WASHINGTON —One year ago, the Supreme Court eliminated a constitutional right that it had previously recognized, overturning nearly fifty years of precedent.

According to a statement from the White House: 

Today, more than 23 million women of reproductive age—one in three—live in one of the 18 states with an abortion ban currently in effect. In the last year, women have been denied essential medical care to preserve their health and even save their lives. They have been turned away from emergency rooms, forced to delay care, and made to travel hundreds of miles and across state lines for needed medical care. Despite this devastating impact on women’s health, Republican elected officials continue to advance these bans at both the state and national level.

President Biden and Vice President Harris stand with the majority of Americans who believe the right to choose is fundamental—and who have made their voices heard at every opportunity since the Supreme Court’s decision in&nbsp;Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.&nbsp;As the President has made clear since the day of the&nbsp;Dobbs&nbsp;decision, the only way to ensure women in every state have access to abortion is for Congress to pass a law restoring the protections of&nbsp;Roe v. Wade.

While we continue to call on Congress to restore these protections, the Administration has taken executive action to protect access across the full spectrum of reproductive health care. In the wake of&nbsp;Dobbs, the President issued two Executive Orders directing a comprehensive slate of actions to protect access to reproductive health care services, including abortion. And today,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/06/23/fact-sheet-president-biden-issues-executive-order-on-strengthening-access-to-contraception/" target="_blank">the President is issuing a third Executive Order focused on strengthening access to affordable, high-quality contraception</a>, a critical aspect of reproductive health care. The Administration remains fully committed to implementing these Executive Orders and advancing access to reproductive health care through the leadership of the interagency Task Force on Reproductive Healthcare Access, co-chaired by the White House Gender Policy Council and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is providing an update on the work of the Task Force on Reproductive Healthcare Access and the Administration’s ongoing efforts to defend reproductive rights.

Protecting Access to Abortion, including Medication Abortion

Supporting Women’s Ability to Travel for Medical Care

Reinforcing Nondiscrimination Protections under Federal Law

Promoting Safety and Security of Patients, Providers, and Clinics

Safeguarding Privacy and Sensitive Health Information

Providing Access to Accurate Information and Legal Resources

 Biden signs 3rd reproductive health care Executive Order

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A suspect accused in a shooting outside a funeral last week made a first court appearance this week.

Demetrius Carter, 18 of Wichita, is charged with two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated endangering a child, and criminal damage to property, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office..&nbsp;

Just after 2p.m. June 16, police were dispatched to a shooting call in the 1100 block of North Oliver in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

First responders encountered a chaotic scene and a crowd of more than 50 people running in different directions. During the initial response officers located an 18-year-old victim with a gunshot wound to his right forearm and provided life-saving measures. The 18-year-old victim later identified as Carter was treated for his serious but not life-threatening injuries.

The investigation revealed that several suspects arrived at the parking lot of a local church and confronted a large group of people attending a funeral right outside the main door.

After a brief verbal altercation between both groups, an unknown number of people from both groups started to shoot at each other. After initial interviews, officers arrested Carter and transported him to investigations for further questioning before an arrest.

During the incident, several vehicles, and residences around and in front of the church’s parking lot were hit with gunfire. Police also recovered several firearms from the scene.&nbsp;

Carter's next court date is July 6. He is being held on a five-million dollar bond, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1686967298655.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A suspect accused in a shooting outside a funeral last week made a first court appearance this week.Demetrius Carter, 18 of Wichita, is charged with two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of aggravated endangering a child, and criminal damage to property, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office..&nbsp;Just after 2p.m. June 16, police were dispatched to a shooting call in the 1100 block of North Oliver in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687431619099.png" alt="Carter-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Carter-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders encountered a chaotic scene and a crowd of more than 50 people running in different directions. During the initial response officers located an 18-year-old victim with a gunshot wound to his right forearm and provided life-saving measures. The 18-year-old victim later identified as Carter was treated for his serious but not life-threatening injuries.The investigation revealed that several suspects arrived at the parking lot of a local church and confronted a large group of people attending a funeral right outside the main door.After a brief verbal altercation between both groups, an unknown number of people from both groups started to shoot at each other. After initial interviews, officers arrested Carter and transported him to investigations for further questioning before an arrest.During the incident, several vehicles, and residences around and in front of the church’s parking lot were hit with gunfire. Police also recovered several firearms from the scene.&nbsp;Carter's next court date is July 6. He is being held on a five-million dollar bond, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. teen held on $5 million bond for shooting outside funeral

RILEY COUNTY —&nbsp;On Thursday, police took three individuals into custody on Pottawatomie County District Court warrants in connection to the suspected fentanyl-related death of an 18-year-old man at a hotel in Manhattan on March 11, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Noah Baker, 19, of Junction City; McKaine Farr, 21, of Wamego and Shawn Samuelson, 22, of Manhattan were all arrested on requested charges that include distribution of a controlled substance causing death.

Baker was arrested in Junction City with assistance from the Junction City Police Department. Farr was arrested in rural Wamego with assistance from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office. Samuelson was already confined in the Riley County Jail on unrelated charges and is being held on detainer for the distribution charge.

During a subsequent search warrant at Farr’s location, additional suspected fentanyl was seized.

Baker and Farr are currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail, Farr is being held on no bond and Baker with a $25,000 bond. Samuelson remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

RILEY COUNTY —&nbsp;On Thursday, police took three individuals into custody on Pottawatomie County District Court warrants in connection to the suspected fentanyl-related death of an 18-year-old man at a hotel in Manhattan on March 11, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Noah Baker, 19, of Junction City; McKaine Farr, 21, of Wamego and Shawn Samuelson, 22, of Manhattan were all arrested on requested charges that include distribution of a controlled substance causing death.Baker was arrested in Junction City with assistance from the Junction City Police Department. Farr was arrested in rural Wamego with assistance from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office. Samuelson was already confined in the Riley County Jail on unrelated charges and is being held on detainer for the distribution charge.During a subsequent search warrant at Farr’s location, additional suspected fentanyl was seized.Baker and Farr are currently confined at the Pottawatomie County Jail, Farr is being held on no bond and Baker with a $25,000 bond. Samuelson remains confined in the Riley County Jail.

Police make 3 arrests in Kansas fentanyl-related death

PUXICO, Mo. (AP) — An invasive and fish that is voracious predator capable of surviving out of water for days was recently caught in southeastern Missouri, causing worry that the hard-to-contain species will spread and become a problem.

The northern snakehead was caught last month in a drainage pool at Duck Creek Conservation Area. The last time one showed up in Missouri was four years ago, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/state-regional/why-this-beast-of-a-fish-has-missouri-wildlife-officials-spooked/article_6846e576-104a-11ee-a56c-0fff076e3efb.html#tracking-source=home-top-story">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reported.

Wildlife officials sounded the alarm, but many anglers say they're unaware of the fish, its potential impact and what to do if they catch one.

The northern snakehead is originally from east Asia, where they are a delicacy believed to have healing powers. They reproduce quickly, have sharp teeth, can wiggle across muddy land and grow to nearly 3 feet (nearly a meter) in length.

The federal government in 2002 banned the import and interstate transport of live northern snakeheads, but they are flourishing in some parts of the U.S.

“They are knocking on the door in Arkansas,” said Dave Knuth, a Missouri fisheries management biologist based in Cape Girardeau. “They are a beast.”

The catch in May was worrisome, Knuth said. “I didn’t expect them to be this far up the state already,” he said.

The first northern snakehead found in Missouri was caught in 2019 out of a ditch within the St. Francois River levee system in the Missouri Bootheel region.

On May 19, state workers using a net to catch bait for a youth jug-fishing clinic, pulled a 13-inch northern snakehead out of Duck Creek Conservation Area. Knuth said the fish was found in the same watershed as the first one, though about 70 river miles (113 river kilometers) north of the initial catch.

Wildlife officials spent two days searching for additional northern snakeheads in the conservation area and neighboring Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. No others were found, but they fear others are lurking, at least in low numbers.

