For Immediate Release
May 20, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced a Kansas City man was sentenced to seven years in prison for an ice cream shop burglary that occurred last year.
John Heckman received a seven-year prison sentence after pleading guilty yesterday to 2nd Degree Burglary and a concurrent four-year sentence for 1st Degree Property Damage.
“Our office remains committed to protecting our small businesses, which contribute so much to our community,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “Too many small business owners are facing financial hardships and inconveniences as a result of repeat burglaries. We will continue to pursue appropriate consequences for those who repeatedly victimize businesses in Jackson County.”
According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched on October 13, 2024, to Betty Rae’s Ice Cream on a burglary. Officers observed a broken glass door, and the reporting party said a black safe with nearly $2,000 in cash was taken.
Surveillance footage of the incident showed an older male, later identified as the defendant, throw a rock into the window and enter the business. He walks to the back of the store where the safe is located and carries it out of the business.
The reporting party said the glass door was $1,700 to fix and the safe was $2,000 to replace.
The defendant’s criminal record includes multiple prior convictions for burglary and stealing across the Kansas City metro.
Chief Trial Assistant Kristiane Bryant and Trial Team Leader Hallie Schuman prosecuted the case on behalf of the state of Missouri.
# # #
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