Escaped Inmate Hardin Recaptured After Intense Manhunt
Escaped Arkansas inmate Grant Hardin is back in custody following an intense, almost two-week manhunt involving local, state, and eventually, federal agencies.
Hardin was located and captured around 3 PM on Friday, June 6, in a wooded area near Moccasin Creek in Izard County, about a mile and a half from the North Central Unit where he originally escaped. Tracking dogs led law enforcement to his location, and he was taken into custody without incident.
Hardin escaped from the North Central Unit on May 25 by impersonating a law enforcement officer. His escape sparked a widespread search that included help from the U.S. Marshals, FBI, Arkansas State Police, Arkansas Game and Fish, and U.S. Border Patrol.
Governor Sarah Sanders said Arkansans “can breathe a sigh of relief” now that Hardin is back in custody, and thanked law enforcement at all levels for their efforts.
Secretary of Corrections Lindsay Wallace praised the around-the-clock efforts of correctional staff and supporting agencies, saying,
“I give my heartfelt thank you for your immeasurable contributions to bring this search to a peaceful conclusion.”
Hardin was serving time for violent offenses including murder and rape. Officials have not yet released details on any new charges related to his escape.
Congratulations to all of the law enforcement agencies working together and getting another dangerous fugitive back behind bars.
Follow the Arkansas Department of Corrections for more details.
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