SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash and have identified the victim as 22-year-old Tyler Bins of Wichita.

Investigators have learned that just before 4:30p.m. Wednesday Binz was driving a 2004 Honda motorcycle and a 49-year-old man on a 2017 Yamaha motorcycle were westbound on 21st Street in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson

A southbound First Student school bus entered the intersection at North Sweetbriar Street to turn east onto 21st Street.

The motorcycles struck the bus. Bins was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Davidson.&nbsp; EMS transported the 49-year-old man to a local hospital for treatment of serious but non life-threatening injuries.

The bus was occupied by a 77-year-old driver and four USD 259 students. Only one student received minor injuries.&nbsp;

Speed involving the motorcycles is believed to be a factor, but the case is still under investigation, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584032082094.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash photo <a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/1-killed-in-N-Wichita-crash-568714631.html">courtesy KWCH</a>" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash photo <a href="https://www.kwch.com/content/news/1-killed-in-N-Wichita-crash-568714631.html">courtesy KWCH</a></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle crash and have identified the victim as 22-year-old Tyler Bins of Wichita.Investigators have learned that just before 4:30p.m. Wednesday Binz was driving a 2004 Honda motorcycle and a 49-year-old man on a 2017 Yamaha motorcycle were westbound on 21st Street in Wichita, according to officer Charley DavidsonA southbound First Student school bus entered the intersection at North Sweetbriar Street to turn east onto 21st Street.The motorcycles struck the bus. Bins was pronounced dead at the scene, according to Davidson.&nbsp; EMS transported the 49-year-old man to a local hospital for treatment of serious but non life-threatening injuries.The bus was occupied by a 77-year-old driver and four USD 259 students. Only one student received minor injuries.&nbsp;Speed involving the motorcycles is believed to be a factor, but the case is still under investigation, according to Davidson.

Police ID Kan. man who died after motorcycle crash into school bus

:KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference has announced the immediate suspension of all Conference championships until April 15, resulting in the cancellation of the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships in Kansas City, along with its upcoming gymnastics and equestrian championships.&nbsp; Conducting future Big 12 championships this season will be evaluated and determined by April 15.

“After consultation with our Board of Directors it was decided that cancelling these championships was in the best interest of the health and safety of our student-athletes,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby.&nbsp;

Details will be forthcoming on full refunds of ticket purchases for these championships.

:KANSAS CITY, Mo. -&nbsp;The Big 12 Conference has announced the immediate suspension of all Conference championships until April 15, resulting in the cancellation of the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships in Kansas City, along with its upcoming gymnastics and equestrian championships.&nbsp; Conducting future Big 12 championships this season will be evaluated and determined by April 15.“After consultation with our Board of Directors it was decided that cancelling these championships was in the best interest of the health and safety of our student-athletes,” said Commissioner Bob Bowlsby.&nbsp;Details will be forthcoming on full refunds of ticket purchases for these championships.

Big 12 cancels remaining tournament games

TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is urging consumers to use caution against scams involving COVID-19.

“In any unsettled times, whether it be the aftermath of a devastating storm or in this case the spread of a new virus, there are those who choose to take advantage of the public’s apprehension and uncertainty,” Schmidt said in a news release Thursday. “With all the discussion and disruption in reaction to COVID-19, Kansans should be particularly vigilant for scammers and should know that our office is here to help if needed.”

Kansans should be on alert for scams related to the COVID-19 virus, more commonly known as the coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan province of China and has now spread to the United States. These scams could include bogus products advertised as coronavirus prevention measures or treatments as well as bogus charities purporting to raise money for coronavirus research or to support coronavirus patients. Schmidt said his office has received reports of these sorts of scams circulating in Kansas.

Any Kansans who have problems with scams may file a complaint with the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division at<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call (800) 432-2310 for more information.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583409290272.jpeg" alt="Kansas AG Derek Schmidt" />
 <figcaption>Kansas AG Derek Schmidt</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is urging consumers to use caution against scams involving COVID-19.“In any unsettled times, whether it be the aftermath of a devastating storm or in this case the spread of a new virus, there are those who choose to take advantage of the public’s apprehension and uncertainty,” Schmidt said in a news release Thursday. “With all the discussion and disruption in reaction to COVID-19, Kansans should be particularly vigilant for scammers and should know that our office is here to help if needed.”Kansans should be on alert for scams related to the COVID-19 virus, more commonly known as the coronavirus, which originated in the Wuhan province of China and has now spread to the United States. These scams could include bogus products advertised as coronavirus prevention measures or treatments as well as bogus charities purporting to raise money for coronavirus research or to support coronavirus patients. Schmidt said his office has received reports of these sorts of scams circulating in Kansas.Any Kansans who have problems with scams may file a complaint with the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division at<a href="http://www.inyourcornerkansas.org/">www.InYourCornerKansas.org</a>&nbsp;or call (800) 432-2310 for more information.&nbsp;

Kansas AG warns against coronavirus scams

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former superintendent at a suburban Kansas City school district is accused in a lawsuit of being a sexual predator who used his position to identify vulnerable students while other administrators turned a blind eye.

The lawsuit filed last week in federal court on behalf of a former student alleges that former Lone Jack School District Superintendent Matthew Tarwater employed emotionally and psychologically abusive behaviors starting when the student was a high school sophomore. The suit said Tarwater eventually had sex with the former student when she turned 21 but that the sex wasn’t consensual because she “had been subjected to years of predatory sexual grooming.”

No criminal charges have been filed against against Tarwater, and he declined to discuss the allegations with The Kansas City Star's editorial board. No attorney is listed for him in online court records, and he doesn't have a listed phone number.

The suit alleges that officials at the district, which is located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) southeast of Kansas City, deliberately failed to investigate or take action amid reports and complaints about Tarwater’s “creepy conduct toward certain female students, which brazenly violated school policies."

Before he stepped down last year, Tarwater allegedly groomed another Lone Jack High student for sex, the suit said.

Kathy Butler, who replaced Tarwarter on an interim basis, denied accusations that district leadership knew of Tarwater’s alleged conduct in a written statement that she sent to The Star. She didn't immediately respond to a phone message from The Associated Press.

The suit says that before coming to the Lone Jack district, Tarwater resigned from the Harrisonville School District, where he taught middle school history and coached eighth-grade girls' basketball. Because he left midyear, he had to pay a $6,000 penalty. The suit said it wasn't clear why he left.

Susan Brooker, secretary for the Harrisonville district's superintendent and its board of education, said privacy laws prohibit the district from disclosing the reason for Tarwater's departure. She would only disclose that he worked for the district from 2006 to December 2011.

He started out as a principal at Lone Jack High School, despite having no prior administrative experience, and later was named superintendent, the suit said.

The suit said he left the Lone Jack district late last year after he was provided a seven-day option to resign in lieu of being fired as a result of the plaintiff's allegations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584009127977.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Google imageKANSAS CITY (AP) — A former superintendent at a suburban Kansas City school district is accused in a lawsuit of being a sexual predator who used his position to identify vulnerable students while other administrators turned a blind eye.The lawsuit filed last week in federal court on behalf of a former student alleges that former Lone Jack School District Superintendent Matthew Tarwater employed emotionally and psychologically abusive behaviors starting when the student was a high school sophomore. The suit said Tarwater eventually had sex with the former student when she turned 21 but that the sex wasn’t consensual because she “had been subjected to years of predatory sexual grooming.”No criminal charges have been filed against against Tarwater, and he declined to discuss the allegations with The Kansas City Star's editorial board. No attorney is listed for him in online court records, and he doesn't have a listed phone number.The suit alleges that officials at the district, which is located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) southeast of Kansas City, deliberately failed to investigate or take action amid reports and complaints about Tarwater’s “creepy conduct toward certain female students, which brazenly violated school policies."Before he stepped down last year, Tarwater allegedly groomed another Lone Jack High student for sex, the suit said.Kathy Butler, who replaced Tarwarter on an interim basis, denied accusations that district leadership knew of Tarwater’s alleged conduct in a written statement that she sent to The Star. She didn't immediately respond to a phone message from The Associated Press.The suit says that before coming to the Lone Jack district, Tarwater resigned from the Harrisonville School District, where he taught middle school history and coached eighth-grade girls' basketball. Because he left midyear, he had to pay a $6,000 penalty. The suit said it wasn't clear why he left.Susan Brooker, secretary for the Harrisonville district's superintendent and its board of education, said privacy laws prohibit the district from disclosing the reason for Tarwater's departure. She would only disclose that he worked for the district from 2006 to December 2011.He started out as a principal at Lone Jack High School, despite having no prior administrative experience, and later was named superintendent, the suit said.The suit said he left the Lone Jack district late last year after he was provided a seven-day option to resign in lieu of being fired as a result of the plaintiff's allegations.

