KC Reporter

Jonathan P. Henik, a 44-year-old man from Independence, Missouri, has pleaded guilty in federal court to multiple charges related to drug trafficking and illegal firearms possession. According to U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner, Henik admitted to two counts of being a felon in possession of firearms, as well as various drug-related offenses including methamphetamine, THC, marijuana, and cocaine distribution, and possession of an unregistered firearm.

The case against Henik began when Independence police officers tried to conduct a traffic stop on him while he was driving a Dodge Charger on September 1, 2021. Henik, whose driver's license was revoked, fled the scene at a high speed. Subsequently, on October 5, 2021, a search warrant was executed at Henik's residence, where officers discovered a significant arsenal of firearms and illegal drugs.

Among the items seized were 22 firearms, including various handguns and rifles, along with a large quantity of drugs such as methamphetamine, THC wax, marijuana, cocaine, and psilocybin mushrooms. Investigators also found drug paraphernalia throughout the residence, including in the kitchen, closet, and garage.

In addition to the items found at his residence, law enforcement officers also discovered more firearms and drugs in Henik's campers parked in Bagnell, Missouri. The search yielded additional firearms, drugs, and explosive devices, further implicating Henik in illegal activities.

As a felon with prior convictions related to drug offenses, Henik was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh A. Ragner is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Jackson County Drug Task Force and the Mid Missouri Drug Task Force.

As part of a plea agreement, both Henik and the government are requesting a sentence of 15 to 20 years in federal prison without parole. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled following a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

The case against Henik falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by collaborating with law enforcement agencies and communities. The Department of Justice's focus on strengthening PSN underscores the commitment to making neighborhoods safer and preventing criminal activities like those perpetrated by Jonathan P. Henik.