News Summary
Kansas City preacher Michael Wheeler, known as ‘KC Superman’, has been convicted of trespassing in Westport. Wheeler, 73, faced multiple prior charges and will serve two years of probation. The case highlights his long-standing legal troubles and complex relationship with law enforcement, drawing community attention and support.
Kansas City Sees the Trial of “KC Superman”: Preacher Michael Wheeler Found Guilty of Trespassing
In a surprising turn of events, Kansas City is buzzing over the recent legal troubles of a local figure known for donning a red cape and a heart full of faith. Michael Wheeler, a 73-year-old evangelical Christian preacher affectionately dubbed “KC Superman,” has found himself in hot water once again after being convicted of trespassing in the popular neighborhood of Westport.
A History of Trouble
Wheeler’s legal issues date back several years, but his recent troubles in Westport have escalated quickly. Last year, he was cited not once, but twice for trespassing—first on September 13, and again on November 6. The September incident took place at a location on Archibald Street, while on the November date, he was at March’s Sun Fresh Market on Mill Street.
During a recent bench trial led by Kansas City Municipal Court Judge Michael C. Heffernon, Wheeler was found guilty of trespassing at the grocery store, where he had been caught on the premises unlawfully. In a twist, he ultimately pleaded guilty to his second trespassing charge.
Consequences and Sentencing
The judge had some decisions to make regarding Wheeler’s fate. While he was sentenced to serve five days and ten days for his charges, both jail sentences were suspended. Instead, Wheeler will be on probation for two years and is required to stay away from Westport altogether.
This isn’t Wheeler’s first encounter with the law, as he had previously spent time in Vernon County jail in 2022 due to a history of six prior trespassing convictions that spanned from 2020 to 2023. His track record includes multiple trespassing incidents, especially those linked to Westport, known far and wide as an entertainment and nightlife hub in Kansas City.
Repeat Offender
In fact, five out of six of Wheeler’s recent trespassing charges are tied to unwanted appearances in Westport. The incidents leading up to his latest conviction occurred throughout 2023, including notable dates like June 26, July 23, August 18, and September 1. It is worth mentioning that his initial sentencing would have led to four days in jail, but the judge allowed those sentences to run concurrently, giving him an early release after just two days.
However, just a day post-release, Wheeler was back on the wrong side of the law, receiving yet another citation for trespassing in Westport.
The Man Behind the Cape
Michael Wheeler is not your everyday preacher. With a unique style, he often runs through the city decked out in a vibrant cape—sometimes showcasing a large “S” or the word “Jesus” emblazoned on his T-shirt, with a football in hand. For over 40 years, he has been preaching in Westport, a dedication that unfortunately led to multiple arrests along the way.
After his recent run-ins with law enforcement, some Westport business owners have even taken it upon themselves to declare him “banned” from the area. Wheeler has been no stranger to trouble, with his first trespassing arrest occurring way back in 1986.
A Contentious Relationship with Law Enforcement
Wheeler has voiced concerns over his treatment by certain officers in Kansas City, particularly mentioning a strained relationship with a specific police officer who has arrested him several times. Allegations of mockery by police while in custody have emerged, further complicating Wheeler’s narrative. Despite these challenges, he has garnered a wave of support from friends and community members, evidenced by a petition with over 600 signatures advocating for his release and requesting the community to view him as a “peacemaker, not a troublemaker.”
As Wheeler faces the challenges ahead, he remains committed to continuing his ministry and hopes that through understanding and compassion, residents in Kansas City will see his true intentions. The future of KC Superman remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: this eccentric preacher is not backing down anytime soon.
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City Star
- Fox 4 KC
- Kansas City Star
- Patch: Darien Election Guide
- 06880 Dan Woog
- Wikipedia: Michael Wheeler
- Google Search: KC Superman
- Google Scholar: Michael Wheeler Kansas City
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kansas City crime
- Google News: KC Superman trial
