A former police chief accused of murder has escaped from prison

In the state of Arkansas, a continuous search is underway — on May 25, it was reported that the former police chief of the town of Gateway, Grant Hardin, had escaped from one of the local jails. According to information from CNN, the 56-year-old former law enforcement officer was previously held in custody under a heavy sentence for first-degree murder and two counts of rape.

How did the escape happen?

According to the Arkansas Department of Corrections, Grant Hardin escaped on May 25 at around 3:40 PM from the North Central Unit prison. At the time of his escape, he was wearing clothing similar to that of law enforcement officers: black pants, a t-shirt, a baseball cap, and a bulletproof vest. Therefore, on surveillance footage, he appeared more like a staff member than a prisoner.

Interestingly, he disguised himself not as an ordinary person, but as a worker pulling a cart loaded with cardboard boxes and wooden planks. Officials reported that he exited through the “sally port,” a loading dock area in prisons that is usually considered secure and frequently used.

Prison term and crimes

Grant Hardin had been imprisoned since 2017. He had been sentenced to 30 years for a murder in Arkansas and 25 years each for the rape of two women. Serving all terms concurrently, the former officer faced a total of at least 80 years in prison.

What actions are being taken now?

Several agencies across the state, including Arkansas State Police, local sheriff's departments, and federal authorities, have been involved in the search. Law enforcement is asking citizens to report any information immediately.

Such incidents are extremely rare in the history of Arkansas. Especially the escape of a high-risk convict with serious crimes has caused concern among the public.

So far, Grant Hardin’s whereabouts remain unknown. Officials emphasize that they are using all available resources to capture him.

Photo: CNN