Kansas City Regional Office Making An Impact

On May 17, 2007, the National Coalition's Kansas City office led a successful petition drive and delivered over 20,300 signatures to prosecutors in six Kansas and Missouri counties. The purpose of filing these signatures was to request that thirty-two pornography outlets be investigated by grand juries for promoting obscenity.

The response thus far has been extremely encouraging. Following are updated action steps taken in each county to ensure citizens are protected from the secondary effects of sexually oriented businesses.

Johnson County, Kansas

The grand jury was seated Monday, July 16. The Johnson County District Attorney's office has been motivated by the grand jury investigation opportunity. Communication has been open, frequent and optimistic.

Wyandotte County, Kansas

The grand jury was seated Monday, July 16. Phillip Cosby was subpoenaed to testify on behalf of the state of Kansas. This is a positive step, as it confirms the District Attorney believes the National Coalition's testimony will strengthen his case.

Platte County, Missouri

The County Prosecutor and Sheriff sent the only known pornography outlet in Platte County a warning letter stating they may be violating state law. In response, the store removed every pornographic magazine and video from their inventory (which was sizable) and announced they would not sell such material in the future.

Clay County, Missouri

The grand jury has received the petitions and is currently deliberating. We hope they will deliver indictments against Clay County's pornography outlets in the near future.

Jackson County, Missouri

Jackson County has the largest number of pornography outlets, strip clubs and registered sex offenders than any other county in Kansas and Missouri. Phillip Cosby attended a progress meeting July 17 with Jackson County's Prosecutor and Sheriff to determine future action steps. Some agreements were made, and information on Jackson County will be forthcoming as events unfold.

Cass County, Missouri

Conversations with the Cass County Prosecutor have been encouraging. She stated she will present this case to the grand jury if the police chief delivers an investigation. She expressed confidence in her ability to receive the necessary votes to deliver indictments.

We thank all the Kansas and Missouri citizens who helped make this petition drive a success!

Click here for more information on the petition drive.