FINNEY COUNTY —"Looks like Santa got caught in the fast lane," according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol."

"Technical Trooper Bradley stopped this certainly jolly driver this holiday season traveling 130mph."

"While Santa flies safely across the sky, we’re on the ground ensuring everyone’s safety this holiday season. Slow down, obey speed limits, drive sober and enjoy the ride. Let’s make sure the holidays are merry and bright for all."&nbsp; The ticket cost 'Santa' $828.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734973034345.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —"Looks like Santa got caught in the fast lane," according to a social media report from the Kansas Highway Patrol."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734973014100.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Technical Trooper Bradley stopped this certainly jolly driver this holiday season traveling 130mph.""While Santa flies safely across the sky, we’re on the ground ensuring everyone’s safety this holiday season. Slow down, obey speed limits, drive sober and enjoy the ride. Let’s make sure the holidays are merry and bright for all."&nbsp; The ticket cost 'Santa' $828.

KHP: Santa got caught in the fast lane doing 130mph

President Biden and the First Lady made a holiday visit to patients and families at Children’s National Hospital on Friday.&nbsp; Click below to watch.

President Biden and the First Lady made a holiday visit to patients and families at Children’s National Hospital on Friday.&nbsp; Click below to watch.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/OOWwyIm7OM4?si=L-VP2nm1YfqJm-qw&amp;start=6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fchildrens.national%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0pfErqkoDsVruqiMGWac8Zv4rtCzg9utdkReGq5rgWQQX3baGpFQmYEKKwpdUf43l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="748" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The People&#39;s House is ready for St. Nick. <a href="https://t.co/UE8MmsRHfr">pic.twitter.com/UE8MmsRHfr</a>&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1871556433457693040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥 Bidens make holiday visit to Children's National Hospital

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/aaron-sanderford/">AARON SANDERFORD</a> <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/fortenberry-seeks-two-month-delay-of-re-trial-to-wait-for-trump-justice-department/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

OMAHA — Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen will need at least one more night in the hospital before heading home for recovery after being bucked off a horse.

He might need longer depending on whether he elects to have surgery to repair seven broken ribs on his left side from the ride on family land Sunday afternoon near Columbus.

If not, he could be released on Christmas Eve. Pillen’s Nebraska Medical Center doctors detailed his injuries to reporters Monday at the adjacent University of Nebraska Medical Center.

In addition to broken ribs and a partially collapsed lung, Pillen suffered a “minor fracture” to a vertebra in his lower back and a minor kidney injury, Nebraska Medicine trauma surgeons Dr. Charity Evans and Dr. Hillman Terzian said.

His spleen injury required an hour-long surgery when he arrived from Columbus Community Hospital on Sunday to repair some bleeding from a lacerated spleen, a procedure they said went well.

During that surgery, while the governor was incapacitated, Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly served as governor, the Governor’s Office announced in a press release later Monday.

Doctors said they were pleased the governor suffered no injuries to his head, neck or spine, which are common with horseback riding-related falls. He had been&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-to-spend-pre-christmas-in-hospital-after-fall-from-horse/">riding at the time</a>&nbsp;with his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter.

Pillen, 68, is eager to get home, the doctors said. He tried to bargain with his doctors to get home in time for Monday Night Football but was urged against rushing for recovery time.

“He’s already been walking laps, which is very impressive,” Terzian said. “He’s a tough guy, and that shows with the way he’s recovering so far.”

Evans said Pillen is keeping doctors and nurses on their toes. She said he has already been trying to recruit resident doctors who are checking in on him to stay in Nebraska.

The Governor’s Office said Pillen was out of surgery Sunday in time to watch the second half of Nebraska basketball’s broadcasted win against Murray State in Hawaii.

He remained in the intensive care unit as a precaution Monday morning but was moved into a more typical hospital setting Monday afternoon, the Governor’s Office announced.

The latest news release said Pillen plans to return to work “after Christmas and wishes a blessed and safe holiday to all Nebraskans.” He will do some work from the hospital. Full recovery could take up to three months, depending on the nature of the rib fractures.

