For Immediate Release
April 3, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced her office filed charges yesterday against a man who broke into a local wine bar over the weekend.
Evan A. Werts faces 2nd Degree Burglary, 1st Degree Property Damage, and two counts of Stealing. *
The defendant was previously charged with two counts of 2nd Degree Property Damage for an incident last year and posted bond. He had been complying with a GPS monitoring system and strict special conditions of his bond for months, which led to the court’s decision to allow modifications of some of his restrictions.
While out on bond, the defendant turned off his GPS monitoring system right before committing this weekend’s burglary. As a result, the Prosecutor’s Office has filed a motion to revoke bond, and the court issued a no-bond warrant.
“In this case, the defendant was given an opportunity, based on his compliance and positive behavior, to have access to tools to improve himself, but instead chose to commit a new felony. While my office prioritizes a balance of accountability and rehabilitation, those who violate trust and continue criminal behavior will swiftly face the full weight of prosecution,” said Prosecutor Johnson.
According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched to Vita’s Place on a burglary call on March 30. Video footage revealed a male, later identified as the defendant, attempt to kick in the rear door of the business but was unsuccessful. He then broke in and entered a window on the front door of the business. Two bottles of wine, one bottle of whiskey, and cash from the register were missing from the business.
The defendant is being held for a mental health evaluation and will be taken into custody as soon as he is released.
*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