Missouri lawmakers will be asked in the next legislative
session to enhance the penalty for killing a police dog.

State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville says he has been
moved by the story of K-9 Max, shot and killed June 30th during a
confrontation with a suspect in south St. Joseph. Luetkemeyer says the penalty
for killing a police dog is too light in Missouri.

“If you do something that hurts a police dog, it’s a Class C
misdemeanor and, then, if you take a police dog’s life, that’s a Class E
felony,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph Post. “So, for a frame of reference,
there are many property damage crimes where the high-end penalty is a Class E
felony. So, we’re basically treating these K-9 officers the same way that we
would just a piece of personal property.”

The felony charge for killing a law enforcement animal is the
lowest level of felony in Missouri, bringing a sentence of one to four years in
prison.

That prompted Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday to reach
for another charge in the shooting death of Max. Holliday has charged 24-year-old
Valdez McDonald with Armed Criminal Action rather than shooting a police dog,
because the Class E felony of killing a law enforcement animal carries a lesser
penalty. Holliday points out if convicted of the Class E felony, McDonald would
face a prison sentence of one to four years. If convicted of Armed Criminal
Action, McDonald faces a prison term of three to 15 years, which must be served
consecutive with any other sentence handed down in his case.

St.
Joseph Police, including K-9 Max, arrived at 5108 Barbara Street the evening of
June 30th. Police say McDonald barricaded himself inside the
residence. During negotiations, McDonald is alleged to have fled out the back
of the residence, where he shot K-9 Max during the pursuit. Max later died of
his wounds.

McDonald
initially was charged with assault, accused of beating his mother. He later was
charged with Armed Criminal Action.

Luetkemeyer is drafting legislation at the request of Officer
Winder who he visited with last week to offer condolences and honor Max. Luetkemeyer
wants to make killing a law enforcement animal at least a Class D felony, if
not a Class C.

“A Class D felony would allow an upper sentencing range of seven
years in prison and a Class C felony would increase that penalty up to 10 years
in prison,” according to Luetkemeyer.

Luetkemeyer says the role of a police dog should not be
overlooked.

“They’re put in very dangerous situations, oftentimes
situations where there would be extreme risk of physical injury or death to a
law enforcement officer if they weren’t sent in,” Luetkemeyer says. “These are
dogs that make a big difference. They save people’s lives. They save the lives
of law enforcement officers and I think we need to be doing what we can to make
sure that they are protected and that they are honored.”

Luetkemeyer says he has been touched by the response of the
St. Joseph community to the killing of K-9 Max. Luetkemeyer hopes his proposed
enhancement of the charge will attract support in the legislature. He hopes to
name the legislation after Max.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626890850233.jpeg" alt="St. Joseph Police Officer Lucas Winder says goodbye to K-9 Max&nbsp; during the memorial held for the police dog at Civic Center Park/Photo by Tommy Rezac" />
 <figcaption>St. Joseph Police Officer Lucas Winder says goodbye to K-9 Max&nbsp; during the memorial held for the police dog at Civic Center Park/Photo by Tommy Rezac</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMissouri lawmakers will be asked in the next legislative
session to enhance the penalty for killing a police dog.State Sen. Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville says he has been
moved by the story of K-9 Max, shot and killed June 30th during a
confrontation with a suspect in south St. Joseph. Luetkemeyer says the penalty
for killing a police dog is too light in Missouri.“If you do something that hurts a police dog, it’s a Class C
misdemeanor and, then, if you take a police dog’s life, that’s a Class E
felony,” Luetkemeyer tells St. Joseph Post. “So, for a frame of reference,
there are many property damage crimes where the high-end penalty is a Class E
felony. So, we’re basically treating these K-9 officers the same way that we
would just a piece of personal property.”The felony charge for killing a law enforcement animal is the
lowest level of felony in Missouri, bringing a sentence of one to four years in
prison.That prompted Buchanan County Prosecutor Ron Holliday to reach
for another charge in the shooting death of Max. Holliday has charged 24-year-old
Valdez McDonald with Armed Criminal Action rather than shooting a police dog,
because the Class E felony of killing a law enforcement animal carries a lesser
penalty. Holliday points out if convicted of the Class E felony, McDonald would
face a prison sentence of one to four years. If convicted of Armed Criminal
Action, McDonald faces a prison term of three to 15 years, which must be served
consecutive with any other sentence handed down in his case.St.
Joseph Police, including K-9 Max, arrived at 5108 Barbara Street the evening of
June 30th. Police say McDonald barricaded himself inside the
residence. During negotiations, McDonald is alleged to have fled out the back
of the residence, where he shot K-9 Max during the pursuit. Max later died of
his wounds.McDonald
initially was charged with assault, accused of beating his mother. He later was
charged with Armed Criminal Action.Luetkemeyer is drafting legislation at the request of Officer
Winder who he visited with last week to offer condolences and honor Max. Luetkemeyer
wants to make killing a law enforcement animal at least a Class D felony, if
not a Class C.“A Class D felony would allow an upper sentencing range of seven
years in prison and a Class C felony would increase that penalty up to 10 years
in prison,” according to Luetkemeyer.Luetkemeyer says the role of a police dog should not be
overlooked.“They’re put in very dangerous situations, oftentimes
situations where there would be extreme risk of physical injury or death to a
law enforcement officer if they weren’t sent in,” Luetkemeyer says. “These are
dogs that make a big difference. They save people’s lives. They save the lives
of law enforcement officers and I think we need to be doing what we can to make
sure that they are protected and that they are honored.”Luetkemeyer says he has been touched by the response of the
St. Joseph community to the killing of K-9 Max. Luetkemeyer hopes his proposed
enhancement of the charge will attract support in the legislature. He hopes to
name the legislation after Max.

