Federal Bureau of Investigation/Kansas City Division, said at a Tuesday morning news conference alongside Kansas City Police Chief Stacey Graves, left, and Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

Kansas City woman arrested in Florida a day after joining FBI’s Ten Most Wanted

Thomas Smith
2 Min Read

Federal and local authorities have arrested KaShawn Nicola Roper, just one day after the Federal Bureau of Investigation added her to its Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, marking one of the fastest apprehensions in the program’s recent history.

Roper, 50, was taken into custody without incident Wednesday morning in High Springs, Florida, following a surge of public tips triggered by the FBI’s announcement. The arrest was carried out by local police in coordination with federal agents.

The FBI had announced Tuesday that Roper was being placed on its most-wanted list, offering a reward of up to $1 million for information leading to her capture. According to officials, multiple tips were received almost immediately after the public alert, directly contributing to locating her.

Roper had been a fugitive since 2021, when a federal warrant was issued for unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

Prosecutors in Kansas City charged Roper with second-degree murder and multiple weapons offenses in connection with a fatal shooting on August 23, 2020. The incident left 23-year-old Jazmyn Henrion dead and another woman wounded.

Police said both victims arrived at a hospital in a private vehicle with gunshot injuries in the early morning hours. Henrion later died from her wounds.

Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson said the arrest underscores the effectiveness of cooperation between agencies and the public.

“Her arrest reflects the power of partnership and a community unwilling to tolerate violence,” Johnson said in a statement, adding that justice for the victim’s family is now within reach.

Roper’s inclusion in the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list was notable. She became only the 13th woman ever named to the list since its creation in 1950.

Historically, individuals added to the list can remain at large for months or years. Roper’s arrest within roughly 24 hours places her case among the quickest resolutions following a listing.

Authorities have not yet disclosed details about her transfer back to Missouri or initial court appearance.

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