Police: 2nd deadly shooting outside Kan. motel this month

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575910168611.png">Skimmer found on a bank ATM in Salina in 2015 SALINA —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after a skimmer was found Sunday on an ATM at Sunflower bank, 2450 South 9th in Salina over the weekend, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester Authorities urged people to check their accounts and report any suspicious activity to the police and the bank. Police are waiting for video from Sunflower Bank to see if they could determine who placed the skimmer on the ATM. ----------SALINA —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after a skimmer was found on a bank ATM in Salina over the weekend, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus. Police have not released the name of the bank or location. Check the post for for additional details as they become available.

Update: Card skimmer found on Sunflower Bank ATM in Salina

By John Hanna<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575500685589.png">(The UPS store Watkins lists as his mailing address-google image) TOPEKA, Kan. — A Kansas congressman who is being investigated by local authorities for listing a UPS Inc. store as his residence in registering to vote has changed his registration to name a Topeka apartment complex as his home. Republican Rep. Steve Watkins is still listing the UPS store in southwest Topeka as his mailing address after naming an apartment complex about 2 miles to the north as his residence in&nbsp;<a href="https://apdocs.inside.ap.org/documents/150764-new-watkins-registration-12-06-19.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 86, 135);">a registration form</a>&nbsp;dated Friday. The Associated Press obtained a copy Monday through an open records request filed with the Shawnee County election commissioner's office.Some Republicans in Watkins' eastern Kansas district already are trying to oust him. The freshman congressman faces a challenge in the GOP primary in August 2020 from State Treasurer Jake LaTurner, who jumped into the race after former GOP Gov. Jeff Colyer urged him to do so. The Shawnee County sheriff's department&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/6bfc7a9c9e7834cf4ccc03f60c6688ed" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 86, 135);">is investigating</a>&nbsp;whether Watkins broke state elections laws by listing the UPS store as his residence on a form he filed in late August and voting in the Nov. 5 election. Watkins' ballot included a City Council race, and the apartment complex is outside that council district.Watkins spokesman Dylan Jones has said listing the UPS store as Watkins' residence was an inadvertent mistake.His new registration form leaves blank a box for saying when the residence at the apartment complex was established, and Jones has not responded to messages from the AP seeking his move-in date. The form also doesn't list an apartment number. The sheriff's office did not immediately return a telephone message seeking an update on its investigation. It would turn its findings over to Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay. Both Kagay and Sheriff Brian Hill also are Republicans.

Kansas GOP lawmaker facing probe changes voter registration

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575930225538.png"> <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575930147504.png">Loretta Wilhelm&nbsp;and Joseph Ciavarella photo Cole Co. Sheriff JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A couple is accused of repeatedly locking a 9-year-old boy in a closet without food and water for hours at a time and only letting him out to eat in the mornings. Cole County authorities said Joseph Ciaveralla, 52, and Loretta Wilhelm, 34, of Columbia, were charged Saturday after an investigation by the Missouri Division of Family Support. Ciavarella is charged with first-degree endangering the welfare of a child and Wilhelm is charged with abuse or neglect of a child.&nbsp;Ciavarella is the father of the child and Wilhelm is the man's fiancee. They were living together with five children.A probable cause statement said the abuse was believed to have occurred between Jan. 1, 2018, and Nov. 1.The state investigation led to the children being removed from the home.According to the statement, witnesses told investigators the child was once locked in the close for two days without food or water, and received only noodles and ravioli when he was allowed to eat.Ciavarella told authorities he didn't know about the alleged abuse because he worked nights. Wilhelm also denied the allegations.Online records don't identify lawyers for the two defendants.

Couple accused of locking child in a closet for hours

COWLEY COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are seeking any leads about several mail thefts that apparently occurred during the weekend in southwest Arkansas City. Just after 4a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 1200 block of South Sixth Street for a report of mail lying in the roadway, according to a media release. They found numerous pieces of mail belong to area residents at that location. Further investigation determined mail had been removed from mailboxes at seven area houses and some of the mail had been opened, as well. Arkansas City residents are encouraged to check the mail daily and report any suspicious activity. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the Arkansas City Police Department at (620) 441-4444.

Police find mail taken from boxes at 7 Kansas homes

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575909324938.png">Gwyn -photo Sedgwick CountyWICHITA, KAN. – A man was sentenced following the beating death of his six month old son. On Friday, District Judge Bruce Brown sentenced Dorl Gwyn, 29 of Wichita, to 38-years in prison, according to Sedgwick County Attorney Marc Bennett. In July, Gwyn pled guilty to second degree murder. On April 10, 2018, Jazz Gwyn’s mother took him to an emergency room because he had stopped breathing. He died shortly after arrival. An autopsy showed the baby had suffered multiple injuries including a laceration to his heart, two healing rib fractures, blood in his chest cavity and abdomen, bruising to the abdomen and head injuries. Gwyn, the child’s father, later told detectives he thought it was okay to “shadowbox” with his son and “to make him…tough.” After his prison term, Gwyn must serve 36 months of post release and register as a violent offender.&nbsp;

Kan. man sentenced for beating death of 6-month-old son

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575920002369.png">HUTCHINSON— A woman arrested in connection with a massage business in Hutchinson that may have been offering sexual favors has been bound over trial. Yu Jun Fang, 54, was charged with promoting the sale of sexual relations, maintaining an establishment and promoting the sale of sexual relations. The Hutchinson Police Department’s Repeat Offender Unit and Detective Division served a search warrant in September at The Spring Spa, 1509 N. Lorraine Street after they received numerous reports of sexual acts being offered as part of the service. An undercover operation was conducted and a detective was offered a sexual act, which he declined. The offer confirmed previous reports. During a search of the building, officers located numerous items consistent with prostitution. She is scheduled to be arraigned on the charges on Jan. 6.

Woman accused of Kan. massage parlor prostitution will stand trial

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575922782423.jpeg">(Patterson photo Barton Co.) BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on numerous charges after a drug bust. Just after 3:30p.m. December 6, sheriff’s deputies executed a search warrant at a home in&nbsp;5400 block of 24th Street in Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. Deputies contacted the occupant of the house, entered without incident and discovered a substantial quantity of methamphetamine and other drug paraphernalia. Deputies arrested Roberta G. Patterson, 67, of Great Bend and she is being held on a $300,000 bond on requested charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and aggravated endangerment of a child. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation assisted with the arrest.

67-year-old Kan. woman jailed after drug bust

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-may-build-specialty-prisons-deal-elderly-inmates-and-drug-problems#stream/0">By NOMIN IJIYEDIIN Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA, Kansas — One solution to Kansas prisons’ woes could come with a $35 million price tag for three new specialty prisons.

The
 state’s corrections system only treats half of its inmates who struggle
 with substance abuse. And as some people serve decades-long sentences, 
the system finds itself home to more elderly prisoners who need special 
care as they age.

Lawmakers created the <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/criminal-justice-task-force-could-tackle-bigger-picture-no-changes-now" target="_blank">Kansas Criminal Justice Reform Commission</a> to address those issues, as well as chronic overcrowding that resulted in hundreds of inmates being sent to a<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-will-spend-millions-house-hundreds-inmates-private-arizona-prison" target="_blank"> private prison in Arizona</a> earlier this year.

In a <a href="http://www.kslegresearch.org/KLRD-web/Committees/2019InterimDocs/2019-KS-Criminal-Justice-Reform-Commission-report.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>
 released this week, the panel of legislators, court employees, mental 
health experts, police and state officials signed off on a series of 
recommendations for the Kansas Legislature to consider when it convenes 
in January:

The intent is to reduce the state’s prison population, which exceeds capacity and is projected to grow over the next decade.

Increased
 mental health and substance abuse treatment could cut the number of 
people who enter prison and who return once they’re released, said 
Kansas Rep. Stephen Owens, a Republican from central Kansas and 
vice-chair of the commission.

But convincing legislators to vote in favor of putting more money toward the issue could be a challenge, Owens said.

“There’s
 going to be some people that simply don’t want to spend money on it,” 
he said. “Because they may or may not believe that that is the correct 
answer to solve the problem.”

“The vast majority of inmates that 
enter the system are going to be coming out,” Owens said. “Why not help 
them become productive members of society?”

More than a decade 
ago, Kansas passed laws that let judges sentence people to a term in a 
specialized substance abuse prison, said state Attorney General Derek 
Schmidt, also a member of the commission. But the state never funded or 
built that kind of prison.

“The sentencing rules had no value,” 
Schmidt said. “Our recommendation was simply to finish what was started 
more than a decade ago.”

The state offers substance abuse 
programs in all of its prisons and treated about 1,600 people last year.
 But about 1,800 people who needed treatment didn’t get it, according to
 the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Adding prisons that 
specialize in addiction treatment would help meet that demand, said Joel
 Hrabe, deputy secretary of facility management for the corrections 
department. The treatments include group therapy, addiction education 
and in rare cases, medication-assisted treatment.

