LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man was sentenced to more than three years in prison after a fatal crash killed a Baker University employee. 

The Douglas County District  Attorney's office said Tuesday that Tayler Livingston, 27, Paola, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter. Authorities said Livingston's car was trying to pass another vehicle on Kansas 33 about 6 miles east of Baldwin City in February 2020. 

The Kansas Highway Patrol says Livingston's vehicle hit a car driven by 25-year-old Deeva Sharma, of Leawood. Sharma died in the crash. The district attorney's office say Livingston was intoxicated at the time of the crash. Sharma was an admissions counselor at Baker University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632857687770.png" alt="Livingston photo Douglas Co." />
 <figcaption>Livingston photo Douglas Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas man was sentenced to more than three years in prison after a fatal crash killed a Baker University employee. The Douglas County District Attorney's office said Tuesday that Tayler Livingston, 27, Paola, was sentenced to 41 months in prison for involuntary manslaughter. Authorities said Livingston's car was trying to pass another vehicle on Kansas 33 about 6 miles east of Baldwin City in February 2020. The Kansas Highway Patrol says Livingston's vehicle hit a car driven by 25-year-old Deeva Sharma, of Leawood. Sharma died in the crash. The district attorney's office say Livingston was intoxicated at the time of the crash. Sharma was an admissions counselor at Baker University.

Kan. man sentenced for DUI crash that killed university employee

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after a drug bust at a Kansas home.

On Tuesday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 200 Block NE Grattan Street related to an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

Through the search warrant, the officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a firearm.

As a result, police arrested 52-year-old John Santos and 52-year-old Jason Castle both of Topeka.

Officers transported them to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Santos is being held on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

Jason Castle is jailed on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine with the intent of distribution within 1000 feet of a school, Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent of distribution within 1000 feet of a school, Possession of marijuana and Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632912839012.png" alt="John Santos-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>John Santos-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after a drug bust at a Kansas home.On Tuesday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 200 Block NE Grattan Street related to an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.Through the search warrant, the officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a firearm.As a result, police arrested 52-year-old John Santos and 52-year-old Jason Castle both of Topeka.Officers transported them to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Santos is being held on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632913120221.png" alt="Castle photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Castle photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Jason Castle is jailed on requested charges of&nbsp;Possession of methamphetamine with the intent of distribution within 1000 feet of a school, Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent of distribution within 1000 feet of a school, Possession of marijuana and Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon.

Investigation leads to drug arrest at Kansas home

Nurses and hundreds of other staff members will soon begin wearing panic buttons at a Missouri hospital where assaults on workers tripled after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cox Medical Center Branson is using grant money to add buttons to identification badges worn by up to 400 employees who work in the emergency room and inpatient hospital rooms. Pushing the button will immediately alert hospital security, launching a tracking system that will send help to the endangered worker. The hospital hopes to have the system operational by the end of the year.

A similar program was successfully tested last year at CoxHealth’s Springfield hospital, spokeswoman Kaitlyn McConnell said Tuesday.

Hospital data showed that the number of “security incidents” at the Branson hospital rose from 94 in 2019 to 162 in 2020. Assaults rose from 40 to 123 during that same period, and injuries to health care workers rose from 17 to 78. Data for 2021 was not available.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-coronavirus-pandemic-health-89fa995c59397228d8d56e1ab45890ab">The delta variant of the virus</a>&nbsp;hit hard in southwestern Missouri starting in June, leaving hospitals so full that many patients were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-springfield-business-coronavirus-pandemic-fea74a1cc80d3bd632aa29d417f2aa87">sent to other facilities</a>&nbsp;hundreds of miles away. The hospital in Branson, the popular tourist town known for its many shows and attractions, has been at or near capacity for four months.

CoxHealth’s director of safety and security, Alan Butler, said the panic buttons “fill a critical void.”

“Personal Panic Buttons are one more tool in the battle to keep our staff safe and further demonstrate this organization’s commitment to maintaining a safe work and care environment,” Butler said in a statement.

The Missouri hospital isn’t alone.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2021/09/01/coronavirus-texas-hospital-attacks-health-workers/" target="_blank">The Texas Tribune</a>&nbsp;reported earlier this month about the rising number of assaults at Texas hospitals, incidents that officials believe are fueled by a surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations.

Jane McCurley, chief nursing executive for Methodist Healthcare System in Texas, said at a news conference in August that staff members at the San Antonio hospital “have been cursed at, screamed at, threatened with bodily harm and even had knives pulled on them.”

Worldwide, a February report by the Geneva-based Insecurity Insight and the University of California, Berkeley’s Human Rights Center&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-19-fuels-attacks-health-workers-92b2df8f56118ffce9d3507a62ae941e">identified more than 1,100 threats or acts of violence</a>&nbsp;against health care workers and facilities last year. Researchers found that about 400 of those attacks were related to COVID-19, many motivated by fear or frustration.

Assaults on health care workers have been a concern for years, Missouri Hospital Association spokesman Dave Dillon said, but COVID-19 “has changed the dynamic in a number of ways.” Among them: The effort to slow the spread of the virus means relatives often can’t accompany a sick person, raising already-high stress levels.

Jackie Gatz, vice president of safety and preparedness for the Missouri Hospital Association, said the use of a button alert is among many steps hospitals are taking to protect workers. Security cameras are being added, and some security personnel are wearing body cameras. CoxHealth added security dogs late last year in Springfield.

The Missouri Hospital Association also provides training to help workers protect themselves, including training on how to recognize and de-escalate when someone becomes agitated. Gatz said nurses and staff also are encouraged to stand between the hospital bed and the door.

“You can control your environment without necessarily placing physical barriers,” Gatz said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632938144591.png" alt="Photo courtesy Cox Health" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Cox Health</figcaption>
 </figure>By JIM SALTER, Associated PressNurses and hundreds of other staff members will soon begin wearing panic buttons at a Missouri hospital where assaults on workers tripled after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.Cox Medical Center Branson is using grant money to add buttons to identification badges worn by up to 400 employees who work in the emergency room and inpatient hospital rooms. Pushing the button will immediately alert hospital security, launching a tracking system that will send help to the endangered worker. The hospital hopes to have the system operational by the end of the year.A similar program was successfully tested last year at CoxHealth’s Springfield hospital, spokeswoman Kaitlyn McConnell said Tuesday.Hospital data showed that the number of “security incidents” at the Branson hospital rose from 94 in 2019 to 162 in 2020. Assaults rose from 40 to 123 during that same period, and injuries to health care workers rose from 17 to 78. Data for 2021 was not available.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-coronavirus-pandemic-health-89fa995c59397228d8d56e1ab45890ab">The delta variant of the virus</a>&nbsp;hit hard in southwestern Missouri starting in June, leaving hospitals so full that many patients were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-springfield-business-coronavirus-pandemic-fea74a1cc80d3bd632aa29d417f2aa87">sent to other facilities</a>&nbsp;hundreds of miles away. The hospital in Branson, the popular tourist town known for its many shows and attractions, has been at or near capacity for four months.CoxHealth’s director of safety and security, Alan Butler, said the panic buttons “fill a critical void.”“Personal Panic Buttons are one more tool in the battle to keep our staff safe and further demonstrate this organization’s commitment to maintaining a safe work and care environment,” Butler said in a statement.The Missouri hospital isn’t alone.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.texastribune.org/2021/09/01/coronavirus-texas-hospital-attacks-health-workers/" target="_blank">The Texas Tribune</a>&nbsp;reported earlier this month about the rising number of assaults at Texas hospitals, incidents that officials believe are fueled by a surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations.Jane McCurley, chief nursing executive for Methodist Healthcare System in Texas, said at a news conference in August that staff members at the San Antonio hospital “have been cursed at, screamed at, threatened with bodily harm and even had knives pulled on them.”Worldwide, a February report by the Geneva-based Insecurity Insight and the University of California, Berkeley’s Human Rights Center&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/covid-19-fuels-attacks-health-workers-92b2df8f56118ffce9d3507a62ae941e">identified more than 1,100 threats or acts of violence</a>&nbsp;against health care workers and facilities last year. Researchers found that about 400 of those attacks were related to COVID-19, many motivated by fear or frustration.Assaults on health care workers have been a concern for years, Missouri Hospital Association spokesman Dave Dillon said, but COVID-19 “has changed the dynamic in a number of ways.” Among them: The effort to slow the spread of the virus means relatives often can’t accompany a sick person, raising already-high stress levels.Jackie Gatz, vice president of safety and preparedness for the Missouri Hospital Association, said the use of a button alert is among many steps hospitals are taking to protect workers. Security cameras are being added, and some security personnel are wearing body cameras. CoxHealth added security dogs late last year in Springfield.The Missouri Hospital Association also provides training to help workers protect themselves, including training on how to recognize and de-escalate when someone becomes agitated. Gatz said nurses and staff also are encouraged to stand between the hospital bed and the door.“You can control your environment without necessarily placing physical barriers,” Gatz said.