Death of K-9 Max prompts move to increase penalty for killing a police dog

Due to the increased number of COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County, the St. Joseph Public Library system has moved to contactless services.&nbsp;

Library Director Mary Beth Revels says&nbsp;the library makes the decision to use contactless service based on a policy.&nbsp;

“The four branches of the St. Joseph Public Library are now offering contactless service as of today, July 21st,” Revels tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This policy has a process based on number of confirmed positive cases and are color coded depending on the number of cases with green be the best outcome and red the least desirable.&nbsp;

Revels says&nbsp;the city is currently in a red risk level, causing the contactless service.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If there are 10 to 24 cases per day that’s the orange risk level,&nbsp;and if there are more than 25 cases per day&nbsp;then&nbsp;that is the red risk level,” says Revels.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When the city is back to an orange risk level or lower for seven days, the library will reopen to public use.&nbsp;

The public is encouraged to call the library branch&nbsp;of their choice to place holds on library materials&nbsp;during this time.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Due to the increased number of COVID-19 cases in Buchanan County, the St. Joseph Public Library system has moved to contactless services.&nbsp;Library Director Mary Beth Revels says&nbsp;the library makes the decision to use contactless service based on a policy.&nbsp;“The four branches of the St. Joseph Public Library are now offering contactless service as of today, July 21st,” Revels tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;This policy has a process based on number of confirmed positive cases and are color coded depending on the number of cases with green be the best outcome and red the least desirable.&nbsp;Revels says&nbsp;the city is currently in a red risk level, causing the contactless service.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If there are 10 to 24 cases per day that’s the orange risk level,&nbsp;and if there are more than 25 cases per day&nbsp;then&nbsp;that is the red risk level,” says Revels.&nbsp;&nbsp;When the city is back to an orange risk level or lower for seven days, the library will reopen to public use.&nbsp;The public is encouraged to call the library branch&nbsp;of their choice to place holds on library materials&nbsp;during this time.&nbsp;

The St. Joseph Public Library returns to contactless services

Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville has been recognized for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic with an&nbsp;Excellence and Innovation Award from AASCU.&nbsp;&nbsp;

University Police Chief Clarence Green says there wasn’t a blueprint in how to tackle COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Much of the things that we did were in&nbsp;uncharted waters, and so really it reaffirms&nbsp;our work and the commitment of our faculty, staff, students, as well as our community in being all in together&nbsp;to ensure that we’re focused on student success, the viability of our organization and the safety of our employees,”&nbsp;Green&nbsp;tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Green says he believes Northwest won the award for specifically three reasons including but not limited to retaining student enrolment and even growing in enrollment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We were able to be on-ground throughout the fall and spring at a much more robust level then most of our peers,” says Green.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Green says there where 13 Green Teams,&nbsp;also thought of as innovation teams, deployed during the pandemic.&nbsp;

“There are teams made up of anywhere from three to ten individuals that meet about a specific topic&nbsp;for example we would say accommodations, we would have one on academics, we would have one on mitigation measures,” says Green.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The award recognizes Northwest’s ability to maintain on-campus operations through the pandemic, while also working with mitigation measures.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville has been recognized for its response to the COVID-19 pandemic with an&nbsp;Excellence and Innovation Award from AASCU.&nbsp;&nbsp;University Police Chief Clarence Green says there wasn’t a blueprint in how to tackle COVID-19.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Much of the things that we did were in&nbsp;uncharted waters, and so really it reaffirms&nbsp;our work and the commitment of our faculty, staff, students, as well as our community in being all in together&nbsp;to ensure that we’re focused on student success, the viability of our organization and the safety of our employees,”&nbsp;Green&nbsp;tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Green says he believes Northwest won the award for specifically three reasons including but not limited to retaining student enrolment and even growing in enrollment.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We were able to be on-ground throughout the fall and spring at a much more robust level then most of our peers,” says Green.&nbsp;&nbsp;Green says there where 13 Green Teams,&nbsp;also thought of as innovation teams, deployed during the pandemic.&nbsp;“There are teams made up of anywhere from three to ten individuals that meet about a specific topic&nbsp;for example we would say accommodations, we would have one on academics, we would have one on mitigation measures,” says Green.&nbsp;&nbsp;The award recognizes Northwest’s ability to maintain on-campus operations through the pandemic, while also working with mitigation measures.&nbsp;

Northwest Missouri State University is recognized for its pandemic efforts

ATCHISON —Law enforcement authorities investigating a vehicle theft in Atchison.