“If you can create an environment that reinforces your programming,” he said, “it helps the success rate.”

A
 prison specifically for geriatric care will also help the department 
manage the special needs of older prisoners, Hrabe said. Harsher 
sentencing guidelines adopted in the 1990s led to longer sentences for 
some inmates. That’s partly why so many elderly people sit in prisons 
now. Recently, the department has seen more inmates with Alzheimer’s 
Disease and other cognitive issues, he said.

“It takes a little 
different approach to managing them when they become irritated, 
combative, confrontational,” Hrabe said. “The environment … doesn’t lend
 to the type of care that would be most beneficial for these 
individuals.”

Before the facilities can be built and staffed, the
 Legislature still needs to find and approve funding for a traditionally
 unpopular issue.

But legislators approved $16 million to house 
Kansas inmates at a private prison in Arizona earlier this year, Owens 
said. He argued building specialty facilities in state could save more 
money in the long term.

“When people receive those treatments 
within the system, their likelihood of recidivism certainly goes down,” 
he said. “None of this is novel or new. Are you going to take our 
actions and are you going to utilize some of it?”

Nomin Ujiyediin reports on criminal justice and social welfare for the Kansas News Service.&nbsp; Follow her on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/nominuj?lang=en" target="_blank">@NominUJ</a>&nbsp;or email nomin@kcur.org.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575920386651.jpeg" alt="A panel of criminal justice officials proposed three specialty prisons that are estimated to cost the state $35 million to renovate and build.&nbsp; Nomin Ujiyediin / Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption>A panel of criminal justice officials proposed three specialty prisons that are estimated to cost the state $35 million to renovate and build.&nbsp; Nomin Ujiyediin / Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-may-build-specialty-prisons-deal-elderly-inmates-and-drug-problems#stream/0">By NOMIN IJIYEDIIN Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA, Kansas — One solution to Kansas prisons’ woes could come with a $35 million price tag for three new specialty prisons.The
 state’s corrections system only treats half of its inmates who struggle
 with substance abuse. And as some people serve decades-long sentences, 
the system finds itself home to more elderly prisoners who need special 
care as they age.Lawmakers created the <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/criminal-justice-task-force-could-tackle-bigger-picture-no-changes-now" target="_blank">Kansas Criminal Justice Reform Commission</a> to address those issues, as well as chronic overcrowding that resulted in hundreds of inmates being sent to a<a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-will-spend-millions-house-hundreds-inmates-private-arizona-prison" target="_blank"> private prison in Arizona</a> earlier this year.In a <a href="http://www.kslegresearch.org/KLRD-web/Committees/2019InterimDocs/2019-KS-Criminal-Justice-Reform-Commission-report.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>
 released this week, the panel of legislators, court employees, mental 
health experts, police and state officials signed off on a series of 
recommendations for the Kansas Legislature to consider when it convenes 
in January:<ol>
 <li>Repurpose and renovate a prison building to 
serve as a 250-bed geriatric care facility. Estimated cost:&nbsp; $9-10 
million for renovations, $8.3 million per year for operations</li><li>Re-purpose
 and renovate a prison building to house about 250 inmates for substance
 abuse treatment. Estimated cost: $3.5-4.5 million for renovations, $4.1
 million for operations</li><li>Build a new substance abuse treatment prison with about 240 beds. Estimated cost: $20.7 million just for construction</li><li>Increase spending and capacity for the state’s overwhelmed mental health hospitals, a proposal <a href="https://www.kdads.ks.gov/docs/default-source/csp/bhs-documents/final-mental-health-task-force-report---january-2019.pdf?sfvrsn=4dac04ee_0" target="_blank">already recommended</a> by a state mental health task force for two years. Estimated cost: at least $86.8 million</li><li>Reduce sentences, fines and fees for some minor crimes</li><li>Allow state funding for people charged with drug crimes to undergo treatment instead of going to trial</li>
 </ol>The intent is to reduce the state’s prison population, which exceeds capacity and is projected to grow over the next decade.Increased
 mental health and substance abuse treatment could cut the number of 
people who enter prison and who return once they’re released, said 
Kansas Rep. Stephen Owens, a Republican from central Kansas and 
vice-chair of the commission.But convincing legislators to vote in favor of putting more money toward the issue could be a challenge, Owens said.“There’s
 going to be some people that simply don’t want to spend money on it,” 
he said. “Because they may or may not believe that that is the correct 
answer to solve the problem.”“The vast majority of inmates that 
enter the system are going to be coming out,” Owens said. “Why not help 
them become productive members of society?”More than a decade 
ago, Kansas passed laws that let judges sentence people to a term in a 
specialized substance abuse prison, said state Attorney General Derek 
Schmidt, also a member of the commission. But the state never funded or 
built that kind of prison.“The sentencing rules had no value,” 
Schmidt said. “Our recommendation was simply to finish what was started 
more than a decade ago.”The state offers substance abuse 
programs in all of its prisons and treated about 1,600 people last year.
 But about 1,800 people who needed treatment didn’t get it, according to
 the Kansas Department of Corrections.Adding prisons that 
specialize in addiction treatment would help meet that demand, said Joel
 Hrabe, deputy secretary of facility management for the corrections 
department. The treatments include group therapy, addiction education 
and in rare cases, medication-assisted treatment.“If you can create an environment that reinforces your programming,” he said, “it helps the success rate.”A
 prison specifically for geriatric care will also help the department 
manage the special needs of older prisoners, Hrabe said. Harsher 
sentencing guidelines adopted in the 1990s led to longer sentences for 
some inmates. That’s partly why so many elderly people sit in prisons 
now. Recently, the department has seen more inmates with Alzheimer’s 
Disease and other cognitive issues, he said.“It takes a little 
different approach to managing them when they become irritated, 
combative, confrontational,” Hrabe said. “The environment … doesn’t lend
 to the type of care that would be most beneficial for these 
individuals.”Before the facilities can be built and staffed, the
 Legislature still needs to find and approve funding for a traditionally
 unpopular issue.But legislators approved $16 million to house 
Kansas inmates at a private prison in Arizona earlier this year, Owens 
said. He argued building specialty facilities in state could save more 
money in the long term.“When people receive those treatments 
within the system, their likelihood of recidivism certainly goes down,” 
he said. “None of this is novel or new. Are you going to take our 
actions and are you going to utilize some of it?”Nomin Ujiyediin reports on criminal justice and social welfare for the Kansas News Service.&nbsp; Follow her on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/nominuj?lang=en" target="_blank">@NominUJ</a>&nbsp;or email nomin@kcur.org.&nbsp;

Kan. may build specialty prisons for elderly, drug abusers 

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575924848487.png">(President Trump at the Israeli American Council Summit Sunday-White House Photo) WASHINGTON (AP) — House Democrats have reached a tentative agreement with labor leaders and the White House over a rewrite of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade deal that has been a top priority for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/058fa4676b4d40948055cfae877d4e7c" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 75, 165);">President Donald Trump</a>. That’s according to a Democratic aide not authorized to discuss the talks and granted anonymity. Details still need to be finalized and the U.S. Trade Representative will need to submit the implementing legislation to Congress. No vote has been scheduled. The aide requested anonymity because the agreement is not official. The new, long-sought trade agreement with Mexico and Canada would give both Trump and his top adversary, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a major accomplishment despite the turmoil of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f4ed63e09b3cb2aa2119246194118470" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(16, 75, 165);">his likely impeachment.</a> An announcement could come as early as Monday. Pelosi, D-Calif., still has to officially sign off on the accord, aides said.The new trade pact would replace the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement, which eliminated most tariffs and other trade barriers involving the United States, Mexico and Canada. Critics, including Trump, labor unions and many Democratic lawmakers, branded NAFTA a job killer for America because it encouraged factories to move south of the border, capitalize on low-wage Mexican workers and ship products back to the U.S. duty free. Weeks of back-and-forth, closely monitored by Democratic labor allies such as the AFL-CIO, have brought the two sides together. Pelosi is a longtime free trade advocate and supported the original NAFTA in 1994. Trump has accused Pelosi of being incapable of passing the agreement because she is too wrapped up in impeachment. Democrats from swing districts have agitated for finishing the accord, in part to demonstrate some accomplishments for their majority. By ratifying the agreement, Congress could lift uncertainty over the future of U.S. commerce with its No. 2 (Canada) and No. 3 (Mexico) trading partners last year and perhaps give the U.S. economy a modest boost. U.S. farmers are especially eager to make sure their exports to Canada and Mexico continue uninterrupted.U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer last year negotiated the replacement agreement with Canada and Mexico. But the new USMCA accord required congressional approval and input from top Democrats like Pelosi and Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal of Massachusetts, who have been engaged in lengthy, detailed negotiations over enforcement provisions and other technical details. Republicans leaders and lawmakers have agitated for months for the accord but Pelosi has painstakingly worked to bring labor on board. Democrats see the pact as significantly better than NAFTA and an endorsement by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka could be the key to winning significant Democratic support.The pact contains provisions designed to nudge manufacturing back to the United States. For example, it requires that 40% to 45% of cars eventually be made in countries that pay autoworkers at least $16 an hour — that is, in the United States and Canada and not in Mexico.The trade pact picked up some momentum after Mexico in April passed a labor-law overhaul required by USMCA. The reforms are meant to make it easier for Mexican workers to form independent unions and bargain for better pay and working conditions, narrowing the gap with the United States. Mexico ratified USMCA in June and has budgeted more money later this year to provide the resources needed for enforcing the agreement.

