Summary of "Devil in the Ozarks" — True Crime Garage Episode 848

Episode Details:

• Title: Devil in the Ozarks
• Podcast: True Crime Garage
• Hosts: Nick and the Captain
• Release Date: June 8, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 848, titled "Devil in the Ozarks," hosts Nick and the Captain delve into the chilling case of Grant Hardin, the former police chief of Gateway, Arkansas, who became infamous for his violent crimes and subsequent prison escape. This case encapsulates the complexities of small-town dynamics, law enforcement misconduct, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

The Murder of James Appleton

The episode opens with a dramatic recounting of the murder of James Appleton, a 59-year-old employee of the Gateway Water Company. On the evening of February 23, 2017, Appleton was performing routine work when he encountered Grant Hardin's white Chevy Malibu on Grand Ridge Road in Gateway, Arkansas.

At [02:50], the Captain introduces the central figure:

The Captain: "Grant Hardin, once the police chief, turns dark after losing his job, leading to a night of terror."

Appleton was found slumped in his truck, appearing to have been shot from within Hardin's vehicle. The incident unfolded quickly, with eyewitness John Bray witnessing the chaotic scene and identifying Hardin as the perpetrator.

Key Events:

• Initial Encounter: Appleton and Hardin's vehicles are seen on Grand Ridge Road.
• The Incident: A gunshot is heard, and Appleton is found dead with blood evidence pointing to Hardin's Malibu.
• Immediate Aftermath: Hardin is seen departing the scene and later heading to dinner with his family, displaying a disturbing calmness.

At [14:18], Nick reflects on the perplexing nature of the crime:

Nick: "If you're in a small town and you don't know the motive, it doesn't make sense. These two despised each other, and now one is dead."

Investigation and Evidence

The investigation into Appleton's murder quickly focused on Grant Hardin due to the strong physical evidence and the small, interconnected nature of Gateway's community. Blood was found on Hardin's Chevy Malibu, and surveillance footage placed him at the scene around the time of the murder.

Evidence Highlights:

• Blood Spatter: Traces of Appleton's blood on Hardin's vehicle.
• Surveillance Footage: Hardin's presence at the crime scene around the time of the murder.
• Eyewitness Testimony: John Bray's account linking Hardin to the incident.

At [19:38], the Captain emphasizes the mounting evidence:

The Captain: "Everything's adding up here."

The hosts discuss the meticulous nature of the investigation, highlighting how the small-town setting made it easier to identify suspects and corroborate testimonies.

Grant Hardin's Criminal Background

A significant portion of the episode dissects Grant Hardin's troubled history within law enforcement. Hardin's tenure as police chief was marred by allegations of excessive force, misconduct, and an authoritarian approach to policing.

Career Timeline:

• 1990-1991: Worked with Fayetteville Police Department; fired for unfitness.
• 1991-1992: Huntsville Police Department; brief stint ending voluntarily.
• 1993-1996: Eureka Springs Police Department; fired for excessive force and falsifying reports.
• 2009-2016: Constable for Benton County District 1 Sheriff's Office.
• 2016: Appointed Police Chief of Gateway, Arkansas; resigned after four months due to misconduct.

At [33:47], the Captain critiques Hardin's ambition:

The Captain: "The worst thing you can do is hire somebody that is power hungry and wants to have this job, not to serve and protect, but because it's a power move."

Hardin's aggressive behavior peaked during his brief tenure as police chief, leading to his ousting by the city council and setting the stage for his later violent acts.

The Cold Case Rape of 1997

Interwoven into Hardin's narrative is a cold case from November 1997 involving the sexual assault of a 15-year-old teacher at Frank Tillery Elementary School in Rogers, Arkansas. For years, the case remained unsolved until recent DNA advancements linked Hardin to the crime.

Case Highlights:

• Incident: On December 7, 1994, a 15-year-old girl was assaulted at gunpoint and sexually assaulted in Milwaukee, leading to a cold case in Rogers, Arkansas.
• DNA Link: Decades later, advancements in DNA profiling connected Hardin to the 1997 rape case, adding a significant layer to his criminal profile.
• Legal Maneuvering: The use of a John Doe warrant allowed prosecutors to charge Hardin without naming him directly until DNA confirmed his identity.

At [48:56], Nick underscores the importance of DNA evidence:

Nick: "This DNA evidence would change all of that."

The revelation of Hardin's involvement in the cold case paints a broader picture of his violent tendencies and pattern of criminal behavior.

Prison Sentence and Escape

Following his guilty plea to the murder of James Appleton, Hardin was sentenced to 30 years in prison, with eligibility for parole after 25 years. Despite his conviction, Hardin managed to escape from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock, Arkansas, on May 25, 2025.

Escape Details:

• Date: May 25, 2025
• Method: Disguised himself in what appeared to be a corrections officer uniform and exploited a gate mechanism.
• Manhunt: A statewide manhunt ensued, utilizing bloodhounds, helicopters, and drones, given the rugged terrain of the Ozarks and numerous hiding spots like caves.

At [55:16], the Captain discusses the uncertainty surrounding Hardin's escape:

The Captain: "This man is on the run, and given his background, he's extremely dangerous."

The escape highlighted vulnerabilities within the prison system, prompting scrutiny and calls for improved security measures.

Pursuit and Recapture

Despite initial fears and extensive manhunts, Hardin was recaptured after a 13-day search. His apprehension was facilitated by the Border Patrol's tactical units, deploying numerous vehicles to locate and secure him.

Recapture Highlights:

• Date of Capture: Approximately June 7, 2025
• Location: Near Calico Rock, Arkansas
• Agency Involved: Border Patrol's tactical unit from West Texas.
• Outcome: Transferred to the Varner Union Super Max unit, increasing security measures.

Philip Hayes of News Nation reported, emphasizing community relief:

Mills Hayes: "People here in Calico Rock are breathing somewhat of a sigh of relief."

The rapid response by law enforcement agencies underscored the high priority of capturing a fugitive with Hardin's profile.

Conclusion and Insights

The episode concludes by reflecting on the systemic issues highlighted by Hardin's case, including the consequences of power-hungry law enforcement officials and the challenges of maintaining security within the prison system. The community's resilience and the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies ultimately ensured Hardin's capture, serving as a testament to the pursuit of justice even in the face of complex and disturbing crimes.

At [58:41], Nick shares his fears regarding the escape:

Nick: "If he's walking away without help, he's desperate and dangerous, potentially harming others."

However, the successful recapture brings a sense of closure to the community and reinforces the importance of vigilance and integrity within law enforcement.

Notable Quotes

• Nick at [14:18]: "If you're in a small town and you don't know the motive, it doesn't make sense. These two despised each other, and now one is dead."

• The Captain at [19:38]: "Everything's adding up here."

• The Captain at [33:47]: "The worst thing you can do is hire somebody that is power hungry and wants to have this job, not to serve and protect, but because it's a power move."

• Nick at [48:56]: "This DNA evidence would change all of that."

• Mills Hayes at [66:16]: "People here in Calico Rock are breathing somewhat of a sigh of relief."

Final Thoughts

"Devil in the Ozarks" is a gripping exploration of Grant Hardin's descent from a position of authority to one of infamy. Through detailed narration and insightful analysis, True Crime Garage sheds light on the dark underbelly of small-town law enforcement and the enduring impact of unresolved crimes. The episode serves as both a cautionary tale and a tribute to the unwavering pursuit of justice.

For more detailed accounts and additional true crime stories, visit True Crime Garage and subscribe to their podcast on your preferred platform.