Woman told police she was raped in loft above Rockstar Burgers, prompting KCPD raid
A police raid at Rockstar Burgers in Kansas City’s West Bottoms last week was prompted by a woman’s report that she had been raped in an upstairs loft above the business, according to a search warrant application written by the Kansas City Police Department.
The 23-year-old woman had originally reported the sexual assault in April and contacted police Dec. 7 asking to pursue an investigation. The raid on the building at 1611 Genessee Street came as the 24-hour restaurant and bar was closed indefinitely amid a swirl of trouble including criminal charges against the owner in another case.
According to the search warrant application, the woman said she had been out drinking on April 6 and was invited back to the third-floor loft above Rockstar Burgers.
The next thing she remembered, the woman said, was waking up in the apartment in bed with a man who said they’d had sex.
After she left the apartment the woman called police, according to the warrant application.
Kansas City police were granted the warrant on December 9. That afternoon, three police cars surrounded the location and two people wearing green gloves were seen exiting the building carrying equipment.
Officers were authorized to search for and seize computers and recording devices as well as firearms, drugs, drug paraphernalia and money or records believed to be related to drug trafficking.
Police seized photographs, a variety of electronics including multiple computers, ammunition and magazines.
The Star generally does not name those accused of sexual assault unless they are charged.
Restaurant owner charged in other case
The apartment that was searched belongs to the owner of Rockstar Burgers, Brian D. Smith.
Smith was arrested on Dec. 6 in Parkville on an unrelated domestic assault and armed criminal action charge.
He is accused of hitting an ex-girlfriend in the head with a handgun.
Smith remains in custody without bond, according to court records.
When the charges were filed, Kansas City police said a multi-jurisdictional investigation, including an animal abuse complaint, is still ongoing.
Rockstar Burgers closed down earlier this month amid a storm of numerous allegations that have spread on social media related to graphic imagery that was posted on a web page for the business.
The 24-hour restaurant originally opened in 2013.
A manager at the restaurant late last month said Smith had little to do with the day-to-day operations of the business.
This story was originally published December 17, 2019 at 3:04 PM.