Trump, Dems in tentative deal on North American trade pact

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575920720517.png">Liuqi Gu photo from <a href="https://eeb.ku.edu/liuqi-gu" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">his KU Bio page</a> in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology LAWRENCE –– A researcher at the University of Kansas has been charged with two counts of theft and four related criminal charges, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt. Liuqi Gu, 37, of Lawrence, was charged Thursday in Douglas County District Court&nbsp;with one felony count of theft in excess of $100,000, one felony count of theft between $25,000 and $100,000, one felony count of unlawful acts concerning computers, one felony count of making false information, one misdemeanor count of official misconduct and one misdemeanor count of failure to pay state sales tax. Gu was taken into custody today by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. The complaint alleges from November 2016 to October 2018, Gu falsely represented that purchases he made from Thermo-Fisher Scientific were for the use of the University of Kansas in order to receive discounts from the company for his personal benefit or the benefit of another. It also alleges Gu used confidential information acquired in the course of his employment with the University of Kansas in order to avoid paying sales tax totaling between $25,000 and $100,000 on those purchases. The investigation in this case was conducted by the Fraud &amp; Abuse Litigation Division of the attorney general’s office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

University of Kansas researcher charged with theft and more

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575909789424.png">First responders at the fatal crash scene photo courtesy KWCH BUTLER COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal weekend crash and fire in Butler County. Just after 9:30p.m. Saturday, deputies and fire crews responded to report of a two-vehicle crash and fire at Southwest 50th and Haverhill Road five miles south of El Dorado, according to Sheriff Kelly Herzet. When deputies arrived, they found both vehicles fully engulfed in flames, numerous bystanders and a lot of debris from the crash. Investigators have determined a Ford Edge was northbound in the southbound lanes of Haverhill Road at a high rate of speed and struck a southbound Chevy Impala. The impact was so severe that it flipped the Ford onto its top, according to Herzet. Three victims were burned beyond recognition and pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;Until autopsy is completed, the sheriff’s department won’t release identities of the victims.

Sheriff: Triple fatal Kan. crash, fire blamed on excessive speed

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575911683580.jpeg">Hernandez-Rodriguez photo Saline County Sheriff SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged rape and have a suspect in custody. On Saturday, a 22-year-old woman reported an unwanted sexual encounter occurred at a residence in Salina, according Police Captain Gary Hanus. The suspect identified as 24-year-old Herbey Hernandez-Rodriguez would not cooperate with investigators. Police obtained a search warrant, collected evidence and arrested Hernandez-Rodriguez. He remain jailed on requested charges that include rape and aggravated criminal sodomy, according to Hanus.

Police: Kansas man in custody for alleged rape

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal accident at a home rural Sedgwick County. Just after 2:30 Sunday, deputies were dispatched to the 12000 block of west 101st&nbsp;St. North to the report of a home accident involving a motor vehicle, according to Captain Keith Allen with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department. The driver reported backing a vehicle out of a building and striking a two-year-old child.&nbsp; EMS transported the boy to Wesley Hospital and he child was pronounced dead at 3:34 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Sheriff’s Office is not releasing the name of the victim or other parties involved at this time.&nbsp;

Sheriff: 2-year-old Kan. boy dies after vehicle backs over him

GREAT BEND —The Barton County Health Department has been conducting an investigation of an active tuberculosis case since early last week, according to Health Director Shelly Schneider. "With this active tuberculosis case, we ended up having approximately 42 blood samples that we had to deliver Friday to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment lab in Topeka," Schneider said.&nbsp; "Many people have latent TB that live in our communities," she explained. "It's only a concern when it becomes active which is why we began the investigation." While Schneider is hoping for those test results to come back negative, she says they are ready to move forward with the assistance of KDHE to prevent the spreading of the disease. Tuberculosis usually affects the lungs, but can also attack any part of the body, such as the kidney, spine, and brain. Left untreated, TB can be fatal.&nbsp;TB is spread through the air from one person to another. The bacteria are put into the air when a person with active TB disease of the lungs or throat coughs or sneezes. People nearby may breathe in these bacteria and become infected. Schneider says there is a concern that TB may not be identified due to the fact that people may think they are are suffering from a cold or flu.

Officials investigate tuberculosis case in Barton Co.

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575907513463.png">Police on the scene of the investigation <a href="https://www.kmbc.com/article/police-officer-shoots-at-intruder-inside-his-kansas-city-home/30166328">photo courtesy KMBC-TV</a> KANSAS CITY (AP) — Authorities say an off-duty police officer has fired multiple shots at an intruder in his Kansas City home, although it's not known whether the intruder was wounded. Police say in a news release that the officer came on his radio around 2:30 a.m. Monday and asked for help at his home. The officers said he was alone in his home when he heard sounds, went downstairs and found an unknown man inside. The release says the officers fired multiple shots at the intruder because he feared for his safety and then ran from the scene.Police say the intruder hasn't been located.The shooting is being investigated as an officer involved shooting.

Off-duty officer shoots at intruder inside his Kansas City home

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574950995361.png">(Wesley Ira Purkey is from Kansas. His execution is scheduled for Dec. 13, for raping and killing 16-year-old Jennifer Long before dismembering, burning and dumping her body in a septic pond in 2003) WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has blocked the Trump administration from restarting federal executions next week after a 16-year break. The justices denied the administration’s plea to undo a lower court ruling in favor of inmates who have been given execution dates. The first of those had been scheduled for Monday, with a second set for Friday. Two more inmates had been given execution dates in January. Attorney General William Barr announced during the summer that federal executions would resume using a single drug, pentobarbital, to put inmates to death. U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan in Washington, D.C., temporarily halted the executions after some of the chosen inmates challenged the new execution procedures in court. Chutkan ruled that the procedure approved by Barr likely violates the Federal Death Penalty Act. The federal appeals court in Washington had earlier denied the administration’s emergency plea to put Chutkan’s ruling on hold and allow the executions to proceed. Federal executions are likely to remain on hold at least for several months, while the appeals court in Washington undertakes a full review of Chutkan’s ruling. The Supreme Court justices directed the appeals court to act “with appropriate dispatch.” Justice Samuel Alito wrote in a short separate opinion that he believes the government ultimately will win the case and would have set a 60-day deadline for appeals court action. Justices Neil Gorsuch and Brett Kavanaugh joined Alito’s opinion. Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec said the legal fight would continue. “While we are disappointed with the ruling, we will argue the case on its merits in the D.C. Circuit and, if necessary, the Supreme Court,” Kupec said in a statement.Four inmates won temporary reprieves from the court rulings. Danny Lee was the first inmate scheduled for execution, at 8 o’clock Monday morning. Lee was convicted of killing a family of three, including an 8-year-old. The government had next planned on Friday to execute Wesley Ira Purkey, who raped and murdered a 16-year-old girl and killed an 80-year-old woman. His lawyers say Purkey is suffering from dementia and he has a separate lawsuit pending in federal court in Washington, D.C. Then in January, executions had been scheduled for Alfred Bourgeois, who tortured, molested and then beat his two-and-a-half-year-old daughter to death, and Dustin Lee Honken, who killed five people, including two children. A fifth inmate, Lezmond Mitchell, has had his execution blocked by the federal appeals court in San Francisco over questions of bias against Native Americans. Mitchell beheaded a 63-year-old woman and her 9-year-old granddaughter.

Supreme Court delays start of federal executions 

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;Pushing ahead with articles of impeachment, the House Judiciary Committee will formally receive the investigative findings against President Donald Trump as the White House and its allies launch an aggressive attack on Democrats and the proceedings. Click here to <a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?467123-1/hearing-evidence-impeachment-inquiry&amp;live" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51);">Watch the hearing</a> Chairman Jerrold Nadler expects the committee to vote soon, possibly this week, on at least two or more charges against the Republican president. Democrats say Trump’s push to have Ukraine investigate rival Joe Biden while at the same time withholding U.S. military aid ran counter to U.S. policy and benefited Russia. It could result in impeachment charges of abuse of power, bribery and obstruction. “The central allegation is that the president put himself above his country several times, that he sought foreign interference in our elections several times, both for 2016 and 2020, that he sought to cover it up,” Nadler said. “All this presents a pattern that poses a real and present danger to the integrity of the next election, which is one reason why we can’t just wait for the next election to settle matters,” he said. Chairman Jerrold Nadler expects the committee to vote soon, possibly this week, on at least two or more charges against the Republican president. Democrats say Trump’s push to have Ukraine investigate rival Joe Biden while at the same time withholding U.S. military aid ran counter to U.S. policy and benefited Russia. It could result in impeachment charges of abuse of power, bribery and obstruction. “The central allegation is that the president put himself above his country several times, that he sought foreign interference in our elections several times, both for 2016 and 2020, that he sought to cover it up,” Nadler said. “All this presents a pattern that poses a real and present danger to the integrity of the next election, which is one reason why we can’t just wait for the next election to settle matters,” he said.