Lawsuit: Superintendent at KC school was a sexual predator

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is shutting the Capitol and all House and Senate office buildings to the public until April in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. The House and Senate sergeants at arms said in a statement the closure will begin at 5 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. Lawmakers, aides, journalists and official visitors will be allowed into the buildings. 

The statement says officials are acting “out of concern for the health and safety" of congressional employees and the public. The officials say they're responding to the advice of District of Columbia health officials and of Congress' own doctors. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.

WASHINGTON (AP) — House lawmakers are expressing alarm after a private briefing on Capitol Hill with public health officials. Lawmakers are particularly frustrated that U.S. officials have tested relatively few patients suspected to be infected. 

“We’re basically, in my opinion, flying blind," said Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev. Others described the meeting as heated, testy with many lawmakers leaving flooded with graver concerns about the administration's response.

“We should be exuding confidence nationally,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. “The confusion is damaging.”

The House is expected to vote later Thursday on a multibillion-dollar aid package. It aims to provide free testing for the coronavirus, paid sick leave and strengthened unemployment insurance. Congress has decided to shut the Capitol to the public until April. And White House tours have been temporarily suspended.&nbsp;

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress is shutting the Capitol and all House and Senate office buildings to the public until April in reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. The House and Senate sergeants at arms said in a statement the closure will begin at 5 p.m. Eastern time Thursday. Lawmakers, aides, journalists and official visitors will be allowed into the buildings. The statement says officials are acting “out of concern for the health and safety" of congressional employees and the public. The officials say they're responding to the advice of District of Columbia health officials and of Congress' own doctors. For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough.------------WASHINGTON (AP) — House lawmakers are expressing alarm after a private briefing on Capitol Hill with public health officials. Lawmakers are particularly frustrated that U.S. officials have tested relatively few patients suspected to be infected. “We’re basically, in my opinion, flying blind," said Rep. Susie Lee, D-Nev. Others described the meeting as heated, testy with many lawmakers leaving flooded with graver concerns about the administration's response.“We should be exuding confidence nationally,” said Rep. Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. “The confusion is damaging.”The House is expected to vote later Thursday on a multibillion-dollar aid package. It aims to provide free testing for the coronavirus, paid sick leave and strengthened unemployment insurance. Congress has decided to shut the Capitol to the public until April. And White House tours have been temporarily suspended.&nbsp;

White House tours suspended and Capitol to close to public

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting death of a man in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Wichita and have identified the victim as&nbsp;35-year-old Laramie Miller of Wichita.

Just after 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a shooting call at an apartment complex in the 7100 block of W. Shade Lane, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.&nbsp; Upon arrival, they located Laramie in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; EMS transported Laramie to a hospital where he died from his injuries.

Police have developed several leads through eyewitness interviews and area surveillance video, and investigators are piecing to the case together. However, detectives are still requesting the community’s assistance.

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting death of a man in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Wichita.

Just before 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, police an apartment complex in the 7100 block of W. Shade Lane, according to officer Paul Cruz. Police found a man in his 20s. with a gunshot wound to his upper body after a woman reported hearing a single gunshot and looking out her window to see a man on the ground.

EMS transported the man to a local hospital where he died.&nbsp; Police have not released his name or reported an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583945949013.png" alt="Police at the scene of the Wednesday shooting investigation -photo courtesy KWCH&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the Wednesday shooting investigation -photo courtesy KWCH&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting death of a man in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Wichita and have identified the victim as&nbsp;35-year-old Laramie Miller of Wichita.Just after 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a shooting call at an apartment complex in the 7100 block of W. Shade Lane, according to officer Kevin Wheeler.&nbsp; Upon arrival, they located Laramie in the parking lot suffering from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; EMS transported Laramie to a hospital where he died from his injuries.Police have developed several leads through eyewitness interviews and area surveillance video, and investigators are piecing to the case together. However, detectives are still requesting the community’s assistance.---------SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting death of a man in the parking lot of an apartment complex in Wichita.Just before 5:30 a.m. Wednesday, police an apartment complex in the 7100 block of W. Shade Lane, according to officer Paul Cruz. Police found a man in his 20s. with a gunshot wound to his upper body after a woman reported hearing a single gunshot and looking out her window to see a man on the ground.EMS transported the man to a local hospital where he died.&nbsp; Police have not released his name or reported an arrest.

Police ID man who died after shooting at Kansas apartment complex

By NOMIN UJIYEDIIN, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-public-defender-agency-still-fire-struggling-keep-staff#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>

TOPEKA — The state lost 13% of its public defenders over the past year.

That’s actually an improvement. Nearly a fourth of the state’s public defenders quit <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/one-four-kansas-public-defenders-quit-last-year-leaving-agency-crisis#stream/0" target="_blank">the year before</a>.

But
 the turnover of those attorneys still represents a chronic problem for 
the State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services, the agency that provides
 lawyers to criminal defendants who can’t afford their own.

Maban Wright makes $66,000 as one of those public defenders, up from the $43,000 she earned at the agency 10 years ago.

“It
 can be emotionally exhausting,” she said. “People who are very kind and
 giving and softhearted have to develop a thicker skin pretty quickly to
 survive.”

She manages 50 to 60 clients at a time, working six or
 seven days a week. But Wright finds personal satisfaction in the long 
hours and hard work. For others, it wasn’t enough. The agency still has 
about a dozen unfilled attorney positions out of more than 120.

Heather
 Cessna, who heads the public defender agency, credits a small pay raise
 from the Legislature for slowing turnover in 2019. But, she says, the 
agency will need more money to fill jobs that have stayed open for 
years. And the lawyers who remain need better back-up — from support 
staff to information technology.&nbsp;

“We have a lot of things that 
are on fire in our agency,” Cessna said. “We need to stabilize what we 
have before we really start to move forward.”

Wright,
 based in Topeka, spends much of her time reviewing evidence. It takes 
longer than it used to, now that police wear body cams that record hours
 of footage. Plus, she often takes care of her clients in other ways.

“You’re
 representing a case, but you’re also representing a human being who may
 have no money,” Wright said. “You gotta get them out of jail. You gotta
 orchestrate all of their business for them. So it feels like a lot.”

Wright
 doesn’t keep track of how many hours she works on each case. It varies 
based on the type of charge, which can range from serial shoplifting to 
sex crimes against children.

Some states have established standards for the amount of time a defender should spend on each case. Attorneys surveyed in a <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/images/abanews/LouisianaProjectReportFinal.pdf" target="_blank">2017 study</a>
 of public defender workloads in Louisiana recommended about 8 hours of 
work per case for misdemeanors to 70 hours for high-level felonies. 
Attorneys surveyed in a <a href="http://tidc.texas.gov/media/31722/150114_WCL-Final_Reduced-file-size.pdf" target="_blank">2019 study</a> of Texas public defenders recommended about 10 hours for misdemeanors to 30 hours for high-level felonies.

But
 Kansas public defenders don’t have the case management software that 
would allow for a study of workloads. The agency does keep track of the 
number of cases each attorney juggles simultaneously and completes over 
the course of a year.

The maximum number of concurrent cases 
varies by office, Cessna said, but it usually ranges between 55 to 65 
per attorney. When every defender in an office hits that maximum, the 
office “shuts down” and stops taking new cases. Currently, one office in
 Wichita is shut down, with defenders handling 100 cases each. Offices 
in Topeka, Chanute and Independence have also stopped taking cases.&nbsp;

“You
 either need more attorneys or fewer cases, and we don’t get to 
determine how to have fewer cases,” she said. “All we can do is ask for 
more attorneys or shut down so those cases are not in those offices.”

When
 an office shuts down, cases go to private lawyers paid through state 
contracts. When those private practices get overwhelmed, cases go to a 
list of court-appointed attorneys who are paid an hourly rate of $80 — 
the maximum rate allowed by the state Legislature.

