Kansas City woman listed on FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KQTV) -- The FBI, alongside the Kansas City Missouri Police Department and the Jackson County Prosecutor's Office announced the addition of a Kansas City woman to the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.
KaShawn Nicola Roper, 50, is wanted for her alleged involvement in a shooting on Aug. 30, 2020 in Kansas City, Missouri. Roper allegedly fired multiple shots at a car, following an altercation, which struck two female victims, killing one of them.
On Sept. 10, 2020, Roper was charged with second degree murder, armed criminal action and the unlawful use of a weapon in the 16th Judicial Court in Jackson County. A state warrant was issued for her arrest.
On July 1, 2021, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Roper in the United States District Court, Western District of Missouri after she was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.
Roper's addition to the List comes with a $1 million reward leading to her arrest and conviction. She marks the 541st addition.
"Today is a day that is notable, because it reminds the public of its help in solving some of the United States' most important fugitive cases. The Top Ten List has been an enormous help to the FBI over the years and we're confident that this valuable resource will help us locate Ms. Roper. The FBI will not hesitate to bring substantial and lasting resources to ensure that justice is done in Kansas City," said Jeff Berkebile, FBI Kansas City acting special agent in charge.
Roper is described as a black female, 5'5'' tall and approximately 120 pounds with black hair. She has tattoos on her left arm, upper left arm, upper right arm, back, left calf, neck, right wrist, right breast and abdomen. She also has pierced ears.
Roper was born in Kansas and has previously resided in Kansas City, Missouri. Authorities say she has ties to or may have ties to visit Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, Colorado, Georgia and South Dakota.
She could be considered armed and dangerous, according to authorities.
"This announcement reflects the great collaboration between the Kansas City Missouri Police Department and our federal partners. Specifically, the long-standing partnership with FBI, resulting in a safer Kansas City," Chief Stacey Graves said. "A safer Kansas City means holding offenders accountable through arrest and prosecution."
Graves said Roper has remained a fugitive for too long and believes her addition to the List will hopefully get her apprehended.
"When a life is taken in our community, our commitment to justice does not waver. For nearly five years, this case has remained unresolved, and we are continuing to pursue every lead to bring awareness to a grieving family," Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson said. "We are grateful to the FBI for bringing additional tools and national attention to this case. Someone, somewhere has information that can help move this investigation forward. We urge anyone with knowledge of KaShawn Roper's whereabouts to come forward."
Anyone with information regarding Roper or her whereabouts is encouraged to immediately contact the nearest FBI office or local law enforcement agency.
Calls can be directed to 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or the FBI's Kansas City Field Office.
Individuals from outside fo the United States should contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Tips can also be submitted digitally at tips.fbi.gov. All information can remain anonymous, and confidentiality is guaranteed.
Of the 541 fugitives who have appeared on the List, 163 have been apprehended or located, many due to tips from citizens.
Since its inception, there have been 21 fugitives wanted within the FBI Kansas City Area of Responsibility placed on the List. In addition, 14 fugitives placed on the List were arrested in the FBI Kansas City Area of Responsibility.