Watch: Judiciary Committee hears Trump impeachment evidence

FINNEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 3p.m. Sunday in Finney County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a two-wheeled, off-road vehicle driven by Ethan Stanford, 15, Garden City, was westbound in a field just south of U.S. 50 and west of 3rd Street in Garden City. The driver lost control and was thrown from the vehicle when it overturned.&nbsp;EMS transported Stanford to St. Catherine’s Hospital. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

SW Kan. boy hospitalized after thrown from off-road vehicle

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575891451889.png">Crews on the scene of Sunday's house fire on SE Republican Avenue in Topeka -<a href="https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Home-damaged-in-SE-Topeka-after-fire-565941311.html">photo courtesy WIBW TV</a> SHAWNEE COUNTY — Authorities are investigating the cause of two house fires on Sunday in Topeka. Just after 1a.m. Sunday, fire crews responded to the report of a structure fire at 1240 SE Republican Ave. in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Michael Martin. Upon arrival, fire crews found the rear of the structure fully involved. No one was reportedly at home at the time of the fire. The preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as Undetermined; pending further investigation, according to Martin. The structure sustained $5,000 in damage; contents loss is being estimated at $2,000.00. Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure Just after 4a.m. Sunday, fire crews responded to a fire at a home at 1140 SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to Martin. Upon arrival, fire suppression crews reported heavy fire involvement of the first and second stories of the dwelling. Due to the heavy volume of fire within the structure of fire origin, damage was sustained by the home to the south; 1108 SW Western Avenue. The fire was contained and extinguished, but not before both structures sustained significant water and fire damage. The dwelling was not occupied at the time of the fire. Preliminary investigation indicates the cause of the fire as Undetermined; pending further investigation. Estimated structural damage is listed at $62,000; contents loss is being estimated at $15,000.00. Working smoke detectors were not located within the structure of fire origin

Authorities investigate cause of 2 Kansas house fires

HARPER COUNTY— One person died in an accident just before 6:30p.m. Sunday in Harper County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Monte Carlo driven by Paul Raberding, 65, Harper, was westbound on US. 160 two miles east of Harper. The Chevy crossed centerline and struck a 2005 Chrysler Pacifica driven by David P. Johnson, 52, Harper, head-on. EMS transported Raberding to the hospital in Wellington where he died.&nbsp;&nbsp;Johnson was transported to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. EMS transported a passenger in the Chrysler Aumnouypon Starkey,70, Harper, to the hospital in Harper.&nbsp;Raberding was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dead, 2 hospitalized after head-on crash

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575892479473.png">MANHATTAN — Law enforcement authorities are investigating the theft of electronics in Manhattan and asking the public for help to identify suspects. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575892519650.png">According to the Riley County Police Department, if you know any of the people in the security camera photos, police would like to speak to them after nearly 30 electronic devices were stolen from Best Buy. If you have any information on their identities, please contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777.

Police work to identify suspects after large electronics theft

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575582756487.png">Goines photo Sedgwick County WICHITA, KAN. - A jury Thursday found a known gang member guilty on a federal firearm charge, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said. Emanuel E. Goines, Jr., 30, Wichita, was convicted on one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. During, trial prosecutors presented evidence that the investigation began June 22, 2019, following the fatal shooting of Justin Green. Officers learned Goines was present at the homicide, along with Quantezz Butler, another known gang member. On June 25, 2019, Wichita police were looking for Butler to question him when they saw live video clips on social media showing four men in a Trailblazer who were attending the funeral of Freddy Trezvant, another known gang member. Officers tried to stop the Trailblazer, which pulled away. During a pursuit, Goines was seen jumping out of the car and running behind a house at 1528 N. Belmont. He appeared to be carrying a gun. Police lost sight of Goines until they saw him walking hurriedly near 14th and Broadview, where they arrested him. They recovered a handgun from the backyard of 1528 N. Belmont. Sentencing is set for Feb. 24, 2020. Goines could face up to 10 years in federal prison. McAllister commended the Wichita Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mona Furst and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak for their work on the case.

Police used social media to catch Kansas gang suspect

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575651717705.png">Simms photo Clay County LIBERTY, Mo. (AP) — A Kansas City area man has been sentenced to life in prison plus 107 years for killing his girlfriend and is awaiting trial on charges that he strangled a fellow inmate. Marcus Simms, 36, of Lee's Summit, was sentenced Thursday for first-degree murder, armed criminal action and tampering with a vehicle in the 2014 death of 31-year-old Michele Boldridge. Police found her body while responding to reports that a bloody, naked man was running around a northern Kansas City apartment complex. Police say Boldridge died from a snapped neck and had multiple stab wounds, along with a missing eye. Court records say the naked man, later identified by police as Simms, drove to a school bus parking lot, where a driver told him to go away. But Simms yelled: “You don’t understand. Someone just killed my girlfriend!” Simms was arrested after driving a stolen minivan off a road, according to prosecutors. In a car parked in the area, police found Simms’ DNA as well as a human eyeball. Simms is scheduled to be tried in June in the 2017 strangulation death of 26-year-old Brian Parisi, who was killed while jailed in Clay County on a drug charge.

Nude KC killer sentenced for girlfriend's violent murder

DETROIT (AP) — Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 262,000 heavy-duty pickup trucks in the U.S. and Canada because the tailgates can open unexpectedly. The recall covers F-250, F-350 and F-450 trucks from the 2017 through 2019 model years. All the trucks have electric tailgate latch release switches in the tailgate handle.Ford says water can get into the electrical wiring and cause a short circuit, activating the switches and releasing the latches. That could allow loose cargo to fall onto the road.The company says it has no reports of crashes or injuries. Trucks with mechanical tailgate latches are not affected. Dealers will fix the tailgate frame wiring harnesses and install a new tailgate handle release switch. Owners will be notified by mail during the week of Jan. 20.

Ford recalls big pickups; tailgates can open unexpectedly

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Police in Kansas City no longer will provide suspects with a written copy of their rights and instead will give them a verbal Miranda warning as part of changes aimed at tackling violent crime. Two Los Angeles murder investigation experts recommended the change, arguing that written warnings could deter suspects from talking to police, public radio station KCUR-FM reported.The experts noted that keeping suspects talking is key because "confessions may occur, but admissions, lies or false alibis, can also be important." At least 134 people have been murdered in Kansas City so far this year, up from about 121 at this time last year, according to police reports. Homicides are also up in St. Louis and Springfield, and the killings of close to two dozen children in St. Louis put intense pressure on officials to act.But it's unclear how much of an impact the change to Miranda warnings will have. "It hasn't made a significant change, but we're hoping to see more of that over time," Kansas City police Deputy Chief Roger Lewis, who commands criminal investigations, told KCUR.City District Public Defender Ruth Petsch warned that “it puts you at risk of eroding your right to remain silent." She said a written waiver, in contrast, clearly shows that the Miranda warning was given. National Association of Police Organizations Executive Director Bill Johnson told The Associated Press that police often read Miranda warnings to suspects while in the field and also provide written copies during more formal interviews. Johnson, a former police officer and prosecutor, said verbal warnings ensure that suspects who struggle reading are still properly informed of their rights. But either way, Johnson said most people are already aware of their right to remain silent because of the phrase's popularity in crime shows and movies. He added that suspects often don’t take time to more deeply reflect on their rights after being arrested or while being interviewed by police, regardless of how they’re informed. The consultant's report also called for Kansas City police to increase staffing. The agency in response plans to end its mounted division and shift eight officers to homicide starting in January.