“Eighty 
dollars an hour is not enough for anybody to keep their lights on in 
their office and run a law practice and do criminal law extensively,” 
Cessna said.

On average, cases that go to private attorneys cost 
the state $282 more than cases handled by public defenders in fiscal 
year 2019. The extra cost totaled $4.3 million.

The solution, Cessna said, is encouraging staff attorneys to stay with the agency by increasing salary. In 2019, the <a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/gsipub/index.asp?docid=768" target="_blank">median salary</a> for a lawyer in Kansas was $83,000, according to the state Department of Labor.&nbsp;

More
 employees means fewer cases per attorney, less reliance on private 
lawyers, and more specialized knowledge of criminal law accumulating in 
the agency over time, Cessna said.&nbsp;

In late December, she 
requested an additional $500,000 from the state for the current fiscal 
year, to increase salaries for vacant positions in Topeka, Wichita and 
Salina. In the agency’s budget request for fiscal year 2021, Cessna 
asked the state Legislature for another half million for those 
positions, plus a 2.5% raise for all agency employees at a cost of 
$400,000. Other requests included $1.2 million to keep the hourly rate 
for private attorneys at $80, and $200,000 to improve the agency’s IT 
systems.&nbsp;

Over the long term, Cessna wants to hire more support 
staff, like investigators and paralegals, so defenders won’t have to 
spend so much of their time writing letters and making phone calls. She 
also wants to improve training for new defenders.

“It’s kind of 
like when you’re on a plane and they tell you when the oxygen masks 
fall, you have to put on your own mask first,” she said. “You can’t help
 people if you’re in crisis yourself. And that’s kind of where we’re 
at.”

Experts say pay 
and working conditions for public defenders ultimately have the biggest 
impact on the lives of the people they represent.&nbsp;

But prosecutors tend to be paid more and have more salary increases as they gain experience, compared with public defenders.

“There’ll
 be a progressively wider gap that tends to develop between the public 
defender and the prosecutor as they move through their experience,” said
 Bonnie Hoffman, a former public defender and director of public defense
 reform and training at the National Association of Criminal Defense 
Lawyers.&nbsp;

That difference in pay leads to a difference in 
experience and skill levels between the prosecution and the defense, she
 said. In turn, a lack of experienced defenders leads to poorer outcomes
 for defendants.

“That certainly leads to a lot of consequences, 
increases the risks of wrongful convictions,” she said. “It increases 
the risk of excessive convictions.”

In Kansas, prosecutors typically work for county governments. Some are employed by the state attorney general’s office. A <a href="http://www.kcdaa.org/jobs" target="_blank">job board</a> for the Kansas County and District Attorneys Association advertises jobs paying between $56,000 and $97,000 a year.

Prosecutors
 also have the advantage of collaborating with police, said Ernie Lewis,
 executive director of the National Association for Public Defense and a
 former public defender in Kentucky. Defense attorneys, meanwhile, have 
to hire their own investigators.

“Prosecutors don’t have to pay 
for their investigators,” he said. “When you add the prosecutors’ budget
 to the police budget and compare that to the defender budget, I bet in 
Kansas it’s pretty dramatic, the disparity there.”

For decades, 
the legal community has been aware of the low funding and high workloads
 for public defenders across the country, Lewis said, with organizations
 commissioning studies on the issue every few years. But there’s been 
little change, despite the fact that public defender offices require 
much less funding compared to most government agencies.

In the 
long term, he said, that leads to more and more people going to prison, 
which puts even more strain on a government’s finances.

“If you don’t fund your public defenders sufficiently,” Lewis said, “you’re going to get mass incarceration.”

Nomin
 Ujiyediin reports on criminal justice and social welfare for KCUR and 
the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/nominuj" target="_blank">@NominUJ</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583933608784.png" alt=" Public defenders make less money than prosecutors or attorneys in private practice. Chris Neal / Shooter Imaging" />
 <figcaption> Public defenders make less money than prosecutors or attorneys in private practice. Chris Neal / Shooter Imaging</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOMIN UJIYEDIIN, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/kansas-public-defender-agency-still-fire-struggling-keep-staff#stream/0">Kansas News Service</a>TOPEKA — The state lost 13% of its public defenders over the past year.That’s actually an improvement. Nearly a fourth of the state’s public defenders quit <a href="https://www.kcur.org/post/one-four-kansas-public-defenders-quit-last-year-leaving-agency-crisis#stream/0" target="_blank">the year before</a>.But
 the turnover of those attorneys still represents a chronic problem for 
the State Board of Indigents’ Defense Services, the agency that provides
 lawyers to criminal defendants who can’t afford their own.Maban Wright makes $66,000 as one of those public defenders, up from the $43,000 she earned at the agency 10 years ago.“It
 can be emotionally exhausting,” she said. “People who are very kind and
 giving and softhearted have to develop a thicker skin pretty quickly to
 survive.”She manages 50 to 60 clients at a time, working six or
 seven days a week. But Wright finds personal satisfaction in the long 
hours and hard work. For others, it wasn’t enough. The agency still has 
about a dozen unfilled attorney positions out of more than 120.Heather
 Cessna, who heads the public defender agency, credits a small pay raise
 from the Legislature for slowing turnover in 2019. But, she says, the 
agency will need more money to fill jobs that have stayed open for 
years. And the lawyers who remain need better back-up — from support 
staff to information technology.&nbsp;“We have a lot of things that 
are on fire in our agency,” Cessna said. “We need to stabilize what we 
have before we really start to move forward.”<h2>Agency needs</h2>Wright,
 based in Topeka, spends much of her time reviewing evidence. It takes 
longer than it used to, now that police wear body cams that record hours
 of footage. Plus, she often takes care of her clients in other ways.“You’re
 representing a case, but you’re also representing a human being who may
 have no money,” Wright said. “You gotta get them out of jail. You gotta
 orchestrate all of their business for them. So it feels like a lot.”Wright
 doesn’t keep track of how many hours she works on each case. It varies 
based on the type of charge, which can range from serial shoplifting to 
sex crimes against children.Some states have established standards for the amount of time a defender should spend on each case. Attorneys surveyed in a <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/images/abanews/LouisianaProjectReportFinal.pdf" target="_blank">2017 study</a>
 of public defender workloads in Louisiana recommended about 8 hours of 
work per case for misdemeanors to 70 hours for high-level felonies. 
Attorneys surveyed in a <a href="http://tidc.texas.gov/media/31722/150114_WCL-Final_Reduced-file-size.pdf" target="_blank">2019 study</a> of Texas public defenders recommended about 10 hours for misdemeanors to 30 hours for high-level felonies.But
 Kansas public defenders don’t have the case management software that 
would allow for a study of workloads. The agency does keep track of the 
number of cases each attorney juggles simultaneously and completes over 
the course of a year.The maximum number of concurrent cases 
varies by office, Cessna said, but it usually ranges between 55 to 65 
per attorney. When every defender in an office hits that maximum, the 
office “shuts down” and stops taking new cases. Currently, one office in
 Wichita is shut down, with defenders handling 100 cases each. Offices 
in Topeka, Chanute and Independence have also stopped taking cases.&nbsp;“You
 either need more attorneys or fewer cases, and we don’t get to 
determine how to have fewer cases,” she said. “All we can do is ask for 
more attorneys or shut down so those cases are not in those offices.”When
 an office shuts down, cases go to private lawyers paid through state 
contracts. When those private practices get overwhelmed, cases go to a 
list of court-appointed attorneys who are paid an hourly rate of $80 — 
the maximum rate allowed by the state Legislature.“Eighty 
dollars an hour is not enough for anybody to keep their lights on in 
their office and run a law practice and do criminal law extensively,” 
Cessna said.On average, cases that go to private attorneys cost 
the state $282 more than cases handled by public defenders in fiscal 
year 2019. The extra cost totaled $4.3 million.The solution, Cessna said, is encouraging staff attorneys to stay with the agency by increasing salary. In 2019, the <a href="https://klic.dol.ks.gov/gsipub/index.asp?docid=768" target="_blank">median salary</a> for a lawyer in Kansas was $83,000, according to the state Department of Labor.&nbsp;More
 employees means fewer cases per attorney, less reliance on private 
lawyers, and more specialized knowledge of criminal law accumulating in 
the agency over time, Cessna said.&nbsp;In late December, she 
requested an additional $500,000 from the state for the current fiscal 
year, to increase salaries for vacant positions in Topeka, Wichita and 
Salina. In the agency’s budget request for fiscal year 2021, Cessna 
asked the state Legislature for another half million for those 
positions, plus a 2.5% raise for all agency employees at a cost of 
$400,000. Other requests included $1.2 million to keep the hourly rate 
for private attorneys at $80, and $200,000 to improve the agency’s IT 
systems.&nbsp;Over the long term, Cessna wants to hire more support 
staff, like investigators and paralegals, so defenders won’t have to 
spend so much of their time writing letters and making phone calls. She 
also wants to improve training for new defenders.“It’s kind of 
like when you’re on a plane and they tell you when the oxygen masks 
fall, you have to put on your own mask first,” she said. “You can’t help
 people if you’re in crisis yourself. And that’s kind of where we’re 
at.”<h2>Impact on clients</h2>Experts say pay 
and working conditions for public defenders ultimately have the biggest 
impact on the lives of the people they represent.&nbsp;But prosecutors tend to be paid more and have more salary increases as they gain experience, compared with public defenders.“There’ll
 be a progressively wider gap that tends to develop between the public 
defender and the prosecutor as they move through their experience,” said
 Bonnie Hoffman, a former public defender and director of public defense
 reform and training at the National Association of Criminal Defense 
Lawyers.&nbsp;That difference in pay leads to a difference in 
experience and skill levels between the prosecution and the defense, she
 said. In turn, a lack of experienced defenders leads to poorer outcomes
 for defendants.“That certainly leads to a lot of consequences, 
increases the risks of wrongful convictions,” she said. “It increases 
the risk of excessive convictions.”In Kansas, prosecutors typically work for county governments. Some are employed by the state attorney general’s office. A <a href="http://www.kcdaa.org/jobs" target="_blank">job board</a> for the Kansas County and District Attorneys Association advertises jobs paying between $56,000 and $97,000 a year.Prosecutors
 also have the advantage of collaborating with police, said Ernie Lewis,
 executive director of the National Association for Public Defense and a
 former public defender in Kentucky. Defense attorneys, meanwhile, have 
to hire their own investigators.“Prosecutors don’t have to pay 
for their investigators,” he said. “When you add the prosecutors’ budget
 to the police budget and compare that to the defender budget, I bet in 
Kansas it’s pretty dramatic, the disparity there.”For decades, 
the legal community has been aware of the low funding and high workloads
 for public defenders across the country, Lewis said, with organizations
 commissioning studies on the issue every few years. But there’s been 
little change, despite the fact that public defender offices require 
much less funding compared to most government agencies.In the 
long term, he said, that leads to more and more people going to prison, 
which puts even more strain on a government’s finances.“If you don’t fund your public defenders sufficiently,” Lewis said, “you’re going to get mass incarceration.”Nomin
 Ujiyediin reports on criminal justice and social welfare for KCUR and 
the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/nominuj" target="_blank">@NominUJ</a>.