Larry Underwood, 73, who lives near the conservation area, wished the state well in its efforts to keep out the northern snakehead. As he fished, he noted that the state also tries to control feral hogs, but with little luck.

“It’s kind of like the hogs,” he said. “You are going to eliminate that? Yeah, good luck.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687553409318.png" alt="Image Missouri Dept. of Conservation" />
 <figcaption>Image Missouri Dept. of Conservation</figcaption>
 </figure>PUXICO, Mo. (AP) — An invasive and fish that is voracious predator capable of surviving out of water for days was recently caught in southeastern Missouri, causing worry that the hard-to-contain species will spread and become a problem.The northern snakehead was caught last month in a drainage pool at Duck Creek Conservation Area. The last time one showed up in Missouri was four years ago, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/state-regional/why-this-beast-of-a-fish-has-missouri-wildlife-officials-spooked/article_6846e576-104a-11ee-a56c-0fff076e3efb.html#tracking-source=home-top-story">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reported.Wildlife officials sounded the alarm, but many anglers say they're unaware of the fish, its potential impact and what to do if they catch one.The northern snakehead is originally from east Asia, where they are a delicacy believed to have healing powers. They reproduce quickly, have sharp teeth, can wiggle across muddy land and grow to nearly 3 feet (nearly a meter) in length.The federal government in 2002 banned the import and interstate transport of live northern snakeheads, but they are flourishing in some parts of the U.S.“They are knocking on the door in Arkansas,” said Dave Knuth, a Missouri fisheries management biologist based in Cape Girardeau. “They are a beast.”The catch in May was worrisome, Knuth said. “I didn’t expect them to be this far up the state already,” he said.The first northern snakehead found in Missouri was caught in 2019 out of a ditch within the St. Francois River levee system in the Missouri Bootheel region.On May 19, state workers using a net to catch bait for a youth jug-fishing clinic, pulled a 13-inch northern snakehead out of Duck Creek Conservation Area. Knuth said the fish was found in the same watershed as the first one, though about 70 river miles (113 river kilometers) north of the initial catch.Wildlife officials spent two days searching for additional northern snakeheads in the conservation area and neighboring Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. No others were found, but they fear others are lurking, at least in low numbers.Larry Underwood, 73, who lives near the conservation area, wished the state well in its efforts to keep out the northern snakehead. As he fished, he noted that the state also tries to control feral hogs, but with little luck.“It’s kind of like the hogs,” he said. “You are going to eliminate that? Yeah, good luck.”

Invasive northern snakehead fish found in Missouri a second time

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting, carjacking&nbsp; and two additional robberies made an arrest Friday

Just before 9 p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the McDonalds at 8326 Wornall in Kansas City on a reported attempted robbery and shots fired, according to Police Captain Corey Carlisle. No employees were injured in the shooting. The suspect fled the scene at which time he shot at another vehicle before fleeing. The occupant of the vehicle was not injured.

Follow up investigation brought officers to the area of Brookside and Meyer around 10:10 p.m. Officers found the suspect vehicle. The shooting suspect, later identified as 31-year-old Brandon Fletcher, then fired gunshots at the officers at which time an officer returned fire. Fletcher fled on foot to the parking lot area behind the local business, where he carjacked an unsuspecting victim.&nbsp; Officers engaged the suspect again. Fletcher fired gun shots at officers at which time an officer returned fire. The suspect fled the scene in the victim's vehicle.&nbsp; The car jacking victims were not injured and no officers were injured. Law enforcement found the vehicle abandoned in the area of 73rd and Cherokee at which time they began searching for him. Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to the multiple crime scenes and were processing the scenes to recover any evidence and speakito any potential witnesses.

There were two additional robberies in the area&nbsp; just before 7.m., according to KCPD Sgt. Jake Becchina.

One in which a vehicle was taken That vehicle was located during a series of crimes in Davies County near Winston, Missouri.

Those crimes include robbery, vehicle theft and home invasion. Fletcher was involved in a pursuit with highway patrol where he ran from the vehicle and was apprehended by troopers. Fletcher is being held in the Daviess County jail on requested charges of armed criminal action, theft, burglary, assault, resisting arrest.

Detectives&nbsp; are working together to present applicable case files to prosecutors for additional charging considerations, according Becchina.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687516133882.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation late Thursday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation late Thursday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting, carjacking&nbsp; and two additional robberies made an arrest FridayJust before 9 p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the McDonalds at 8326 Wornall in Kansas City on a reported attempted robbery and shots fired, according to Police Captain Corey Carlisle. No employees were injured in the shooting. The suspect fled the scene at which time he shot at another vehicle before fleeing. The occupant of the vehicle was not injured.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687552380281.png" alt="Fletcher-photo Daviess Co." />
 <figcaption>Fletcher-photo Daviess Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Follow up investigation brought officers to the area of Brookside and Meyer around 10:10 p.m. Officers found the suspect vehicle. The shooting suspect, later identified as 31-year-old Brandon Fletcher, then fired gunshots at the officers at which time an officer returned fire. Fletcher fled on foot to the parking lot area behind the local business, where he carjacked an unsuspecting victim.&nbsp; Officers engaged the suspect again. Fletcher fired gun shots at officers at which time an officer returned fire. The suspect fled the scene in the victim's vehicle.&nbsp; The car jacking victims were not injured and no officers were injured. Law enforcement found the vehicle abandoned in the area of 73rd and Cherokee at which time they began searching for him. Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to the multiple crime scenes and were processing the scenes to recover any evidence and speakito any potential witnesses.There were two additional robberies in the area&nbsp; just before 7.m., according to KCPD Sgt. Jake Becchina.One in which a vehicle was taken That vehicle was located during a series of crimes in Davies County near Winston, Missouri.Those crimes include robbery, vehicle theft and home invasion. Fletcher was involved in a pursuit with highway patrol where he ran from the vehicle and was apprehended by troopers. Fletcher is being held in the Daviess County jail on requested charges of armed criminal action, theft, burglary, assault, resisting arrest.Detectives&nbsp; are working together to present applicable case files to prosecutors for additional charging considerations, according Becchina.

Patrol captures KC carjacking suspect after a series of crimes

NEW YORK (AP) — A law to protect doctors in New York who prescribe abortion pills to patients in states where the procedure is outlawed was signed Friday by Gov. Kathy Hochul, who said the measure would serve women living in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-status-list-state-protection-ban-4466aefe6141745b71c824522aac47b9">states with bans</a>.

Coming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-dobbs-anniversary-state-laws-51c2a83899f133556e715342abfcface">a year after</a>&nbsp;the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">struck down</a>&nbsp;the nationwide right to abortion, the law bars New York officials from cooperating with certain legal actions initiated in states where abortion is banned, such as arrests or extraditions. New York joins several other states with similar telehealth “shield laws.”

“Extremist lawmakers in other states can stop their health care providers from supplying abortion pills. If that’s your state, I feel sorry for your constituents. But they can’t stop us. They can’t stop our providers,” Hochul, a Democrat, said at a bill signing ceremony.

A year after the Dobbs ruling, 14 states have bans on abortion throughout pregnancy — with some exceptions. Other states have adopted deep restrictions. In all,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-dobbs-anniversary-state-laws-51c2a83899f133556e715342abfcface">25 million</a>&nbsp;women of childbearing age now live in states with abortion bans or tighter restrictions.

New York already adopted protections for medical professionals who provide abortion care for patients traveling from states with bans or restrictions. But Hochul and lawmakers expanded protections to telehealth services at a time when more than half of abortions in the U.S. are carried out with medication.

ACT Access co-founder Dr. Linda Prine said they will mail pills as soon as the legislation is signed.