Kansas City Police end written miranda warning for suspects

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575725829706.png">Dreiling photo Sedgwick County SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a package theft and have made a second arrest in the case.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575569439552.png">Chaplin photo courtesy of Sedgwick County. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575631919234.png">Doorbell camera view image Wichita Police At approximately 2 p.m. on Monday, a 31-year-old homeowner reported an unknown female suspect later identified as Tammie Chaplin, 41, Wichita, of taking a package that was delivered to the home in the 3300 block of East Clark, according to officer Charley Davidson. The victim posted a RING video of the theft onto the RING.com Neighbors Portal, which provided access for officers to view the video. Chaplin and two other individual suspects are seen in the video.&nbsp;On Tuesday, officers were following up on the case and located Chaplin wearing the same clothes and riding the same bicycle as seen in the video of the theft.&nbsp;Officers contacted Chaplin and she was arrested without incident. She remains<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=6126" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> jailed on requested</a><a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=6126" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(45, 55, 72);"> </a>charges of theft, unlawful possession of methamphetamine and outstanding warrants, according to Davidson. On Friday, officers located 32-year-old Krista Dreiling at a home in the 5000 block of East Harry.&nbsp;&nbsp;Through their investigation, Dreiling was arrested and booked into jail, and officers recovered the missing laser tag for kids set and returned it to the owner.&nbsp;The case will be presented to the City of Wichita Prosecutor's Office, according to Davidson. An increase in package thefts is generally seen during this time of year.&nbsp;Here are some tips you can do to help keep your property safe:&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Have packages delivered to your home only during hours that you are there;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are not home or out of town, have packages delivered to a trusted neighbor or have that neighbor pick up the package for you;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Have packages delivered to a store you’ve ordered from, or you can have that package delivered to the carrier facility for pick-up;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Check with your employer and have packages delivered to your place of work during the day;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Consider purchasing surveillance cameras and motion sensor lights; and·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If you are a victim of a theft, call 911 to file a police report, and if you have surveillance video, you can provide that to WPD or send it directly to Sgt. Nikki Woodrow at nwoodrow@wichita.gov.

Police return toy allegedly taken by Kan. porch pirates

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575304533500.jpeg">The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commission met in Scott City in November. KDWPT PRATT – The Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KWPT) Commission voted on a number of amendments to current regulations at its Nov. 14 meeting in Scott City, many of which will pertain to Kansas anglers: <ul><li>Float materials used with a trotline must now be constructed only from plastic, wood, or foam and shall be a closed-cell construction, or solid body incapable of containing water—the same as floatlines and setlines.</li><li>In an effort to reduce the risk of transmission of invasive species, current baitfish regulations will now apply to crayfish, leeches, amphibians and mussels.</li><li>Soon, electronic carcass tagging will be available for Kansas paddlefish anglers.</li><li>Lyon State Fishing Lake will now be added to Kansas’ Aquatic Nuisance Species designated waters list.</li><li>Length and creel limits were adjusted at select Kansas waters. Anglers can view a complete list of length and creel limits for all public waters in the&nbsp;2020 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary&nbsp;available in January.</li></ul> Other items voted on and approved by the KWPT Commission include:<ul><li>The use of electronic licenses. Soon, hunters and anglers will be able to store select licenses, permits and carcass tags on their mobile device.</li><li>Listing the cylindrical papershell mussel as a Kansas endangered species; de-listing the Arkansas darter from a Kansas threatened species to a Species In Need of Conservation (SINC); and removing the Wabash pigtoe mussel from the SINC list.</li><li>Removing the motor vehicle permit requirement for properly identified vehicles transporting primary and secondary students, faculty and staff to a state park for school-related purposes.</li><li>Removing second turkey game tags in Turkey Management Units 3, 5 and 6 beginning with the spring 2020 season.</li><li>A reduction in season length for the fall turkey season beginning fall 2020. The fall 2020 turkey season will run Oct. 1 thru Nov. 10.</li><li>The meeting concluded with Secretary’s Orders, establishing June 6-7, 2020 as Free Fishing Days, and May 2, 2020 and November 27, 2020 as Free Park Entrance Days.</li></ul> To view complete video and audio recordings of the November 14 Commission meeting, visit<a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission/Current-LIVE-Commission-Meeting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission/Current-LIVE-Commission-Meeting" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission</a>. The next KWPT Commission meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 9, 2020 at the Riverside Community Building, 510 Park Ave, in Iola.

Kansas hunters, anglers can soon store select licenses, permits & tags on mobile devices

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575630530707.png">Montgomery County Courthouse google image By ROXANA HEGEMAN, Associated Press&nbsp; WICHITA, Kan. — A foul-mouthed Kansas judge accused of bigotry and racism who cursed at courthouse employees so often that a trial clerk kept a "swear journal" documenting his obscene outbursts is facing complaints that his conduct violates the central judicial canons of independence, integrity and impartiality. The Kansas Commission on Judicial Qualifications will next week consider whether Montgomery County Judge F. William Cullins performs his duties with sufficient competence and diligence that he can continue on the bench. According to a filing, Cullins is accused of mistreating employees; fostering a hostile relationship with the county attorney's office; lacking patience and decorum; exhibiting disdain toward attorneys; and treating some bondsmen with hostility. Other allegations purport he showed bias or prejudice in the courtroom based on race, sex, socioeconomic status or political affiliation, and denied some defendants or their lawyers the right to be heard. Cullins has acknowledged that he needs "a more effective management style," according to the judicial panel's pretrial order. Cullins declined to comment to The Associated Press on the upcoming proceedings, referring the call to his attorney, Christopher Joseph, who also declined to comment . Several attorneys and others who practice before the judge either didn't return calls or refused to talk about Cullins' behavior. Court documents detail instances in which Cullins directed foul, derogatory language at women, as well as specific allegations of racism. In one instance, Cullins was recorded referring to an out-of-state black athlete as "not even a Kansas boy" and telling a black male resident, "you're a Kansas boy" — language that could be considered demeaning to an African American man. Cullins argued in a filing that this was not a manifestation of racial bias and said the attorney who raised objections has since testified that it appeared no racial connotation was intended.The judge has acknowledged that he curses frequently and "bitches at people to try to get them to correct their ways." As his relationship with Montgomery County Attorney Larry Markle deteriorated, Cullins wrote expletives on documents sent to Markle's office and he allegedly belittled the prosecutor before law enforcement officials in open court. Cullins has acknowledged in court filings that his communications indicate his frustration with Markle's office, but denies that his emotions affected his rulings. He contends that the county attorney's office has failed to file charges in a timely manner against jailed defendants and misused subpoenas. Markle also declined to comment to The Associated Press on the upcoming proceedings against Cullins or his dealings with the judge. Cullins was elected in 2006 to the bench in Montgomery County, a mostly rural area dotted by small towns that is home to slightly more than 32,300 people. Cullins served as the county's chief judge from 2015 until last year and remains on the bench. Before his election to the judgeship, he was in private practice for more than a decade and was the city prosecutor for Independence and city attorney for the small community of Cherryvale. The five-day public hearing is scheduled to start Monday in Topeka, and could feature as many as 37 witnesses and more than 58 exhibits that lay bare the tumultuous justice system in the rural southeast Kansas county. If the judges and lawyers on the panel find the charges are proven, they can admonish Cullins, issue a cease-and-desist order or recommend the Kansas Supreme Court discipline the judge or require him to retire. Discipline can include public censure, suspension or removal from office. Three former court employees said Cullins' demeanor contributed to their decisions to quit their jobs. One of them, Lance Carter, was the clerk who kept the swear journal that is now an exhibit. Cullins argues that his speech is protected by the First Amendment and that his cursing does not diminish his integrity or keep him from performing his judicial duties with impartiality and competence. Joni Pratt said she left her job as a courthouse clerk for a new position elsewhere at a lower salary. After she resigned, as she walked from the judge's office, Pratt said Cullins "shouted 'yahoo' or 'yippee' (or some similar expression) loud enough for others in the courthouse to hear." The filings do not identify who filed the original complaints against Cullins, but only those allegations that investigators determined merit further action will be included in the formal proceedings. <img src="http://assets.bounceexchange.com/assets/uploads/clients/1682/ads/e0dd2acd3574679864cd76965aa5dce2.png">

Kansas judge accused of bigotry, profanities in courthouse

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575499053785.png"> Kameron Bynum -photo Wilson County KANSAS CITY (AP) — A North Carolina man who claimed self-defense in a deadly Kansas City shooting has pleaded guilty to illegally possessing more than 50 stolen firearms. Twenty-four-year-old Kameron Bynum, of Wilson, North Carolina, also pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court to drug trafficking. Prosecutors say he stole 52 handguns valued at more than $19,000 in May 2017 from a Kansas City pawn shop. When he was arrested in North Carolina nearly two weeks later, he was in possession of about 13 grams of marijuana and more than $900. A handgun that had been stolen from the pawn shop was found in his apartment, along with more than 400 Xanax tablets and marijuana. Police say a vehicle used in the burglary also was tied to an August 2016 homicide. Bynum's phone was found at the scene. He told police he was trying to buy Xanax from someone when the person pulled out a gun and attempted to rob him. Prosecutors say another witness backed up Bynum's account that he fired in self-defense.