Kan. public defender agency 'on fire,' struggling to keep staff 

Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers released the following statement early Thursday&nbsp;

Currently, much of the K-State community is dispersed throughout the nation and globe during spring break. When everyone returns to campus the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus will increase. With careful planning and guidance from public health officials, there are prudent steps we can take to mitigate this risk and protect our campus and local communities.

The concept of social distancing has been shown to slow a disease outbreak during times of concern with pandemics. This means we reduce the number of times and places that people gather in large numbers or spend extensive time together. By slowing the spread of the disease, medical facilities are better able to handle the demand, which saves lives in the long run.

In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after spring break, we are taking these immediate steps:

These social distancing steps are admittedly inconvenient but have proven to be effective in other locations and will help safeguard the greater good for all. I know each of us will act responsibly to help us protect the entire K-State family and the local communities that are home to our campuses. We can meet this challenge with the strength and resiliency our university has demonstrated for over 150 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Please check our website on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">coronavirus disease (COVID-19)</a>&nbsp;for the latest information. If you have a specific question please email&nbsp;covid19@ksu.edu.

Kansas State University President Richard B. Myers released the following statement early Thursday&nbsp;Dear K-State Community:Currently, much of the K-State community is dispersed throughout the nation and globe during spring break. When everyone returns to campus the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus will increase. With careful planning and guidance from public health officials, there are prudent steps we can take to mitigate this risk and protect our campus and local communities.The concept of social distancing has been shown to slow a disease outbreak during times of concern with pandemics. This means we reduce the number of times and places that people gather in large numbers or spend extensive time together. By slowing the spread of the disease, medical facilities are better able to handle the demand, which saves lives in the long run.In order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 after spring break, we are taking these immediate steps:<ol>
 <li>K-State will suspend in-person classes at all campuses the week March 16-20.&nbsp;Online classes will be held as scheduled.&nbsp;During this time students are strongly encouraged to travel home or remain at home and spend the week there, if possible. For those who cannot go home, our campuses will remain open and services will be available such as student health, residence halls and dining halls. The situation may change very rapidly, based on what we’ve seen in other areas.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Beginning March 23, classes will be taught remotely (not in person) until further notice.&nbsp;The suspension of classes March 16-20 provides time for faculty members to prepare to move classes online or to teach through other alternative methods. While completing classes remotely, students are strongly encouraged to remain at their permanent homes away from campus, unless they cannot return home due to travel restrictions, financial burden, or lack of reliable internet access. We are working to accommodate learning that typically takes place in laboratories and other in-person situations. Our success will depend on the creativity and resourcefulness of our students and faculty, in which we have great faith. &nbsp;We will provide at least one week’s notice before in-person classes resume, per Kansas Board of Regents guidance.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Telecommuting may be an option for some employees.&nbsp;We have published&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/faq.html#telecommute">initial guidance for relaxed policies</a>&nbsp;and ask unit heads to determine who may be eligible to work off-campus.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Visitors are urged to postpone campus visits during this time.&nbsp;We strongly encourage visitors to reschedule planned trips to our campuses and recommend postponing previously scheduled visits. Please keep in mind that international travelers arriving from CDC-designated Level 3 countries are subject to a 14-day quarantine period.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Veterinary medicine students who are involved in clinical rotations or clinical work will receive further guidance from the College of Veterinary Medicine.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Polytechnic students who are involved in flight training or the maintenance program will receive further guidance from the College of Technology and Aviation.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Large campus community events (more than 100 people) will be handled on a case-by-case basis.&nbsp;We strongly encourage campus units to cancel events with more than 100 persons between now and March 30, please be prepared for the situation to change rapidly. Student events occurring between now and March 30 should be postponed or moved to another format. Athletic events will follow Big 12 guidance.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li><a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/travel.html">Travel policies</a>&nbsp;have not changed at this time.&nbsp; All university-sponsored international travel is banned to CDC warning level 3 or U.S. State Department Travel Advisory level 4 countries. There are no mandated restrictions for university-affiliated or sponsored domestic travel at this time, but we ask you to consider the potential risks for you and others and the possibility of trip disruption. As conditions evolve, further restrictions may be added.</li>
 </ol>These social distancing steps are admittedly inconvenient but have proven to be effective in other locations and will help safeguard the greater good for all. I know each of us will act responsibly to help us protect the entire K-State family and the local communities that are home to our campuses. We can meet this challenge with the strength and resiliency our university has demonstrated for over 150 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;Please check our website on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">coronavirus disease (COVID-19)</a>&nbsp;for the latest information. If you have a specific question please email&nbsp;covid19@ksu.edu.

K-State suspends in-person classes starting March 16

KANSAS CITY —Due to rising concerns over coronavirus, organizers&nbsp; made the difficult decision early Thursday to cancel the 2020 Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade, according the parade web site.

"For 48 years, the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for families, businesses, organizations and so many more. But, with the rapid developments that have occurred over the last 24 hours including the announcement from the World Health Organization and the President’s address to the nation, we feel that the most responsible thing we can do is cancel the parade.

