Kansas City, MO – A Kansas City woman is back in custody after leading police on a dangerous pursuit Wednesday afternoon, marking her second chase in just seven months.
Tanika Tatum, 37, faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated fleeing a stop and endangering the welfare of a child, after officers say she recklessly placed her child and others in serious danger.
Details of the Chase
The incident began just before 12:45 p.m. near 40 Highway and Sterling Avenue when Independence Police officers ran Tatum’s vehicle plates and discovered she had outstanding warrants in Jackson County for failure to appear for child endangerment, aggravated fleeing, and DWI related to fleeing.
Tatum allegedly led officers on a chase in her Ford Escape, which ultimately ended on a bridge over Van Brunt Boulevard. According to court documents, she exited the vehicle, stepped over the guardrail, and ran from police. After being initially taken into custody and placed in a police vehicle, she freed her left arm from handcuffs and escaped again, prompting a foot pursuit. Officers eventually detained her with the aid of a taser.
Two other adults and a 15-month-old boy were in the vehicle during the pursuit, raising serious concerns about child safety. Authorities described Tatum’s actions as reckless and a serious risk to her son and others in the vehicle.
Previous Arrest
This is not Tatum’s first encounter with law enforcement for a similar offense. On March 29, 2025, she allegedly led officers on another police pursuit with her child in the car. Court documents indicate both chases involved her son, highlighting a disturbing pattern of endangering children during reckless escapes.
Charges and Court Proceedings
On Thursday, Jackson County court documents outlined three felony charges against Tatum. Law enforcement officials emphasized her status as a flight risk and a danger to society due to her repeated behavior.
A portion of the probable cause document states:
“Tanika Tatum’s continued reckless actions show a total disregard for the safety of her children, placing them in danger of injury and or death.”
Tatum is currently in custody at the Jackson County Detention Center, held on a $100,000 bond. Her booking log indicates she is also being held for the Cole County Sheriff’s Office, as per KCTV.
Her initial court appearance is scheduled for Monday at 1:30 p.m.
Community Safety Concerns
Officers and child safety advocates warn that incidents like these are a stark reminder of the risks posed when children are exposed to reckless driving and criminal activity. Authorities encourage the public to report dangerous drivers and stressed the importance of keeping children safe in vehicles at all times.
This case has drawn attention to the need for stricter enforcement and monitoring for individuals with prior histories of child endangerment and fleeing law enforcement.
What are your thoughts on handling repeat offenders who endanger children? Share your opinions in the comments below.
