RELATED VIDEO: Hunt for Hardin recap
In Izard County, Arkansas, Grant Hardin, an escaped inmate famously dubbed the “Devil in the Ozarks,” has been captured, as reported by the Izard County Sheriff’s Office.
The capture occurred close to the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, as mentioned in a Facebook post by the Stone County Sheriff’s Office. “Although many details are still under investigation, there is no longer a threat to public safety,” the post stated.
Board of Corrections member Benny Magness also confirmed that Hardin is in custody.
Hardin, who was serving time for murder and rape, was first reported missing from the North Central Unit nearly two weeks ago on May 25.
Hardin managed to escape by impersonating a law enforcement official, according to a spokesperson for the Arkansas Department of Corrections.
Magness said he was captured about a mile from the unit in the woods, with help from a specialized unit from border patrol.
An extensive manhunt
Hardin’s escape spurred an extensive manhunt that involved local, state, and federal agencies and lasted nearly two weeks.
“This was a great joint operation by a number of agencies, and I’m so thankful for their tireless efforts,” said Director of Division of Corrections Dexter Payne. “The Arkansas State Police, U.S. Marshals, FBI, Border Patrol, Game and Fish, all the state and local agencies, along with the dedication of our Department employees, all played an indispensable role and I express my extreme gratitude.”
This is a developing story.
