10/16/2026
Getting to know Bates County’s next Prosecuting Attorney — beyond the courtroom.
When you first meet Cody Johnson, you might see a serious attorney preparing to take on one of the most important responsibilities in Bates County. But spend a little time getting to know him, and you'll discover a man who loves Godzilla movies, competes in Strongman competitions, enjoys video games, and readily admits that despite sharing a name with a famous country music singer, he cannot carry a tune!
Behind the humor we found a man who values family, believes in common sense, and takes his responsibilities seriously.
As Cody prepares to become Bates County's next Prosecuting Attorney, we sat down to learn more about the man behind the title.
A Different Path to the Courtroom
Cody grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas High School before attending Avila University in Kansas City, earning his Bachelor’s degree in an impressive three-year period. He then earned his law degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Law in Cleveland, Ohio.
Interestingly, becoming an attorney wasn't his original plan. Cody considered counseling or law enforcement, but a college professor's observation changed his direction. During a challenging group project, where Cody argued an unpopular position on the death penalty. His professor wrote on his paper: "You would go really far in this field because you are not afraid to use common sense." Those words stuck with him.
After law school, Cody returned to the Kansas City area and joined the Missouri State Public Defender's Office in Harrisonville, serving primarily Johnson and Cass counties. He spent approximately four years there and, more importantly, met his beautiful wife, Rachael.
He later spent two years in private practice with the Law Offices of Kenny and Teresa Hensley before moving to Bates County to serve as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney under Hugh Jenkins, who has held the position for 38 years.
Through nearly nine years in law, Cody says his most important professional lesson is simple: Be yourself. Know who you are, trust your judgment, and remain authentic.
Life Outside the Courthouse
Cody and Rachael don't have children, but their household is hardly quiet! They share their lives with two pit-mix dogs, Lil' Bit and Tyson; two cats, a 19-year-old Siamese named Aggie, and another cat, Otis "Redding Jr.". They also have two pet cows, Penny and Daisy.
Ask Cody about his typical Saturday, and he'll tell you he's pretty predictable.
Breakfast comes first, followed by the gym in Raymore, where he trains for Strongman competitions. Afterward, he often visits his family in Overland Park before returning home for an evening with Rachael.
And how does a Strongman competitor and prosecuting attorney unwind? Video games! Cody enjoys weekends tackling virtual challenges with the same enthusiasm he brings to his weekday career.
When asked about hidden talents, Cody turned to Rachael for help. Her answer? Math! Apparently, he can quickly solve mathematical problems in his head that leave most of us reaching for a calculator.
His weakness? Singing! "Well, I'm no Cody Johnson!" he laughed, referring to the country music star. And don't expect him to win any dance competitions either!
Godzilla, Grandma, and Life's Lessons
One of Cody's simple pleasures to this day is watching Godzilla movies, a nostalgic connection to his childhood when his mother and grandmother enjoyed watching them.
"I'm a big man-child," he joked. But when the conversation turned to his grandmother, Cody's humor gave way to something more personal.
Growing up, he and his mom lived with his grandmother much of the time.
Grandma was his confidant and sounding board. Sadly, she passed away about a year ago and he misses time with her. When we asked who he would choose to have dinner with, living or deceased, and Cody didn't hesitate.
His grandmother. More than anything, he would simply love to give her one more big hug.
Cody credits his family for encouraging learning through experience rather than offering endless advice. Trial and error became an important part of his philosophy, and he doesn't necessarily view failure as negative.
In fact, when asked what advice he would give his younger self, Cody said he wouldn't go back and change anything. Every challenge, decision, and setback helped make him the man he is today and he’s proud of that.
The Man of Steel
For fun, we asked Cody to choose a theme song for his life. Thoughtfully, he said it would be "Man of Steel" by country artist Brantley Gilbert. That song represents the kind of man he strives to be: strong, dependable, willing to face challenges, and committed to doing what's right.
And that brings us to the most important question of our conversation.
What does Cody Johnson want Bates County citizens to know as he prepares to become their next Prosecuting Attorney?
"I'm not a perfect man, but I will always strive to do what is best for our community."
Cody recognizes the tremendous responsibility of protecting the public while balancing justice with fairness and second chances when warranted.
His commitment is straightforward: keep Bates County communities safe, approach decisions with common sense, and remain accountable to the people he serves.
"I want to be that Man of Steel for our county, and I expect our citizens to hold me accountable to that promise."
As Cody Johnson prepares to follow Hugh Jenkins' remarkable 38 years of service, he brings experience from both sides of the courtroom, a respect for life's lessons, and a belief that doing what's right matters more than doing what's easy.
For Cody, being a "Man of Steel" isn't about being perfect. It's about having the strength to do what's right, the compassion to recognize when people deserve a second chance, and the character to stand behind your promises.