According to Police Chief Mike Wilson, an Atchison man reported the theft of a 1997 Ford F-250 pickup truck from the 1000 block Hickory sometime between 10:00p.m. on Monday and 6:20a.m. on Tuesday,&nbsp;

The truck is two tone white and champagne colors with a black in color toolbox in the bed.

ATCHISON —Law enforcement authorities investigating a vehicle theft in Atchison.According to Police Chief Mike Wilson, an Atchison man reported the theft of a 1997 Ford F-250 pickup truck from the 1000 block Hickory sometime between 10:00p.m. on Monday and 6:20a.m. on Tuesday,&nbsp;The truck is two tone white and champagne colors with a black in color toolbox in the bed.

Police: Pickup reported stolen in Atchison

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an assault and have made an arrest.

Just after 1a.m. Monday,&nbsp; police responded to a parking lot outside an apartment complex in the 300 block Santa Fe in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson

A 39-year-old man reported that he had been threatened by a man with a baseball bat as the victim was working on a vehicle in the parking lot. 

The suspect later identified as 44-year-old Jason L. Seager then left the scene and was not immediately located.

Just after 4p.m. and following a subsequent investigation, police located and arrested Seager at this residence. 

The victim was familiar with the suspect as both lived in the apartment complex but there had not been any previous confrontation prior to this incident, according to Wilson.

There were no injuries reported.&nbsp; In addition to a requested charge for aggravated assault, Seager is also in custody on two District Court warrants for failure to appear in court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626789254609.png" alt="Seager photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Seager photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an assault and have made an arrest.Just after 1a.m. Monday,&nbsp; police responded to a parking lot outside an apartment complex in the 300 block Santa Fe in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike WilsonA 39-year-old man reported that he had been threatened by a man with a baseball bat as the victim was working on a vehicle in the parking lot. The suspect later identified as 44-year-old Jason L. Seager then left the scene and was not immediately located.Just after 4p.m. and following a subsequent investigation, police located and arrested Seager at this residence. The victim was familiar with the suspect as both lived in the apartment complex but there had not been any previous confrontation prior to this incident, according to Wilson.There were no injuries reported.&nbsp; In addition to a requested charge for aggravated assault, Seager is also in custody on two District Court warrants for failure to appear in court.

Police: Kan. man threatened victim with baseball bat

ANDREW COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Toyota 4Runner driven by Donald M. Potter, 38, Bolckow, was southbound on U.S. 71 just south of Country Road 58.

The driver failed to yield and rear-ended a 2012 Toyota Prius driven by James W. Edwards, 83, Savannah.&nbsp;

Andrew County EMS transported Edwards to Mosaic Life Care. Potter, who was not wearing a seat belt, refused treatment at the scene, according to the MSHP.

ANDREW COUNTY —A Missouri man was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Tuesday in Andrew County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1998 Toyota 4Runner driven by Donald M. Potter, 38, Bolckow, was southbound on U.S. 71 just south of Country Road 58.The driver failed to yield and rear-ended a 2012 Toyota Prius driven by James W. Edwards, 83, Savannah.&nbsp;Andrew County EMS transported Edwards to Mosaic Life Care. Potter, who was not wearing a seat belt, refused treatment at the scene, according to the MSHP.

Savannah man hospitalized after rear-end crash

Sisters of Solace is a St. Joseph local home for women healing&nbsp;from trauma and&nbsp;addiction.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sisters of Solace Director Stacy Kerns says employment&nbsp;is a very important step towards dignity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We’re all created with gifts and talents to offer the world and so&nbsp;working goes a long way to restoring dignity&nbsp;and a lot of our ladies have never been treated with dignity ever in their lives and so they have that&nbsp;opportunity&nbsp;here, to make&nbsp;a&nbsp;contribution&nbsp;to the world and do something they can really be proud of,” Kerns tells reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Head Sister, Stephanie&nbsp;Robertson says she’s ecstatic to be at the house.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you come from something like I have, and not feeling important,” says Robertson. “Now I feel like I am somebody.&nbsp;This place makes you feel like you’re somebody.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Robertson says there’s more to the house then just shelter and candle making.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“The responsibility is just&nbsp;phenomenal. Teaching you&nbsp;new&nbsp;skills how to live&nbsp;every day&nbsp;and how to get up at&nbsp;eight o’clock and be back by five,” says Robertson. “Teaching you to work if you’ve never done it before.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

