Urgent Manhunt for Ex-Police Chief Nicknamed ‘Devil in the Ozarks’ Following Dramatic Prison Escape

As authorities search the rugged Ozark Mountains in Arkansas for a former police chief turned convicted killer, the tension in the community grows. Grant Hardin, known as the “Devil in the Ozarks,” escaped from a medium-security prison where he was serving long sentences for murder and rape. He slipped out by impersonating a guard, leaving many locals and family members of his victims on high alert.

Cheryl Tillman, whose brother James Appleton was murdered by Hardin in 2017, expressed deep concern. She recalls being a witness during his trial, saying, “He knows us. We were there.” The search for Hardin is intense, involving dogs, drones, and helicopters, but the rugged terrain and recent heavy rain are complicating efforts.

Craig Caine, a retired U.S. Marshal with decades of experience, believes Hardin’s escape into rural areas might hurt his chances. “He’ll run out of supplies eventually, and in tight-knit communities, people are more likely to notice if someone doesn’t belong,” he noted.

Local sheriff Charley Melton has urged residents to be vigilant—locking doors and reporting anything unusual. Bryan Sexton, the prosecutor in Hardin’s case, mentioned that reconnecting with affected families has been emotionally taxing, reminding them of the trauma they endured.

In Gateway, Hardin was once a part of the community. Darla Nix, a local cafe owner, remembers him as a quiet, intelligent man. Now, the escape stirs up old fears for many, including Tillman, who sees Hardin as a significant threat to society.

Hardin pleaded guilty to the murder of Appleton, a water department worker, in 2017. He also received a lengthy sentence for the 1997 rape of an elementary school teacher. Hardin had been at the Calico Rock facility, which accommodates about 800 inmates, since then.

As the search continues, the community remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution to the frightening situation.



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Arkansas, Missouri, Crime, General news, Homicide, Prisons, Legal proceedings, MO State Wire, AR State Wire, Sexual assault, James Appleton, Cheryl Tillman, Shootings, Law enforcement, U.S. news, Grant Hardin, Courts, Craig Caine, Bryan Sexton, Darla Nix