Man caught on tape stealing from KC ice cream shop sentenced to prison
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The man behind the burglary of a popular River Market ice cream shop will spend more than half a dozen years in prison for the crime.
Court documents indicated that Heckman pleaded guilty on Monday to burglary in the second degree and property damage.
“Our office remains committed to protecting our small businesses, which contribute so much to our community,” said Prosecutor Johnson. “Too many small business owners are facing financial hardships and inconveniences as a result of repeat burglaries. We will continue to pursue appropriate consequences for those who repeatedly victimize businesses in Jackson County.”
The Kansas City Police Department said that on Oct. 13, 2024, law enforcement officials were called to Betty Rae’s at 412 Delaware St. with reports of a burglary. They arrived to find the glass door shattered and the safe with $2,000 inside gone.
Surveillance footage revealed an older male, later identified as Heckman, throw a rock at the window and enter the business. He walked to the back of the store and carried the safe out with him.
Investigators noted that the door and safe were replaced at a loss of $3,700 to the business owner. Heckman’s criminal record included multiple prior convictions for burglary and stealing across the metro.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Heckman remains behind bars in Kansas City.
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