Caves and other mountain hideouts are being searched for fugitive Grant Hardin known as ‘Devil in the Ozarks’

The rugged terrain of the Ozark Mountains provides plenty of hideouts for fugitives, from abandoned cabins to campsites in the vast forests. Currently, law enforcement is on the hunt for Grant Hardin, a convicted former police chief known as the “Devil in the Ozarks,” who escaped from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock.

Local, state, and federal authorities have been conducting a thorough search in the area surrounding the prison, focusing on caves and other potential hiding spots. Hardin, who is familiar with the caves in the region, poses a challenge to the search team due to the vast number of caves in the area.

Described as a survivor and a smart individual by those who knew him, Hardin managed to escape by impersonating a law enforcement officer. His escape was facilitated by a lapse in the verification process at the prison, allowing him to leave undetected for approximately 30 minutes.

The search for Hardin has involved the use of canines, drones, and helicopters to comb through the rough terrain of northern Arkansas. Residents in the area have been advised to secure their homes and vehicles and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

The terrain in the Ozark Mountains is reminiscent of the site of a notorious manhunt for bomber Eric Rudolph in the Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. Rudolph, a skilled outdoorsman, managed to evade capture for years by utilizing cabins and caves in the area.

With nearly 2,000 documented caves in northern Arkansas, finding Hardin in the underground passageways presents a challenge. While caves provide ample hiding spots, the need to venture out for food increases the risk of being discovered.

Hardin’s checkered past in law enforcement includes incidents of excessive force and misconduct during his brief career. His criminal history includes convictions for first-degree murder and rape, for which he was serving lengthy sentences at the time of his escape.

As the search for Grant Hardin continues in the Ozark Mountains, law enforcement remains vigilant in their efforts to locate and apprehend the fugitive. The rugged terrain and abundance of caves in the area present a unique challenge in the pursuit of justice.