murderer and rapist who had been serving time when he managed to flee while wearing a makeshift outfit resembling a law enforcement uniform. Now the search has entered its fifth day, with authorities facing significant challenges due to the region's cave-dense landscape, which could provide Hardin with potential hiding spots. Law enforcement officials have reported that there are between 300 and 400 known caves in the area, some of which exceed a mile in length. These caves offer various places to hide, but authorities indicate that they also pose risks, as most only have one entrance, limiting escape options if they are tracked by dogs. Additionally, the inclement weather has temporarily hindered search efforts, as tracking dogs may struggle to pick up his scent on wet ground. Hardin has ties to several nearby communities, including Garfield, Eureka Springs, Holiday Island, and Huntsville, which may assist him in finding shelter or resources as he remains at large. He has previous experience in law enforcement as a police chief and has also been featured in a documentary titled 'Devil in the Ozarks,' indicating he may possess knowledge that could aid in avoiding capture. Authorities believe he may not be too far from the area where he escaped, conducting an extensive manhunt involving local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. As the search continues, law enforcement stresses the importance of public vigilance, warning that Hardin is a dangerous individual likely capable of committing additional crimes while still evading capture. With the FBI offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to his recapture, officials are urging anyone with information to come forward, showcasing the escalating urgency to resolve the operation to apprehend Hardin before he can escape further or cause harm.