COVID-related attacks prompt hospital to issue panic buttons

WICHITA —&nbsp;A Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun was held at Hartman Arena on Wednesday morning.

Following the Mass, Father Kapaun's remains were carried from Veterans Memorial Park, 339 Veterans Memorial Parkway, by way of horse-drawn caisson to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.

Kapaun will be laid to rest in a 5,400 pound tomb inside the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception located at Broadway and Central in Wichita.

Kapaun was captured in 1950 while attending to soldiers during the Korean War. He died of pneumonia at the POW camp while continuing to minister to fellow prisoners.

Kapaun was awarded the Medal of Honor. In 1993, the Catholic church named him a “Servant of God,” which began the lengthy process of canonization.

The Defense Department’s POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced in March that Kapaun’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wichita-pope-john-paul-ii-kansas-sainthood-2c4b0f8a05d91b0c10b27fd262c3956b">remains had been identified</a>&nbsp;at the agency’s laboratory at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. On March 4, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency reported the remains of Father Emil Kapaun were positively identified.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632945060287.png" alt="Father Kapaun's remains were carried from Veterans Memorial Park, 339 Veterans Memorial Parkway, by way of horse-drawn caisson from to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Father Kapaun's remains were carried from Veterans Memorial Park, 339 Veterans Memorial Parkway, by way of horse-drawn caisson from to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA —&nbsp;A Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Emil J. Kapaun was held at Hartman Arena on Wednesday morning.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wyIoBQMXRqA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Following the Mass, Father Kapaun's remains were carried from Veterans Memorial Park, 339 Veterans Memorial Parkway, by way of horse-drawn caisson to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception where he will finally be laid to rest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631705866678.png" alt="Fr. Kapaun’s 5,400 lb. marble tomb placed on the concrete foundation in the east transept of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita-photo Catholic Diocese of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Fr. Kapaun’s 5,400 lb. marble tomb placed on the concrete foundation in the east transept of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita-photo Catholic Diocese of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>Kapaun will be laid to rest in a 5,400 pound tomb inside the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception located at Broadway and Central in Wichita.Kapaun was captured in 1950 while attending to soldiers during the Korean War. He died of pneumonia at the POW camp while continuing to minister to fellow prisoners.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614944899732.png" alt="Kapaun, the Marion County-native, a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, served as an Army Chaplain during WWII and the Korean War, and was taken as a Prisoner of War in 1951. He continued to minister to Americans as a POW before passing away on May 23, 1951." />
 <figcaption>Kapaun, the Marion County-native, a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, served as an Army Chaplain during WWII and the Korean War, and was taken as a Prisoner of War in 1951. He continued to minister to Americans as a POW before passing away on May 23, 1951.</figcaption>
 </figure>Kapaun was awarded the Medal of Honor. In 1993, the Catholic church named him a “Servant of God,” which began the lengthy process of canonization.The Defense Department’s POW/MIA Accounting Agency announced in March that Kapaun’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/wichita-pope-john-paul-ii-kansas-sainthood-2c4b0f8a05d91b0c10b27fd262c3956b">remains had been identified</a>&nbsp;at the agency’s laboratory at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. On March 4, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency reported the remains of Father Emil Kapaun were positively identified.&nbsp;

🎥  Mass of Christian Burial for Fr. Emil Kapaun 

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating five suspects on multiple charges after an incident in Great Bend.

Early Tuesday,&nbsp; police began investigating a reported robbery and kidnapping in the 4700 block of 8th Street in Great Bend, according to a media release.

During the course of this investigation, detectives and patrol officers&nbsp; obtained and executed search warrants at 1212 Warner Road and 4701 8th Street.

During the search of the residence at 1212 Warner, items of evidence were located and seized related to the investigation. 

During the search of the property located at 4701 8th, detectives and patrol officers processed the scene of the crime and located additional items of evidence. In addition, items of illegal drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine were seized as evidence.

Police arrested Braylin Bretz, 25; Gunner Mayhugh, 19; Tyler Tomlinson, 38; Brennan Behnke, 21 and Blake Stegman, 20 on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, criminal threat, felony obstruction - aiding and abetting, intimidation of a witness, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.

Bretz, Mayhugh and Tomlinson were arrested by the Great Bend Police Department.

Later that evening, information was communicated between Great Bend Police detectives and the Larned Police Department that resulted in locating Behnke and Stegman at a residence in Larned. 

Both Behnke and Stegman were arrested by the Larned Police Department, and they were transported to the Barton County Detention Center where they were booked in lieu of bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632944331052.png" alt="Braylin Bretz-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Braylin Bretz-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating five suspects on multiple charges after an incident in Great Bend.Early Tuesday,&nbsp; police began investigating a reported robbery and kidnapping in the 4700 block of 8th Street in Great Bend, according to a media release.During the course of this investigation, detectives and patrol officers&nbsp; obtained and executed search warrants at 1212 Warner Road and 4701 8th Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632944355611.png" alt="Gunner Mayhugh photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Gunner Mayhugh photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the search of the residence at 1212 Warner, items of evidence were located and seized related to the investigation. During the search of the property located at 4701 8th, detectives and patrol officers processed the scene of the crime and located additional items of evidence. In addition, items of illegal drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine were seized as evidence.Police arrested Braylin Bretz, 25; Gunner Mayhugh, 19; Tyler Tomlinson, 38; Brennan Behnke, 21 and Blake Stegman, 20 on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, criminal threat, felony obstruction - aiding and abetting, intimidation of a witness, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and no drug tax stamp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632944377668.png" alt="Tyler Tomlinson-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Tyler Tomlinson-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Bretz, Mayhugh and Tomlinson were arrested by the Great Bend Police Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632944397595.png" alt="Brennan Behnke-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Brennan Behnke-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Later that evening, information was communicated between Great Bend Police detectives and the Larned Police Department that resulted in locating Behnke and Stegman at a residence in Larned. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632944418235.png" alt="Blake Stegman-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Blake Stegman-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Both Behnke and Stegman were arrested by the Larned Police Department, and they were transported to the Barton County Detention Center where they were booked in lieu of bond.

Police: 5 jailed after Kansas robbery, kidnapping investigation

ATCHISON COUNTY — A Kansas boy was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Wednesday in Atchison.

A passenger vehicle driven by Lesley Schoenfelder, Atchison, struck a bicycle ridden by 13-year-old Joshua Franke, Atchison, at the intersection of 9th and Santa Fe, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Investigators determined the boy was eastbound on Santa Fe when he failed to stop at the stop sign, entered the intersection and into the path of the passenger vehicle. EMS transported the boy to a St. Joseph hospital.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

ATCHISON COUNTY — A Kansas boy was injured in an accident just after 7a.m. Wednesday in Atchison.A passenger vehicle driven by Lesley Schoenfelder, Atchison, struck a bicycle ridden by 13-year-old Joshua Franke, Atchison, at the intersection of 9th and Santa Fe, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Investigators determined the boy was eastbound on Santa Fe when he failed to stop at the stop sign, entered the intersection and into the path of the passenger vehicle. EMS transported the boy to a St. Joseph hospital.&nbsp; Police released no additional details.

Police: 13-year-old Kan. boy on bike struck by vehicle 

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities made over 1000 arrests during a 60-day operation to reduce violent crime in the Wichita area, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.

The Wichita Police Department partnered with the Marshals Service for "Operation Triple Beam" a&nbsp;program in July and August that focused on bringing in people with warrants for violent crimes, like aggravated assault, homicide or drugs.&nbsp;

The effort resulted in 1,072 arrests, the seizure of 221 firearms, about 165 kilograms of narcotics (including marijuana, cocaine, meth, heroin and fentanyl) and over $200,000, according to the Marshals Service. Among those arrested included 808 for felonies, 264 misdemeanors and 141 gang members.

The program is a national initiative developed by the Marshals Service to reduce gang violence by targeting and arresting&nbsp;violent fugitives, gang members and criminal offenders who have committed violent crimes such as&nbsp;homicide, shooting into dwellings, felony assault and sexual assault, illegal possession of firearms,&nbsp;illegal drug distribution, and robbery.

“In an attempt to meet the Department of Justice goals to reduce violent crime, Operation Triple Beam is&nbsp;designed to focus limited resources on violent, repeat offenders, and bring immediate relief to the&nbsp;citizens of Wichita,” said Ron Miller, U.S. Marshal for the District of Kansas. 

Partners in&nbsp;the operation&nbsp;also included the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol,&nbsp;Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, Kansas Department of Corrections, Kansas Bureau of&nbsp;Investigation, DEA, ATF, FBI, HSI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632923471782.png" alt="The U .S. Marshals service displayed some of the guns seized during Operation Triple Beam in July and August. The program ended Sept. 5." />
 <figcaption>The U .S. Marshals service displayed some of the guns seized during Operation Triple Beam in July and August. The program ended Sept. 5.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities made over 1000 arrests during a 60-day operation to reduce violent crime in the Wichita area, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.The Wichita Police Department partnered with the Marshals Service for "Operation Triple Beam" a&nbsp;program in July and August that focused on bringing in people with warrants for violent crimes, like aggravated assault, homicide or drugs.&nbsp;The effort resulted in 1,072 arrests, the seizure of 221 firearms, about 165 kilograms of narcotics (including marijuana, cocaine, meth, heroin and fentanyl) and over $200,000, according to the Marshals Service. Among those arrested included 808 for felonies, 264 misdemeanors and 141 gang members.The program is a national initiative developed by the Marshals Service to reduce gang violence by targeting and arresting&nbsp;violent fugitives, gang members and criminal offenders who have committed violent crimes such as&nbsp;homicide, shooting into dwellings, felony assault and sexual assault, illegal possession of firearms,&nbsp;illegal drug distribution, and robbery.“In an attempt to meet the Department of Justice goals to reduce violent crime, Operation Triple Beam is&nbsp;designed to focus limited resources on violent, repeat offenders, and bring immediate relief to the&nbsp;citizens of Wichita,” said Ron Miller, U.S. Marshal for the District of Kansas. Partners in&nbsp;the operation&nbsp;also included the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol,&nbsp;Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, Kansas Department of Corrections, Kansas Bureau of&nbsp;Investigation, DEA, ATF, FBI, HSI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Police make 1,072 Kan. arrests, seize 221 guns and $200K in cash

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 2,481 to a total of 408,934 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

The state reported 27 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,051.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 2,481 to a total of 408,934 the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;The state reported 27 new COVID-19 deaths for a total of 6,051.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632934879004.png" alt="Wednesday Sept. 29, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Wednesday Sept. 29, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: 2,480 new cases, 24 more COVID deaths

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Authorities investigating a fatal Monday crash have identified the girl who died from her injuries as 17-year-old&nbsp;Stephanie Valentine of Norwich, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

Just after 2:30p.m. Monday, a Kenworth semi driven by a 38-year-old woman was eastbound on MacArthur at 135th Street west and struck a southbound Chevy Cruze driven by a 43-year-old man.

EMS transported the driver of the Chevy and his passenger identified as Valentine for treatment. The teen suffered critical injuries and died Tuesday morning, according to Blick. The semi driver was not injured.

Investigators determined the driver of the Chevy Cruze failed to stop at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at the intersection or failed to yield to the crossing Kenworth. The circumstances of the collision remain under investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632855091273.png" alt="Sheriff's investigators at the scene of the Monday afternoon crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Sheriff's investigators at the scene of the Monday afternoon crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Authorities investigating a fatal Monday crash have identified the girl who died from her injuries as 17-year-old&nbsp;Stephanie Valentine of Norwich, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.Just after 2:30p.m. Monday, a Kenworth semi driven by a 38-year-old woman was eastbound on MacArthur at 135th Street west and struck a southbound Chevy Cruze driven by a 43-year-old man.EMS transported the driver of the Chevy and his passenger identified as Valentine for treatment. The teen suffered critical injuries and died Tuesday morning, according to Blick. The semi driver was not injured.Investigators determined the driver of the Chevy Cruze failed to stop at the posted stop sign for southbound traffic at the intersection or failed to yield to the crossing Kenworth. The circumstances of the collision remain under investigation.&nbsp;

Sheriff IDs  Kan. girl who died from injuries after semi crash

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The search continues for the suspect accused in the Sept. 7, nightclub shooting in Wichita that killed one man and injured five women.

During a Sept. 16 news conference, members of the community including Wichita Vice Mayor Brandon Johnson asked the suspect 22-year-old Keshawn Dawson to turn himself in. Wichita Police Captain Jason Stephens said authorities do not know where Dawson is in hiding. Police have received information that suggests he may be in south Wichita, according to Stephens.&nbsp; 

There is a reward of up to $2500 through Crime Stoppers for information in the case that leads to an arrest.&nbsp;

Police say Dawson is armed and dangerous. He was released from prison in December of 2020 after serving time for weapons violations.

Just after 12:30 a.m. Sept. 7, police responded to a shooting call at the Enigma Club, 351 N. Mosley in Wichita.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located multiple victims.&nbsp; They were all transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp; One victim identified as 34-year-old Preston Spencer of Wichita died from his injuries. Friends and family held his <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-kendra-and-the-spencer-family?fbclid=IwAR1CeDwwCQIfSCoQNv5hK0sgu10mWuhu3Tv8iapl8Qnv-1Q6hJWoNgFeDag">memorial service</a>&nbsp;on Monday.

The other victims, all women ages, 22, Two age 24, 28 and 40, received non life-threatening injuries, according to Stephens. Most of the injuries were to the legs. One had an injury to an arm and her lower back.&nbsp; All of the women are expected to survive.

The investigation revealed a male suspect identified as Dawson got into a disturbance earlier inside the club and was made to leave.&nbsp; Dawson returned a short time later and fired multiple rounds with a handgun through windows into the club from the outside, striking the victims.

Anyone with information on Dawson is asked to call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631032156553.png" alt="Dawson photo from an earlier arrest in Sedgwick County.&nbsp; He is described as 5-foot-11, and 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes." />
 <figcaption>Dawson photo from an earlier arrest in Sedgwick County.&nbsp; He is described as 5-foot-11, and 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The search continues for the suspect accused in the Sept. 7, nightclub shooting in Wichita that killed one man and injured five women.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWichitaPolice%2Fvideos%2F415078036812791%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=51" width="560" height="429" 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>During a Sept. 16 news conference, members of the community including Wichita Vice Mayor Brandon Johnson asked the suspect 22-year-old Keshawn Dawson to turn himself in. Wichita Police Captain Jason Stephens said authorities do not know where Dawson is in hiding. Police have received information that suggests he may be in south Wichita, according to Stephens.&nbsp; There is a reward of up to $2500 through Crime Stoppers for information in the case that leads to an arrest.&nbsp;Police say Dawson is armed and dangerous. He was released from prison in December of 2020 after serving time for weapons violations.Just after 12:30 a.m. Sept. 7, police responded to a shooting call at the Enigma Club, 351 N. Mosley in Wichita.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located multiple victims.&nbsp; They were all transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp; One victim identified as 34-year-old Preston Spencer of Wichita died from his injuries. Friends and family held his <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-kendra-and-the-spencer-family?fbclid=IwAR1CeDwwCQIfSCoQNv5hK0sgu10mWuhu3Tv8iapl8Qnv-1Q6hJWoNgFeDag">memorial service</a>&nbsp;on Monday.The other victims, all women ages, 22, Two age 24, 28 and 40, received non life-threatening injuries, according to Stephens. Most of the injuries were to the legs. One had an injury to an arm and her lower back.&nbsp; All of the women are expected to survive.The investigation revealed a male suspect identified as Dawson got into a disturbance earlier inside the club and was made to leave.&nbsp; Dawson returned a short time later and fired multiple rounds with a handgun through windows into the club from the outside, striking the victims.Anyone with information on Dawson is asked to call 911.---------------

For third week police search for Kan. club shooting suspect 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pressure mounting, President Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress strained Tuesday to trim back his potentially historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-4937ea3b6a05aceec7dd6a4ddaaf902b">$3.5 trillion government overhaul to</a>&nbsp;win support from two key holdout senators ahead of make-or-break deadlines for votes.

With Republicans solidly opposed and no votes to spare, Biden canceled a Wednesday trip to Chicago that was to focus on COVID-19 vaccinations so he could continue working on a deal, according to a White House official granted anonymity to discuss the planning.

Democrats are poised to adjust the huge measure’s tax proposals and spending goals to meet the overall size demanded by party colleagues Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. The two say Biden’s plan is too big but are publicly quiet about a number they can live with.

The president met separately with them Tuesday at the White House, making apparent progress before a Thursday test vote.

As the legislation comes into focus, the adjustments will follow —child care subsidies could be offered for several years, or just a few. Funding to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-health-care-69c7bb592f8d73232bec1d8e15be82e3">expand health care programs&nbsp;</a>could start later or end sooner. Tax hikes on corporations and the wealthy may be adjusted. And provisions to fight climate change or curb prescription drug prices could change.

Assuming nothing, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told reporters at the Capitol, “In the next day or so we hope to come to a place where we can all move forward.”

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-financial-markets-nancy-pelosi-7bd49aa2c2638a95ef4b0aa421b219df">stakes are as high as ever&nbsp;</a>as Biden and his party try to accomplish a giant legislative lift, promising a vast rewrite of the nation’s tax priorities and spending goals with an oh-so-slim majority in Congress.

Biden is under pressure to close the deal with centrist Sens. Manchin and Sinema who are seen as linchpins for the final package.

“Really good, honest, straightforward negotiations,” Manchin told reporters back at the Capitol after his White House meeting with Biden. He said he did not give the president a new topline figure.

Biden’s problems with fellow Democrats aren’t just in the Senate. A small number of House Democrats also are bristling at the far-reaching scope of his domestic agenda and demanding changes.

“We’re obviously at a very sensitive time,” said White House press secretary Jen Psaki.

The president, she said, is “not going to tell anyone what to do. He’s going to have a discussion, have an engagement.”

The closed-door talks come after Republican senators for a second time blocked a bill to keep the government operating past Thursday and allow federal borrowing, risking a federal shutdown and devastating debt default — though both seem highly unlikely.

Democrats said they will try again before Thursday’s deadline to pass a bill funding government operations past the Sept. 30 fiscal year-end, likely stripping out the more-heated debate over the debt limit for another day, closer to a separate October deadline.

Taken together, it’s all putting the entire Biden agenda perilously closer to collapse, with consequences certain to shape his presidency and the lawmakers’ political futures.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-bills-janet-yellen-9d5327bcc4f18bd2cf3349fdbe6d246b">in a letter Tuesday that Oct. 18&nbsp;</a>is a critical date — when the Treasury Department will likely exhaust all of its “extraordinary measures” being taken to avoid a default on the government’s obligations.

Yellen urged Congress to “protect the full faith and credit of the United States by acting as soon as possible” to either raise the debt limit or suspend it.

Meanwhile, the behind the scenes action over the $3.5 trillion measure is testing Biden’s grip on his party, as he seeks a once-in-a-generation reworking of the nation’s balance sheets.

Applying pressure, progressives are unwavering so far in their refusal to go along with a vote expected Thursday on a companion bill, a $1 trillion public works measure that they say is too meager without Biden’s bigger package assured.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said they have the votes to derail the smaller bill unless it comes with Biden’s broader one — tacit pressure on the holdouts to arrive at a deal. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., urged a no vote.

“It won’t be the end of the world Thursday if we vote it down,” said Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., a progressive caucus member. He said the House will just wait for the Senate to act on Biden’s plan, “and then we’ll vote again.”

With all Republicans opposed to the big bill, Democratic leaders can’t spare a single vote in the 50-50 Senate, relying on Vice President Kamala Harris to break a tie to pass the eventual package.

Physically holding up the 2,000-plus page bill, Republican Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming warned it was nothing but “big government socialism.”

“This bill represents Bernie Sanders’ socialist dream. It is a nightmare for American taxpayers,” he said.

Biden insists&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-budget-08d7ca3ffc7f438148570b04bc61ded0">the price tag actually will be zero&nbsp;</a>because the expansion of government programs would be largely paid for with higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy — businesses earning more than $5 million a year, and individuals earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples.

To lower the price tag and win over centrist Democrats, it’s not necessary that any specific programs be get axed, those familiar with the process have said.

Rather, lawmakers are eyeing ways to adjust the scope and duration of some of Biden’s proposals.

For example, instead of more immediately launching the massive expansion of the Medicare program for seniors by allowing them to qualify for vision, dental and hearing aid benefits, changes might be spaced out to save money. Or similarly, funding to expand Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act could have an end-date rather than continue on.

The corporate tax hikes, proposed to spike from 21% to 26.5% under the House’s version of Biden’s bill, could shift again in talks with the Senate Democrats.

Failing to fund all the program expansions indefinitely could well be seen as a loss for Democrats. But some see the built-in deadlines as a chance to revisit the issues again — likely during election years when both sides can argue their cases to voters.

Tensions are flaring at the Capitol as the contours of Biden’s big agenda come into focus at the same time as a Democrat-Republican standoff over normally routine votes to fund the government and prevent a federal debt default.

For a second day on Tuesday, Senate Republicans rejected an effort to ease the nation’s debt limit to avoid a dangerous default on its payments for past bills.

Republican leader Mitch McConnell grew testy with reporters when asked about Yellen’s warning that Congress must swiftly resolve the issue.

“Of course the debt ceiling has to be raised,” he said. But he insisted Democrats shoulder the unpopular vote on their own.

On Monday, Republicans had rejected the Democrats’ effort to link the debt ceiling vote to the must-pass funding bill to keep government running.