We will spend the next 24 hours regrouping and discussing the plan for moving forward."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584013193851.png" alt="Photo courtesy Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Due to rising concerns over coronavirus, organizers&nbsp; made the difficult decision early Thursday to cancel the 2020 Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade, according the parade web site."For 48 years, the Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a tradition for families, businesses, organizations and so many more. But, with the rapid developments that have occurred over the last 24 hours including the announcement from the World Health Organization and the President’s address to the nation, we feel that the most responsible thing we can do is cancel the parade.We will spend the next 24 hours regrouping and discussing the plan for moving forward."

Organizers cancel Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade over coronavirus

TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health and Environment continues to closely monitor an outbreak of the respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. As of Wednesday (3/11) evening, 41 people had tested negative for the virus. Only one person tested positive, according to a statement from the KDHE.

On March 7, the state's first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed in a Johnson County woman under the age of 50.&nbsp; As of Wednesday evening the patient had been at the University of Kansas Hospital and is doing well.

Other labs in the state are beginning to test for COVID-19. These labs are asked to send all results to KDHE. KDHE will continue reporting/announcing results from these labs for Kansas cases.

KDHE is no longer reporting Persons Under Investigations as this is no longer feasible.

KDHE has created a toolkit of Kansas-specific guidance to help local public health departments engage with their community partners on COVID-19 planning. It can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/">KDHE website.</a>

KDHE has a phone-bank operation that is staffed during regular business hours through March 13. The phone number is 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF).

The KDHE also has an email address for general inquiries, COVID-19@ks.gov.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583681783905.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —The Kansas Department of Health and Environment continues to closely monitor an outbreak of the respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. As of Wednesday (3/11) evening, 41 people had tested negative for the virus. Only one person tested positive, according to a statement from the KDHE.On March 7, the state's first presumptive positive case of COVID-19 was confirmed in a Johnson County woman under the age of 50.&nbsp; As of Wednesday evening the patient had been at the University of Kansas Hospital and is doing well.Other labs in the state are beginning to test for COVID-19. These labs are asked to send all results to KDHE. KDHE will continue reporting/announcing results from these labs for Kansas cases.KDHE is no longer reporting Persons Under Investigations as this is no longer feasible.KDHE has created a toolkit of Kansas-specific guidance to help local public health departments engage with their community partners on COVID-19 planning. It can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/">KDHE website.</a>KDHE has a phone-bank operation that is staffed during regular business hours through March 13. The phone number is 1-866-534-3463 (1-866-KDHEINF).The KDHE also has an email address for general inquiries, COVID-19@ks.gov.

The Latest KDHE: Additional labs in Kansas now testing for coronavirus

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with a carjacking and robbery.

Just after 9 p.m. March 7, police responded to a carjacking call at a home in the 1300 block of North Green in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; 

A 50-year-old woman who reported selling a green 2006 Ford Focus to 21-year-old Samantha Thompson.&nbsp; While speaking to Thompson about the sale, she saw Thompson’s boyfriend identified as 25-year-old Deandra Gilkey inside of her residence.

The victim confronted Gilkey who pulled out a handgun, pointed it at her, and took the keys to the Ford Focus.&nbsp; Both Gilkey and Thompson left in the vehicle.

Through the investigation, investigators learned of Thompson and Gilkey’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp; Through community tips, officers located Gilkey and Thompson Tuesday in the 200 block of South Hillside in Wichita.&nbsp; They were arrested without incident.&nbsp; Officers also recovered a handgun and illegal drugs. 

&nbsp;Gilkey is being held on bonds of $225,000 on requested charges of aggravated robbery, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a felon, and an outstanding warrant through the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; 

Thompson is being held on a $75,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated robbery and possession of marijuana, according to online jail records.

In February, Gilkey had been reported as an absconder by the Kansas Department of Corrctions. He has previously been arrested and convicted of charges that include criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon, aggravated assault, attempt to flee and elude police, criminal threat, and domestic battery.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583874832790.png" alt="Gilkey photo Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Gilkey photo Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with a carjacking and robbery.Just after 9 p.m. March 7, police responded to a carjacking call at a home in the 1300 block of North Green in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; A 50-year-old woman who reported selling a green 2006 Ford Focus to 21-year-old Samantha Thompson.&nbsp; While speaking to Thompson about the sale, she saw Thompson’s boyfriend identified as 25-year-old Deandra Gilkey inside of her residence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583925052703.png" alt="Thompson photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Thompson photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>The victim confronted Gilkey who pulled out a handgun, pointed it at her, and took the keys to the Ford Focus.&nbsp; Both Gilkey and Thompson left in the vehicle.Through the investigation, investigators learned of Thompson and Gilkey’s involvement in the incident.&nbsp; Through community tips, officers located Gilkey and Thompson Tuesday in the 200 block of South Hillside in Wichita.&nbsp; They were arrested without incident.&nbsp; Officers also recovered a handgun and illegal drugs. &nbsp;Gilkey is being held on bonds of $225,000 on requested charges of aggravated robbery, unlawful possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a felon, and an outstanding warrant through the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; Thompson is being held on a $75,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated robbery and possession of marijuana, according to online jail records.In February, Gilkey had been reported as an absconder by the Kansas Department of Corrctions. He has previously been arrested and convicted of charges that include criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon, aggravated assault, attempt to flee and elude police, criminal threat, and domestic battery.&nbsp;

Police: 2 jailed for alleged carjacking at Kansas home

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A man who was reported missing last month in Kansas City, Missouri, has been identified as the victim of an accident that was discovered this week.

&nbsp;37-year-old Terell Bandy was last seen about 1:30 a.m. Feb. 16. Police distributed a flier seeking information on Feb. 25.

On Monday, a road crew found a Chevrolet Impala wrecked in a wooded creek bed, alongside Interstate 435 but obscured from the view of passing motorists. Officers found the driver dead at the scene. The driver was identified as Bandy.

Police aren't sure when the wreck happened but said it was likely some time before it was discovered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583976800765.png" alt="Terell Bandy photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Terell Bandy photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A man who was reported missing last month in Kansas City, Missouri, has been identified as the victim of an accident that was discovered this week.&nbsp;37-year-old Terell Bandy was last seen about 1:30 a.m. Feb. 16. Police distributed a flier seeking information on Feb. 25.On Monday, a road crew found a Chevrolet Impala wrecked in a wooded creek bed, alongside Interstate 435 but obscured from the view of passing motorists. Officers found the driver dead at the scene. The driver was identified as Bandy.Police aren't sure when the wreck happened but said it was likely some time before it was discovered.

Body found at KC wreck site was man reported missing in February

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is suspending all travel between the U.S. and Europe for 30 days beginning Friday as he seeks to combat a viral pandemic.

Trump made the announcement in an Oval Office address to the nation, blaming the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the “foreign virus” and saying U.S. clusters were “seeded” by European travelers.

“We made a lifesaving move with early action on China,” Trump said. “Now we must take the same action with Europe.”

Trump said the restrictions won’t apply to the United Kingdom and the U.S. would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier.

Trump said he was also directing agencies to provide unspecified financial relief for “for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus,” and asked Congress to take action to extend it.

Trump said the U.S. will will defer tax payments for some individual and business filers for three months to lessen the impacts of the virus outbreak. He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm.

“This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”

Trump also reiterated his call on Congress to pass a cut to the federal payroll tax in order to stimulate the economy.

Trump said “we are marshaling the full power” of the government and private sector to protect the American people.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583975573611.png" alt="President Trump during Wednesday's Oval Office address -White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during Wednesday's Oval Office address -White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Wednesday he is suspending all travel between the U.S. and Europe for 30 days beginning Friday as he seeks to combat a viral pandemic.Trump made the announcement in an Oval Office address to the nation, blaming the European Union for not acting quickly enough to address the “foreign virus” and saying U.S. clusters were “seeded” by European travelers.“We made a lifesaving move with early action on China,” Trump said. “Now we must take the same action with Europe.”Trump said the restrictions won’t apply to the United Kingdom and the U.S. would monitor the situation to determine if travel could be reopened earlier.Trump said he was also directing agencies to provide unspecified financial relief for “for workers who are ill, quarantined or caring for others due to coronavirus,” and asked Congress to take action to extend it.Trump said the U.S. will will defer tax payments for some individual and business filers for three months to lessen the impacts of the virus outbreak. He said the Small Business Administration will also make low-interest loans available to businesses to help them weather the storm.“This is not a financial crisis,” he said. “This just a temporary moment of time that we will overcome together as a nation and as a world.”Trump also reiterated his call on Congress to pass a cut to the federal payroll tax in order to stimulate the economy.Trump said “we are marshaling the full power” of the government and private sector to protect the American people.