The measure was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-new-york-providers-telehealth-e863ae1ab8771ec042e02da3e95e890c">given final approval in the Legislature</a>&nbsp;earlier this week as it ended its regular session.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680967457500.png" alt="ACT Access co-founder Dr. Linda Prine said they will mail pills as soon as the legislation is signed.-photo AP" />
 <figcaption>ACT Access co-founder Dr. Linda Prine said they will mail pills as soon as the legislation is signed.-photo AP</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — A law to protect doctors in New York who prescribe abortion pills to patients in states where the procedure is outlawed was signed Friday by Gov. Kathy Hochul, who said the measure would serve women living in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-status-list-state-protection-ban-4466aefe6141745b71c824522aac47b9">states with bans</a>.Coming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-dobbs-anniversary-state-laws-51c2a83899f133556e715342abfcface">a year after</a>&nbsp;the U.S. Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">struck down</a>&nbsp;the nationwide right to abortion, the law bars New York officials from cooperating with certain legal actions initiated in states where abortion is banned, such as arrests or extraditions. New York joins several other states with similar telehealth “shield laws.”“Extremist lawmakers in other states can stop their health care providers from supplying abortion pills. If that’s your state, I feel sorry for your constituents. But they can’t stop us. They can’t stop our providers,” Hochul, a Democrat, said at a bill signing ceremony.A year after the Dobbs ruling, 14 states have bans on abortion throughout pregnancy — with some exceptions. Other states have adopted deep restrictions. In all,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-dobbs-anniversary-state-laws-51c2a83899f133556e715342abfcface">25 million</a>&nbsp;women of childbearing age now live in states with abortion bans or tighter restrictions.New York already adopted protections for medical professionals who provide abortion care for patients traveling from states with bans or restrictions. But Hochul and lawmakers expanded protections to telehealth services at a time when more than half of abortions in the U.S. are carried out with medication.ACT Access co-founder Dr. Linda Prine said they will mail pills as soon as the legislation is signed.The measure was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-new-york-providers-telehealth-e863ae1ab8771ec042e02da3e95e890c">given final approval in the Legislature</a>&nbsp;earlier this week as it ended its regular session.

New York doctors get protection to mail abortion pills across state lines

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two early morning shootings in Topeka and have identified a suspect.

Just after 5 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the area of the 1800 Block of SW Gage Blvd. in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

First responders found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.

Then at 5:44 a.m., police responded to a shooting in&nbsp; the 1000 Block. of SW Plass Avenue. First responders found one individual&nbsp; suffering from gunshot wounds.

All three individuals were transported to a local area hospital, with two of these individuals injuries to be considered non-life threatening and one considered to be life threatening.

At this time the two incidents appear to be related and police identified a suspect and that individual is currently in police custody, being treated at a local hospital. 

Upon medical clearance, police&nbsp; will publicly identify the suspect, make an arrest and they will be booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687547641510.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Friday -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation early Friday -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two early morning shootings in Topeka and have identified a suspect.Just after 5 a.m. Friday, police responded to a shooting in the area of the 1800 Block of SW Gage Blvd. in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.First responders found two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds.Then at 5:44 a.m., police responded to a shooting in&nbsp; the 1000 Block. of SW Plass Avenue. First responders found one individual&nbsp; suffering from gunshot wounds.All three individuals were transported to a local area hospital, with two of these individuals injuries to be considered non-life threatening and one considered to be life threatening.At this time the two incidents appear to be related and police identified a suspect and that individual is currently in police custody, being treated at a local hospital. Upon medical clearance, police&nbsp; will publicly identify the suspect, make an arrest and they will be booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Police: Kansas suspect in two shooting incidents hospitalized

NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon was sued Wednesday by the Federal Trade Commission for allegedly engaging in a yearslong effort to enroll consumers without consent into Amazon Prime and making it difficult for them to cancel their subscriptions.

In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, the agency accused Amazon of using deceptive designs, known as “dark patterns,” to deceive consumers into enrolling in Prime, which provides subscribers with perks such as faster shipping for an fee of $139 annually, or $14.99 a month.

The FTC said Amazon made it difficult for customers to purchase an item without also subscribing to Prime. In some cases, consumers were presented with a button to complete their transactions — which didn’t clearly state it would also enroll them in Prime.

Getting out of a subscription was often too complicated, and Amazon leadership slowed or rejected changes that would have made canceling easier, the complaint said.

Internally, Amazon called the process “Iliad," a reference to the ancient Greek poem about lengthy siege of Troy during the Trojan war.

“Amazon tricked and trapped people into recurring subscriptions without their consent, not only frustrating users but also costing them significant money,” FTC Chair Lina Khan said in a prepared statement. “These manipulative tactics harm consumers and law-abiding businesses alike.”

The FTC argued that Amazon’s practices violated the FTC Act and another law called the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act, which Amazon disputed.

“The FTC’s claims are false on the facts and the law," Amazon spokesperson Heather Layman said in a statement. “The truth is that customers love Prime, and by design we make it clear and simple for customers to both sign up for or cancel their Prime membership.”

Launched in 2005, Prime has more than 200 million members worldwide who are entitled to perks such as free delivery, returns and the streaming service Prime Video. In the first three months of this year, Amazon reported it made $9.6 billion from subscriptions, a 17% jump from the same period last year.

In a news release announcing the lawsuit, the FTC said though its complaint is significantly redacted, it contains “a number of allegations” that backs up its accusations against Amazon. It also accused the company of attempting to hinder the agency’s investigation into Prime, which began in 2021, in several instances.

In the past two years, the agency has been ramping up its enforcement against deceptive sign-up and cancellation tactics that could manipulate consumers into buying products or services they don't want. In December, it said Epic Games Inc., the maker of the popular Fortnite video game, would pay $245 million in customer refunds for deceptive payment methods. In November, the telecom company Vonage settled a similar case for $100 million.

Layman, the Amazon spokesperson, said the company found it “concerning” the FTC filed the lawsuit without notifying Amazon, which was in discussion with agency staffers about Prime.

“While the absence of that normal course engagement is extremely disappointing, we look forward to proving our case in court," she said.

The lawsuit also comes as Amazon is facing heightened regulatory scrutiny as it moves to expand its e-commerce dominance and dip its toes into other markets, including groceries and health care.

Some anti-monopoly groups celebrated the lawsuit shortly after the FTC’s announcement, while others called it absurd.

“The complaint is that Amazon encourages people to use Amazon Prime – this is like going after Kroger for promoting its rewards program or Costco for its membership club,” Carl Szabo, the vice president and general counsel of the tech industry group NetChoice, said in a statement. "It is abundantly clear that the FTC is a runaway agency in need of greater oversight. Congress must engage in robust oversight to rein in the FTC by cutting funding and investigating its ethical lapses and abuse of power.”

The group, which counts Amazon as one of its members, also pointed to Khan's prior criticism of the company, and accused her of using the lawsuit “to attack American businesses she doesn’t like.”

Khan, 34, burst onto the antitrust scene in 2017 with her massive scholarly work as a Yale law student, “Amazon’s Antitrust Paradox." In 2021, Amazon asked unsuccessfully that she remove herself from separate antitrust investigations into its business, arguing that her public criticism of the company’s market power before she joined the government makes it impossible for her to be impartial.

The U.S. and Amazon have traded barbs for over the investigation.

Last year, Amazon accused the FTC of harassing its executives, including founder Jeff Bezos, as the agency sought to get the company’s top brass to testify as part of the probe.

The tech giant has also faced other lawsuits accusing its Prime cancelation process of being too complicated. While under scrutiny from the FTC, the company in March provided consumers with instructions on how to cancel their Prime memberships in a blog post.