To learn more about Sisters of Solace or to purchase one of their candles and products, visit their website.&nbsp;You can also host or attend one of their parties to purchase products and hear more about their mission.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph Post&nbsp;Sisters of Solace is a St. Joseph local home for women healing&nbsp;from trauma and&nbsp;addiction.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sisters of Solace Director Stacy Kerns says employment&nbsp;is a very important step towards dignity.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re all created with gifts and talents to offer the world and so&nbsp;working goes a long way to restoring dignity&nbsp;and a lot of our ladies have never been treated with dignity ever in their lives and so they have that&nbsp;opportunity&nbsp;here, to make&nbsp;a&nbsp;contribution&nbsp;to the world and do something they can really be proud of,” Kerns tells reporters.&nbsp;&nbsp;Head Sister, Stephanie&nbsp;Robertson says she’s ecstatic to be at the house.&nbsp;&nbsp;“When you come from something like I have, and not feeling important,” says Robertson. “Now I feel like I am somebody.&nbsp;This place makes you feel like you’re somebody.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Robertson says there’s more to the house then just shelter and candle making.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The responsibility is just&nbsp;phenomenal. Teaching you&nbsp;new&nbsp;skills how to live&nbsp;every day&nbsp;and how to get up at&nbsp;eight o’clock and be back by five,” says Robertson. “Teaching you to work if you’ve never done it before.”&nbsp;&nbsp;To learn more about Sisters of Solace or to purchase one of their candles and products, visit their website.&nbsp;You can also host or attend one of their parties to purchase products and hear more about their mission.&nbsp;

Sister of Solace helps women get back on their feet

The
St. Joseph Health Department reports new coronavirus cases continue to rise in
Buchanan County with the county positivity rate rising nearly a full percent.

Also,
the department reports an additional coronavirus-related death; a woman in her
50s. That brings the Buchanan County death toll since the pandemic began to
189. Buchanan County has reported 11,858 COVID-19 cases since the beginning of
the pandemic.

Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 56 COVID-19 patients as of Monday morning; 53
in St. Joseph and three in Maryville.

St.
Joseph health officials report 166 new coronavirus cases since last issuing a
formal report on Thursday. Officials report 63 cases on Friday and 103 on
Monday with no reporting on Saturday or Sunday.

The
Buchanan County positivity rate has increased from 14.55% to 15.43%.

Buchanan
County has a 19.7% vaccination rate with 17,204 residents completing their coronavirus
vaccination.

Andrew
County health officials report 64 active COVID-19 cases with 55 new cases
arising in the last seven days. Andrew County has recorded 2,293 cases since
the pandemic began, resulting in 23 deaths.

The
Kansas Department of Health reports Doniphan County has a total of 1,095 cases
since the pandemic began.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe
St. Joseph Health Department reports new coronavirus cases continue to rise in
Buchanan County with the county positivity rate rising nearly a full percent.Also,
the department reports an additional coronavirus-related death; a woman in her
50s. That brings the Buchanan County death toll since the pandemic began to
189. Buchanan County has reported 11,858 COVID-19 cases since the beginning of
the pandemic.Mosaic
Life Care reports it is treating 56 COVID-19 patients as of Monday morning; 53
in St. Joseph and three in Maryville.St.
Joseph health officials report 166 new coronavirus cases since last issuing a
formal report on Thursday. Officials report 63 cases on Friday and 103 on
Monday with no reporting on Saturday or Sunday.The
Buchanan County positivity rate has increased from 14.55% to 15.43%.Buchanan
County has a 19.7% vaccination rate with 17,204 residents completing their coronavirus
vaccination.Andrew
County health officials report 64 active COVID-19 cases with 55 new cases
arising in the last seven days. Andrew County has recorded 2,293 cases since
the pandemic began, resulting in 23 deaths.The
Kansas Department of Health reports Doniphan County has a total of 1,095 cases
since the pandemic began.

COVID-19 cases continue rise in St. Joseph, Buchanan County

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Ford Explorer driven by Aeriell R. Munns, 24, Stanberry, was southbound on U.S. 169 just south of the MO 31 Junction.

The SUV traveled off the road, struck the ground and rolled.

Grand River EMS transported Munns to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 6a.m. Monday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Ford Explorer driven by Aeriell R. Munns, 24, Stanberry, was southbound on U.S. 169 just south of the MO 31 Junction.The SUV traveled off the road, struck the ground and rolled.Grand River EMS transported Munns to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman hospitalized after SUV rollover accident

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.

Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.

The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.

Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.

“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”

He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.

Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City Chiefs fans will have to get tickets in advance to visit the Super Bowl runner-up's training camp this year, and they won't be able to get autographs from players because of COVID-19.Dr. Paul Schroeppel, the AFC champions' head orthopedic surgeon, said Monday that fans won't be allowed to interact with players under the NFL's protocols for preventing coronavirus outbreaks. He discussed the rules during a daily webcast by the University of Kansas Health System.The Chiefs open their training camp in St. Joseph, Missouri, on July 28 with a special event for season ticket holders, with practices open to other fans July 29, with attendance limited.Missouri has seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-health-coronavirus-pandemic-michael-brown-fc8de32279eb2a37d17a92bbb1912a94">a surge in new COVID-19 cases</a>&nbsp;because of the faster-spreading delta variant.“The league has very strict protocols,” Schroeppel said. “I think they've done everything they can to control transmission in those situations. Of course, when you get a crowd together, it's going to be very difficult, particularly for those unvaccinated.”He said the Chiefs are “doing quite well” among NFL teams with players voluntarily getting vaccinated.Schroeppel said the team plans to allow full attendance at Arrowhead Stadium during the season, but that could change based on COVID-19 case numbers.

Chiefs to bar fan interaction with players at training camp

A deputy shortage within the Buchanan County Sheriff’s
Department has put the sheriff back on the road.

Sheriff Bill Puett has been pulling shifts, normally on the
weekends, so his deputies can take a day off once in a while.

“If people see me out it’s not necessarily something catastrophic
that’s happened, it’s just that we’re out trying to make sure we serve the
citizens of the county the best we can,” Puett tells host Barry Birr on the
KFEQ Hotline.

Buchanan County is authorized for 80 deputies, but is 15
short. The county also has 30 workers at the jail, but it nine short.

Puett says he has to work shifts if deputies are to get time
off.

“I just want to make sure that the community’s protected and
safe and that we’re serving to the best of our ability and that we have an
adequate staff to make sure we handle our responsibilities,” Puett says. “Eventually,
we get full, then maybe they’ll put me back in the office and not let me out
again, but right now we’re just trying to do what we can to help and make sure
this community is served.”

Puett says the quarter-cent law enforcement sales tax on the
August 3rd ballot will help fill the positions as well as add to his
staff.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA deputy shortage within the Buchanan County Sheriff’s
Department has put the sheriff back on the road.Sheriff Bill Puett has been pulling shifts, normally on the
weekends, so his deputies can take a day off once in a while.“If people see me out it’s not necessarily something catastrophic
that’s happened, it’s just that we’re out trying to make sure we serve the
citizens of the county the best we can,” Puett tells host Barry Birr on the
KFEQ Hotline.Buchanan County is authorized for 80 deputies, but is 15
short. The county also has 30 workers at the jail, but it nine short.Puett says he has to work shifts if deputies are to get time
off.“I just want to make sure that the community’s protected and
safe and that we’re serving to the best of our ability and that we have an
adequate staff to make sure we handle our responsibilities,” Puett says. “Eventually,
we get full, then maybe they’ll put me back in the office and not let me out
again, but right now we’re just trying to do what we can to help and make sure
this community is served.”Puett says the quarter-cent law enforcement sales tax on the
August 3rd ballot will help fill the positions as well as add to his
staff.

Worker shortage getting Buchanan County Sheriff back on road

A Bolckow man accused of kidnapping an elderly
couple and forcing them to go to a nearby convenience store against their will
before barricading himself in his home faces numerous felony charges.

The Andrew County Prosecutor’s Office has charged 43-year-old
Bradford Wayne Wermelskirchen with two counts of felony kidnapping,
two counts of felony assault, one count of armed criminal action, and one count
of unlawful use of a weapon. Bond has been denied. He remains in the Andrew County
jail.

Andrew County Sheriff Grant Gillett says Wermelskirchen kidnapped
his neighbors and forced them to take him to the store. At the store, the
couple informed the clerk they were being held against their will. The clerk
called authorities. The couple escaped. Wermelskirchen barricaded himself in
his home at 5th and Richardson Street before sheriff’s deputies
entered the residence and arrested him.

Gillett says the incident began around four o’clock Saturday
afternoon. The suspect is accused of forcing the couple to take him to the
nearby store for supplies. The suspect refused to give up to authorities. A
Missouri State Highway Patrol negotiator attempted to talk him out of the
house. When he refused, deputies went in.

Savannah police, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Nodaway County Sheriff's Office, came to the aid of the Andrew County Sheriff's Office in the case.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA Bolckow man accused of kidnapping an elderly
couple and forcing them to go to a nearby convenience store against their will
before barricading himself in his home faces numerous felony charges.The Andrew County Prosecutor’s Office has charged 43-year-old
Bradford Wayne Wermelskirchen with two counts of felony kidnapping,
two counts of felony assault, one count of armed criminal action, and one count
of unlawful use of a weapon. Bond has been denied. He remains in the Andrew County
jail.Andrew County Sheriff Grant Gillett says Wermelskirchen kidnapped
his neighbors and forced them to take him to the store. At the store, the
couple informed the clerk they were being held against their will. The clerk
called authorities. The couple escaped. Wermelskirchen barricaded himself in
his home at 5th and Richardson Street before sheriff’s deputies
entered the residence and arrested him.Gillett says the incident began around four o’clock Saturday
afternoon. The suspect is accused of forcing the couple to take him to the
nearby store for supplies. The suspect refused to give up to authorities. A
Missouri State Highway Patrol negotiator attempted to talk him out of the
house. When he refused, deputies went in.Savannah police, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Nodaway County Sheriff's Office, came to the aid of the Andrew County Sheriff's Office in the case.