The new horse Pillen rode, Jack, was not injured and is “fine,” the Governor’s Office said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1735053644935.png" alt="Nebraska Medicine trauma surgeons Dr. Hillman Terzian and Dr. Charity Evans speak about Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s injuries and recovery ahead. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Nebraska Medicine trauma surgeons Dr. Hillman Terzian and Dr. Charity Evans speak about Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s injuries and recovery ahead. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/author/aaron-sanderford/">AARON SANDERFORD</a> <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/fortenberry-seeks-two-month-delay-of-re-trial-to-wait-for-trump-justice-department/">Nebraska Examiner</a>OMAHA — Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen will need at least one more night in the hospital before heading home for recovery after being bucked off a horse.He might need longer depending on whether he elects to have surgery to repair seven broken ribs on his left side from the ride on family land Sunday afternoon near Columbus.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724255733171.jpeg" alt=" Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen&nbsp; (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption> Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen&nbsp; (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>If not, he could be released on Christmas Eve. Pillen’s Nebraska Medical Center doctors detailed his injuries to reporters Monday at the adjacent University of Nebraska Medical Center.In addition to broken ribs and a partially collapsed lung, Pillen suffered a “minor fracture” to a vertebra in his lower back and a minor kidney injury, Nebraska Medicine trauma surgeons Dr. Charity Evans and Dr. Hillman Terzian said.<h2>Surgery required succession</h2>His spleen injury required an hour-long surgery when he arrived from Columbus Community Hospital on Sunday to repair some bleeding from a lacerated spleen, a procedure they said went well.During that surgery, while the governor was incapacitated, Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly served as governor, the Governor’s Office announced in a press release later Monday.Doctors said they were pleased the governor suffered no injuries to his head, neck or spine, which are common with horseback riding-related falls. He had been&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/pillen-to-spend-pre-christmas-in-hospital-after-fall-from-horse/">riding at the time</a>&nbsp;with his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter.Pillen, 68, is eager to get home, the doctors said. He tried to bargain with his doctors to get home in time for Monday Night Football but was urged against rushing for recovery time.“He’s already been walking laps, which is very impressive,” Terzian said. “He’s a tough guy, and that shows with the way he’s recovering so far.”<h2>Doctors on their toes</h2>Evans said Pillen is keeping doctors and nurses on their toes. She said he has already been trying to recruit resident doctors who are checking in on him to stay in Nebraska.The Governor’s Office said Pillen was out of surgery Sunday in time to watch the second half of Nebraska basketball’s broadcasted win against Murray State in Hawaii.He remained in the intensive care unit as a precaution Monday morning but was moved into a more typical hospital setting Monday afternoon, the Governor’s Office announced.The latest news release said Pillen plans to return to work “after Christmas and wishes a blessed and safe holiday to all Nebraskans.” He will do some work from the hospital. Full recovery could take up to three months, depending on the nature of the rib fractures.The new horse Pillen rode, Jack, was not injured and is “fine,” the Governor’s Office said.

Neb. Governor broke seven ribs, one vertebra when bucked from horse

KANSAS CITY —Detectives investigating the death of baby were notified Monday by medical examiners that the death of Giovanni Carr has been ruled a homicide based on their medical findings, according to KCPC Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Just after 11:30p.m. June 15, police were dispatched to an EMS call for service at a residence in the 5300 block of Olive Street in Kansas City.

 Responding officers observed a six month old infant unresponsive in the residence.&nbsp; EMS transported the child to an area hospital for treatment.&nbsp; 

It was determined at the hospital the child had suffered significant physical bodily trauma. On June 20, detectives were notified the child had died from his injuries.

Detectives have continued to investigate this case since the date the incident occurred and have identified all people believed to be involved. They are not searching for any additional involved individuals at this time.

 Detectives are hopeful to have the case file submitted to the prosecutors office in the coming days for consideration of applicable charges, according to Gonzalez.

KANSAS CITY —Detectives investigating the death of baby were notified Monday by medical examiners that the death of Giovanni Carr has been ruled a homicide based on their medical findings, according to KCPC Officer Alayna Gonzalez.Just after 11:30p.m. June 15, police were dispatched to an EMS call for service at a residence in the 5300 block of Olive Street in Kansas City. Responding officers observed a six month old infant unresponsive in the residence.&nbsp; EMS transported the child to an area hospital for treatment.&nbsp; It was determined at the hospital the child had suffered significant physical bodily trauma. On June 20, detectives were notified the child had died from his injuries.Detectives have continued to investigate this case since the date the incident occurred and have identified all people believed to be involved. They are not searching for any additional involved individuals at this time. Detectives are hopeful to have the case file submitted to the prosecutors office in the coming days for consideration of applicable charges, according to Gonzalez.

Medical examiner: Death of baby in Kansas City ruled a homicide

CRAWFORD COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in Crawford County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by 1 Nathan Brown, 17, Pittsburg was northbound on S Rouse Street just north of Adams Street in Pittsburg.

The SUV traveled off the the roadway to the left and struck a tree. Brown was pronounced dead at the scene and ws transported to Frontier Forensics.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

CRAWFORD COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Monday in Crawford County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by 1 Nathan Brown, 17, Pittsburg was northbound on S Rouse Street just north of Adams Street in Pittsburg.The SUV traveled off the the roadway to the left and struck a tree. Brown was pronounced dead at the scene and ws transported to Frontier Forensics.&nbsp; He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas teen dies after SUV strikes a tree

On Monday, U.S.&nbsp; forces conducted a precision airstrike in the Dayr az Zawr Province, Syria, killing two ISIS operatives and wounding one, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.


The terrorists were moving a truckload of weapons which were destroyed during the strike. This strike occurred in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.



This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731379013172.png" alt="File photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>File photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, U.S.&nbsp; forces conducted a precision airstrike in the Dayr az Zawr Province, Syria, killing two ISIS operatives and wounding one, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.
The terrorists were moving a truckload of weapons which were destroyed during the strike. This strike occurred in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.

This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond.The U.S. released no additional details.

U.S. airstrike kills ISIS terrorists in Syria 

Des Moines —The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is reporting the first human case of avian influenza A(H5) in the state, according to a media release.

 The individual was exposed to infected poultry while working with a commercial flock in northwest Iowa. The individual reported mild symptoms, has received appropriate treatment and is recovering. The case was identified through testing at the State Hygienic Laboratory and confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As of December 20, 2024, the CDC has reported 64 confirmed human cases of H5 HPAI across nine states. The majority of the exposures are linked to infected poultry or dairy cows. There is no evidence that human-to-human transmission of influenza A(H5) is occurring in the U.S.

Although human infections are rare, the virus is spread through prolonged exposure around infected flocks and herds, through the eyes, nose or mouth. Any individuals with direct contact who develop flu-like symptoms or an eye infection should contact their doctor. To reduce the risk of infection or spread, people in direct contact with exposed animals should wear proper PPE and avoid direct contact with sick or dead animals, including birds.&nbsp;

“Iowa has monitored the spread of avian influenza closely since it was first detected in poultry in the state in 2022, and our state is prepared with the established knowledge, strong partnerships, and effective tools to mitigate its impact on our community,” said Iowa HHS State Medical Director Dr. Robert Kruse.

There is no concern about the safety of eggs and poultry products or pasteurized milk and dairy products. As a reminder, consumers should always properly handle and cook eggs and poultry products, including cooking to an internal temperature of 165˚F. Pasteurization has continually proven to successfully inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733747978622.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Des Moines —The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is reporting the first human case of avian influenza A(H5) in the state, according to a media release. The individual was exposed to infected poultry while working with a commercial flock in northwest Iowa. The individual reported mild symptoms, has received appropriate treatment and is recovering. The case was identified through testing at the State Hygienic Laboratory and confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).As of December 20, 2024, the CDC has reported 64 confirmed human cases of H5 HPAI across nine states. The majority of the exposures are linked to infected poultry or dairy cows. There is no evidence that human-to-human transmission of influenza A(H5) is occurring in the U.S.Although human infections are rare, the virus is spread through prolonged exposure around infected flocks and herds, through the eyes, nose or mouth. Any individuals with direct contact who develop flu-like symptoms or an eye infection should contact their doctor. To reduce the risk of infection or spread, people in direct contact with exposed animals should wear proper PPE and avoid direct contact with sick or dead animals, including birds.&nbsp;“Iowa has monitored the spread of avian influenza closely since it was first detected in poultry in the state in 2022, and our state is prepared with the established knowledge, strong partnerships, and effective tools to mitigate its impact on our community,” said Iowa HHS State Medical Director Dr. Robert Kruse.There is no concern about the safety of eggs and poultry products or pasteurized milk and dairy products. As a reminder, consumers should always properly handle and cook eggs and poultry products, including cooking to an internal temperature of 165˚F. Pasteurization has continually proven to successfully inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk.

Iowa confirms first human case of bird flu

SALINE COUNTY—Police are captured a wanted who ran and hid in a horse barn in an attempt to avoid going to jail.

Just after noon Sunday, police observed a Cadillac Deville in the 1900 Block of 9th Street in Salina driven by 19-year-old Tevin Schimmel, according to a media release.

The car made abrupt movements and turns before pulling into the Pilot parking lot.&nbsp; Schimmel exited the vehicle and was identified by the officer, who was aware of his active warrants for probation violation and interference with law enforcement.

Schimmel ran into the business, with the officer following employees inside. The officer observed Schimmel running through the store and out the back.

Additional officers arrived and began searching the area, with Schimmel eventually running into a wooded area. Police established a perimeter and officers were assisted by the Kansas Highway Patrol.

A nearby resident in the 1700 block of North fifth contacted officers, believing someone had entered the resident's detached horse barn.The door of the barn was slightly ajar, and officers and troopers heard movement inside.

Announcements were made for Schimmel to come out, and officers entered the barn where they found the suspect was hiding under insulation in the barn and he was taken into custody.

He is in jail on requested charges of felony interference&nbsp; and burglary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734957782931.png" alt=" Schimmel, Tevin Lawrence" />
 <figcaption> Schimmel, Tevin Lawrence</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Police are captured a wanted who ran and hid in a horse barn in an attempt to avoid going to jail.Just after noon Sunday, police observed a Cadillac Deville in the 1900 Block of 9th Street in Salina driven by 19-year-old Tevin Schimmel, according to a media release.The car made abrupt movements and turns before pulling into the Pilot parking lot.&nbsp; Schimmel exited the vehicle and was identified by the officer, who was aware of his active warrants for probation violation and interference with law enforcement.Schimmel ran into the business, with the officer following employees inside. The officer observed Schimmel running through the store and out the back.Additional officers arrived and began searching the area, with Schimmel eventually running into a wooded area. Police established a perimeter and officers were assisted by the Kansas Highway Patrol.A nearby resident in the 1700 block of North fifth contacted officers, believing someone had entered the resident's detached horse barn.The door of the barn was slightly ajar, and officers and troopers heard movement inside.Announcements were made for Schimmel to come out, and officers entered the barn where they found the suspect was hiding under insulation in the barn and he was taken into custody.He is in jail on requested charges of felony interference&nbsp; and burglary.

Wanted Kansas suspect found hiding in a horse barn

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>

President Joe Biden commuted the sentences on Monday of 37 death row inmates, citing his conscience as a force behind the decision. He also left the death sentences unchanged for three men charged with hate-motivated mass shootings and terrorism.

Biden, who imposed a moratorium on federal executions during his administration, commuted the death sentences to life sentences without the possibility of parole, saying in a statement that he’s dedicated his career “to reducing violent crime and ensuring a fair and effective justice system.”

“Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss,” Biden said.

“But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Vice President, and now President, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted.”

The three men Biden left on death row Monday include Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, sentenced in 2015 of bombing the Boston Marathon in 2013; Dylann Roof, sentenced in 2017 of fatally shooting nine members of&nbsp;Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2015 in Charleston, South Carolina; and Robert Bowers, sentenced in 2023 for the deadly shooting in 2018 that killed 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh.

The president’s commutations Monday come after he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/biden-commutes-sentences-nearly-1500-people-pardons-39-historic-clemency-action" target="_blank">commuted the sentences</a>&nbsp;on Dec. 12 of 1,500&nbsp;people who were placed in home confinement during the coronavirus pandemic. He also granted pardons for 39 individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes.

Biden received&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/criminal-justice/shapiro-conahan-says-biden-commuting-kids-for-cash-judges-sentence-absolutely-wrong/" target="_blank">criticism</a>&nbsp;from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and others for including among the mass commutations a Pennsylvania judge convicted in 2011 of sending children to prison in exchange for millions of dollars in kickbacks from a private jail — a crime that became known in the commonwealth as the “<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/criminal-justice/shapiro-conahan-says-biden-commuting-kids-for-cash-judges-sentence-absolutely-wrong/" target="_blank">Cash for Kids</a>” scheme.

Advocates for abolishing the death penalty and some U.S. House Democrats had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-dem-quartet-calls-biden-spare-lives-federal-death-row-inmates" target="_blank">pressured Biden</a>&nbsp;to commute death penalty sentences ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Trump expedited some executions during his first term.

According to the White House, the names of the death row inmates whose sentences were commuted Monday are:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734957421965.png" alt="According to the U.S. Attorney, in 2014, a federal jury in Louisiana decided that Thomas Sanders, 57, should be put to death for the brutal kidnapping and murder of 12-year-old Lexis Roberts in the fall of 2010. Sanders drove several days across the country before he murdered the girl in a wooded area in Catahoula Parish, Louisiana. Evidence at trial established that Sanders shot Lexis Roberts four times, cut her throat, and left her body in the woods where a hunter found her body. President Biden commuted his sentence-photo Yavapai County, AZ Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>According to the U.S. Attorney, in 2014, a federal jury in Louisiana decided that Thomas Sanders, 57, should be put to death for the brutal kidnapping and murder of 12-year-old Lexis Roberts in the fall of 2010. Sanders drove several days across the country before he murdered the girl in a wooded area in Catahoula Parish, Louisiana. Evidence at trial established that Sanders shot Lexis Roberts four times, cut her throat, and left her body in the woods where a hunter found her body. President Biden commuted his sentence-photo Yavapai County, AZ Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ashley-murray/">ASHLEY MURRAY</a>President Joe Biden commuted the sentences on Monday of 37 death row inmates, citing his conscience as a force behind the decision. He also left the death sentences unchanged for three men charged with hate-motivated mass shootings and terrorism.Biden, who imposed a moratorium on federal executions during his administration, commuted the death sentences to life sentences without the possibility of parole, saying in a statement that he’s dedicated his career “to reducing violent crime and ensuring a fair and effective justice system.”“Make no mistake: I condemn these murderers, grieve for the victims of their despicable acts, and ache for all the families who have suffered unimaginable and irreparable loss,” Biden said.“But guided by my conscience and my experience as a public defender, chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Vice President, and now President, I am more convinced than ever that we must stop the use of the death penalty at the federal level. In good conscience, I cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted.”The three men Biden left on death row Monday include Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, sentenced in 2015 of bombing the Boston Marathon in 2013; Dylann Roof, sentenced in 2017 of fatally shooting nine members of&nbsp;Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in 2015 in Charleston, South Carolina; and Robert Bowers, sentenced in 2023 for the deadly shooting in 2018 that killed 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh.The president’s commutations Monday come after he&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/biden-commutes-sentences-nearly-1500-people-pardons-39-historic-clemency-action" target="_blank">commuted the sentences</a>&nbsp;on Dec. 12 of 1,500&nbsp;people who were placed in home confinement during the coronavirus pandemic. He also granted pardons for 39 individuals convicted of nonviolent crimes.Biden received&nbsp;<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/criminal-justice/shapiro-conahan-says-biden-commuting-kids-for-cash-judges-sentence-absolutely-wrong/" target="_blank">criticism</a>&nbsp;from Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and others for including among the mass commutations a Pennsylvania judge convicted in 2011 of sending children to prison in exchange for millions of dollars in kickbacks from a private jail — a crime that became known in the commonwealth as the “<a href="https://penncapital-star.com/criminal-justice/shapiro-conahan-says-biden-commuting-kids-for-cash-judges-sentence-absolutely-wrong/" target="_blank">Cash for Kids</a>” scheme.Advocates for abolishing the death penalty and some U.S. House Democrats had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-house-dem-quartet-calls-biden-spare-lives-federal-death-row-inmates" target="_blank">pressured Biden</a>&nbsp;to commute death penalty sentences ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Trump expedited some executions during his first term.According to the White House, the names of the death row inmates whose sentences were commuted Monday are:<ul>
 <li>Shannon Wayne Agofsky</li><li>Billie Jerome Allen</li><li>Aquilia Marcivicci Barnette</li><li>Brandon Leon Basham</li><li>Anthony George Battle</li><li>Meier Jason Brown</li><li>Carlos David Caro</li><li>Wesley Paul Coonce, Jr.</li><li>Brandon Michael Council</li><li>Christopher Emory Cramer</li><li>Len Davis</li><li>Joseph Ebron</li><li>Ricky Allen Fackrell</li><li>Edward Leon Fields, Jr.</li><li>Chadrick Evan Fulks</li><li>Marvin Charles Gabrion, II</li><li>Edgar Baltazar Garcia</li><li>Thomas Morocco Hager</li><li>Charles Michael Hall</li><li>Norris G. Holder</li><li>Richard Allen Jackson</li><li>Jurijus Kadamovas</li><li>Daryl Lawrence</li><li>Iouri Mikhel</li><li>Ronald Mikos</li><li>James H. Roane, Jr.</li><li>Julius Omar Robinson</li><li>David Anthony Runyon</li><li>Ricardo Sanchez, Jr.</li><li>Thomas Steven Sanders</li><li>Kaboni Savage</li><li>Mark Isaac Snarr</li><li>Rejon Taylor</li><li>Richard Tipton</li><li>Jorge Avila Torrez</li><li>Daniel Troya</li><li>Alejandro Enrique Ramirez Umaña</li>
 </ul>

Biden commutes nearly all federal death sentences

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a theft and asking the public if they recognize the thief who was caught stealing money out of a local business’ tip jar repeatedly over the weekend, according to a social media report from Claycomo police.

