For Immediate Release
June 2, 2025
Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson today announced several felony charges against a Kansas City man for allegedly shooting a Lee’s Summit police officer.
Thomas E. Tolbert faces 1st Degree Assault, Armed Criminal Action, Unlawful Possession of a Firearm, Resisting Arrest/Detention/Stop by Fleeing, and 2nd Degree Domestic Assault. *
“I am proud we were able to swiftly file charges regarding an incident that left an officer seriously wounded,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “This office is committed to ensuring that those who assault our law enforcement officers face serious consequences. We will never tolerate violence against the women and men who risk their lives every day to protect our community.”
According to court records, Lee’s Summit police were dispatched to an apartment complex near SW Hollywood Drive and Highway 150 on June 1 regarding a man, later identified as the defendant, who was allegedly involved in a domestic assault with the victim.
Upon arrival, an officer approached the defendant in the parking lot of the complex and attempted to detain him. The defendant broke away and began to flee on foot. As the officer ran after him, the defendant began to fire multiple gunshots at the officer, striking him four times. The officer was hit in the left leg, left arm, chest of his body armor, and his shoulder.
The defendant is not yet in custody. If you have information about his whereabouts, please call 911 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous TIPS hotline: 816-474-8477.
*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