Bolckow man accused of kidnapping elderly couple

Two young people suffered moderate injuries when the lawnmower
they were riding was struck by a car very early this (MON) morning at Stockyards
Expressway and Hickory Streets.

St. Joseph police report the car fled the scene.

Injured in the wreck were a 12-year-old boy and a 19-year-old
woman.

Police say the accident occurred shortly after four o’clock
this morning as the two rode the lawnmower down Stockyards Expressway.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostTwo young people suffered moderate injuries when the lawnmower
they were riding was struck by a car very early this (MON) morning at Stockyards
Expressway and Hickory Streets.St. Joseph police report the car fled the scene.Injured in the wreck were a 12-year-old boy and a 19-year-old
woman.Police say the accident occurred shortly after four o’clock
this morning as the two rode the lawnmower down Stockyards Expressway.

Two hurt in lawnmower-car crash in south St. Joseph

St. Joseph police responded late last night to a call about
shots being fired at the Oak Ridge apartment complex.

St. Joseph officers responded to the apartments located in the
12-Hundred block of Angelique Street shortly after 11 o’clock and recovered
shell casings.

It appears no one was hit by gunfire and there is little to no
property damage.

A group had gathered at the apartment complex. It appears
there was only one shooter, who witnesses reported ran into one of the
apartment buildings. Officers are executing a search warrant in an effort to
find the suspect.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police responded late last night to a call about
shots being fired at the Oak Ridge apartment complex.St. Joseph officers responded to the apartments located in the
12-Hundred block of Angelique Street shortly after 11 o’clock and recovered
shell casings.It appears no one was hit by gunfire and there is little to no
property damage.A group had gathered at the apartment complex. It appears
there was only one shooter, who witnesses reported ran into one of the
apartment buildings. Officers are executing a search warrant in an effort to
find the suspect.

St. Joseph police respond to shooting at Oak Ridge apartments

Mosaic Life Care reports it is treating 56 COVID-19 patients
in its system.

Mosaic says as of today, it is treating 53 of the patients at
the St. Joseph hospital with three being treated in Maryville. Those are the
same numbers as Mosaic released Sunday.

St. Joseph health officials reported 63 new coronavirus cases
in Buchanan County Friday, which followed a report of 78 on Thursday.

Andrew County reports 55 COVID-19 cases in the last seven days
with 64 active county cases.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostMosaic Life Care reports it is treating 56 COVID-19 patients
in its system.Mosaic says as of today, it is treating 53 of the patients at
the St. Joseph hospital with three being treated in Maryville. Those are the
same numbers as Mosaic released Sunday.St. Joseph health officials reported 63 new coronavirus cases
in Buchanan County Friday, which followed a report of 78 on Thursday.Andrew County reports 55 COVID-19 cases in the last seven days
with 64 active county cases.

Mosaic Life Care reports treating 56 COVID-19 patients

St. Joseph City Council members will be reviewing requests from the community to allocate the approximate $38.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The city will receive the money in two separate installments. The first installment has been received in the amount of over $19 million.&nbsp;

Mayor Bill McMurray says allocated funds must meet one of four criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There are those four categories, three which are COVID related and then the fourth one which is water, sewer, and broadband,” McMurray tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

McMurray says the funds are allocated to essential areas for the city, the remainder will go towards civic needs reviewed by a committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You have an application that you’d like to file, get it in&nbsp;before the 20th&nbsp;so they can take a look at it, and then they’ll send it on to the council and the council will make the final decision,” says McMurray.&nbsp;&nbsp;

McMurray says the applicant for funds must meet the criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Households, small businesses, non-profits, impacted industries such as tourism, travel, and hospitality, so it’s a pretty wide range of eligible&nbsp;entities&nbsp;and individuals there,” says McMurray.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A&nbsp;special committee was formed to accept requests for funding and allocate the funds. The committee has chosen three criteria for funding: Invest in People,&nbsp;Create&nbsp;a Better Place, and Grow Prosperity.&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;St. Joseph City Council members will be reviewing requests from the community to allocate the approximate $38.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;The city will receive the money in two separate installments. The first installment has been received in the amount of over $19 million.&nbsp;Mayor Bill McMurray says allocated funds must meet one of four criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“There are those four categories, three which are COVID related and then the fourth one which is water, sewer, and broadband,” McMurray tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;McMurray says the funds are allocated to essential areas for the city, the remainder will go towards civic needs reviewed by a committee.&nbsp;&nbsp;“You have an application that you’d like to file, get it in&nbsp;before the 20th&nbsp;so they can take a look at it, and then they’ll send it on to the council and the council will make the final decision,” says McMurray.&nbsp;&nbsp;McMurray says the applicant for funds must meet the criteria.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Households, small businesses, non-profits, impacted industries such as tourism, travel, and hospitality, so it’s a pretty wide range of eligible&nbsp;entities&nbsp;and individuals there,” says McMurray.&nbsp;&nbsp;A&nbsp;special committee was formed to accept requests for funding and allocate the funds. The committee has chosen three criteria for funding: Invest in People,&nbsp;Create&nbsp;a Better Place, and Grow Prosperity.&nbsp;

Approximately $38.7M being released to City of St. Joseph

HARRISON COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 12a.m. Monday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chrysler 300 driven by LeAnn M. Wright, 49, Ridgeway, was northbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Bethany.