The lawsuit follows another Amazon-related win by the agency just a few weeks ago. Earlier this month, Amazon&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-alexa-ring-doorbell-privacy-violations-ftc-971419109d7af10203d7ccfd28fcd0ad">agreed to pay a $25 million civil penalty</a>&nbsp;to settle allegations it violated a child privacy law for storing kids’ voice and location data recorded by its popular Alexa voice assistant. It also agreed to pay $5.8 million in customer refunds for alleged privacy violations involving its doorbell camera Ring.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687370869736.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Amazon was sued Wednesday by the Federal Trade Commission for allegedly engaging in a yearslong effort to enroll consumers without consent into Amazon Prime and making it difficult for them to cancel their subscriptions.In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, the agency accused Amazon of using deceptive designs, known as “dark patterns,” to deceive consumers into enrolling in Prime, which provides subscribers with perks such as faster shipping for an fee of $139 annually, or $14.99 a month.The FTC said Amazon made it difficult for customers to purchase an item without also subscribing to Prime. In some cases, consumers were presented with a button to complete their transactions — which didn’t clearly state it would also enroll them in Prime.Getting out of a subscription was often too complicated, and Amazon leadership slowed or rejected changes that would have made canceling easier, the complaint said.Internally, Amazon called the process “Iliad," a reference to the ancient Greek poem about lengthy siege of Troy during the Trojan war.“Amazon tricked and trapped people into recurring subscriptions without their consent, not only frustrating users but also costing them significant money,” FTC Chair Lina Khan said in a prepared statement. “These manipulative tactics harm consumers and law-abiding businesses alike.”The FTC argued that Amazon’s practices violated the FTC Act and another law called the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act, which Amazon disputed.“The FTC’s claims are false on the facts and the law," Amazon spokesperson Heather Layman said in a statement. “The truth is that customers love Prime, and by design we make it clear and simple for customers to both sign up for or cancel their Prime membership.”Launched in 2005, Prime has more than 200 million members worldwide who are entitled to perks such as free delivery, returns and the streaming service Prime Video. In the first three months of this year, Amazon reported it made $9.6 billion from subscriptions, a 17% jump from the same period last year.In a news release announcing the lawsuit, the FTC said though its complaint is significantly redacted, it contains “a number of allegations” that backs up its accusations against Amazon. It also accused the company of attempting to hinder the agency’s investigation into Prime, which began in 2021, in several instances.In the past two years, the agency has been ramping up its enforcement against deceptive sign-up and cancellation tactics that could manipulate consumers into buying products or services they don't want. In December, it said Epic Games Inc., the maker of the popular Fortnite video game, would pay $245 million in customer refunds for deceptive payment methods. In November, the telecom company Vonage settled a similar case for $100 million.Layman, the Amazon spokesperson, said the company found it “concerning” the FTC filed the lawsuit without notifying Amazon, which was in discussion with agency staffers about Prime.“While the absence of that normal course engagement is extremely disappointing, we look forward to proving our case in court," she said.The lawsuit also comes as Amazon is facing heightened regulatory scrutiny as it moves to expand its e-commerce dominance and dip its toes into other markets, including groceries and health care.Some anti-monopoly groups celebrated the lawsuit shortly after the FTC’s announcement, while others called it absurd.“The complaint is that Amazon encourages people to use Amazon Prime – this is like going after Kroger for promoting its rewards program or Costco for its membership club,” Carl Szabo, the vice president and general counsel of the tech industry group NetChoice, said in a statement. "It is abundantly clear that the FTC is a runaway agency in need of greater oversight. Congress must engage in robust oversight to rein in the FTC by cutting funding and investigating its ethical lapses and abuse of power.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687370941423.png" alt="(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)" />
 <figcaption>(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)</figcaption>
 </figure>The group, which counts Amazon as one of its members, also pointed to Khan's prior criticism of the company, and accused her of using the lawsuit “to attack American businesses she doesn’t like.”Khan, 34, burst onto the antitrust scene in 2017 with her massive scholarly work as a Yale law student, “Amazon’s Antitrust Paradox." In 2021, Amazon asked unsuccessfully that she remove herself from separate antitrust investigations into its business, arguing that her public criticism of the company’s market power before she joined the government makes it impossible for her to be impartial.The U.S. and Amazon have traded barbs for over the investigation.Last year, Amazon accused the FTC of harassing its executives, including founder Jeff Bezos, as the agency sought to get the company’s top brass to testify as part of the probe.The tech giant has also faced other lawsuits accusing its Prime cancelation process of being too complicated. While under scrutiny from the FTC, the company in March provided consumers with instructions on how to cancel their Prime memberships in a blog post.The lawsuit follows another Amazon-related win by the agency just a few weeks ago. Earlier this month, Amazon&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/amazon-alexa-ring-doorbell-privacy-violations-ftc-971419109d7af10203d7ccfd28fcd0ad">agreed to pay a $25 million civil penalty</a>&nbsp;to settle allegations it violated a child privacy law for storing kids’ voice and location data recorded by its popular Alexa voice assistant. It also agreed to pay $5.8 million in customer refunds for alleged privacy violations involving its doorbell camera Ring.------------

Lawsuit: Amazon disputes deceptive sign-up, cancellation process 

MIAMI COUNTY, Kansas —Law enforcement authorities investigating a&nbsp;deadly shooting at a Kansas State Park campground have arrested a suspect

Early Tuesday, emergency personnel were dispatched to the Pintail Point campground at the Hillsdale State Park near Paola for a report of a stabbing and a shooting, according to the Miami County Sheriff's office.

 One person suffered a fatal gunshot wound. The victim has been identified as&nbsp;43-year-old Bryan Hendrickson from Edgerton. Deputies also found one person with a non-life-threatening stab wound. That individual was transported to an area hospital for treatment and released, according to the sheriff's office.

Deputies took Brian Meysenburg, 53, Overland Park, into custody and booked him into the Miami County Jail on a requested charge of second-degree murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687477164803.png" alt="Meysenburg-photo Miami County" />
 <figcaption>Meysenburg-photo Miami County</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY, Kansas —Law enforcement authorities investigating a&nbsp;deadly shooting at a Kansas State Park campground have arrested a suspectEarly Tuesday, emergency personnel were dispatched to the Pintail Point campground at the Hillsdale State Park near Paola for a report of a stabbing and a shooting, according to the Miami County Sheriff's office. One person suffered a fatal gunshot wound. The victim has been identified as&nbsp;43-year-old Bryan Hendrickson from Edgerton. Deputies also found one person with a non-life-threatening stab wound. That individual was transported to an area hospital for treatment and released, according to the sheriff's office.Deputies took Brian Meysenburg, 53, Overland Park, into custody and booked him into the Miami County Jail on a requested charge of second-degree murder.

Man accused of deadly Kansas Park campground attack

WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;said Friday it will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/22-58_i425.pdf">no longer stand in the way</a>&nbsp;of a long-blocked Biden administration policy to prioritize the deportation of immigrants who are deemed to pose the greatest public safety risk or were picked up at the border.

The justices rejected a challenge from some&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-louisiana-donald-trump-immigration-government-and-politics-0cca9ca72778e154da24ded403e8c415">Republican-led states</a>&nbsp;to a policy that, the administration said, recognizes that there is not enough money or manpower to deport all 11 million or so people who are in the United States illegally.

The states had argued that federal immigration law requires authorities to detain and deport even those who pose little or no risk.

At the center of the case is a September 2021 directive from the Department of Homeland Security that paused deportations unless individuals had committed acts of terrorism, espionage or “egregious threats to public safety.” The guidance, issued after Joe Biden became president, updated a Trump-era policy to remove people in the country illegally regardless of criminal history or community ties.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/5/1683898210525.png" alt="Migrants at the border as scene in photo from May 2023- Texas Dept. of Public Safety" />
 <figcaption>Migrants at the border as scene in photo from May 2023- Texas Dept. of Public Safety</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;said Friday it will&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/22-58_i425.pdf">no longer stand in the way</a>&nbsp;of a long-blocked Biden administration policy to prioritize the deportation of immigrants who are deemed to pose the greatest public safety risk or were picked up at the border.The justices rejected a challenge from some&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-louisiana-donald-trump-immigration-government-and-politics-0cca9ca72778e154da24ded403e8c415">Republican-led states</a>&nbsp;to a policy that, the administration said, recognizes that there is not enough money or manpower to deport all 11 million or so people who are in the United States illegally.The states had argued that federal immigration law requires authorities to detain and deport even those who pose little or no risk.At the center of the case is a September 2021 directive from the Department of Homeland Security that paused deportations unless individuals had committed acts of terrorism, espionage or “egregious threats to public safety.” The guidance, issued after Joe Biden became president, updated a Trump-era policy to remove people in the country illegally regardless of criminal history or community ties.

Supreme Court rejects challenge to Biden deportation plan

WASHINGTON (AP) — About 7.5 million singing and swimming “Baby Shark” bath toys are being recalled after multiple impalements, lacerations and puncture wounds were reported in children playing with them.

Zuru, an El Segundo, California-based toymaker, said it's recalling both full-size and mini versions of its robotic baby shark toys that have hard plastic top fins, which pose the injury risks.

Twelve injuries have already been reported with Zuru's full-sized Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Sing &amp; Swim Bath Toys — after children sat or fell on the now-recalled products. Nine of these impalements, lacerations and puncture wounds required stitches or medical attention, according to <a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Zuru-Recalls-7-5-Million-Baby-Shark-and-Mini-Baby-Shark-Bath-Toys-With-Hard-Plastic-Top-Fins-Due-to-Risk-of-Impalement-Laceration-and-Puncture-Injuries-to-Children">a Thursday release from the U.S. Consumer Protect Safety Commission.</a>

While injuries have only been reported with these full-sized toys so far, Zuru is also recalling Robo Alive Junior Mini Baby Shark Swimming Bath Toys “out of an abundance of caution."

Consumers in possession of the recalled toys are instructed to stop using them immediately and contact Zuru for a full refund. To get the refund, customers are asked to cut off or bend the tail fin, write “recalled” and a registration code on the body of the baby shark and upload a photo on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.recallrtr.com/bathshark">site</a>&nbsp;dedicated to the recall.

The recalled products can be identified by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Zuru-Recalls-7-5-Million-Baby-Shark-and-Mini-Baby-Shark-Bath-Toys-With-Hard-Plastic-Top-Fins-Due-to-Risk-of-Impalement-Laceration-and-Puncture-Injuries-to-Children">model numbers</a>&nbsp;and date codes. Zuru's Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Sing &amp; Swim Bath Toys and Robo Alive Junior Mini Baby Shark Swimming Bath Toys were sold in-person and online at chains including Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens and TJX Companies from May 2019 through March 2023.

In a company announcement, Zuru noted that that the recall only impacts the versions of the baby shark toys with a hard plastic fin. The newest toys, which have a silicone fin, are not part of the recall, Zuru said.

“We want to assure our customers that we are committed to the highest levels of safety and quality of all our products, and we have implemented measures to prevent future incidents by working to promptly remove these products from retail and replace them with a newly designed product,” Zuru wrote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687530371186.png" alt="Photo courtesy Consumer Product Safety Commission" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Consumer Product Safety Commission</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — About 7.5 million singing and swimming “Baby Shark” bath toys are being recalled after multiple impalements, lacerations and puncture wounds were reported in children playing with them.Zuru, an El Segundo, California-based toymaker, said it's recalling both full-size and mini versions of its robotic baby shark toys that have hard plastic top fins, which pose the injury risks.Twelve injuries have already been reported with Zuru's full-sized Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Sing &amp; Swim Bath Toys — after children sat or fell on the now-recalled products. Nine of these impalements, lacerations and puncture wounds required stitches or medical attention, according to <a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Zuru-Recalls-7-5-Million-Baby-Shark-and-Mini-Baby-Shark-Bath-Toys-With-Hard-Plastic-Top-Fins-Due-to-Risk-of-Impalement-Laceration-and-Puncture-Injuries-to-Children">a Thursday release from the U.S. Consumer Protect Safety Commission.</a>While injuries have only been reported with these full-sized toys so far, Zuru is also recalling Robo Alive Junior Mini Baby Shark Swimming Bath Toys “out of an abundance of caution."Consumers in possession of the recalled toys are instructed to stop using them immediately and contact Zuru for a full refund. To get the refund, customers are asked to cut off or bend the tail fin, write “recalled” and a registration code on the body of the baby shark and upload a photo on a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.recallrtr.com/bathshark">site</a>&nbsp;dedicated to the recall.The recalled products can be identified by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2023/Zuru-Recalls-7-5-Million-Baby-Shark-and-Mini-Baby-Shark-Bath-Toys-With-Hard-Plastic-Top-Fins-Due-to-Risk-of-Impalement-Laceration-and-Puncture-Injuries-to-Children">model numbers</a>&nbsp;and date codes. Zuru's Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Sing &amp; Swim Bath Toys and Robo Alive Junior Mini Baby Shark Swimming Bath Toys were sold in-person and online at chains including Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens and TJX Companies from May 2019 through March 2023.In a company announcement, Zuru noted that that the recall only impacts the versions of the baby shark toys with a hard plastic fin. The newest toys, which have a silicone fin, are not part of the recall, Zuru said.“We want to assure our customers that we are committed to the highest levels of safety and quality of all our products, and we have implemented measures to prevent future incidents by working to promptly remove these products from retail and replace them with a newly designed product,” Zuru wrote.

'Baby Shark' bath toy recall: Multiple laceration and impalement injuries

HUTCHINSON — Though gas prices are creeping up, they are doing so much more slowly than 2022, according to AAA Kansas.

"Things have been relatively stable," Steward said. "We may be in a bit of a gasoline demand lull between Memorial Day weekend and the upcoming July 4 travel weekend. That, coupled with a fairly low and stable crude oil cost have kept prices at the pump pretty manageable."

"We are about $1.40 less per gallon now than we were one year ago," Steward said. "That's significantly cheaper to take those summer road trips."

The spring storms we have had across Oklahoma and Texas do not have the same effect on supply as other weather conditions could that are more common as we get closer to fall.

"Supply really hasn't been interrupted by any hurricanes in the Gulf, for example," Steward said. "We always look this time of year. As we head toward September or even October, hurricane season can certainly interrupt gasoline production in those oil refineries along the Gulf, especially. We've been pretty lucky and haven't seen any of that."

Kansas is still in the ten lowest states for gas prices overall and no county in the state is even up to the national average.

NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON — Though gas prices are creeping up, they are doing so much more slowly than 2022, according to AAA Kansas."Things have been relatively stable," Steward said. "We may be in a bit of a gasoline demand lull between Memorial Day weekend and the upcoming July 4 travel weekend. That, coupled with a fairly low and stable crude oil cost have kept prices at the pump pretty manageable.""We are about $1.40 less per gallon now than we were one year ago," Steward said. "That's significantly cheaper to take those summer road trips."The spring storms we have had across Oklahoma and Texas do not have the same effect on supply as other weather conditions could that are more common as we get closer to fall."Supply really hasn't been interrupted by any hurricanes in the Gulf, for example," Steward said. "We always look this time of year. As we head toward September or even October, hurricane season can certainly interrupt gasoline production in those oil refineries along the Gulf, especially. We've been pretty lucky and haven't seen any of that."Kansas is still in the ten lowest states for gas prices overall and no county in the state is even up to the national average.

AAA: Gas prices still lower and fairly stable

By SAM BAILEY <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A new Medicaid report finds more than $1.3 million may have been overpaid to managed care organizations due to slow information provision, causing Kansas Medicaid programs to pay members after they left the state.

The attorney general’s office issued a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ag.ks.gov/media-center/news-releases/2023/06/21/medicaid-inspector-general-releases-eligibility-audit">news release</a>&nbsp;Wednesday announcing the findings. The performance audit of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment was done by Medicaid inspector general Steven Anderson and covered Jan. 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2021.

“It’s clear from our audit that the federal government and the state can do more to recapture these overpayments by quickly identifying and verifying Medicaid beneficiaries who move out of state and then by removing them from the program,” Anderson said in the news release. “Kansas taxpayers deserve to know that our Medicaid resources are being used efficiently.”

Currently, states contribute information on individuals enrolled in Medicaid to the Public Assistance Reporting Information System program. A report is then compiled quarterly to notify states whether an individual is enrolled in Medicaid and receiving benefits in another state.

KDHE would like to have the reports from the federal government on a monthly basis to aid in faster decisions, as “quarterly’s not very efficient,” Anderson said.

The report said while the department’s system has improved since 2019, “internal and external deficiencies that hinder KDHE’s ability to identify, verify and terminate Medicaid eligibility on a timely basis” still exist.

“For example,” it read. “A group of beneficiaries that were identified as moving out of Kansas were not properly processed, resulting in an estimated overpayment of $1,370,376.68 in capitation payment to MCOs.”

The news release also said the audit reported “some control weaknesses, policy issues, and gaps in guidance or protocols for coordinating the assessment and collection of any overpayments related to out-of-state residency that Kansas needs to improve.”&nbsp;

KDHE secretary Janet Stanek said in the news release that she and Gov. Laura Kelly appreciate the partnership with the attorney general’s office to increase the efficiency of Medicaid.

“We agree that with the limited state and federal information sources available to the Medicaid program, challenges remain in the timely determination of whether or not a Medicaid beneficiary has moved out of state is very difficult with the information sources available to us,” Stanek said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687430554556.jpeg" alt="Janet Stanek, KDHE secretary, said challenges remain in quickly determining if an individual has moved out of state and if still on Kansas Medicaid. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Janet Stanek, KDHE secretary, said challenges remain in quickly determining if an individual has moved out of state and if still on Kansas Medicaid. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By SAM BAILEY <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A new Medicaid report finds more than $1.3 million may have been overpaid to managed care organizations due to slow information provision, causing Kansas Medicaid programs to pay members after they left the state.The attorney general’s office issued a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ag.ks.gov/media-center/news-releases/2023/06/21/medicaid-inspector-general-releases-eligibility-audit">news release</a>&nbsp;Wednesday announcing the findings. The performance audit of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment was done by Medicaid inspector general Steven Anderson and covered Jan. 1, 2019 to Dec. 31, 2021.“It’s clear from our audit that the federal government and the state can do more to recapture these overpayments by quickly identifying and verifying Medicaid beneficiaries who move out of state and then by removing them from the program,” Anderson said in the news release. “Kansas taxpayers deserve to know that our Medicaid resources are being used efficiently.”Currently, states contribute information on individuals enrolled in Medicaid to the Public Assistance Reporting Information System program. A report is then compiled quarterly to notify states whether an individual is enrolled in Medicaid and receiving benefits in another state.KDHE would like to have the reports from the federal government on a monthly basis to aid in faster decisions, as “quarterly’s not very efficient,” Anderson said.The report said while the department’s system has improved since 2019, “internal and external deficiencies that hinder KDHE’s ability to identify, verify and terminate Medicaid eligibility on a timely basis” still exist.“For example,” it read. “A group of beneficiaries that were identified as moving out of Kansas were not properly processed, resulting in an estimated overpayment of $1,370,376.68 in capitation payment to MCOs.”The news release also said the audit reported “some control weaknesses, policy issues, and gaps in guidance or protocols for coordinating the assessment and collection of any overpayments related to out-of-state residency that Kansas needs to improve.”&nbsp;KDHE secretary Janet Stanek said in the news release that she and Gov. Laura Kelly appreciate the partnership with the attorney general’s office to increase the efficiency of Medicaid.“We agree that with the limited state and federal information sources available to the Medicaid program, challenges remain in the timely determination of whether or not a Medicaid beneficiary has moved out of state is very difficult with the information sources available to us,” Stanek said.<figure>
 <img src="https://kansasreflector.com/wp-content/plugins/states-newsroom/republisher/assets/img/ccwhite.png" alt="" />
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Report estimates $1.3 million overpaid by Kansas Medicaid

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting and carjacking and continue to search for a suspect.

Just before 9 p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the McDonalds at 8326 Wornall in Kansas City on a reported attempted robbery and shots fired, according to Police Captain Corey Carlisle. No employees were injured in the shooting. The suspect fled the scene at which time he shot at another vehicle before fleeing. The occupant of the vehicle was not injured. Follow up investigation brought officers to the area of Brookside and Meyer around 10:10 p.m. Officers found the suspect vehicle. The shooting suspect then fired gunshots at the officers at which time an officer returned fire. The suspect fled on foot to the parking lot area behind the local business, where he carjacked an unsuspecting victim.&nbsp; Officers engaged the suspect again. The suspect fired gun shots at officers at which time an officer returned fire. The suspect fled the scene in the victim's vehicle.&nbsp; The car jacking victims were not injured and no officers were injured. Law enforcement found the vehicle abandoned in the area of 73rd and Cherokee at which time they began searching for the suspect. The suspect is still at large and poses a threat to the public. The suspect is described as a white male in his early 30’s, thin build, patchy black beard, shoulder length black hair and wearing a Black T-shirt. Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to the multiple crime scenes and were processing the scenes to recover any evidence and speaking to any potential witnesses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687516133882.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation late Thursday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation late Thursday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting and carjacking and continue to search for a suspect.Just before 9 p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the McDonalds at 8326 Wornall in Kansas City on a reported attempted robbery and shots fired, according to Police Captain Corey Carlisle. No employees were injured in the shooting. The suspect fled the scene at which time he shot at another vehicle before fleeing. The occupant of the vehicle was not injured. Follow up investigation brought officers to the area of Brookside and Meyer around 10:10 p.m. Officers found the suspect vehicle. The shooting suspect then fired gunshots at the officers at which time an officer returned fire. The suspect fled on foot to the parking lot area behind the local business, where he carjacked an unsuspecting victim.&nbsp; Officers engaged the suspect again. The suspect fired gun shots at officers at which time an officer returned fire. The suspect fled the scene in the victim's vehicle.&nbsp; The car jacking victims were not injured and no officers were injured. Law enforcement found the vehicle abandoned in the area of 73rd and Cherokee at which time they began searching for the suspect. The suspect is still at large and poses a threat to the public. The suspect is described as a white male in his early 30’s, thin build, patchy black beard, shoulder length black hair and wearing a Black T-shirt. Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to the multiple crime scenes and were processing the scenes to recover any evidence and speaking to any potential witnesses.

KCPD search for carjacking suspect after exchange of gunfire 

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday defended his harsh public comments on China, including calling President Xi Jinping a dictator, saying his words would have no negative impact on U.S.-China relations and that he still expects to meet with Xi sometime soon.

Biden said his blunt statements regarding China are "just not something I’m going to change very much.”

(Click below to watch the President's comments)

The remarks, which drew a formal protest from China, opened a new rift just days after Secretary of State Antony&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-china-blinken-beijing-rivalry-0b08a809f12b1bcdee92afa5491a9fbf">Blinken concluded a visit to Beijing</a>&nbsp;that was meant as a step toward stabilizing ties and improving communications.

“I expect to be meeting with President Xi sometime in the future, near-term. And I don’t think it’s had any real consequence," he said.

His latest rebuff to China came on the same afternoon he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-modi-india-state-visit-human-rights-5e4bc32e679ad6bae7225a28f7f6334d">welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;to the White House in an alliance-strengthening move against their shared rival, China.

Just hours earlier, China's embassy in Washington said it had delivered a formal protest, with Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng telling senior White House and State Department officials Wednesday that Washington “should take earnest actions to undo the negative impact” of what Biden said or “bear all the consequences."

“With the latest irresponsible remarks about China’s political system and its top leader, people cannot help but question the sincerity of the U.S. side” in seeking to stabilize relations, the embassy said in a statement. “The Chinese government and people do not accept any political provocation against China’s top leader and will resolutely respond.”

At a campaign fundraiser on Tuesday, Biden had called the Chinese president a dictator, depicted him as out-of-touch during last winter’s tumult over a Chinese spy balloon, and dismissed China as having “real economic difficulties.”