Man trafficked guns stolen from Kansas City pawn shop

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575736461228.png">SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities a shooting death and have made an arrest. Just after 5 p.m. on Friday, the Wichita Police Violent Crimes Community Response Team officers were working to locate a suspect identified as 31-year-old Chevy Jones regarding the criminal homicide investigation involving a shooting early Tuesday that fatally wounded 31-year-old Robert Junior of Wichita at a residence in the 8500 Block of East Parkmont, according to officer Charley Davidson. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575773454730.png">(The suspect's car after the crash-photo Wichita police) Police saw Jones getting into a 2002 Grand Marquis in a parking lot at the apartments in the 2600 block of South Topeka. When they approached Jones to arrest him, he attempted to elude them by quickly accelerating in the vehicle and slamming into a WPD Lieutenant’s squad car.&nbsp;Jones then fled the scene on foot and was arrested inside of Walmart at Pawnee and Broadway.&nbsp; He was found to have a handgun.&nbsp;The police lieutenant sustained minor non-life-threating injuries and was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment and released.&nbsp;Jones possibly ingested narcotics during the pursuit and was also taken to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp;Jones is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated battery, criminal possession of a firearm, obstruct, and outstanding warrants, according to Davidson. &nbsp;

Police arrest Kansas murder suspect at Walmart

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575762384564.png">Kaiser photo KDOC TOPEKA —Kansas offender Joshua Kaiser, 44, died early Saturday at the Lansing Correctional Facility (LCF), according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp;Joshua Kaiser recently paroled to a consecutive determinate sentence of 32 months out of Reno County Kansas for Aggravated Battery. Kaiser's criminal history includes the following convictions from Shawnee County, Kansas: Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Kidnapping, Sale/Manufacturing/Purchase/Possession/Carry Unlawful Firearm and Murder 1st.&nbsp; The Kansas Bureau of Investigation investigates all KDOC offender deaths. Mr. Kaiser's cause of death is considered pending at this time, based on the results of this investigation and autopsy.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Inmate dies at Kansas prison

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575634382425.png"> COWLEY COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on child sex allegations. For the second time this month, police arrested Dylan Edward Wayne Upchurch, 18, of Arkansas City after he turned himself in this week, according to a media release. The latest arrest was on suspicion of one felony count each of aggravated interference with parental custody and sexual exploitation of a child. He also was arrested on suspicion of two felony counts of contributing to a child’s misconduct by sheltering or concealing a runaway, as well as one misdemeanor count each of possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. Upchurch was booked into the Cowley County Jail in Winfield in lieu of $75,000 bond through Cowley County District Court in Arkansas City. On November 4, police arrested Upchurch on suspicion of one misdemeanor count each of contributing to a child’s misconduct, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana after police were dispatched to the 400 block of North Seventh Street for a report of a juvenile runaway. Officers located the 16-year-old girl runaway and her boyfriend, later identified as Upchurch, inside a vehicle at that address. They noted a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Police found rolled marijuana cigarettes, green vegetation and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. The juvenile was taken into police protective custody. Upchurch was arrested and later released. But on Nov. 13, the same 16-year-old Arkansas City girl was reported as a runaway again. Investigators found information linking Upchurch to the most recent runaway report, as well

Kan. man accused of sexual exploitation involving juvenile runaway

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575745979378.png">First responders on the scene Friday photo<a href="https://www.wvtm13.com/article/naval-air-station-pensacola-deadly-shooting-suspect-saudi-terror-investigation/30148653"> courtesy WTVM</a> PENSACOLA, Fla. (AP) —&nbsp;The Saudi student who fatally shot three people at a U.S. naval base in Florida hosted a dinner party earlier in the week where he and three others watched videos of mass shootings, a U.S. official told The Associated Press on Saturday. One of the three students who attended the dinner party videotaped outside the building while the shooting was taking place at Naval Air Station Pensacola on Friday, said the U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity after being briefed by federal authorities. Two other Saudi students watched from a car, the official said. The official said 10 Saudi students were being held on the base Saturday while several others were unaccounted for.U.S. officials had previously told the AP they were investigating possible links to terrorism. The student opened fire in a classroom at the base Friday morning, killing three people. A U.S. official who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity on Friday identified the shooter as Mohammed Saeed Alshamrani. The official wasn’t authorized to discuss the matter publicly. The official also said the FBI was examining social media posts and investigating whether he acted alone or was connected to any broader group. The assault, which prompted a massive law enforcement response and base lockdown, ended when a sheriff’s deputy killed the attacker. Eight people were hurt in the attack, including the deputy and a second deputy who was with him. Family members on Saturday identified one of the victims as a 23-year-old recent graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy who alerted first responders to where the shooter was even after he had been shot several times. “Joshua Kaleb Watson saved countless lives today with his own,” Adam Watson wrote on Facebook. “He died a hero and we are beyond proud but there is a hole in our hearts that can never be filled.” Florida U.S. Sen. Rick Scott issued a scathing statement calling the shooting — the second on a U.S. Naval base this week — an act of terrorism “whether this individual was motivated by radical Islam or was simply mentally unstable.”During a news conference Friday night, the FBI declined to release the shooter’s identity and wouldn’t comment on his possible motivations. “There are many reports circulating, but the FBI deals only in facts,” said Rachel L. Rojas, the FBI’s special agent in charge of the Jacksonville Field Office.

Official: Suspect watched shooting videos before U.S. navy base attack

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575396118128.jpeg">Polish Jews travel in a railway car to a death camp during World War II. Place and date unknown, via WikiCommons. KU NEWS SERVICE LAWRENCE — At 93 years old, Jarosław “Jarek” Piekałkiewicz understands he is likely the last Polish resistance fighter to ever write a book about his experience fighting the Nazis in World War II. Piekałkiewicz, professor emeritus of political science at the University of Kansas, has spent nearly two decades working on “Dance with Death” (Hamilton Books, 2019).“The book is about Polish Christians helping Polish Jews during the Holocaust. That sounds like a very easy thing to do, but it was dangerous.For hiding Jews or helping Jews, it was a sentence of death,” he said. <iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8-F4m-1ZXAE" height="157.5px" width="280px"></iframe> Piekałkiewicz is well-versed in the hazards of challenging Hitler’s Third Reich. His mother was a member of the AK (the underground “Home Army”), fought in the 1944 Warsaw Uprising and was executed for her activities. This family tradition was one of many reasons Piekałkiewicz became a resistance fighter at the age of 15.&nbsp;<img src="https://news.ku.edu/sites/news.ku.edu/files/images/general/2019_news/december/Jarek%20mug.png">Jarosław “Jarek” Piekałkiewicz, KU professor emeritus of political science “Dance with Death” brings context to the events leading up to the 1939 invasion of Poland that sparked World War II. At the time, one-third of the world’s Jews lived in this Northern European country that bordered Germany. Piekałkiewicz traces how right-wing fascism and anti-Semitism were fostered in his homeland and how this led to an equally committed underground to combat such forces. The book also details his own harrowing story, from the strategies of his fellow insurgents to his personal tale of survival. “The first German soldier — actually a military policeman — I ever saw was some time around September of ’39 when they came to the estate of my grandfather where I was spending the summer,” he said. “They were told somebody from the estate was shooting at German planes, which is nonsense. They came in and interviewed everybody. I was 13, and I was very sick because I injured my foot jumping from the trees, stupidly.” After a few years under Nazi occupation, a healthier Piekałkiewicz felt compelled to take a more active role opposing the invaders. <img src="https://news.ku.edu/sites/news.ku.edu/files/images/general/2019_news/december/Warsaw.JPG">Piekałkiewicz, back row fourth from left, stands with his squad "Krzywda" during the Warsaw Uprising in August 1944.&nbsp; “I was living in a small town in Poland (Biała Podlaska), and myself and my cousin came to the conclusion that nothing is being done against the Germans. So we organized our own underground. We were basically training ourselves. My cousin’s father was a military major, and he had literature and all kinds of books on training,” he said. Piekałkiewicz’s aunt, who was also a member of the underground, suspected the 15-year-old was involved in amateur insurrection. But the resistance was a splintered operation fraught with dangers from numerous sides. (His uncle, a Polish military doctor, had already been executed by the Soviet secret police a year earlier in the Katyn massacre.) “There was one fake group organized by Germans who arrested people if they joined it. And the other was Communist, and my aunt didn’t want me to be in that one. So she incorporated my unit into the regular resistance directed by the Polish government in exile,” he said of his unnamed band numbering around 100. <img src="https://news.ku.edu/sites/news.ku.edu/files/images/general/2019_news/december/Dance%20with%20Death.png"> In 1943 the enemy arrived at his school to enslave students for work in Germany. Piekałkiewicz escaped by jumping out the window and “running like mad.” His stay in Biala was compromised because he was hunted by German police. So his family smuggled him to Warsaw, where his mother got him placed into another unit of the underground army. On Aug. 1, 1944, the Warsaw Uprising broke out in the city. He participated and was promoted to sergeant and decorated with the Cross of Valour.After 63 days of battle, the Poles capitulated and were given the status of POWs. “My escapes? There were three,” he said, laughing. The first breakout from captivity occurred while he was being shipped by train in a commercial cattle truck modified to house prisoners. He partnered with a professional thief to cut through a small window and hid underneath the train when it made an unscheduled stop. His last escape — the most successful one — happened during a long forced march for POWs. “We slept in the forest in snow. How I survived, I don’t know. At the beginning, if you fell, they shoot you,” he said. Out of the 100 men he started with, only 30 made it to the end of the march — a trek of more than 500 miles. He said, “We came to the Rhine and could hear American artillery. So they turned us around. We began marching back east. I told my friend, ‘We already saw this place. This is ridiculous.’ So we took off. But I don’t think it was a very dangerous escape because the guards were not really guarding us. The war was all but over.” He spent the remaining two weeks of World War II working on farms until the Americans liberated the region. After the war, he served in the Polish Resettlement Corps unit of the British Army in its occupation of Italy. Discharged in 1949, he studied at Trinity College Dublin thanks to the British version of the G.I. Bill. Piekałkiewicz eventually immigrated with his Irish wife to the U.S. He earned his doctorate from Indiana University, then came to KU in 1963 because of its Center for Soviet and East European Institute (now called the Center for Russian, East European &amp; Eurasian Studies). He officially retired in 2000, though he kept teaching a grad seminar for several years afterward. Interestingly, he also was doing research in Czechoslovakia when the Soviet Union attacked in 1968. “My colleague said, ‘Wherever you go, there’s an invasion,’” he said. The professor considers his area of expertise to be Eastern European communist countries, totalitarian systems and political activity, specifically ideologies. “Dance with Death” is his sixth book. As someone familiar with the machinations of fascism, what does he think about the current political situation? “Unfortunately, you can look at my book ‘Politics of Ideocracy' (1995) in which it gives reasons to why there was Hitler, Mussolini and Stalin. One of the reasons was a split in society. And one of the reasons for that is rapid technological development. And that’s what Trump took advantage of,” he said. “In the United States and in Europe, rapid technological advancement — which was the industrial revolution in Germany and Italy — produces a group of people who are not employable. Coal mines are not needed anymore. Gas is cheaper, and even gas is going to lose to wind and solar. These people feel they have no place in society. And society really didn’t do anything for them.” He added, “There is a similarity now to Nazi Germany because fascism, now called populism, is becoming popular all over the world again. One cannot take democracy for granted. It has to be defended.”

