Guns, gear stolen from police cars; ATF offers reward money

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Seven law enforcement vehicles in the Kansas City, Mo., area were broken into this weekend. Now, a handful of guns are missing, and the ATF has posted a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest.

The thieves got away with three guns -- two AR-15's and a shotgun, according to the Kansas City Police Department.

The weapons were taken from among the Jackson County Sheriff's vehicles and KCPD police cars that were broken into.

The police department said the thieves targeted officers' and deputies' homes from Friday to Monday nights around 98th and Wornall and in the Summit Woods neighborhood near 76th and Dove in south Kansas City. Some of the vehicles were unmarked.

"Just because you hold a badge and uphold the law doesn't mean you're immune to being a victim of crime," said Sgt. Rod Gentry, with the KCPD property crimes unit.

Law enforcement officials believe the robberies are connected to a shots-fired call they received early Monday morning. When they arrived at the scene, they found police gear and documents -- and shell casings that matched their own guns.

As the investigation continues, Jackson County deputies are now no longer keeping weapons in cars.

Law enforcement officials said the crimes are concerning because all the weapons were taken from high-security gun locking systems. They believe the crimes may have been committed by someone who is familiar with police equipment.

The Jackson County Sheriff's office said it is now looking at how employees can better secure their vehicles.

The ATF added $5,000 to the initial $1,000 Crimestoppers reward. They are asking the public to call the TIPS hotline with information at 816-474-TIPS.

If you are the victim of a gun theft, you need to report the crime to the police and the ATF. 

The ATF’s hotline is 1-888-930-9275. You must also fill out a form and send it to the ATF.