For Immediate Release

June 5, 2029

An Olathe man has been charged in connection with an assault Tuesday of an Independence police officer at the Jackson County Detention Center, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced today.

Derick J. Peknik, dob: 12/8/1987, face Assault 1st Degree, Attempted Escape from Confinement and Stealing.*

According to court records filed today, an Independence police officer was transporting the defendant from the Independence Municipal Jail to the Detention Center. He opened the back of the transport vehicle and the defendant stepped out. As the officer was attending to other inmates, the defendant rushed behind him and put the officer in a Lateral Vascular Neck Restraint. Both officer and defendant went to the ground. The officer stated he was starting to lose consciousness when the defendant let loose. But the defendant moved to the front of the vehicle, where the officer's firearm was located. The officer ran toward the defendant; another altercation ensued and other Detention Center staff arrived on scene to assist. The defendant was placed into restraints. Surveillance video of the incident showed the defendant kept the officer in a choke hold for about 22 seconds before releasing him and taking his keys.

Prosecutors requested a bond of $200,000.

For more information, contact:

Michael Mansur

Director of Communication

Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office

Jean Peters Baker, Prosecutor

Work   : (816) 881-3812

Mobile: (816) 674-3954

mmansur@jacksongov.org

http://jacksoncountyprosecutor.com

*Charges are only accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until the defendant is either found guilty or has pleaded.