KU prof emeritus writes about his experience fighting Nazis in WWII

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575725693083.png">Shawn McGonnigil&nbsp; SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Sedgwick County Sheriff’s&nbsp;Detention Deputy for allegedly stalking a co-worker, according to a Sheriff Jeff Easter. On Friday, sheriff's deputies arrested Deputy Shawn McGonnigil in the case. According to a media release from the sheriff's department, the specific allegation is KSA 21-5427:&nbsp;Recklessly engaging in a course of conduct targeted at a specific person which would cause a reasonable person in the circumstances of the targeted person to fear for such person's safety, or the safety of a member of such person's immediate family and the targeted person is actually placed in such fear.&nbsp;In addition to the criminal case, an investigation is also being conducted by the Professional Standards Unit of the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;The deputy was placed on Administrative Leave pending the results of the internal investigation. McGonnigil has been employed by the Sheriff’s Office for approximately 6 years, according to Easter. &nbsp;

Kan. detention deputy accused of stalking co-worker

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575303810042.jpeg">KDWPT PRATT — The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT) is accepting proposals for the Chickadee Checkoff Small Grants Program through January 1, 2020. Grant recipients may use the funds to carry out projects focused on wildlife diversity and native non-game wildlife species, while addressing the issues and strategies within the Kansas State Wildlife Action Plan. Since 1980, Chickadee Checkoff has funded a wide variety of educational, research-based, and habitat projects, as well as the monitoring of non-game wildlife and habitats. By making small grants available, KDWPT can utilize the talents and expertise of people outside of the department to further Kansas’ conservation efforts. The diverse projects completed as a result of this program have led to numerous publications in scientific journals, educational products, and new information on native non-game wildlife species and their habitats. Interested parties have until January 1, 2020 to turn in a completed grant proposal.For program information, including eligibility requirements and to view a list of priority projects for 2020, download the grant guidance documentat&nbsp;<a href="http://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Wildlife-Diversity/Chickadee-Checkoff/Chickadee-Checkoff-Small-Grants-Program" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">http://ksoutdoors.com/Services/Wildlife-Diversity/Chickadee-Checkoff/Chickadee-Checkoff-Small-Grants-Program</a>.

Chickadee Checkoff grant proposals program open

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — More than 3,000 sexual assaults were reported during U.S. Uber rides in 2018, the company said in a long-awaited safety report. That figure includes 229 rapes across the company's 1.3 billion rides. Uber noted that drivers and riders were both attacked, and that some assaults occurred between riders. In 2017, the company said 2,936 sexual assaults were reported.Uber and competitor Lyft have faced a backlash for not doing enough to protect the safety of its riders and drivers. In 2017, the company said 2,936 sexual assaults were reported. Uber bases its numbers on reports from riders and drivers - meaning the actual numbers could be much higher. Sexual assaults commonly go unreported.“I suspect many people will be surprised at how rare these incidents are; others will understandably think they’re still too common,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi tweeted about the report. “Some people will appreciate how much we’ve done on safety; others will say we have more work to do. They will all be right.”Uber's share price dropped more than 1% in after-hours trading.Uber and competitor Lyft have faced a backlash for not doing enough to protect the safety of its riders and drivers. Dozens of women are suing Lyft, claiming the company should have done more to protect them from driver assaults. A Connecticut woman sued Uber last month, claiming she was sexually assaulted by her driver. Uber's safety report is the first of its kind, the company said.“Keeping this information in the dark doesn’t make anyone safer,” Uber said in a statement announcing the report. It plans to release its safety report every two years going forward. Lyft said last year it would also release a safety report. A company spokeswoman confirmed Thursday that it "remained committed" to releasing a report, but did not say when. Mike Bomberger, a lawyer representing more than 100 victims of sexual assault in lawsuits against Uber and Lyft, said he applauds Uber for releasing the numbers. “One of the problems with both of these companies is that they have hidden and have tried to conceal the number of sexual assaults that occur in their vehicles,” he said. Bomberger said he believes 80% to 90% of the assaults in the Uber report could have been prevented by measures such as cameras in the cars recording rides and the companies reporting each assault it learns of to the police. The Rape, Abuse &amp; Incest National Network said it appreciated Uber's transparency. "This is an issue that affects every institution in America," RAINN press secretary Emily Robinson said in a statement. She added that organizations in every industry, including education, should "make a similar effort to track and analyze sexual misconduct within their communities.” There were 107 deaths from crashes in 2017 and 2018, from 97 crashes reported to Uber. Uber says this represents about half of the national rate for fatal crashes. Sexual assault in the report is defined broadly into categories including non-consensual kissing of a non-sexual body part, attempted non-consensual sexual penetration, non-consensual touching of a sexual body part, non consensual kissing of a sexual body part and non-consensual sexual penetration.The company also said Uber rides were involved nine murders during 2018. Uber noted that the vast majority - 99.9% - of rides did not have any reported safety issues.

Uber reports hundreds of sex assaults on 2018 rides

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575410079384.png">Patterson photo Sedgwick County WICHITA, KAN. – A Wichita man who said he killed another man in self-defense was indicted this week on federal firearm and drug charges, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.&nbsp;Dalton Patterson, 26, Wichita, Kan., was charged in a superseding indictment with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and two counts of unlawful possession of firearms by a user of controlled substances.&nbsp;&nbsp;On October 18, 2019, Wichita police reported that Patterson shot and killed Charles Cunningham during a fight. Police said Cunningham physically attacked Patterson and Patterson shot him.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The federal charges allege that on the day of the shooting Patterson possessed more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The indictment also alleges that while Patterson was a user of controlled substances he unlawfully possessed a 9 mm Ruger handgun on Nov. 1, 2019, and a .380 caliber Cobra handgun on Nov. 8, 2019.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;If convicted, he could face a penalty of not less than 10 years in federal prison on the drug charge, not less than five years on the charge of unlawful possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and up to 10 years on each count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a user of controlled substances. The Wichita Police Department investigated. Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Barnett is prosecuting.

Indictment: Kan. man who fired fatal shot  was distributing meth

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575653502183.jpeg">Beaver fur shield SALINA, KAN. (AP) —&nbsp;Authorities are seeking help finding several Native American pieces that were stolen during a residential burglary near Salina. The Saline County Sheriff's Office released photos Friday of several of the items that were taken during the May heist in an effort to locate them. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575653560399.jpeg">The hawk leg dance stick The items include a hand-carved Malaysian mask, a moose jaw dream catcher, a beaver fur shield with a feather and a dance stick made from a hawk’s leg with a talon.The loss is estimated at nearly $15,000.