An exasperated Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, “It is clear insanity and disaster are now the Republican party line.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632917428769.png" alt="House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, members of Congress, activists at the U.S. Capitol for an event on how the Biden's Build Back Better Act will create good paying jobs tackling the climate crisis, addressing environmental justice and investing in America’s clean energy future.-photo courtesy House Speaker's office" />
 <figcaption>House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, members of Congress, activists at the U.S. Capitol for an event on how the Biden's Build Back Better Act will create good paying jobs tackling the climate crisis, addressing environmental justice and investing in America’s clean energy future.-photo courtesy House Speaker's office</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Pressure mounting, President Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress strained Tuesday to trim back his potentially historic&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-health-4937ea3b6a05aceec7dd6a4ddaaf902b">$3.5 trillion government overhaul to</a>&nbsp;win support from two key holdout senators ahead of make-or-break deadlines for votes.With Republicans solidly opposed and no votes to spare, Biden canceled a Wednesday trip to Chicago that was to focus on COVID-19 vaccinations so he could continue working on a deal, according to a White House official granted anonymity to discuss the planning.Democrats are poised to adjust the huge measure’s tax proposals and spending goals to meet the overall size demanded by party colleagues Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. The two say Biden’s plan is too big but are publicly quiet about a number they can live with.The president met separately with them Tuesday at the White House, making apparent progress before a Thursday test vote.As the legislation comes into focus, the adjustments will follow —child care subsidies could be offered for several years, or just a few. Funding to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-health-care-69c7bb592f8d73232bec1d8e15be82e3">expand health care programs&nbsp;</a>could start later or end sooner. Tax hikes on corporations and the wealthy may be adjusted. And provisions to fight climate change or curb prescription drug prices could change.Assuming nothing, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told reporters at the Capitol, “In the next day or so we hope to come to a place where we can all move forward.”The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-business-financial-markets-nancy-pelosi-7bd49aa2c2638a95ef4b0aa421b219df">stakes are as high as ever&nbsp;</a>as Biden and his party try to accomplish a giant legislative lift, promising a vast rewrite of the nation’s tax priorities and spending goals with an oh-so-slim majority in Congress.Biden is under pressure to close the deal with centrist Sens. Manchin and Sinema who are seen as linchpins for the final package.“Really good, honest, straightforward negotiations,” Manchin told reporters back at the Capitol after his White House meeting with Biden. He said he did not give the president a new topline figure.Biden’s problems with fellow Democrats aren’t just in the Senate. A small number of House Democrats also are bristling at the far-reaching scope of his domestic agenda and demanding changes.“We’re obviously at a very sensitive time,” said White House press secretary Jen Psaki.The president, she said, is “not going to tell anyone what to do. He’s going to have a discussion, have an engagement.”The closed-door talks come after Republican senators for a second time blocked a bill to keep the government operating past Thursday and allow federal borrowing, risking a federal shutdown and devastating debt default — though both seem highly unlikely.Democrats said they will try again before Thursday’s deadline to pass a bill funding government operations past the Sept. 30 fiscal year-end, likely stripping out the more-heated debate over the debt limit for another day, closer to a separate October deadline.Taken together, it’s all putting the entire Biden agenda perilously closer to collapse, with consequences certain to shape his presidency and the lawmakers’ political futures.Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told Congress&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-bills-janet-yellen-9d5327bcc4f18bd2cf3349fdbe6d246b">in a letter Tuesday that Oct. 18&nbsp;</a>is a critical date — when the Treasury Department will likely exhaust all of its “extraordinary measures” being taken to avoid a default on the government’s obligations.Yellen urged Congress to “protect the full faith and credit of the United States by acting as soon as possible” to either raise the debt limit or suspend it.Meanwhile, the behind the scenes action over the $3.5 trillion measure is testing Biden’s grip on his party, as he seeks a once-in-a-generation reworking of the nation’s balance sheets.Applying pressure, progressives are unwavering so far in their refusal to go along with a vote expected Thursday on a companion bill, a $1 trillion public works measure that they say is too meager without Biden’s bigger package assured.Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said they have the votes to derail the smaller bill unless it comes with Biden’s broader one — tacit pressure on the holdouts to arrive at a deal. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., urged a no vote.“It won’t be the end of the world Thursday if we vote it down,” said Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., a progressive caucus member. He said the House will just wait for the Senate to act on Biden’s plan, “and then we’ll vote again.”With all Republicans opposed to the big bill, Democratic leaders can’t spare a single vote in the 50-50 Senate, relying on Vice President Kamala Harris to break a tie to pass the eventual package.Physically holding up the 2,000-plus page bill, Republican Sen. John Barrasso of Wyoming warned it was nothing but “big government socialism.”“This bill represents Bernie Sanders’ socialist dream. It is a nightmare for American taxpayers,” he said.Biden insists&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-congress-budget-08d7ca3ffc7f438148570b04bc61ded0">the price tag actually will be zero&nbsp;</a>because the expansion of government programs would be largely paid for with higher taxes on corporations and the wealthy — businesses earning more than $5 million a year, and individuals earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples.To lower the price tag and win over centrist Democrats, it’s not necessary that any specific programs be get axed, those familiar with the process have said.Rather, lawmakers are eyeing ways to adjust the scope and duration of some of Biden’s proposals.For example, instead of more immediately launching the massive expansion of the Medicare program for seniors by allowing them to qualify for vision, dental and hearing aid benefits, changes might be spaced out to save money. Or similarly, funding to expand Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act could have an end-date rather than continue on.The corporate tax hikes, proposed to spike from 21% to 26.5% under the House’s version of Biden’s bill, could shift again in talks with the Senate Democrats.Failing to fund all the program expansions indefinitely could well be seen as a loss for Democrats. But some see the built-in deadlines as a chance to revisit the issues again — likely during election years when both sides can argue their cases to voters.Tensions are flaring at the Capitol as the contours of Biden’s big agenda come into focus at the same time as a Democrat-Republican standoff over normally routine votes to fund the government and prevent a federal debt default.For a second day on Tuesday, Senate Republicans rejected an effort to ease the nation’s debt limit to avoid a dangerous default on its payments for past bills.Republican leader Mitch McConnell grew testy with reporters when asked about Yellen’s warning that Congress must swiftly resolve the issue.“Of course the debt ceiling has to be raised,” he said. But he insisted Democrats shoulder the unpopular vote on their own.On Monday, Republicans had rejected the Democrats’ effort to link the debt ceiling vote to the must-pass funding bill to keep government running.An exasperated Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said, “It is clear insanity and disaster are now the Republican party line.”

Big pressure on Biden, Democrats in battle over $3.5T plan

WICHITA — The Sedgwick County District Attorney is again alerting the public after a Kansas woman lost over $100,000 in a computer scam. “Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide
unsolicited PC or technical support. If you receive a phone call claiming to be from
Microsoft, or see a pop-up window on your PC with a fake warning message and a&nbsp; phone number to call and get your “issue” fixed, it’s better to be safe and not click any
links or provide any personal information.


Never call the number provided in the error message. Real Microsoft error messages
never include a phone number to call.”&nbsp; That information is at the top of Microsoft’s security page.


A Wichita woman recently received a message on her computer which did include a
phone number. Unfortunately, she called it. Over the course of the next few weeks,
that decision cost her over $100,000.


The person who answered the call told the woman, who is in her late 70s, that her
social security number had been compromised and for security reasons, she needed to
transfer money out of her bank account. The caller said Microsoft would then “clean” her
computer of the virus. The woman was also told that others were listening in on her
phone calls.


As instructed, the woman went to her bank and, when the teller asked why she wanted
to withdraw such large sums from her account, the woman responded, “These are
investments for my family.” The woman later told a consumer protection investigator
from the District Attorney’s Office that the person on the phone had recommended she
use the “investments” explanation if anyone at the bank questioned her about the
withdrawals. She then transferred the money to accounts at the direction of the
purported Microsoft "engineer."


These calls continued between the woman and the alleged Microsoft "engineer" from
July to September of this year. Before the woman’s family discovered what was
happening, the woman had lost over $100,000. Investigators with the Office of the
District Attorney are in the process of trying to recover the money, but it is very rare that
lost funds are able to be retrieved in cases like this.


Sadly, this scam is not new. The "Microsoft Scam" as it has come to be known has
been around since 2009. The usual setup is for the scammers to call or email their
intended target and identify themselves as a "technician" or "engineer" from Microsoft
(or some Microsoft-related company). They then tell their target that their Windows-
based computer has a virus (or other problem) that is causing it to generate all sorts of
error messages on the Internet. They tell the target that any number of bad
consequences await if action is not taken to correct the issue. Ultimately, the target is
told they must transfer the money in their bank accounts to safe locations as directed by
the scammer while the problem is corrected.


The District Attorney’s Office does not want anyone else to fall into this trap. To avoid
scams, please hang up the phone if you receive an unsolicited call from someone
asking for personal information, or if the caller asks you to wire money, mail cash, or put&nbsp; money onto gift cards.


If you are the victim of a scam it should be reported. Make a report with your local law
enforcement.


