Rick Smith

The board abruptly went into closed session after some clergy members called for a vote on Smith’s termination. Civil rights groups have been calling for Smith’s termination since his handling of protests against police brutality in June.

Deja Stallings says her unborn daughter is the latest victim of police brutality. Both the Kansas City Police Department and the Jackson County Prosecutor’s office say they’re reviewing the incident.

Lucas’ comments set up a showdown with organizers, who vow to remain camped at City Hall until Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith is fired and the police department’s budget is cut by 50%.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas says he welcomes free expression, but draws the line at intimidation of officers’ families.

The Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Greater Kansas City is joining the Indian Mound Neighborhood Association, the Urban League of Greater Kansas City, the editorial board of the Kansas City Star, and others in calling for Chief Rick Smith's resignation.

Several Kansas City civil rights organizations banded together Friday afternoon to protest federal agents being deployed to Kansas City and to demand the ouster of Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith.