News Summary
Grant Hardin, a former police chief serving an 80-year sentence for murder and rape, escaped from a prison in Arkansas. The community is on high alert as authorities conduct a multi-agency search for the fugitive. Hardin’s past crimes have resurfaced anxiety for victims’ families, and local law enforcement is urging residents to stay vigilant while efforts continue to recapture him.
Former Police Chief Grant Hardin Makes a Shocking Prison Escape
In an unbelievable turn of events, Grant Hardin, a 56-year-old former police chief from Gateway, Arkansas, managed to escape from the North Central Unit prison in Calico Rock on May 25, 2026. Hardin was serving a hefty combination of sentences totaling 80 years for first-degree murder and rape. This shocking incident has left both investigators and the community on high alert.
The Crimes Behind the Sentences
Hardin was guilty of some serious crimes, including the murder of James Appleton, a city water department employee and sibling of the current mayor, Cheryl Tillman. This tragic event took place back in February 2017 when Appleton was shot. In addition to his murder charge, Hardin also faced sentences for raping a school teacher named Amy Harrison back in 1997. These heinous acts have forever marked the lives of many in the community.
A Bold Escape
In a calculated move, Hardin created a makeshift law enforcement uniform that closely resembled that of real officers. He then took advantage of a seemingly careless mistake when a prison officer accidentally opened a secure gate. This lapse in security allowed Hardin to slip away, and authorities realized he was missing about 15 to 20 minutes later.
Multi-Agency Search Efforts
Once officials understood what had happened, a multi-agency search was quickly initiated. Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies have teamed up, employing canines, drones, and helicopters to scour the rugged Ozark Mountains. The challenging terrain, laden with caves, abandoned structures, and dense forests, is making it tough for search teams to locate Hardin. As a result, time is of the essence, and the sense of urgency is palpable throughout the community.
Community Reaction
Cheryl Tillman expressed the rising anxiety surrounding Hardin’s escape. She has described him in the past as “very arrogant” and “angry,” creating a heightened sense of fear for many residents. Local authorities are urging everyone to lock their doors and stay vigilant, believing that Hardin may still be lurking in the vicinity of the prison.
Repercussions for Victims’ Families
This unsettling escape has reopened old wounds for the families of Hardin’s victims, particularly the Appleton family. The resurgence of trauma linked to his past crimes has made this entire situation even more painful. Many in the community feel uneasy, as memories of Hardin’s horrific actions resurface.
The Ongoing Investigation
As the hours pass since Hardin’s escape, authorities are diving deep into how he pulled off this stunt and whether he might have had any behind-the-scenes help. Despite their extensive search efforts, as of May 28, there have been no credible sightings of Hardin.
What’s Next?
With Hardin at large, the focus remains on capturing him before any further damage can occur. Law enforcement continues to work tirelessly, determined to bring Hardin back into custody. While the search intensifies, the community holds its breath, wondering when and how this troubling chapter will come to a close. Stay tuned as updates unfold in this gripping story.
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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The HERE Clinton Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Clinton community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Clinton: Our team includes lifelong Clinton residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Clinton’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., Clinton Technical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Clinton Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