WICHITA — The Sedgwick County District Attorney is again alerting the public after a Kansas woman lost over $100,000 in a computer scam. “Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide
unsolicited PC or technical support. If you receive a phone call claiming to be from
Microsoft, or see a pop-up window on your PC with a fake warning message and a&nbsp; phone number to call and get your “issue” fixed, it’s better to be safe and not click any
links or provide any personal information.
Never call the number provided in the error message. Real Microsoft error messages
never include a phone number to call.”&nbsp; That information is at the top of Microsoft’s security page.
A Wichita woman recently received a message on her computer which did include a
phone number. Unfortunately, she called it. Over the course of the next few weeks,
that decision cost her over $100,000.
The person who answered the call told the woman, who is in her late 70s, that her
social security number had been compromised and for security reasons, she needed to
transfer money out of her bank account. The caller said Microsoft would then “clean” her
computer of the virus. The woman was also told that others were listening in on her
phone calls.
As instructed, the woman went to her bank and, when the teller asked why she wanted
to withdraw such large sums from her account, the woman responded, “These are
investments for my family.” The woman later told a consumer protection investigator
from the District Attorney’s Office that the person on the phone had recommended she
use the “investments” explanation if anyone at the bank questioned her about the
withdrawals. She then transferred the money to accounts at the direction of the
purported Microsoft "engineer."
These calls continued between the woman and the alleged Microsoft "engineer" from
July to September of this year. Before the woman’s family discovered what was
happening, the woman had lost over $100,000. Investigators with the Office of the
District Attorney are in the process of trying to recover the money, but it is very rare that
lost funds are able to be retrieved in cases like this.
Sadly, this scam is not new. The "Microsoft Scam" as it has come to be known has
been around since 2009. The usual setup is for the scammers to call or email their
intended target and identify themselves as a "technician" or "engineer" from Microsoft
(or some Microsoft-related company). They then tell their target that their Windows-
based computer has a virus (or other problem) that is causing it to generate all sorts of
error messages on the Internet. They tell the target that any number of bad
consequences await if action is not taken to correct the issue. Ultimately, the target is
told they must transfer the money in their bank accounts to safe locations as directed by
the scammer while the problem is corrected.
The District Attorney’s Office does not want anyone else to fall into this trap. To avoid
scams, please hang up the phone if you receive an unsolicited call from someone
asking for personal information, or if the caller asks you to wire money, mail cash, or put&nbsp; money onto gift cards.
If you are the victim of a scam it should be reported. Make a report with your local law
enforcement.

Kansas woman lost over $100K in computer scam

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pfizer has submitted research to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on the effectiveness of its COVID-19 vaccine in children but the shots may not be available until November.

The company said Tuesday it provided health regulators with data from a recent study of its vaccine in children 5 to 11 years old. Officials had said previously they would file an application with the FDA to authorize use in the coming weeks.

Once the company files its application, U.S. regulators and public health officials will review the evidence and consult with their advisory committees in public meetings to determine if the shots are safe and effective enough to recommend use.

That process may mean the shots may not be available until closer to Thanksgiving, according to a person familiar with the process but not authorized to discuss it publicly. But it is possible that, depending on how quickly the FDA acts, the shots could become available earlier in November, the person said.

The drugmaker and its partner, Germany’s BioNTech, say they expect to request emergency use authorization of their vaccine in children ages 5 to 11 “in the coming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-science-health-coronavirus-pandemic-coronavirus-vaccine-202cb6e44b90270ec4d1f19690ed94c5">weeks</a>.” The companies also plan to submit data to the European Medicines Agency and other regulators.

The two-shot Pfizer vaccine is currently available for those 12 and older. An estimated 100 million people in the U.S. have been fully vaccinated with it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Pfizer tested a lower dose of the shots in children. The drugmaker said last week that researchers found the vaccine developed coronavirus-fighting antibody levels in children that were just as strong as those found in teenagers and young adults getting regular-strength doses.

Earlier this month, FDA chief Dr. Peter Marks told the AP that once Pfizer turns over its study results, his agency would evaluate the data “hopefully in a matter of weeks” to decide if the shots are safe and effective enough for younger kids.

Pfizer’s updated timetable was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

Another U.S. vaccine maker, Moderna, also is studying its shots in elementary school-aged children. Results are expected later in the year.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Pfizer has submitted research to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on the effectiveness of its COVID-19 vaccine in children but the shots may not be available until November.The company said Tuesday it provided health regulators with data from a recent study of its vaccine in children 5 to 11 years old. Officials had said previously they would file an application with the FDA to authorize use in the coming weeks.Once the company files its application, U.S. regulators and public health officials will review the evidence and consult with their advisory committees in public meetings to determine if the shots are safe and effective enough to recommend use.That process may mean the shots may not be available until closer to Thanksgiving, according to a person familiar with the process but not authorized to discuss it publicly. But it is possible that, depending on how quickly the FDA acts, the shots could become available earlier in November, the person said.The drugmaker and its partner, Germany’s BioNTech, say they expect to request emergency use authorization of their vaccine in children ages 5 to 11 “in the coming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-science-health-coronavirus-pandemic-coronavirus-vaccine-202cb6e44b90270ec4d1f19690ed94c5">weeks</a>.” The companies also plan to submit data to the European Medicines Agency and other regulators.The two-shot Pfizer vaccine is currently available for those 12 and older. An estimated 100 million people in the U.S. have been fully vaccinated with it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Pfizer tested a lower dose of the shots in children. The drugmaker said last week that researchers found the vaccine developed coronavirus-fighting antibody levels in children that were just as strong as those found in teenagers and young adults getting regular-strength doses.Earlier this month, FDA chief Dr. Peter Marks told the AP that once Pfizer turns over its study results, his agency would evaluate the data “hopefully in a matter of weeks” to decide if the shots are safe and effective enough for younger kids.Pfizer’s updated timetable was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.Another U.S. vaccine maker, Moderna, also is studying its shots in elementary school-aged children. Results are expected later in the year.

Pfizer vaccine for kids may not be available until November

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners has placed a moratorium on wind development in the county and due to this policy shift, County Counselor Joe O' Sullivan sees it as best to go back through the planning commission process.

"We thought that the process would be much cleaner and more transparent, whatever decision this board of county commissioners makes, when new proposed legislation comes before it, as well as the pending recommendation for zoning regulations with respect to wind energy, and that any decision that the board makes might well be appealed. What we're doing will not prevent anybody from appealing to the district court, a decision that you ultimately make in this case, but we think whatever decision you make would be better legally supported if we follow this process."

The original wind regulation process was presented to the public as just that and not as a potential ban.

"In the publications for the hearings, it was for wind energy conversion systems regulations," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "All the input they received, the public comments were based on that. Then, when the county commission started making changes, or it became known that they were wanting to ban wind, or at least put a ban in the zoned areas, it made practical sense for people to have a understanding and have the chance to participate in public hearings to know that the new focus is to ban wind in the zoned areas."

The moratorium officially stretches into March 2022 as written, but it is the intent of the commission to take up the issue in December after the planning commission has public input between now and then.

By NICK GOSNELLHutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Board of Reno County Commissioners has placed a moratorium on wind development in the county and due to this policy shift, County Counselor Joe O' Sullivan sees it as best to go back through the planning commission process."We thought that the process would be much cleaner and more transparent, whatever decision this board of county commissioners makes, when new proposed legislation comes before it, as well as the pending recommendation for zoning regulations with respect to wind energy, and that any decision that the board makes might well be appealed. What we're doing will not prevent anybody from appealing to the district court, a decision that you ultimately make in this case, but we think whatever decision you make would be better legally supported if we follow this process."The original wind regulation process was presented to the public as just that and not as a potential ban."In the publications for the hearings, it was for wind energy conversion systems regulations," said County Administrator Randy Partington. "All the input they received, the public comments were based on that. Then, when the county commission started making changes, or it became known that they were wanting to ban wind, or at least put a ban in the zoned areas, it made practical sense for people to have a understanding and have the chance to participate in public hearings to know that the new focus is to ban wind in the zoned areas."The moratorium officially stretches into March 2022 as written, but it is the intent of the commission to take up the issue in December after the planning commission has public input between now and then.

