Authorities are actively searching for a former police chief who escaped from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock on Sunday.
Grant Hardin, 56, was serving time for first-degree murder and rape.
According to the Arkansas Department of Corrections, Hardin fled the prison wearing an outfit resembling law enforcement attire, which allowed him to blend in with staff and exit the facility undetected.
Officials have described him as extremely dangerous and urged the public not to approach him.
Hardin was incarcerated in 2017 for the murder of James Appleton. He later pleaded guilty in a separate rape case involving Amy Harrison from 1997.
The North Central Unit, which houses inmates convicted of serious offenses, is now under scrutiny for potential lapses in security. Officials are reviewing protocols to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities continue to pursue all leads and emphasize their commitment to capturing Hardin and ensuring public safety.
The manhunt remains ongoing, and updates will be released as new information becomes available.
