Hailey
Kansas City, Kansas Police are continuing their investigation into the tragic death of a 13-year-old boy, a case that has drawn widespread concern across the region.
The teen was first reported missing in Kansas before authorities later discovered his body in Bates County, Missouri. The investigation quickly became a multi-state effort due to where key events unfolded.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that the case involves actions that occurred both before and after the teen’s death, prompting authorities to pursue multiple criminal charges as new information emerged.
New Charges Filed By KCK Police
The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department (KCKPD) has now filed additional charges against Damon Leonard, 47, of Pleasanton, Kansas, who was already in custody on related allegations.
The newly filed Kansas charges include:
- Interference with law enforcement
- Criminal desecration
- Having a vicious dog at large
Police stated that these charges stem from evidence uncovered during the ongoing investigation. Authorities also confirmed that multiple dogs were removed from Leonard’s property as part of the case review.
Earlier Missouri Charge And Bond
Before the latest Kansas filings, Leonard had already been charged in Missouri with felony abandonment of a corpse.
Court records show that a $100,000 cash-only bond was set in that case. A future court appearance has been scheduled as the legal process continues.
Investigators believe the movement of the victim’s body across state lines played a major role in why multiple jurisdictions are now involved.
Investigation Still Ongoing
Despite the new charges, officials have emphasized that the investigation is not complete. Law enforcement has not publicly released a confirmed cause of death, and additional forensic findings are still being reviewed.
Police continue to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and coordinate between agencies in Kansas and Missouri.
Officials have indicated that more charges could be possible depending on what the investigation ultimately reveals.
Key Information At A Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | 13-year-old boy |
| Suspect | Damon Leonard, 47, Pleasanton, Kansas |
| Latest Action | New charges filed by KCK Police |
| New Charges | Interference with law enforcement, criminal desecration, vicious dog at large |
| Prior Charge | Felony abandonment of a corpse (Missouri) |
| Bond | $100,000 cash-only bond |
| Location Body Found | Bates County, Missouri |
| Investigation Status | Active and ongoing |
| Cause Of Death | Not publicly confirmed |
The filing of new charges by KCK Police represents a critical development in the investigation into the death of a 13-year-old child.
With Damon Leonard now facing multiple allegations across two states, authorities appear to be piecing together a broader picture of what occurred.
While several legal steps have already been taken, officials stress that the case is still unfolding, and the public may learn more as investigators complete their work.