The car struck a deer. NTA ambulance transported Wright to Harrison County Community Hospital. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt information.

HARRISON COUNTY —A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 12a.m. Monday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Chrysler 300 driven by LeAnn M. Wright, 49, Ridgeway, was northbound on Interstate 35 five miles north of Bethany.The car struck a deer. NTA ambulance transported Wright to Harrison County Community Hospital. The MSHP had incomplete seat belt information.

Missouri woman hospitalized after car strikes a deer

CLINTON COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Sunday in Clinton County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Flex driven by Kellie L. Berry, 20, Hamilton, was northbound on Interstate 35 four miles south of Cameron.

The Ford rear-ended a 2007 Toyota Tundra driven by Carisa K. Henderson, 43, Cameron.

Cameron EMS transported Berry to Liberty Hospital. Henderson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

CLINTON COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just after 9:30p.m. Sunday in Clinton County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Ford Flex driven by Kellie L. Berry, 20, Hamilton, was northbound on Interstate 35 four miles south of Cameron.The Ford rear-ended a 2007 Toyota Tundra driven by Carisa K. Henderson, 43, Cameron.Cameron EMS transported Berry to Liberty Hospital. Henderson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after rear-end crash

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Sunday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford Focus driven by Heather D. McLean,&nbsp; 37, Chillicothe, was westbound on U.S. 36 at Baker Road two miles east of Osborn.

The car traveled off the road and struck an embankment.&nbsp; DeKalb-Clinton ambulance transported McLean to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—A Missouri woman was injured in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Sunday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Ford Focus driven by Heather D. McLean,&nbsp; 37, Chillicothe, was westbound on U.S. 36 at Baker Road two miles east of Osborn.The car traveled off the road and struck an embankment.&nbsp; DeKalb-Clinton ambulance transported McLean to Mosaic Life Care. She was properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

Missouri woman injured after car strikes embankment

PLATTE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Saturday in Platte County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Mercedes driven by Alejandro J. Blachar, 58, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 just north of Platte Woods.

The driver lost control of the vehicle on the wet road and struck a 2001 Oldsmobile driven by Dion O. Thompson, 33, St. Louis.

KC Fire transported two teen passengers in the Oldsmobile to St. Lukes. Blachar and Thompson were not injured. All four were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

PLATTE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Saturday in Platte County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Mercedes driven by Alejandro J. Blachar, 58, St. Joseph, was northbound on Interstate 29 just north of Platte Woods.The driver lost control of the vehicle on the wet road and struck a 2001 Oldsmobile driven by Dion O. Thompson, 33, St. Louis.KC Fire transported two teen passengers in the Oldsmobile to St. Lukes. Blachar and Thompson were not injured. All four were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph man avoids injury after crash on wet highway

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Saturday in Grundy County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Silverado driven by Sean M. Graham, 20, Mercer, was northbound on U.S. 65 one half mile north of Trenton.

A mattress blew out of the bed of the pickup and into the path of a northbound 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Jacob I. Graham, 20, Mercer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The motorcycle struck the mattress, traveled off the road and the driver was ejected.

Grundy County ambulance transported Jacob Graham to Wright Memorial Hospital. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

GRUNDY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 4p.m. Saturday in Grundy County.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2015 Chevy Silverado driven by Sean M. Graham, 20, Mercer, was northbound on U.S. 65 one half mile north of Trenton.A mattress blew out of the bed of the pickup and into the path of a northbound 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Jacob I. Graham, 20, Mercer.&nbsp;&nbsp;The motorcycle struck the mattress, traveled off the road and the driver was ejected.Grundy County ambulance transported Jacob Graham to Wright Memorial Hospital. He was not wearing a helmet, according to the MSHP.

Motorcycle strikes mattress blown from pickup bed

DEKALB COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Friday in DeKalb County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Landrover driven by Roger K. Cromwell, 28, Shenandoah, IA., was eastbound on U.S. 36 two miles east of Osborn.

The vehicle traveled off the north side of the road, struck a crossover and overturned.

