Lee’s Summit Man Charged in $15,200 Shoplifting Spree After Year-long Investigation

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Prolific Shoplifting Spree Unveiled!

Shoplifting Charges Pile Up for Lee’s Summit Man

It seems Kansas City has been dealing with a rather notorious shoplifter, and the latest update on the case is sure to get folks talking. The Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney’s office has officially charged a 32-year-old man from Lee’s Summit, named Kristian Tchervenakov, in connection to at least 22 shoplifting incidents that collectively racked up over $15,200 in stolen merchandise. That’s quite a haul!

A Year-long Investigation Comes to Light

For nearly a year, detectives from the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department have kept a close watch on Tchervenakov, as he has been labeled a “prolific shoplifting offender.” The shoplifting escapades began to surface around December 2023, and now, the evidence has mounted substantially against him. Many of these incidents occurred in retail stores across the Kansas City area, making it a widespread issue affecting local businesses and consumers alike.

Distinctive Look Caught on Camera

What makes this story even more interesting is Tchervenakov’s distinctive facial profile, along with a recognizable accessory – a small cross-body bag with a red buckle! Detectives have spotted this bag in surveillance footage during the alleged thefts, helping them to identify him more easily. It turns out that he wasn’t just any shoplifter; he was smart about his tactics, even going so far as to use a magnetic device to bypass store security scanners. It’s almost like something you would expect to see in a movie!

Impressive Tactics with Expense

Some of Tchervenakov’s reported heists are pretty mind-boggling. For instance, on July 7, 2024, he allegedly strolled into a Target store located on NE Barry Road and managed to swipe two Dyson vacuums worth a whopping $1,179.98 using that clever magnetic key of his. In another audacious incident on June 24, 2024, he allegedly unlocked two Roomba vacuums valued at $1,399.98 from another Target location. Although security tried to confront him, a verbal altercation ensued, allowing him to escape with the items.

A Frequent Flyer in the Theft Game

If you think Tchervenakov was just an unlucky crook, think again! Court documents suggest he has become “one of Target’s top offenders” in the Kansas City market, with thefts totaling an astonishing $70,000 over time. It’s a habit he didn’t just pick up recently; he has been charged multiple times for theft-related offenses in the Johnson County, Kansas area as well, with charges dating back to 2022. Clearly, this isn’t his first rodeo – or his last, for that matter!

Legal Trouble Continues to Mount

Charges against Tchervenakov are piling up faster than dollars at a clearance sale! He was charged in September in Clay County for two separate felony stealing cases involving amounts exceeding $750. Unfortunately for him, the district attorney’s office is serious about cracking down on these crimes, reiterating justice for both the stores and the community.

How You Can Help

If you happen to have any tips or intel regarding thefts or any crimes in your area, it’s crucial to report them. You can reach out directly to your local police department or, if you prefer to stay incognito, contact the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (8477). Not only do you have the chance to help your community, but you could also secure a cash reward for your information.

Summary

When it comes to Tchervenakov’s alleged shoplifting spree, it’s clear that there’s a lot more than meets the eye. With a year-long investigation, multiple charges, and a prolific criminal history, it’s no wonder that his case has garnered so much attention. Stay tuned, as the Kansas City community keeps a close watch on how this story unfolds. Don’t forget—shoplifting might seem like a quick fix, but it certainly leads to a whirlwind of trouble!