"We’d sure like to talk to him about his actions, his future, and about those “shoes” he’s wearing."

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a theft and asking the public if they recognize the thief who was caught stealing money out of a local business’ tip jar repeatedly over the weekend, according to a social media report from Claycomo police.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FClaycomoPD%2Fvideos%2F580751794560337%2F&show_text=false&width=308&t=1" width="308" height="476" 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>"We’d sure like to talk to him about his actions, his future, and about those “shoes” he’s wearing."

🎥Police: Man accused of stealing from tip jar at KC area business

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a crash and chase in Douglas County.

On Sunday, a man was observed walking in downtown Lawrence carrying a rifle, according to a social media report from Lawrence Police.

 He ran to a car, backed into a patrol vehicle, jumped the curb, crashed into a city lamp post and then drove down the sidewalk to get away.

Just after 2a.m. Sunday, an alert Police Sergeant patrolling downtown Lawrence saw the man walking southbound in the 800 block of Massachusetts carrying what appeared to be a long-barreled rifle. 

The man was heading toward a group standing near 9th and Massachusetts. The Sergeant stopped, yelled “police,” and ordered the man to stop. The man fled on foot to the nearby car and took off, dropping the weapon along the way.  Another officer spotted the car near 6th and Michigan.

 The man fled from officers again down 6th Street and onto Kansas 10 then to Interstate 70, where he crashed trying to navigate an on-ramp. The man got out of the crashed vehicle and again began leaving the scene but officers quickly arrested him without injury and he was booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734920994664.png" alt="Photos Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a crash and chase in Douglas County.On Sunday, a man was observed walking in downtown Lawrence carrying a rifle, according to a social media report from Lawrence Police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734920974599.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> He ran to a car, backed into a patrol vehicle, jumped the curb, crashed into a city lamp post and then drove down the sidewalk to get away.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734921036098.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 2a.m. Sunday, an alert Police Sergeant patrolling downtown Lawrence saw the man walking southbound in the 800 block of Massachusetts carrying what appeared to be a long-barreled rifle. The man was heading toward a group standing near 9th and Massachusetts. The Sergeant stopped, yelled “police,” and ordered the man to stop. The man fled on foot to the nearby car and took off, dropping the weapon along the way. Another officer spotted the car near 6th and Michigan. The man fled from officers again down 6th Street and onto Kansas 10 then to Interstate 70, where he crashed trying to navigate an on-ramp. The man got out of the crashed vehicle and again began leaving the scene but officers quickly arrested him without injury and he was booked into the Douglas County Correctional Facility.

Suspect dropped rifle, crashed car into Kan. police vehicle

KANSAS CITY—A pedestrian identified as 46-year-old Phillip D. Castleberry injured in hit-and-run on December 10 in Kansas City died over the weekend, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Just after 6:30p.m. Dec. 10, an unknown vehicle driving Northbound on Troost Avenue on the outside lane struck Castleberry who was crossing Troost Avenue at 82nd terrace.

 The vehicle left the scene in an unknown direction. EMS transported Castleberry to a local hospital with life threatening injuries, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.

Police are still asking the public for help with information to help them locate the vehicle involved.

KANSAS CITY—A pedestrian identified as 46-year-old Phillip D. Castleberry injured in hit-and-run on December 10 in Kansas City died over the weekend, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.Just after 6:30p.m. Dec. 10, an unknown vehicle driving Northbound on Troost Avenue on the outside lane struck Castleberry who was crossing Troost Avenue at 82nd terrace. The vehicle left the scene in an unknown direction. EMS transported Castleberry to a local hospital with life threatening injuries, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino.Police are still asking the public for help with information to help them locate the vehicle involved.

KCPD: Pedestrian dies 9-days after injured in hit-and-run

SANA – U.S. forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana’a, Yemen, on Saturday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

Forces conducted the deliberate strikes to disrupt and degrade Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the Southern Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.

During the operation, CENTCOM forces also shot down multiple Houthi one way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles (OWA UAV) and an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) over the Red Sea.&nbsp;

The operation involved U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets, including F/A-18s.