Clinton-DeKalb County ambulance transported Cromwell, a 7-year-old girl and a 4-year-old girl to Cameron Regional Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

DEKALB COUNTY—Three people were injured in an accident just after 5p.m. Friday in DeKalb County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2008 Landrover driven by Roger K. Cromwell, 28, Shenandoah, IA., was eastbound on U.S. 36 two miles east of Osborn.The vehicle traveled off the north side of the road, struck a crossover and overturned.Clinton-DeKalb County ambulance transported Cromwell, a 7-year-old girl and a 4-year-old girl to Cameron Regional Medical Center. All three were properly restrained at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

Man, 2 children hospitalized after vehicle overturns

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —A Missouri man died in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Montgomery County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Silverado driven by Bobby R. Aery, 50, Troy, was westbound at 91 Strube Road.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a cure. The pickup traveled off the road and struck a tree.

Aery was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Schlanker Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —A Missouri man died in an accident just after 9p.m. Friday in Montgomery County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Silverado driven by Bobby R. Aery, 50, Troy, was westbound at 91 Strube Road.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a cure. The pickup traveled off the road and struck a tree.Aery was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Schlanker Funeral Home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man dies after pickup strikes a tree

New coronavirus cases continue their roller coaster ride this
week with the St. Joseph Health Department reporting 78 new COVID-19 cases in
Buchanan County on Thursday.

That number follows a report of 39 new cases on Wednesday and
135 on Tuesday.

St. Joseph health officials also report two additional deaths;
a man in his 80s and a woman in her 60s.

Meanwhile, Mosaic Life Care reports no change in its COVID-19
patient count from Thursday. Mosaic reports that as of Friday morning, it has
51 COVID-19 patients in its system; 48 in St. Joseph and three in Maryville.

Buchanan County continues to have a low vaccination rate with
under 20% of the county population completing the COVID-19 vaccinations.

Andrew County reports seven new COVID-19 cases with 74 active
cases. Andrew County reports 61 new cases in the past week.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNew coronavirus cases continue their roller coaster ride this
week with the St. Joseph Health Department reporting 78 new COVID-19 cases in
Buchanan County on Thursday.That number follows a report of 39 new cases on Wednesday and
135 on Tuesday.St. Joseph health officials also report two additional deaths;
a man in his 80s and a woman in her 60s.Meanwhile, Mosaic Life Care reports no change in its COVID-19
patient count from Thursday. Mosaic reports that as of Friday morning, it has
51 COVID-19 patients in its system; 48 in St. Joseph and three in Maryville.Buchanan County continues to have a low vaccination rate with
under 20% of the county population completing the COVID-19 vaccinations.Andrew County reports seven new COVID-19 cases with 74 active
cases. Andrew County reports 61 new cases in the past week.

COVID cases locally down, then up

Northwest Missouri State University is returning to traditional in-person classes this fall for the first time since the COVID pandemic began.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Health and Well-being Assistant Vice President Chris Dawe says&nbsp;the university will be having prizes totaling $20,000 dollars to students that have received the vaccine.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You know obviously just making the smart choice to be vaccinated,&nbsp;and then turn in your card,&nbsp;and you are entered,” Dawe tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dawe says at the end of the day, the choice to get the vaccine is each individual’s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think the research is clear that they are effective. That they’re safe and they are our best defense&nbsp;so we’re going to&nbsp;just do what we can to promote that, and then people will make their choices,” says Dawe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Dawe&nbsp;says&nbsp;Northwest wants the traditional college experience for their students.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We want people to get vaccinated, we know that that’s going to help each individual and our entire community,” says Dawe.&nbsp;“The more people get vaccinated, the more we’ll be able to live the lives that we want to live.”&nbsp;

The university will be giving away financial prizes in the form of scholarships, free-parking passes, dining discounts, and gift cards to the bookstore&nbsp;to students who enter the drawing.&nbsp;

To enter the drawing, the student must have had the COVID vaccination and submit a copy of their card.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

By WHITNEE ICE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Northwest Missouri State University is returning to traditional in-person classes this fall for the first time since the COVID pandemic began.&nbsp;&nbsp;Health and Well-being Assistant Vice President Chris Dawe says&nbsp;the university will be having prizes totaling $20,000 dollars to students that have received the vaccine.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“You know obviously just making the smart choice to be vaccinated,&nbsp;and then turn in your card,&nbsp;and you are entered,” Dawe tells St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dawe says at the end of the day, the choice to get the vaccine is each individual’s decision.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I think the research is clear that they are effective. That they’re safe and they are our best defense&nbsp;so we’re going to&nbsp;just do what we can to promote that, and then people will make their choices,” says Dawe.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dawe&nbsp;says&nbsp;Northwest wants the traditional college experience for their students.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We want people to get vaccinated, we know that that’s going to help each individual and our entire community,” says Dawe.&nbsp;“The more people get vaccinated, the more we’ll be able to live the lives that we want to live.”&nbsp;The university will be giving away financial prizes in the form of scholarships, free-parking passes, dining discounts, and gift cards to the bookstore&nbsp;to students who enter the drawing.&nbsp;To enter the drawing, the student must have had the COVID vaccination and submit a copy of their card.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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