For Immediate Release

March 14, 2025

Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced charges against a woman in connection with two business burglaries. The enhanced Crime Strategies Unit has identified her as a high-impact offender. 

Tajala Jones faces two counts of 1st Degree Burglary.* Jones has several prior convictions related to theft.

According to court records, Kansas City police detectives identified Jones as the suspect in one shoplifting incident on Jan. 22 and another on Feb. 20, after witnesses provided officers with pictures of the defendant and video of both incidents. 

“I am proud to announce that our newly enhanced Crime Strategies Unit has already identified and charged a high-impact offender in connection with multiple burglaries across our community. The Unit is doing exactly what it was designed to do—identify patterns of criminal behavior and ensure repeat offenders face appropriate charges to prevent them from continuing to victimize our community,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “To those with extensive criminal history: we are watching, we are connecting the dots, and we are working with law enforcement to build strong cases. If you choose to continue engaging in criminal behavior, you will be charged to the fullest extent of the law to reflect your pattern of crimes.”

*Charges are only accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until the defendant is either found guilty or pleads guilty.

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Media Contact: 

Jazzlyn Johnson

Director of Communications 

Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office 

415 E 12th Street

Kansas City, MO - 64106

(816) 929-1289 

jazzlyn.johnson@jacksongov.org 

https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com