As an official government-to-government communication, the ambassador’s message to the Biden administration carries more weight than the critical comments made a day earlier by a Chinese government spokesperson to reporters. China gave no further details of how the ambassador delivered his message, whether it was seeking an apology from the Biden administration, or what the consequences would be.

China and the U.S. in recent years have been cycling in and out of diplomatic flare-ups. China has used measures ranging from cutting diplomatic ties to staging military maneuvers off Taiwan to show its displeasure.

Biden administration officials on Wednesday defended Biden's remarks, saying the president has made a point of drawing distinctions between the world's democracies and autocracies. The State Department said Thursday that it does not comment on private diplomatic discussions.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen addressed the latest rift Thursday at an unrelated news conference in Paris, saying, “with respect to the comments, I think President Biden and I both believe it’s critical to maintain communication ... to clear up misperceptions, miscalculations. We need to work together where possible."

“But we have disagreements, and we are also forthright in recognizing we do have disagreements,” she added.

Yellen has recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yellen-china-tensions-spy-balloon-taiwan-russia-edcb0077d45a3ffabbe4b9dbbf9fe29c">advocated for improving relations</a>&nbsp;between the U.S. and China, arguing cooperation is needed for the sake of maintaining global stability.

U.S. climate envoy John Kerry, at the same global finance and climate event as Yellen, expressed the urgency of resuming climate discussions between China and the U.S., the No. 1 and No. 2 emitters of climate-damaging fumes from fossil fuels.

Talks between the two countries were vital in the breakthrough that led to the 2015 Paris climate accord. But climate discussions between the two have stalled in the past couple of years over the governments’ diplomatic disputes and other issues.

When it comes to slowing climate change, it “should be China and the United States working together on a global threat in a way that can build some confidence and change the dynamics of the relationship. That’s the hope,” Kerry told a small group of reporters.

He said Xi and Biden understood the urgency of the emissions talks. “Every day that goes by without them is a day for mischief," Kerry said.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang was among the dozens of heads of state and government, world finance officials and activists who converged on the French capital to discuss ways of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-change-funding-imf-world-bank-paris-5adddd32452f548a71a55f802191b04d">reforming the global financial system</a>&nbsp;and addressing the debt, climate change and poverty crises, especially for developing nations.

“I believe it’s important, as President Biden does, that the world’s two largest economies are … working together in addressing global challenges,” Yellen said.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday defended his harsh public comments on China, including calling President Xi Jinping a dictator, saying his words would have no negative impact on U.S.-China relations and that he still expects to meet with Xi sometime soon.Biden said his blunt statements regarding China are "just not something I’m going to change very much.”(Click below to watch the President's comments)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F3585103548384794%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=1056" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The remarks, which drew a formal protest from China, opened a new rift just days after Secretary of State Antony&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-china-blinken-beijing-rivalry-0b08a809f12b1bcdee92afa5491a9fbf">Blinken concluded a visit to Beijing</a>&nbsp;that was meant as a step toward stabilizing ties and improving communications.But Biden was undeterred.“I expect to be meeting with President Xi sometime in the future, near-term. And I don’t think it’s had any real consequence," he said.His latest rebuff to China came on the same afternoon he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-modi-india-state-visit-human-rights-5e4bc32e679ad6bae7225a28f7f6334d">welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>&nbsp;to the White House in an alliance-strengthening move against their shared rival, China.Just hours earlier, China's embassy in Washington said it had delivered a formal protest, with Chinese Ambassador Xie Feng telling senior White House and State Department officials Wednesday that Washington “should take earnest actions to undo the negative impact” of what Biden said or “bear all the consequences."“With the latest irresponsible remarks about China’s political system and its top leader, people cannot help but question the sincerity of the U.S. side” in seeking to stabilize relations, the embassy said in a statement. “The Chinese government and people do not accept any political provocation against China’s top leader and will resolutely respond.”At a campaign fundraiser on Tuesday, Biden had called the Chinese president a dictator, depicted him as out-of-touch during last winter’s tumult over a Chinese spy balloon, and dismissed China as having “real economic difficulties.”As an official government-to-government communication, the ambassador’s message to the Biden administration carries more weight than the critical comments made a day earlier by a Chinese government spokesperson to reporters. China gave no further details of how the ambassador delivered his message, whether it was seeking an apology from the Biden administration, or what the consequences would be.China and the U.S. in recent years have been cycling in and out of diplomatic flare-ups. China has used measures ranging from cutting diplomatic ties to staging military maneuvers off Taiwan to show its displeasure.Biden administration officials on Wednesday defended Biden's remarks, saying the president has made a point of drawing distinctions between the world's democracies and autocracies. The State Department said Thursday that it does not comment on private diplomatic discussions.Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen addressed the latest rift Thursday at an unrelated news conference in Paris, saying, “with respect to the comments, I think President Biden and I both believe it’s critical to maintain communication ... to clear up misperceptions, miscalculations. We need to work together where possible."“But we have disagreements, and we are also forthright in recognizing we do have disagreements,” she added.Yellen has recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yellen-china-tensions-spy-balloon-taiwan-russia-edcb0077d45a3ffabbe4b9dbbf9fe29c">advocated for improving relations</a>&nbsp;between the U.S. and China, arguing cooperation is needed for the sake of maintaining global stability.U.S. climate envoy John Kerry, at the same global finance and climate event as Yellen, expressed the urgency of resuming climate discussions between China and the U.S., the No. 1 and No. 2 emitters of climate-damaging fumes from fossil fuels.Talks between the two countries were vital in the breakthrough that led to the 2015 Paris climate accord. But climate discussions between the two have stalled in the past couple of years over the governments’ diplomatic disputes and other issues.When it comes to slowing climate change, it “should be China and the United States working together on a global threat in a way that can build some confidence and change the dynamics of the relationship. That’s the hope,” Kerry told a small group of reporters.He said Xi and Biden understood the urgency of the emissions talks. “Every day that goes by without them is a day for mischief," Kerry said.Chinese Premier Li Qiang was among the dozens of heads of state and government, world finance officials and activists who converged on the French capital to discuss ways of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/climate-change-funding-imf-world-bank-paris-5adddd32452f548a71a55f802191b04d">reforming the global financial system</a>&nbsp;and addressing the debt, climate change and poverty crises, especially for developing nations.“I believe it’s important, as President Biden does, that the world’s two largest economies are … working together in addressing global challenges,” Yellen said.

🎥 Biden defends making 'absurd' comment about Chinese leader

SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly crash at a Kansas gas station say no charges will be filed in the case, according to Derby Police Chief Robert Lee.

On April. 24, a driver lost control of a car traveling eastbound on Meadowlark Boulevard in Derby, according to police. The vehicle traveled into a Quick Trip at 1430 North Nelson Drive and struck a vehicle at the gas pump. The impact caused the pump to explode.

When fire crews arrived they found a car fully involved in flames on top of the gas pumps. A child, later identified as 3-year-old Harper Ivey in the vehicle at the pump died at the scene. EMS transported the girl's mother Stephanie Corey to an area hospital.

Police presented the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney and they determined a medical condition involving a 61-year-old driver caused the crash. He survived. Friends established a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-for-brandon-ivy-family" target="_blank">Fundraiser to assist</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;family.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687474330258.png" alt="Photo courtesy City of Derby" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy City of Derby</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly crash at a Kansas gas station say no charges will be filed in the case, according to Derby Police Chief Robert Lee.On April. 24, a driver lost control of a car traveling eastbound on Meadowlark Boulevard in Derby, according to police. The vehicle traveled into a Quick Trip at 1430 North Nelson Drive and struck a vehicle at the gas pump. The impact caused the pump to explode.When fire crews arrived they found a car fully involved in flames on top of the gas pumps. A child, later identified as 3-year-old Harper Ivey in the vehicle at the pump died at the scene. EMS transported the girl's mother Stephanie Corey to an area hospital.Police presented the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney and they determined a medical condition involving a 61-year-old driver caused the crash. He survived. Friends established a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-for-brandon-ivy-family" target="_blank">Fundraiser to assist</a>&nbsp;the&nbsp;family.&nbsp;

Investigation determines cause of crash that killed Kan. toddler

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged road-rage shooting that seriously injured a man and have made an arrest.

