Northeast News
April 25, 2012

Jackson County prosecutors have filed second degree murder and armed criminal action charges against  29-year-old James Rhymer for the April 19 shooting of James Conklin of Kansas City.

According to court documents, Conklin was in the basement of a residence at 405 N. Wheeling speaking with his ex-girlfriend. Rhymer arrived at the basement door with two friends and confronted Conklin, stating “We have problems.”

A heated argument ensued in which Conklin taunted Rhymer, daring him to shoot him. Rhymer approached Conklin,  firing three shots. Other residents in the house heard the gunshots and called 911 immediately.

Rhymer and the two accomplices fled the scene but were picked up Monday and transported to police headquarters for questioning. Upon the advice of his attorney, Rhymer has chosen to invoke his fifth amendment rights.

Prosecutors have requested a $250,000 cash only bond.