Coronavirus battle: Trump suspends travel between US and Europe

A message from University of Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer to students, faculty and staff

KU leaders have been closely monitoring the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.ku.edu/">COVID-19</a>. We know that some members of the Jayhawk community have been in areas with reported cases, and we don’t expect to be immune from this virus. We have a strong team that is assessing conditions regionally and across the nation and is making recommendations guided by the following principles:

Delayed Resumption of In-person Classes Until March 23

To help protect the health of all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19,&nbsp;the resumption of in-person classes will be delayed until March 23.

Next week, March 16-22, we ask that faculty prepare to transition their course content, including lectures, to online instructional platforms, such as Blackboard. Every KU course already has an existing Blackboard shell available for faculty to start the process. Beginning the week of March 23, courses will be taught remotely using online tools. We anticipate needing to stay online for several weeks, however, our team will reassess the need to continue remote-only instruction each week, starting March 28.&nbsp;There will be no schedule change to courses already online.

This approach limits in-person exposure after spring break to align with the estimated COVID-19 incubation period, and allows faculty members a modest amount of time to prepare and begin the transition to online instruction. It also keeps the university functioning and helps students continue toward their educational goals.

We understand moving instruction to a solely online format will be a heavy lift for some faculty. Resources are available so no faculty member needs to make this online transition alone. KU Information Technology’s Ed Tech team, Center for Teaching Excellence, Center for Online and Distance Learning, and Office of Faculty Development and Mentoring are engaged in this process and will be available with guidance, instruction and tutorials. The team has created a new site —&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;— that provides guidance for those who are new to Blackboard, as well as next steps for faculty who are ready to do more. Individual guidance will also be available. Instructors and staff are encouraged to use Skype or Zoom to interact with students for office hours or appointments.

Faculty and instructional staff:&nbsp;You can get help to start online adaptation of courses by contacting KU IT Educational Technology Support,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itedtech@ku.edu">itedtech@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-2600. The team will assess each faculty member’s situation and either assist with Blackboard migration or refer instructors to more specialized consulting available through the Center for Online and Distance Learning.

Students:&nbsp;In the days ahead, look for a message from your instructors about what you might expect for your courses. If online learning is new to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/guide">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;for a basic guide and resources to get you started. Instructors and advisors may also use tech tools, such as Skype or Zoom as an alternative for in-person meetings or office hours.

While we move courses online, it is important to know we are keeping campus open and operating normally so we can continue to provide services to students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders.

All KU Student Housing buildings (residence halls, scholarship halls, apartments) and KU Dining venues will be open. We are encouraging students to stay home as they work on their courses. We recognize some students may need to remain on campus because they are prevented from returning home due to travel restrictions, or they need access to computers and reliable Internet service needed to complete work.

Students,&nbsp;do not return to campus if:

If any of these apply, be sure to inform your instructors of your situation.

Faculty and staff are expected to report to work unless:

Supervisors should exercise judgement and flexibility when considering requests for alternate work schedules or to telecommute, which includes requests from student employees and consideration of required staffing levels.

We notice that many national meetings have already been canceled. Out of an abundance of caution,&nbsp;all university sponsored domestic and international business-related travel and attendance at meetings, conferences, etc., is to be discontinued, effective immediately.&nbsp;Business-related travel in and around Kansas and Missouri is excluded from this restriction. Please do not make new plans for business travel during the next 60 days. Under extreme circumstances, exemptions to the travel restriction will be considered in advance by the provost or her designee. Travel appeals should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Travel%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.

Human Resource Management is preparing concise information to share with you about a variety of topics, including time-off policies, contingency preparations, remote work opportunities and more, which will be posted on the web soon. You should feel free to contact the office directly,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hrdept@ku.edu">hrdept@ku.edu</a>, or 785-864-4946.

Interviewing Prospective Employees/Students

Spring is an important time to hire new faculty and staff as well as to engage with prospective graduate students. We encourage faculty and staff to use Skype, as much as possible, to limit in-person contact and travel as you conduct interviews. Please reach out to KU IT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itcsc@ku.edu">itcsc@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-8080, if you need assistance with these technologies.

Effective immediately, university sponsored events will be limited to no more than 50 participants. Mission-critical exemptions to the attendance limit must be approved by the provost or her designee. Appeals should be sent in advance to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Event%20Attendance%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.

The Centers for Disease Control has yet to provide guidance on maximum event size, although it offers important&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html">advice to planners</a>. When an event is taking place, planners should communicate to visitors and participants the importance of exercising their personal discretion. Please advise individuals not to attend if they fall into a category recommended for quarantine, they have underlying chronic health conditions, or they are sick. Our Public Health Planning Events Workgroup is continuing to develop plans and will provide more detailed guidance soon.

Please be sure to take care of yourself. Each of us plays an important role in maintaining our personal health, which in turn helps protect our broader community. Please continue to follow CDC recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19 shared earlier by&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>. Taking action that aims to limit exposure of Jayhawks to the virus will help ensure our collective health and safety. Employees who are sick and who lack sufficient paid time off, should contact HR about the potential for using shared leave.

Our Public Health Planning Team continues to evaluate many other important questions, and we will be able to provide answers for those matters in the days ahead. This website will help keep you current.

This is a challenging time for our campus, our families and our community, and it is a time that may require additional bold measures. It will take all of us working together to ensure we emerge stronger. It also will require us to, fundamentally, be empathetic to each other, understanding we are all working through this evolving situation together. We’re confident we have the talent, the resources and the heart to rise to this challenge.

