Kansas City, Kan. Police Officer Loses License Following Complaint

TOPEKA, Kan. – An Officer’s Downfall

A former police officer from Kansas City, Kan. named James Shepherd has had his license revoked following a refusal to comply with an investigative procedure. The department initially hired Shepherd in 2018 and his tenure with them lasted until May 21, 2024. His loss of license is the result of a complaint filed against him for inappropriate on-duty behavior.

The Complaint and Initial Investigation

The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training took up Shepherd’s case after receiving a complaint about his behavior while on duty. The complaint alleged that Shepherd had appeared at an apartment complex while under the influence of a substance. This incident took place in January 2023. The complaint also contained video footage of the incident, showing Shepherd “exhibiting off behavior.” An individual present during the recorded incident can be heard making the accusation that Shepherd was high during his duty.

The Commission’s Attempt to Investigate

During the course of their investigation, the Commission demanded that Shepherd participate in an in-person interview. This was to determine whether Shepard was fit to uphold his role as a police officer. However, Shepherd initially postponed this interview. Later, Shepherd’s attorney notified the Commission that he would not be participating in the interview at all.

License Revocation

Upon receiving this confirmation, the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training took the measure of revoking Shepherd’s police license on May 9, 2024. The official reason given for this severe step was Shepherd’s lack of cooperation towards the Commission’s investigation. This conclusion has marked the end of Shepherd’s law enforcement career, reaffirming the necessity of accountability for those in positions of power.