Jerry D. Patterson, Armed Robbery Spree, MO 2024

Two Kansas City men admitted to terrorizing the metro in a violent month-long crime spree, pleading guilty today to a string of 10 armed robberies targeting pharmacies, convenience stores, and fast-food outlets across Jackson County. Jerry D. Patterson, 22, and Michael A. Harris, 19, both of Kansas City, Mo., entered guilty pleas in federal court to conspiracy to commit armed robbery and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, facing a guaranteed minimum of 15 years behind bars.

The duo struck repeatedly between Sept. 10 and Oct. 15, 2017, hitting Walgreens, CVS, Dollar General, Domino’s, Family Dollar, and 7 Eleven locations in Independence, Raytown, and Kansas City. They stole more than $25,000 in cash and goods—often at gunpoint—leaving employees shaken and communities on edge. Each admitted to wielding firearms during every robbery: Patterson with a Kahr Arms .40-caliber handgun, Harris with a Glock .40-caliber.

On October 15, 2017, the pair robbed the Walgreens at 1536 E. 23rd St. in Independence, stealing $3,500 before fleeing in Patterson’s red 2007 Pontiac G6. Police tracked the vehicle, leading to its abandonment and a foot chase. Inside, investigators recovered the Glock, an extended magazine, stolen cash, and burglary tools. A second firearm—the Kahr used by Patterson—was later found dumped in a nearby wooded area, matching weapons seen in surveillance footage.

The pattern was relentless. On Oct. 14 alone, they hit two Walgreens and a CVS, raking in over $7,200. Days before, they terrorized a Domino’s Pizza on S. Noland Road, stealing $575 from the register and another $400 from employees’ pockets. As recently as Sept. 26, they robbed both Family Dollar and 7 Eleven within hours, one yielding $380, the other just $150 and store items—proof of their desperation and disregard.

Patterson reported his car stolen on Oct. 20. It didn’t save him. Both he and Harris were arrested at their apartments on Oct. 31. Search warrants turned up damning evidence at both homes—linking them to each robbery. Their plea today confirms their central roles in a coordinated, firearm-fueled conspiracy that preyed on frontline retail workers without mercy.

Under their plea agreements, each faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in federal prison, with a maximum of 25 years—no parole. Sentencing hearings will follow presentence investigations by U.S. Probation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Q. McCarther is prosecuting the case. The investigation was led by the FBI, Kansas City Police Department, Independence Police Department, and Raytown Police Department.