A message from University of Kansas Chancellor Douglas A. Girod and Provost Barbara A. Bichelmeyer to students, faculty and staff<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Due to coronavirus concerns, KU is delaying the resumption of in-person classes following spring break. Starting Monday, March 23, all classes will be held online until further notice. Details at <a href="https://t.co/raPttxxz8z">https://t.co/raPttxxz8z</a>.&mdash; The University of Kansas (@UnivOfKansas) <a href="https://twitter.com/UnivOfKansas/status/1237921278532694016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 12, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>KU leaders have been closely monitoring the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus.ku.edu/">COVID-19</a>. We know that some members of the Jayhawk community have been in areas with reported cases, and we don’t expect to be immune from this virus. We have a strong team that is assessing conditions regionally and across the nation and is making recommendations guided by the following principles:<ol>
 <li>Keep KU open so it can provide services to the fullest extent possible given unprecedented circumstances.</li><li>Maintain continuity of operations that support the academic and research missions of the university.</li><li>Prevent the spread of the disease at KU and beyond.</li><li>Protect members of the KU community through self-quarantine and social distancing, especially the three groups at greatest risk:those who may have been exposed,those who have chronic health challenges,those who are currently sick.</li><li>those who may have been exposed,</li><li>those who have chronic health challenges,</li><li>those who are currently sick.</li><li>Encourage all members of the KU community to be informed and practice healthy behaviors by following CDC recommendations.</li><li>Protect equity for our most vulnerable employees and students, as much as possible, as we respond to the situation.</li><li>Respond with agility to the fluid and changing nature of the situation.</li><li>Provide clear communications to all members of the KU community.</li><li>Provide exceptions for mission-critical activities on a case-by-case basis.</li>
 </ol><h2>Delayed Resumption of In-person Classes Until March 23</h2>To help protect the health of all members of our community, including those who may be at higher risk of the effects of COVID-19,&nbsp;the resumption of in-person classes will be delayed until March 23.Next week, March 16-22, we ask that faculty prepare to transition their course content, including lectures, to online instructional platforms, such as Blackboard. Every KU course already has an existing Blackboard shell available for faculty to start the process. Beginning the week of March 23, courses will be taught remotely using online tools. We anticipate needing to stay online for several weeks, however, our team will reassess the need to continue remote-only instruction each week, starting March 28.&nbsp;There will be no schedule change to courses already online.This approach limits in-person exposure after spring break to align with the estimated COVID-19 incubation period, and allows faculty members a modest amount of time to prepare and begin the transition to online instruction. It also keeps the university functioning and helps students continue toward their educational goals.We understand moving instruction to a solely online format will be a heavy lift for some faculty. Resources are available so no faculty member needs to make this online transition alone. KU Information Technology’s Ed Tech team, Center for Teaching Excellence, Center for Online and Distance Learning, and Office of Faculty Development and Mentoring are engaged in this process and will be available with guidance, instruction and tutorials. The team has created a new site —&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;— that provides guidance for those who are new to Blackboard, as well as next steps for faculty who are ready to do more. Individual guidance will also be available. Instructors and staff are encouraged to use Skype or Zoom to interact with students for office hours or appointments.Faculty and instructional staff:&nbsp;You can get help to start online adaptation of courses by contacting KU IT Educational Technology Support,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itedtech@ku.edu">itedtech@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-2600. The team will assess each faculty member’s situation and either assist with Blackboard migration or refer instructors to more specialized consulting available through the Center for Online and Distance Learning.Students:&nbsp;In the days ahead, look for a message from your instructors about what you might expect for your courses. If online learning is new to you, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://remote.ku.edu/guide">remote.ku.edu</a>&nbsp;for a basic guide and resources to get you started. Instructors and advisors may also use tech tools, such as Skype or Zoom as an alternative for in-person meetings or office hours.<h2>Campus Remains Open</h2>While we move courses online, it is important to know we are keeping campus open and operating normally so we can continue to provide services to students, faculty, staff and other stakeholders.All KU Student Housing buildings (residence halls, scholarship halls, apartments) and KU Dining venues will be open. We are encouraging students to stay home as they work on their courses. We recognize some students may need to remain on campus because they are prevented from returning home due to travel restrictions, or they need access to computers and reliable Internet service needed to complete work.Students,&nbsp;do not return to campus if:<ol>
 <li>You are sick.</li><li>You have a chronic health condition that puts you at greater risk of the effects of COVID-19.</li><li>You have traveled internationally or domestically to areas with outbreaks, or have potentially been exposed to someone with COVID-19. If this is the case, please self-isolate or quarantine yourself for 14 days and call your healthcare provider for guidance.</li>
 </ol>If any of these apply, be sure to inform your instructors of your situation.Faculty and staff are expected to report to work unless:<ol>
 <li>You have been advised to self-isolate or quarantine because of travel or potential exposure.</li><li>You have chronic health conditions or are in another at-risk group considered more susceptible to COVID-19.</li><li>You are sick.</li>
 </ol>Supervisors should exercise judgement and flexibility when considering requests for alternate work schedules or to telecommute, which includes requests from student employees and consideration of required staffing levels.<h2>University Sponsored Travel</h2>We notice that many national meetings have already been canceled. Out of an abundance of caution,&nbsp;all university sponsored domestic and international business-related travel and attendance at meetings, conferences, etc., is to be discontinued, effective immediately.&nbsp;Business-related travel in and around Kansas and Missouri is excluded from this restriction. Please do not make new plans for business travel during the next 60 days. Under extreme circumstances, exemptions to the travel restriction will be considered in advance by the provost or her designee. Travel appeals should be sent to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Travel%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.<h2>Human Resource Management</h2>Human Resource Management is preparing concise information to share with you about a variety of topics, including time-off policies, contingency preparations, remote work opportunities and more, which will be posted on the web soon. You should feel free to contact the office directly,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hrdept@ku.edu">hrdept@ku.edu</a>, or 785-864-4946.<h2>Interviewing Prospective Employees/Students</h2>Spring is an important time to hire new faculty and staff as well as to engage with prospective graduate students. We encourage faculty and staff to use Skype, as much as possible, to limit in-person contact and travel as you conduct interviews. Please reach out to KU IT,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:itcsc@ku.edu">itcsc@ku.edu</a>, 785-864-8080, if you need assistance with these technologies.<h2>Events and Outreach</h2>Effective immediately, university sponsored events will be limited to no more than 50 participants. Mission-critical exemptions to the attendance limit must be approved by the provost or her designee. Appeals should be sent in advance to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:provost@ku.edu?subject=Event%20Attendance%20Appeal">provost@ku.edu</a>.The Centers for Disease Control has yet to provide guidance on maximum event size, although it offers important&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/large-events/index.html">advice to planners</a>. When an event is taking place, planners should communicate to visitors and participants the importance of exercising their personal discretion. Please advise individuals not to attend if they fall into a category recommended for quarantine, they have underlying chronic health conditions, or they are sick. Our Public Health Planning Events Workgroup is continuing to develop plans and will provide more detailed guidance soon.<h2>Stay Healthy</h2>Please be sure to take care of yourself. Each of us plays an important role in maintaining our personal health, which in turn helps protect our broader community. Please continue to follow CDC recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19 shared earlier by&nbsp;<a href="https://studenthealth.ku.edu/coronavirus">Watkins Health Services</a>. Taking action that aims to limit exposure of Jayhawks to the virus will help ensure our collective health and safety. Employees who are sick and who lack sufficient paid time off, should contact HR about the potential for using shared leave.Our Public Health Planning Team continues to evaluate many other important questions, and we will be able to provide answers for those matters in the days ahead. This website will help keep you current.This is a challenging time for our campus, our families and our community, and it is a time that may require additional bold measures. It will take all of us working together to ensure we emerge stronger. It also will require us to, fundamentally, be empathetic to each other, understanding we are all working through this evolving situation together. We’re confident we have the talent, the resources and the heart to rise to this challenge.Thank you to the&nbsp;

Chancellor: KU will hold all classes online until further notice

MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended its season “until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas.

Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the team confirmed the presumptive positive test.

MIAMI (AP) — The NBA has suspended its season “until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas.Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because neither the league nor the team confirmed the presumptive positive test.

NBA suspends season until further notice, over coronavirus

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating after a body was found in a home following a standoff and fire in Salina.

Just after 9a.m. on Wednesday, a police observed a subject riding a bicycle on West Walnut Street near South Chicago Street in Salina, according to a social media report from police.

 This officer was aware that the subject had an active Saline County District Court felony burglary warrant for his arrest.

The officer attempted to make contact with the subject but he attempted to evade the officer while still on his bicycle. The officer was able to determine that the subject had run into a residence located at 133 S. Chicago. While officers were outside waiting for backup, several individuals exited the home and stated there was a white male inside who had a gun in his mouth. An individual who exited the home advised that he knew the subject who had burst into his home, and he also confirmed that the subject was in possession of a handgun.

Officers were also advised that there was a female inside and they did not know if she was there of her own free will.

Additional officers and deputies from Saline County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene and the remaining occupants of this home were ordered to exit with no response.

At 10:06 a.m., the SWAT Team and Crisis Negotiation Team were called out to attempt to resolve this incident involving a barricaded and armed suspect with a possible hostage.

Continuous efforts were made to communicate with the occupants via a PA system from a patrol vehicle.

At 11:30 a.m., a phone was delivered to the front porch by SWAT officers in an attempt to initiate communications. Over one hour of on-and-off communications occurred between the female and the negotiators and it became clear the female was not being held against her will.

This female advised on several occasions that the male, who she identified by name, was suicidal and had a handgun. She also said several times that he intended to burn the house down if law enforcement personnel tried to make entry.

The male refused to speak with negotiators and also refused to exit the residence per conversations with the female. At no time during the incident did police negotiators speak with the male.

At 12:44 p.m., the female, identified as Danielle Reed of Salina, agreed to exit the residence. She confirmed that the male was the only subject left inside and he did have a handgun. This female was taken into custody for an outstanding District Court felony warrant for a probation violation. Additional charges regarding her actions at this scene are under consideration.

At 12:57 p.m., SWAT officers injected four rounds of CS cold gas into the back of the residence in an effort to have the subject exit. This gas is delivered in a micro-powder form which is not considered flammable as it does not create heat. No officers attempted entry to this home during this standoff.

Approximately two minutes later, a white male was observed in the front portion of the home and within minutes, it was clear there was a fire in the same front portion. Shortly thereafter, officers heard several gun shots from inside the rear of the home.

The Salina Fire Department arrived on scene at 1:04 p.m. and quickly extinguished the fire. A deceased subject was found in the rear portion of the home.

At the time of this release, the Kansas State Fire Marshal was en route to the scene to investigate the origin of the fire.

An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death for the individual found in the home. The identity of the deceased subject is not being released pending next of kin notification.

