Former Police Chief, Convicted of Murder and Rape, Escapes Arkansas Prison

Former Arkansas Police Chief Escapes Prison: Timeline of Crimes and Manhunt Grant Hardin, a 56-year-old former police chief, escaped from the North Central Unit prison in Calico Rock, Arkansas, on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at approximately 3:40 p.m. Hardin was serving an 80-year sentence for the 1997 rape of a teacher and the 2017 murder of James Appleton. Authorities describe Hardin as "extremely dangerous" and have launched a wide-ranging search, utilizing K-9 units, drones, and roadblocks. "Hardin is considered extremely dangerous and should be considered armed," stated Arkansas Department of Corrections spokesperson Cindy Murphy. The escape has raised concerns about prison security. Hardin had no history of behavioral problems in prison and had completed an anger management program. The video provides a detailed timeline of the events leading to his escape, including his conviction for both crimes. The manhunt continues.