Former Police Chief on Grant Hardin: 'He Was a Very Bad Cop'

Capture of Fugitive Grant Hardin

• 🚨 Grant Hardin, known as the "devil in the Ozarks," was captured after 12 days on the run, found less than two miles from the prison he escaped.
• 🎯 The capture was made by the Border Patrol tactical unit (Bortac), who joined the search that day, with bloodhounds reportedly picking up his scent.
• 👏 The successful apprehension is attributed to the diligent work of multiple agencies, including local police, US Marshals, the FBI, and Border Patrol.

Hardin's Past as a Police Officer

• 👮‍♂️ Earl Hyatt, former police chief of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, stated he fired Hardin for being "a very bad cop."
• ⚠️ Hardin was dismissed for dishonesty, specifically lying on a police report, and for using excessive force during arrests.
• 🗣️ Hyatt described Hardin as a "bully on the streets" and a violent individual with a bad temper.

Reaction to Hardin's Crimes

• 😲 Chief Hyatt expressed surprise upon learning of Hardin's later convictions for murder and rape, though he felt his initial assessment of Hardin's character was validated.
• 😥 The former chief conveyed relief that Hardin is back in custody, emphasizing the danger he posed to the public.
• 💬 Hyatt stated he was disgusted to learn about the rape conviction, calling it an "awful awful crime."