property crime

The shopping season between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be a big boost to local businesses. In a year marred by a rash of property crimes against small shops, cafes, and restaurants, Kansas City business owners have extra cause to hope shoppers spend their money in town.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas’ latest plan to fight crime involves asking for help from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. But so far, the city says KCPD isn't willing to pay for the additional officers.

This fall, Jackson County voters will elect the first Black woman to serve as Jackson County Prosecutor. Republican Tracey Chappell and Democrat Melesa Johnson are both running for the office — which is garnering a lot of attention due to the rise in property crimes.

Republican Tracey Chappell and Democrat Melesa Johnson are on the Nov. 5 ballot for Jackson County Prosecutor. The candidates have attacked each other's qualifications, amid mounting concerns about property crimes and guns in Kansas City.

La policía ha vinculado los espectáculos secundarios y carreras callejeras con el robo de algunos vehículos Stellantis y GM de alta gama, como Jeeps, Chargers y Camaros.

Police have connected sideshows and street racing with the theft of some high-end Stellantis and GM vehicles like Jeeps, Chargers and Camaros.

Youth are being blamed of an increase in property crimes in Kansas City, and the Jackson County Family Court confirmed they've experienced a rise in the number of case referrals. But officials add that putting a person in jail isn't easy, and for youth, it's not always the best solution.

Mildred's, Donutolgy and Teocali were among the dozens of Kansas City small businesses hit by property crimes in the last few months. The owners said they were frustrated by how long it took to get authorities to respond.

With over 5,000 reported car thefts in Kansas City this year, frustrated residents are demanding elected officials and law enforcement find solutions. Plus: A $10 million federal grant will be used to improve safety on Prospect Avenue, one of the city's most dangerous roads.

As restaurants and stores around Kansas City recover from a wave of property crimes, the city's new Back to Business Fund will hand out more than 100 grants for damage repairs and security upgrades. Applications open in early October.

Property crimes have increased by 31% between 2019 and 2023. Much of that is due to a spike in car thefts. Faced with mounting public criticism, Kansas City officials are looking at solutions that include a new temporary jail.

Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves is casting blame on a lack of consequences for young people who commit property crimes like stealing cars. She says that light punishments from the juvenile court system are emboldening teens and causing the crimes to escalate — like in the recent murder of Shaun Brady.