Just after 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a shooting call in the 4400 block of South Broadway in Wichita, according to officer Juan Rebolledo.

Before arrival, officers learned that the 28-year-old victim drove himself to the 4900 block of South Broadway Avenue after the incident. Officers located the victim in a nearby business with one gunshot wound to his right lower leg. The victim was transported to an area hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation revealed that the victim was involved in a road rage incident with 22-year-old Kaeden Murphy in the 4400 block of S Broadway while the victim was driving a moped southbound on Broadway.&nbsp; Murphy was driving a blue pickup truck. 

During the verbal argument, Murphy produced a handgun and fired multiple shots at the victim, striking him once in the right lower leg.

Officers used Flock and developed a suspect vehicle and a tag. A follow-up investigation was conducted and police arrested Murphy on requested charges of aggravated battery and criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687467313048.png" alt="Murphy has previous convictions for aggravated burglary, drugs and criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Murphy has previous convictions for aggravated burglary, drugs and criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged road-rage shooting that seriously injured a man and have made an arrest.Just after 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a shooting call in the 4400 block of South Broadway in Wichita, according to officer Juan Rebolledo.Before arrival, officers learned that the 28-year-old victim drove himself to the 4900 block of South Broadway Avenue after the incident. Officers located the victim in a nearby business with one gunshot wound to his right lower leg. The victim was transported to an area hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.The investigation revealed that the victim was involved in a road rage incident with 22-year-old Kaeden Murphy in the 4400 block of S Broadway while the victim was driving a moped southbound on Broadway.&nbsp; Murphy was driving a blue pickup truck. During the verbal argument, Murphy produced a handgun and fired multiple shots at the victim, striking him once in the right lower leg.Officers used Flock and developed a suspect vehicle and a tag. A follow-up investigation was conducted and police arrested Murphy on requested charges of aggravated battery and criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

Road-rage: Kansas felon shot man on moped

US Navy system detected likely Titanic sub implosion days ago

RENO COUNTY —Police investigating a drive-by shooting in Reno County have made an arrest.

Just before 5 p.m. Monday, South Hutchinson police officers and deputies from the Reno County Sheriff’s office were dispatched a drive- by shooting to the 300 block of East 3rd Street, according to a media release from South Hutchinson Police.

A woman standing in front of the residence had a&nbsp;non-life threatening single gunshot wound to her wrist. She was treated and released from the hospital.

Police took the juvenile suspect into custody Wednesday night in South Dakota. Police have not released the name of the suspect.

RENO COUNTY —Police investigating a drive-by shooting in Reno County have made an arrest.Just before 5 p.m. Monday, South Hutchinson police officers and deputies from the Reno County Sheriff’s office were dispatched a drive- by shooting to the 300 block of East 3rd Street, according to a media release from South Hutchinson Police.A woman standing in front of the residence had a&nbsp;non-life threatening single gunshot wound to her wrist. She was treated and released from the hospital.Police took the juvenile suspect into custody Wednesday night in South Dakota. Police have not released the name of the suspect.

Teen in Kansas drive-by shooting arrested in South Dakota

BY NATE KING&nbsp; Salina Post&nbsp;

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after an ATM was damaged when someone attempted to pull it apart Wednesday morning.&nbsp;

Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; officers were dispatched to the Sunflower Bank branch at&nbsp;3025 Cortland Circle when a&nbsp;passerby noticed a truck hooked up to an ATM, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Sergeant Tonniges.

Officers found a&nbsp;green Dodge 2500 pickup with a tow chain hooked around the rear axle of the pickup truck and connected to the severely damaged ATM.

Tonniges said the people who attempted to steal the ATM did gain access to its cash compartment.

"There was some cash taken, however I'm not going to give you the undisclosed amount, but there's about $50,000 worth of damage to the ATM," Tonniges said.&nbsp;

It was later discovered that the Dodge Ram&nbsp; pickup was stolen and that was stolen from the nearby 2000 block of Caywood Drive. The legal owner of the vehicle told officers that the vehicle had been parked in their driveway and was taken sometime after 1 a.m.

Tonniges said despite the Dodge being locked, those who stole the vehicle gained entry into the vehicle and punched the ignition.&nbsp;

Tonniges said the department is conducting a video footage canvas of the surrounding area in an effort to locate surveillance footage.

BY NATE KING&nbsp; Salina Post&nbsp;SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after an ATM was damaged when someone attempted to pull it apart Wednesday morning.&nbsp;Just after 5:30a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; officers were dispatched to the Sunflower Bank branch at&nbsp;3025 Cortland Circle when a&nbsp;passerby noticed a truck hooked up to an ATM, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Sergeant Tonniges.Officers found a&nbsp;green Dodge 2500 pickup with a tow chain hooked around the rear axle of the pickup truck and connected to the severely damaged ATM.Tonniges said the people who attempted to steal the ATM did gain access to its cash compartment."There was some cash taken, however I'm not going to give you the undisclosed amount, but there's about $50,000 worth of damage to the ATM," Tonniges said.&nbsp;It was later discovered that the Dodge Ram&nbsp; pickup was stolen and that was stolen from the nearby 2000 block of Caywood Drive. The legal owner of the vehicle told officers that the vehicle had been parked in their driveway and was taken sometime after 1 a.m.Tonniges said despite the Dodge being locked, those who stole the vehicle gained entry into the vehicle and punched the ignition.&nbsp;Tonniges said the department is conducting a video footage canvas of the surrounding area in an effort to locate surveillance footage.

Police: Cash taken, $50K damage to ATM at bank in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a murder in New Mexico have made an arrest in Kansas.

Just before 4a.m. Monday, police responded to a residence in the 4300 block of Camino Alhambra in Santa Fe, New Mexico after a neighbor called 911 reporting a woman asked for help, said her mom was shot, and another person was dead, according to a media release.

 Officers arrived on scene and found a 56-year-old woman injured by gunfire.  Officers rendered aid until paramedics arrived and took over care.  She was transported to a local hospital.  Officers also located 27-year-old Raul Rene Montejano Jr. unconscious with an apparent injury.  Officers rendered aid until paramedics arrived and took over care. Montejano Jr. was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator.

Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to the scene.  Through the course of the investigation, a suspect was identified. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for 29-year-old Francisco Javier Grado-Flores of Santa Fe on requested charges for Murder and Tampering with Evidence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687449958690.png" alt="GRADO-FLORES-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>GRADO-FLORES-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a murder in New Mexico have made an arrest in Kansas.Just before 4a.m. Monday, police responded to a residence in the 4300 block of Camino Alhambra in Santa Fe, New Mexico after a neighbor called 911 reporting a woman asked for help, said her mom was shot, and another person was dead, according to a media release. Officers arrived on scene and found a 56-year-old woman injured by gunfire. Officers rendered aid until paramedics arrived and took over care. She was transported to a local hospital. Officers also located 27-year-old Raul Rene Montejano Jr. unconscious with an apparent injury. Officers rendered aid until paramedics arrived and took over care. Montejano Jr. was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator.Detectives and the Crime Scene Unit responded to the scene. Through the course of the investigation, a suspect was identified. Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for 29-year-old Francisco Javier Grado-Flores of Santa Fe on requested charges for Murder and Tampering with Evidence.Early Wednesday, Police in Wichita arrested Grado-Flores on the arrest warrant.&nbsp; Grado-Flores was booked at the Sedgwick County Detention Center at approximately 2:31 a.m. and charged as a Fugitive from Justice.He had apparent injuries when he was located by law enforcement and claimed he sustained those injuries in a fight.