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Escapee Grant Hardin, a convicted murderer and rapist who sparked a multi-agency manhunt after fleeing custody last month, has been captured.
Dubbed the “Devil in the Ozarks,” Hardin was captured this afternoon about 1.5 miles north-northwest of the North Central Unit prison, from which he escaped on May 25, according to the Izard County Sheriff’s Office.
Hardin’s identity was confirmed through fingerprint analysis prior to the department’s announcement of his long-awaited capture.
Authorities announced that his arrest was made without confrontation, concluding a protracted manhunt that involved local law enforcement, state police, federal agencies, and specialized tactical teams. The fugitive was apprehended after officials concentrated their search efforts in the challenging and isolated areas surrounding the prison.
Hardin managed to escape the facility by utilizing a sally port while clad in a self-made uniform resembling those of the ADC, though it was not an official outfit, explained ADC communications director Rand Champion last week. (ADC)
In a statement, the Izard County Sheriff’s Office thanked the public and the law enforcement community for their ongoing support and vigilance during the manhunt.
“We sincerely appreciate the continued support of the community for all law enforcement personnel involved in this operation,” the department said.
Officials have not yet released further details regarding how Hardin was located or whether he received any outside assistance during his escape. Investigations into the security breach remain ongoing.
Fox News Digital’s Audrey Conklin contributed to this report.