Reno Co. commission approves moratorium on wind development

SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating the death of a 17-year-old who died after being in law enforcement custody. By statute, the KBI investigates all in-custody deaths which occur in Kansas jails and prisons, unless the inmate who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.

The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office asked the KBI to investigate on Friday, Sept. 24, at approximately 10:30 a.m.

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 1 a.m. on Sept. 24, officers from the Wichita Police Department responded to a disturbance call from a resident at 1221 S. Fox Run in Wichita. Upon arrival they discovered 17-year-old Cedric “CJ” Lofton, of Wichita, outside the house. Lofton appeared paranoid and was behaving erratically. After officers spent an extended period of time trying to convince him to voluntarily seek mental health treatment, they attempted to take Lofton into custody. Lofton resisted by assaulting the officers. After a physical struggle, he was arrested for four counts of battery of a law enforcement officer.

Lofton was transported to the Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) in a Wrap restraint system, a device used to prevent subjects from hurting themselves or others. Once at the facility the Wrap device and handcuffs were removed from Lofton, and he was placed in a single holding cell.

Lofton was later allowed out of the holding cell to use the restroom. When a JIAC staff member attempted to escort him back to the holding cell, Lofton assaulted the staff member. Multiple corrections staff engaged in a lengthy physical struggle to get him into the holding cell and place him into handcuffs. Once Lofton was under control, corrections staff were monitoring him and noticed he became unresponsive.

Life-saving measures were initiated. EMS responded and transported him to Wesley Medical Center where additional medical interventions were attempted. On Sept. 26, at approximately 1:55 a.m. Lofton was pronounced dead.

An autopsy was conducted on Sept. 27. Lofton’s cause of death is pending further investigation and toxicology results.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a juvenile in custody in Sedgwick County.

On Sept. 24, police booked a 17-year-old boy into the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center,&nbsp;700 South Hydraulic in Sedgwick, Kansas&nbsp; on requested charges of that included three counts of battery of a law enforcement officer,&nbsp;according to Col. Brian White with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office.

While in custody, the teen also assaulted juvenile assessment center staff and was restrained with handcuffs and more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/WPD/WPDPolicyAndProcedureManual/Policy%20915%20-%20WRAP%20Restraint%20Systems.pdf">including the WRAP process,</a> according to White. After he was restrained, the teen became unresponsive and officials contacted emergency medical services. EMS transported the teen to a local hospital. He died on Sunday, according to White.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is in charge of the investigation. The Sedgwick County Sheriff's office is assisting. The Sheriff's office does not oversee the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center, according to White. The county runs that facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632777405725.png" alt="Colonel Brian White during Monday's media conference on the death of the teen." />
 <figcaption>Colonel Brian White during Monday's media conference on the death of the teen.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating the death of a 17-year-old who died after being in law enforcement custody. By statute, the KBI investigates all in-custody deaths which occur in Kansas jails and prisons, unless the inmate who dies is being regularly attended by a physician, or the death is ruled natural by autopsy.The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office asked the KBI to investigate on Friday, Sept. 24, at approximately 10:30 a.m.Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 1 a.m. on Sept. 24, officers from the Wichita Police Department responded to a disturbance call from a resident at 1221 S. Fox Run in Wichita. Upon arrival they discovered 17-year-old Cedric “CJ” Lofton, of Wichita, outside the house. Lofton appeared paranoid and was behaving erratically. After officers spent an extended period of time trying to convince him to voluntarily seek mental health treatment, they attempted to take Lofton into custody. Lofton resisted by assaulting the officers. After a physical struggle, he was arrested for four counts of battery of a law enforcement officer.Lofton was transported to the Juvenile Intake and Assessment Center (JIAC) in a Wrap restraint system, a device used to prevent subjects from hurting themselves or others. Once at the facility the Wrap device and handcuffs were removed from Lofton, and he was placed in a single holding cell.Lofton was later allowed out of the holding cell to use the restroom. When a JIAC staff member attempted to escort him back to the holding cell, Lofton assaulted the staff member. Multiple corrections staff engaged in a lengthy physical struggle to get him into the holding cell and place him into handcuffs. Once Lofton was under control, corrections staff were monitoring him and noticed he became unresponsive.Life-saving measures were initiated. EMS responded and transported him to Wesley Medical Center where additional medical interventions were attempted. On Sept. 26, at approximately 1:55 a.m. Lofton was pronounced dead.An autopsy was conducted on Sept. 27. Lofton’s cause of death is pending further investigation and toxicology results.--------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a juvenile in custody in Sedgwick County.On Sept. 24, police booked a 17-year-old boy into the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center,&nbsp;700 South Hydraulic in Sedgwick, Kansas&nbsp; on requested charges of that included three counts of battery of a law enforcement officer,&nbsp;according to Col. Brian White with the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office.While in custody, the teen also assaulted juvenile assessment center staff and was restrained with handcuffs and more&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichita.gov/WPD/WPDPolicyAndProcedureManual/Policy%20915%20-%20WRAP%20Restraint%20Systems.pdf">including the WRAP process,</a> according to White. After he was restrained, the teen became unresponsive and officials contacted emergency medical services. EMS transported the teen to a local hospital. He died on Sunday, according to White.The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is in charge of the investigation. The Sedgwick County Sheriff's office is assisting. The Sheriff's office does not oversee the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center, according to White. The county runs that facility.

KBI IDs teen who died  after restrained at Kan. juvenile intake center

NEMAHA COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Monday, authorities booked 41-year-old Simon S. Survila of Rice Lake, Wisconsin into the Nemaha County Jail on a Nemaha County warrant for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child. 

He remains jailed on&nbsp; $250,000 bond and is expected to make a first court appearance this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632859020721.png" alt="Survilla photo Nemaha County" />
 <figcaption>Survilla photo Nemaha County</figcaption>
 </figure>NEMAHA COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Monday, authorities booked 41-year-old Simon S. Survila of Rice Lake, Wisconsin into the Nemaha County Jail on a Nemaha County warrant for Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child. He remains jailed on&nbsp; $250,000 bond and is expected to make a first court appearance this week.

Wisconsin man jailed in Kansas for alleged child sex crimes

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A former Wichita police officer has been sentenced to a year of probation after he admitted he helped a woman avoid arrest. Matthew Powell would serve a year in jail if he violates probation. He also cannot be certified again to work as a law enforcement officer. 

A probable cause statement says that on May 3, 2019, Powell told a woman who was wanted on a warrant that officers were coming to arrest her. The woman was taken into custody about two weeks later. KAKE-TV reports the woman told detectives that Powell had helped her avoid arrest for months.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632847775609.png" alt="Powell as shown in his Sedgwick&nbsp; booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Powell as shown in his Sedgwick&nbsp; booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A former Wichita police officer has been sentenced to a year of probation after he admitted he helped a woman avoid arrest. Matthew Powell would serve a year in jail if he violates probation. He also cannot be certified again to work as a law enforcement officer. A probable cause statement says that on May 3, 2019, Powell told a woman who was wanted on a warrant that officers were coming to arrest her. The woman was taken into custody about two weeks later. KAKE-TV reports the woman told detectives that Powell had helped her avoid arrest for months.

Former Kan. police officer sentenced for helping woman avoid arrest

WAYNE COUNTY, Utah —U.S. Marshals investigators say viewers in Wayne County saw Colt’s wanted poster on the news Monday evening and recognized Colt, calling in tips to the U.S. Marshals Service and the WayneCounty Sheriff’s Office. 

As sheriff’s deputies were staging in a parking lot near the target house, they saw Colt roll by on his blue motorcycle and gave chase. Colt eventually decided to give up. He confirmed his identity, and the sheriff confirmed the motorcycle VIN in NCIC.

He is being held in the Sevier County jail pending his return to Kansas.

“Effective law enforcement in the United States today is enhanced by citizens willing to report what they see,” said U.S. marshal for the District of Kansas Ronald Miller. “That occurred in this case and resulted in a violent predator being recaptured.”