The strike reflects CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment to protect U.S. and coalition personnel, regional partners, and international shipping.

Authorities have not reported if this attack occurred before, after or during the the friendly fire incident involving two U.S. Navy pilots over the Red Sea.

SANA – U.S. forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana’a, Yemen, on Saturday, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">CENTCOM Conducts Airstrikes Against Iran-Backed Houthi Missile Storage and Command/Control Facilities in Yemen TAMPA, Fla. - U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted precision airstrikes against a missile storage facility and a command-and-control facility operated by… <a href="https://t.co/YRWWQJIweP">pic.twitter.com/YRWWQJIweP</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1870576182934323203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Forces conducted the deliberate strikes to disrupt and degrade Houthi operations, such as attacks against U.S. Navy warships and merchant vessels in the Southern Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb, and Gulf of Aden.During the operation, CENTCOM forces also shot down multiple Houthi one way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles (OWA UAV) and an anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) over the Red Sea.&nbsp;The operation involved U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy assets, including F/A-18s.The strike reflects CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment to protect U.S. and coalition personnel, regional partners, and international shipping.Authorities have not reported if this attack occurred before, after or during the the friendly fire incident involving two U.S. Navy pilots over the Red Sea.

U.S. airstrikes hit terrorist missile storage and command, control facilities

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A retired priest in Jefferson City, Mo., who admitted to writing himself a $200,000 check from the bank account of the Wardsville, Mo., church he pastored, was sentenced in federal court last week for sending his sister a check for $100,000 stolen from the church’s account.

The Rev. Ignazio C. Medina, also known as “Ignatius,” 73, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to three months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Medina to pay a fine of $7,500.

On July 9, 2024, Medina pleaded guilty to transporting stolen property across state lines.

Medina, a Catholic priest, was pastor at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Wardsville from 2013 to 2021. Some financial irregularities arose at St. Stanislaus in 2018, and in the course of investigating the diocese discovered the parish had a bank account that was not previously reported on the budget or annual report. Medina was asked to include this bank account in the parish’s annual report, and in 2020 he reported an account balance of about $358,000.

After Medina was transferred to a different parish in 2021, it was discovered that he had emptied that bank account. While some expenditures from the account appeared to be church-related, on June 10, 2021, Medina had written a $100,000 check to his sibling in Tucson, Arizona. The next day, he had also written a $200,000 check payable to himself.

Medina, when confronted, claimed the bank account was funded by donations that were not intended for the parish itself, but rather were intended for his own discretionary use. Donors who had contributed checks deposited into the bank account contradicted Medina’s statement. Several individuals told investigators the checks they wrote to St. Stanislaus were intended for parish purposes, and that they never had any conversations with Medina authorizing a different use of the funds. One donor told investigators he intended his donation to be used in the school in memory of a deceased friend.

Medina also claimed he was refunding donations and that his sibling in Tucson was one of the donors. In fact, his sibling was not a source of donations to the account, and told investigators that Medina had said that the money was intended to care for their ailing mother.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734811256772.png" alt="&nbsp;Rev. Ignazio C. Medina-photo Diocese of Jefferson City&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Rev. Ignazio C. Medina-photo Diocese of Jefferson City&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A retired priest in Jefferson City, Mo., who admitted to writing himself a $200,000 check from the bank account of the Wardsville, Mo., church he pastored, was sentenced in federal court last week for sending his sister a check for $100,000 stolen from the church’s account.The Rev. Ignazio C. Medina, also known as “Ignatius,” 73, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to three months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Medina to pay a fine of $7,500.On July 9, 2024, Medina pleaded guilty to transporting stolen property across state lines.Medina, a Catholic priest, was pastor at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Wardsville from 2013 to 2021. Some financial irregularities arose at St. Stanislaus in 2018, and in the course of investigating the diocese discovered the parish had a bank account that was not previously reported on the budget or annual report. Medina was asked to include this bank account in the parish’s annual report, and in 2020 he reported an account balance of about $358,000.After Medina was transferred to a different parish in 2021, it was discovered that he had emptied that bank account. While some expenditures from the account appeared to be church-related, on June 10, 2021, Medina had written a $100,000 check to his sibling in Tucson, Arizona. The next day, he had also written a $200,000 check payable to himself.Medina, when confronted, claimed the bank account was funded by donations that were not intended for the parish itself, but rather were intended for his own discretionary use. Donors who had contributed checks deposited into the bank account contradicted Medina’s statement. Several individuals told investigators the checks they wrote to St. Stanislaus were intended for parish purposes, and that they never had any conversations with Medina authorizing a different use of the funds. One donor told investigators he intended his donation to be used in the school in memory of a deceased friend.Medina also claimed he was refunding donations and that his sibling in Tucson was one of the donors. In fact, his sibling was not a source of donations to the account, and told investigators that Medina had said that the money was intended to care for their ailing mother.