Kan. authorities seek help locating stolen Native American items

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575643939593.png">Thursday crash scene<a href="http://www.kake.com/story/41416294/car-slams-into-home-vehicles-after-chase" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> photo courtesy KAKE</a> <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575645284514.png">WESTENDORF photo Sedgwick County SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an auto theft and have a suspect in custody after a chase and crash. Just before 10p.m. Thursday police observed a 2010 Honda Fit in the area of 2000 South Bluff View that had been reported stolen, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;Police attempted a traffic stop but the driver identified as 24-year-old Heaven Westendorff accelerated and fled from the officers. During a short vehicle pursuit, the Honda collided with a Jeep parked in a driveway and an attached garage at a home in the 3100 Block of East Gilbert, according to Davidson. Police arrested Westendorff without further incident for felony evade and elude, reckless driving, theft and numerous traffic violations. There were three others in the vehicle.&nbsp;A 17-year-old boy who fled and was later found by officers and transported along with a 20-year-old man to a local hospital for treatment. A 19-year-old woman in the car was not injured. There were no injuries to those at the residence.------------ WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A driver crashed into a Kansas home while fleeing from police. KAKE-TV&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kake.com/story/41416294/car-slams-into-home-vehicles-after-chase" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 125, 165);">reports&nbsp;</a>that the chase ended around 9:30 p.m. Thursday in the southeast part of Wichita. Witnesses told the television station that officers were chasing a car when it crashed into two parked vehicles and the garage of a home. The suspect identified as 24-year-old Heaven Westendorf fled, and officers used a police dog to track her. She is being held on requested charges that include flee and elude and numerous traffic violations, according<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20024103" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> to online jail records.</a> No information was released about what led up to the crash or whether anyone was injured.

Update: Driver crashes into Kan. home while fleeing police

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575667959088.png"> Mohn photo Dickinson Co. Sheriff DICKINSON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a September motor vehicle accident and have made an arrest. On Thursday, members of the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department arrested Colby Mohn, 18, of Abilene, following an investigation related to a motor vehicle accident he was involved in on September 17, according to a media release. Deputies booked Mohn into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of aggravated battery, driving under the influence of alcohol, and failure to remain at the scene of an accident. He has bonded out and will make an appearance in court later this month.

Sheriff: Kan. teen accused of leaving scene of DUI crash

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575653664628.png">Scene of the Thursday night incident <a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/1-critically-injured-in-S-Wichita-hit-and-run-crash-565869911.html">photo courtesy KWCH</a> SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident and asking the public for help with information. Just before 8p.m. Thursday police responded to an unknown call for EMS near the intersection of Hydraulic and Indianapolis in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson. Upon arrival, police found a 34-year-old man injured and lying in the street. EMS transported the man to a local hospital for treatment.&nbsp;Investigators have determined that as the&nbsp;man was crossing the street, he was struck by a northbound pickup that was turning westbound on Hydraulic, according to Davidson.&nbsp;The vehicle then fled the scene. The pickup is described as a light colored, late 90s to early 2000s regular cab pickup.&nbsp;Anyone with information is asked to call police. The victim remains hospitalized in critical condition.

Kan. man critically injured after hit and run accident

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575489324379.png">Mallatt photo Bates Co. Sheriff RICH HILL, Mo. (AP) — Relatives of a missing Kansas City -area mother say they are growing increasingly concerned after deputies found the woman's phone, backpack and shoes. Nicole Mallatt's belongings were found Thursday within 100 yards of her home in Bates County, about 70 miles south of Kansas City. Mallatt, 36, went missing two days before Thanksgiving. Her mother, Debbie Lewis, said her daughter had been planning a big meal. "We're just out here trying to find her and hoping that she's still alive, which doesn't look good after finding all of her things scattered everywhere. She would not do this. It's not Nicole." Sheriff Chad Anderson&nbsp;said hat the discovery of Mallat's belongings “does not necessarily mean that there is foul play,” although he described it as ‘’suspicious in nature.'' Nearly a dozen agencies are aiding in the search, which has expanded from Mallatt's home to neighboring farms. Authorities have been using cadaver dogs, sonar, dive teams, drones and volunteers.Anderson also had a message for Mallatt, if she is OK. “If you have just decided that you are done and you want to start a new life and left on your own free will, I have one question and a favor to ask: That you go to your nearest law enforcement agency, identify yourself, let them confirm you’re who you are, and we can give your family some answers.”

Missing KC-area woman's phone, shoes found during search

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573767524960.jpeg">Click <a href="https://hayspost.com/ag-news" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a> for live commodity prices and the latest in national agriculture news.<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575655356437.jpeg">Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@melissaaskew?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Melissa Askew</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/wheat?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unsplash</a>

Ag News & Markets, brought to you by La Crosse Livestock Market

JUNCTION CITY, KAN.&nbsp;(AP) — Authorities are investigating the death of two men whose bodies were found near the Milford Lake Dam as a murder-suicide. Geary County authorities say Junction City police were called to a home Thursday night to investigate a violation of a protection order and a possible kidnapping. Officers were told 27-year-old Zachary Lima had forced his way in and took 24-year-old Christopher Young out of the home at gunpoint. The sheriff's department received information that led officers to Milford Lake, where the men's bodies were found. Geary County Capt. David Gilbert said Friday the deaths are being investigated as a murder-suicide. No other information was immediately available.

Police: Deaths of 2 men from Junction City not a kidnapping

KANSAS CITY (AP) — About 110 Kansas City inmates housed in a rehabilitation center since this summer will be moved to new facilities because the center will lose its insurance in January. The city has been using Heartland Center for Behavioral Change as a jail since the Jackson County Detention Center stopped taking inmates. Heartland chief executive Kyle Mead told the city in November that the agency’s liability and workers compensation policies will be canceled, effective in January. The cancellation letter indicates Heartland’s insurer canceled the liability policy after it became a jail. The center primarily provides substance abuse treatment and was not designed to be a jail. The city started sending inmates — those arrested, awaiting trial or convicted of municipal charges — to Heartland after its previous arrangement with Jackson County lapsed. Since then, several inmates have escaped from Heartland and at least one died. Fifty inmates will go back to the Jackson County jail. Vernon County will house 70 inmates, Johnson County will take 45 inmates and six to 10 inmates with drug court charges will enter into rehabilitation programs. The average cost for each inmate per day is $76.95, an increase over past arrangements.

Kansas City looking for new homes for city inmates

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575569439552.png">Chaplin photo courtesy of Sedgwick County. <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575631919234.png">Doorbell camera view image Wichita Police SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a package theft and have a suspect in custody. At approximately 2 p.m. on Monday, a 31-year-old homeowner reported an unknown female suspect later identified as Tammie Chaplin, 41, Wichita, of taking a package that was delivered to the home in the 3300 block of East Clark, according to officer Charley Davidson. The victim posted a RING video of the theft onto the RING.com Neighbors Portal, which provided access for officers to view the video.&nbsp;On Tuesday, officers were following up on the case and located Chaplin wearing the same clothes and riding the same bicycle as seen in the video of the theft.&nbsp;Officers contacted Chaplin and she was arrested without incident. She remains<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=6126" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> jailed on requested</a><a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=6126" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(45, 55, 72);"> </a>charges of theft, unlawful possession of methamphetamine and outstanding warrants, according to Davidson.&nbsp;The case will be presented to the City of Wichita Prosecutor's Office.

Kansas woman accused of stealing porch packages

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575631645413.png"> Thursday night crash scene photo<a href="https://www.wibw.com/content/news/Wreck-closes-Hwy-75-near-Lyndon-565867932.html"> courtesy WIBW TV</a> OSAGE COUNTY — One person died in an accident just before 8p.m. Thursday in Osage County. The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2003 Chevy Silverado driven by Darian A. Hess, 20, Topeka, was &nbsp;northbound on U.S. 75 just north of west 229th Street. The driver attempted to pass a commercial motor vehicle with insufficient clearance and struck a 2008 Dodge Durango driven by Amber M. Walters, 33, Lyndon, head-on EMS transported a passenger in the Chevy Jennarene S Hawkins, 24, Burlingame, Walters and three children in the Dodge Daymian M. Walters, 9; Serenity R. Qujnonez, 2 and Cherish P. Roney, 1, all of Lyndon to a Topeka Hospital where Hawkins died. EMS transported Hess to KU Medical Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hawkins and Daymian Walters were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kan. woman dead, 3 children hospitalized after head-on crash

<img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575580291567.jpeg">Crum photo Reno County HUTCHINSON— A Kansas man convicted of aggravated criminal sodomy was sentenced Thursday to 16-plus years in prison.&nbsp; The attorney for Nathan Crum had asked for some type of probation while the state opposed. Wichita attorney Steve Osburn says that he doesn’t have a substantial criminal history and that an evaluation showed he could receive sex offender treatment locally but District Attorney Keith Schroeder argued that any treatment can be done in prison.&nbsp; &nbsp;Reno County District Judge Tim Chambers in his ruling stated that the legislature decided what the sentence should be and didn’t find any substantial and compelling reason to depart and ordered the sentence served.&nbsp; Crum was found guilty of sexually assaulting a Hutchinson woman while they watched a movie at his home. Crum admitted they had sex, but claims it was consensual. However, the evidence showed that she repeatedly said no and he ignored her wishes. The incident occurred Aug. 17, 2018 and apparently had a sexual relationship prior to this incident, broke up but then got back together. They had met on a dating website.&nbsp; The state had charged him with one count of rape, but the jury found Crum not guilty of that count. Crum has been in jail since the incident and will get credit for time served.&nbsp;