Grant Hardin, infamously dubbed the "Devil in the Ozarks," was sentenced to 13 additional years in prison after pleading guilty to charges of second-degree escape from an Arkansas prison. Currently serving an 80-year sentence for rape and murder, Hardin's new sentence will run consecutively, extending his time behind bars significantly. Authorities, including Izard County Sheriff Charley Melton, confirmed the details of Hardin's sentencing, noting the serious nature of his crimes and the impact of his escape on public safety.

Hardin's escape occurred on May 25, and his recapture took place on June 6, approximately 1.5 miles from the North Central Unit prison. During the escape, he managed to exit through a sally port dressed in a makeshift uniform that resembled the Arkansas Department of Corrections attire. This escape sparked a manhunt involving multiple agencies, reflecting the seriousness of his offenses and the public's concern for safety while he was at large.

Currently, Hardin is incarcerated at the Varner Supermax facility in Gould, Arkansas, where he will serve the additional sentence. This case emphasizes the ongoing challenges of prison security and the lengths some inmates will go to escape. Additionally, Hardin’s notoriety raises critical discussions around managing high-risk offenders within the corrections system and the legal repercussions tied to escaped convicts.