The U.S. Marshals elevated Colt’s escape to major case status Sept. 20 and had offered up to $10,000 as reward for information leading to Colt’s arrest. The USMS will continue to collect information and work with Utah USMS to start a failure to register case on him. As the lead federal agency for sex offender violations following passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, the

Colt was sentenced on Dec. 14, 2001, to five years in state prison for aggravated sexual battery, attempted rape, aggravated burglary, and four counts of aggravated battery against law enforcement. He was required to register as a sexual offender for the remainder of his life.

After his criminal sentence was completed, the State of Kansas courts deemed him a Sexually Violent Predator at high risk to commit a future sex offense and too dangerous to be released. He was indefinitely civilly committed and sent to the Larned State Hospital’s Sexual Predator Treatment Program in 2007, where he has resided until the escape. 

Investigators believe Colt planned his escape several months in advance, obtaining a replica of a staff ID badge and dress clothes. The morning of his escape he shaved off his long hair and beard. He put blankets under his bed covers making it appear he was still in bed sleeping. He was then able to convince a new staff worker (that he targeted) that he was in fact a new doctor and needed help finding his way out. Posing as a doctor, Colt was able to make his way past five secured doors and ultimately outside the gates.

Several hours passed before staff noticed he was missing and alerted the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office. After escaping, Colt received a ride from a local farmer to the town of Larned. From there he rode to Scott City on a motorcycle he’d purchased prior to his escape with the help of an accomplice. 

WAYNE COUNTY, Utah—Thanks to tips from the public, authorities&nbsp; arrested 42-year-old John Colt near Torrey, Utah late Monday without incident, according Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis.&nbsp;

Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital on June 30 and traveled over 850 miles before his arrest.

Just after midnight Tuesday, Colt was booked into the Sevier County jail in Richfield, Utah, according to online jail records.

He is being help until until officials can arrange for his extradition back to Kansas.&nbsp;Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

PAWNEE COUNTY — The search for a man who escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital in June is over.

The Pawnee County Attorney reported he received messages Tuesday morning confirming the arrest of 42-year-old John Freeman Colt. He is being held in a jail in Utah, according to Sheriff Nathan Curtis.

Few details are available. Check the Post for more information as it is released.

PAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue to search for 42-year-old John Freeman Colt according to the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.

Just after 7a.m. June 30, he walked out of the Sexual Predator Treatment Program at the Larned State Hospital, according to the Pawnee County Sheriff.&nbsp;

He was last seen at 11:10a.m. Wednesday June 30 walking north bound from Kwik Shop on Broadway.

Barton County Sheriff Bellendir explained how Colt made it&nbsp;that far.&nbsp; “He caught a ride into town and gave a story he had a broken-down vehicle,” Bellendir said. “He was dressed in dress clothes. He didn’t look like what you’d expect an inmate to be. He looked more like a social worker, and that’s probably how he managed to escape, which the state investigators for DOC (the Department of Corrections) are over there trying to figure all of that out&nbsp;right now.”&nbsp;

Bellendir said&nbsp;Colt had altered his appearance by cutting his hair and shaving off a beard.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Colt is described as a white male, medium skin tone, 5-foot-7 200 pounds, blue eyes, and&nbsp; short brown hair. 

 He also has a tattoo on his left arm of a heart with the letters BH. 

He was last seen wearing a gray long sleeve shirt, black pants ( possibly dress pants ) and a dark face mask.  Subject possibly has an ID badge "C JONES", and may have a cell phone.&nbsp;

Colt should be considered dangerous.&nbsp;If seen, or you know his whereabouts, please call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632850718422.png" alt="Colt photo Sevier. County" />
 <figcaption>Colt photo Sevier. County</figcaption>
 </figure>WAYNE COUNTY, Utah —U.S. Marshals investigators say viewers in Wayne County saw Colt’s wanted poster on the news Monday evening and recognized Colt, calling in tips to the U.S. Marshals Service and the WayneCounty Sheriff’s Office. As sheriff’s deputies were staging in a parking lot near the target house, they saw Colt roll by on his blue motorcycle and gave chase. Colt eventually decided to give up. He confirmed his identity, and the sheriff confirmed the motorcycle VIN in NCIC.He is being held in the Sevier County jail pending his return to Kansas.“Effective law enforcement in the United States today is enhanced by citizens willing to report what they see,” said U.S. marshal for the District of Kansas Ronald Miller. “That occurred in this case and resulted in a violent predator being recaptured.”The U.S. Marshals elevated Colt’s escape to major case status Sept. 20 and had offered up to $10,000 as reward for information leading to Colt’s arrest. The USMS will continue to collect information and work with Utah USMS to start a failure to register case on him. As the lead federal agency for sex offender violations following passage of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, theColt was sentenced on Dec. 14, 2001, to five years in state prison for aggravated sexual battery, attempted rape, aggravated burglary, and four counts of aggravated battery against law enforcement. He was required to register as a sexual offender for the remainder of his life.After his criminal sentence was completed, the State of Kansas courts deemed him a Sexually Violent Predator at high risk to commit a future sex offense and too dangerous to be released. He was indefinitely civilly committed and sent to the Larned State Hospital’s Sexual Predator Treatment Program in 2007, where he has resided until the escape. Investigators believe Colt planned his escape several months in advance, obtaining a replica of a staff ID badge and dress clothes. The morning of his escape he shaved off his long hair and beard. He put blankets under his bed covers making it appear he was still in bed sleeping. He was then able to convince a new staff worker (that he targeted) that he was in fact a new doctor and needed help finding his way out. Posing as a doctor, Colt was able to make his way past five secured doors and ultimately outside the gates.Several hours passed before staff noticed he was missing and alerted the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office. After escaping, Colt received a ride from a local farmer to the town of Larned. From there he rode to Scott City on a motorcycle he’d purchased prior to his escape with the help of an accomplice. --------WAYNE COUNTY, Utah—Thanks to tips from the public, authorities&nbsp; arrested 42-year-old John Colt near Torrey, Utah late Monday without incident, according Sevier County Sheriff Nathan Curtis.&nbsp;Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital on June 30 and traveled over 850 miles before his arrest.Just after midnight Tuesday, Colt was booked into the Sevier County jail in Richfield, Utah, according to online jail records.He is being help until until officials can arrange for his extradition back to Kansas.&nbsp;Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.------------PAWNEE COUNTY — The search for a man who escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program at the Larned State hospital in June is over.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632842492522.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Pawnee County Attorney reported he received messages Tuesday morning confirming the arrest of 42-year-old John Freeman Colt. He is being held in a jail in Utah, according to Sheriff Nathan Curtis.Few details are available. Check the Post for more information as it is released.--------------PAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue to search for 42-year-old John Freeman Colt according to the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office.Just after 7a.m. June 30, he walked out of the Sexual Predator Treatment Program at the Larned State Hospital, according to the Pawnee County Sheriff.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625086515798.png" alt="Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections photos Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Colt has previous convictions for aggravated sexual battery, theft, forgery, aggravated burglary, interference with parental custody and criminal damage, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections photos Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>He was last seen at 11:10a.m. Wednesday June 30 walking north bound from Kwik Shop on Broadway.Barton County Sheriff Bellendir explained how Colt made it&nbsp;that far.&nbsp; “He caught a ride into town and gave a story he had a broken-down vehicle,” Bellendir said. “He was dressed in dress clothes. He didn’t look like what you’d expect an inmate to be. He looked more like a social worker, and that’s probably how he managed to escape, which the state investigators for DOC (the Department of Corrections) are over there trying to figure all of that out&nbsp;right now.”&nbsp;Bellendir said&nbsp;Colt had altered his appearance by cutting his hair and shaving off a beard.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Colt is described as a white male, medium skin tone, 5-foot-7 200 pounds, blue eyes, and&nbsp; short brown hair. He also has a tattoo on his left arm of a heart with the letters BH. He was last seen wearing a gray long sleeve shirt, black pants ( possibly dress pants ) and a dark face mask. Subject possibly has an ID badge "C JONES", and may have a cell phone.&nbsp;Colt should be considered dangerous.&nbsp;If seen, or you know his whereabouts, please call 911.