The Salina Police Department noted that it appreciated the assistance of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Salina Fire Department during this incident.

As this is an ongoing investigation, any further inquiries should be directed to the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Salina Fire Department information noted.

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating after a body was found in a home following a standoff and fire in Salina.Just after 9a.m. on Wednesday, a police observed a subject riding a bicycle on West Walnut Street near South Chicago Street in Salina, according to a social media report from police. This officer was aware that the subject had an active Saline County District Court felony burglary warrant for his arrest.The officer attempted to make contact with the subject but he attempted to evade the officer while still on his bicycle. The officer was able to determine that the subject had run into a residence located at 133 S. Chicago. While officers were outside waiting for backup, several individuals exited the home and stated there was a white male inside who had a gun in his mouth. An individual who exited the home advised that he knew the subject who had burst into his home, and he also confirmed that the subject was in possession of a handgun.Officers were also advised that there was a female inside and they did not know if she was there of her own free will.Additional officers and deputies from Saline County Sheriff’s Office arrived on scene and the remaining occupants of this home were ordered to exit with no response.At 10:06 a.m., the SWAT Team and Crisis Negotiation Team were called out to attempt to resolve this incident involving a barricaded and armed suspect with a possible hostage.Continuous efforts were made to communicate with the occupants via a PA system from a patrol vehicle.At 11:30 a.m., a phone was delivered to the front porch by SWAT officers in an attempt to initiate communications. Over one hour of on-and-off communications occurred between the female and the negotiators and it became clear the female was not being held against her will.This female advised on several occasions that the male, who she identified by name, was suicidal and had a handgun. She also said several times that he intended to burn the house down if law enforcement personnel tried to make entry.The male refused to speak with negotiators and also refused to exit the residence per conversations with the female. At no time during the incident did police negotiators speak with the male.At 12:44 p.m., the female, identified as Danielle Reed of Salina, agreed to exit the residence. She confirmed that the male was the only subject left inside and he did have a handgun. This female was taken into custody for an outstanding District Court felony warrant for a probation violation. Additional charges regarding her actions at this scene are under consideration.At 12:57 p.m., SWAT officers injected four rounds of CS cold gas into the back of the residence in an effort to have the subject exit. This gas is delivered in a micro-powder form which is not considered flammable as it does not create heat. No officers attempted entry to this home during this standoff.Approximately two minutes later, a white male was observed in the front portion of the home and within minutes, it was clear there was a fire in the same front portion. Shortly thereafter, officers heard several gun shots from inside the rear of the home.The Salina Fire Department arrived on scene at 1:04 p.m. and quickly extinguished the fire. A deceased subject was found in the rear portion of the home.At the time of this release, the Kansas State Fire Marshal was en route to the scene to investigate the origin of the fire.An autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death for the individual found in the home. The identity of the deceased subject is not being released pending next of kin notification.The Salina Police Department noted that it appreciated the assistance of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Salina Fire Department during this incident.As this is an ongoing investigation, any further inquiries should be directed to the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Salina Fire Department information noted.

Police: 1 dead after standoff, fire at home in Salina

HUTCHINSON— A Kansas woman who entered a guilty plea to aggravated battery in a Hutchinson murder case will be sentenced Friday morning in Reno County District Court.

Delshay Vinsonhaler of Hutchinson waived her right to a preliminary hearing and pleaded guilty in late January to the single count of aggravated battery in connection with the  beating and strangulation death&nbsp; of 29-year-old Lora Beth Stratton.

Stratton was found dumped unconscious in an alley on Aug. 24. She died at a Wichita hospital. Vinsonhaler agreed to the plea deal in exchange for a charge of first-degree murder being dropped.

Stratton and her husband met Vinsonhaler and co-defendant 24-year-old Isaac Ervin online while looking for a place to store their personal belongings. At that time, Ervin is accused of asking for sexual favors in exchange for accepting Stratton’s request.

&nbsp;Ervin recently entered a plea of not guilty in the case after his arraignment last month. He faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, intimidation of a witness and unlawful sexual relations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583955246316.jpeg" alt="Delshay Vinsonhaler photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Delshay Vinsonhaler photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON— A Kansas woman who entered a guilty plea to aggravated battery in a Hutchinson murder case will be sentenced Friday morning in Reno County District Court.Delshay Vinsonhaler of Hutchinson waived her right to a preliminary hearing and pleaded guilty in late January to the single count of aggravated battery in connection with the beating and strangulation death&nbsp; of 29-year-old Lora Beth Stratton.Stratton was found dumped unconscious in an alley on Aug. 24. She died at a Wichita hospital. Vinsonhaler agreed to the plea deal in exchange for a charge of first-degree murder being dropped.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582839515277.jpeg" alt="Isaac Ervin photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Isaac Ervin photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>Stratton and her husband met Vinsonhaler and co-defendant 24-year-old Isaac Ervin online while looking for a place to store their personal belongings. At that time, Ervin is accused of asking for sexual favors in exchange for accepting Stratton’s request.&nbsp;Ervin recently entered a plea of not guilty in the case after his arraignment last month. He faces charges of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, intimidation of a witness and unlawful sexual relations.

Sentencing Friday in Kansas woman's strangulation murder

BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest..

Just before 11p.m.&nbsp; Tuesday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 5600 block of 10th Street in Great Bend in reference to a shooting, according to a media release.

Officers located Richard Fletcher Jr.,23, with a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

EMS transported him to the hospital in Great Bend and he was later flown to Wichita with critical injuries, according to the release.

Investigators have identified two persons of interest in the case. These people are identified as Ismael Montelongo, 20, and Noah Holden, 19.

On Wendsesday, offices responded to an address in the 1500 block of Hubbard in Great Bend, after receiving information of a possible location where Montelongo and Holden were hiding. 

Ismael Montelongo, Noah Holden, and a juvenile male suspect were arrested without incident. Ismael Montelongo, Noah Holden and the juvenile male suspect were all transported the Barton County Detention Center and booked in lieu of bond. The juvenile male was then released to the custody of Juvenile Services.

The suspects are being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree, Endangerment, Criminal Carrying of a Weapon, Interference with Law Enforcement

BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and looking for two suspects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583938606505.jpeg" alt="Noah Holden photo Great Bend Police" />
 <figcaption>Noah Holden photo Great Bend Police</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest..Just before 11p.m.&nbsp; Tuesday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 5600 block of 10th Street in Great Bend in reference to a shooting, according to a media release.Officers located Richard Fletcher Jr.,23, with a gunshot wound to the abdomen.EMS transported him to the hospital in Great Bend and he was later flown to Wichita with critical injuries, according to the release.Investigators have identified two persons of interest in the case. These people are identified as Ismael Montelongo, 20, and Noah Holden, 19.On Wendsesday, offices responded to an address in the 1500 block of Hubbard in Great Bend, after receiving information of a possible location where Montelongo and Holden were hiding. Ismael Montelongo, Noah Holden, and a juvenile male suspect were arrested without incident. Ismael Montelongo, Noah Holden and the juvenile male suspect were all transported the Barton County Detention Center and booked in lieu of bond. The juvenile male was then released to the custody of Juvenile Services.The suspects are being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree, Endangerment, Criminal Carrying of a Weapon, Interference with Law Enforcement----------------------BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and looking for two suspects.Just before 11p.m.&nbsp; Tuesday, police&nbsp; were dispatched to the 5600 block of 10th Street in Great Bend in reference to a shooting, according to a media release.Officers located Richard Fletcher Jr.,23, with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. EMS transported him to the hospital in Great Bend and he was later flown to Wichita with critical injuries, according to the release.Investigators have identified two persons of interest in the case. These people are identified as Ismael Montelongo, 20, and Noah Holden, 19.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583938633809.jpeg" alt="Ismael Montelongo" />
 <figcaption>Ismael Montelongo</figcaption>
 </figure>Montelongo and Holden were last seen driving westbound from 10th &amp; Patton in a tan 2003 GMC Yukon bearing KS handicapped tag 72583. Montelongo and Holden are considered to be armed and dangerous, so please contact local law enforcement if you have any information about their locations.This case is still under investigation. If you have any information regarding this crime, or any other crime, please contact the Great Bend Police Dept at 620-793-4120 or Crime Stoppers at 620-792-1300.