Priest sent his sister $100,000 in stolen church funds

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

Civil rights activists in Kansas are staffing up and engaging with local officials to prepare for a second Donald Trump presidency, the ACLU of Kansas said Friday.&nbsp;

Executive director Micah Kubic told reporters the organization has a three-part strategy for Trump’s second term, including attempting to expand civil rights protections at the local level, preparing for ultra-conservative bills in the Kansas Legislature and filing strategic lawsuits to stop “extremist” policies.

Working proactively at the local level to expand voting rights and other civil liberties, Kubic said, will be more effective than simply reacting to Trump policies the ACLU opposes.&nbsp;

“It really does show folks that we need not live in a defensive crouch,” Kubic said. “We need not be despondent about attacks that we may see from Washington, but instead that we have some control over our own destiny, we can make lives better here.”

That will let “those in power know to not collaborate in the extremism,” Kubic said.

Kubic said he anticipates that Trump’s second term, which begins in January, will bring “more attacks on civil liberties and civil rights … than any of us have seen in our lifetimes,” including policies about immigration, voting, LGBTQ rights and abortion access.

Working at the local level, Kubic said, will help if the federal government seeks to compel local officials to assist with policies like mass deportations.

“When the Trump administration comes calling,” Kubic said, “we want there to be a firewall in place at the local level from elected officials who know that is not something that their own voters, their own constituents, the residents of their places want them to do.”&nbsp;

At the same time, Kubic said, the ACLU will keep working to mobilize state lawmakers to block legislation the organization opposes. He said the organization had success defeating “attacks on voting rights” and a proposed ban on gender-affirming healthcare.

Kubic said he also expected abortion rights to be an issue in the Kansas Legislature, despite the state’s 2022 vote to keep abortion enshrined in the Kansas Constitution.

“We’re able to defeat them because there is a large number of Kansans who don’t want that stuff. … Regardless of how they voted on Election Day, we know that Kansans don’t want bodily autonomy to be restricted,” he said.&nbsp;

The ACLU of Kansas’ fledgling political action committee, Kansans United for Civil Liberties, will continue, Kubic said. The ACLU spent money educating voters in opposition to candidates in 10 legislative races in November, but only one of those candidates was defeated.

The ACLU’s most prominent work, its litigation efforts, will also continue, he said.

“We will sue anybody who needs suing when the time comes,” Kubic said. “ … We have been preparing for the Trump administration in particular for a very long time.”&nbsp;

While the ACLU’s views on those issues often align with those of Democrats, Kubic said the organization has worked to pursue its priorities no matter who is in power. He noted the ACLU criticized Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, for signing legislation stopping Wyandotte County from issuing identification cards to undocumented immigrants.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734885001428.png" alt="Micah Kubic, executive director of the ACLU of Kansas, speaks to reporters on Friday about the civil rights' organization's strategy to contend with President-elect Donald Trump's second term. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Micah Kubic, executive director of the ACLU of Kansas, speaks to reporters on Friday about the civil rights' organization's strategy to contend with President-elect Donald Trump's second term. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>Civil rights activists in Kansas are staffing up and engaging with local officials to prepare for a second Donald Trump presidency, the ACLU of Kansas said Friday.&nbsp;Executive director Micah Kubic told reporters the organization has a three-part strategy for Trump’s second term, including attempting to expand civil rights protections at the local level, preparing for ultra-conservative bills in the Kansas Legislature and filing strategic lawsuits to stop “extremist” policies.Working proactively at the local level to expand voting rights and other civil liberties, Kubic said, will be more effective than simply reacting to Trump policies the ACLU opposes.&nbsp;“It really does show folks that we need not live in a defensive crouch,” Kubic said. “We need not be despondent about attacks that we may see from Washington, but instead that we have some control over our own destiny, we can make lives better here.”That will let “those in power know to not collaborate in the extremism,” Kubic said.Kubic said he anticipates that Trump’s second term, which begins in January, will bring “more attacks on civil liberties and civil rights … than any of us have seen in our lifetimes,” including policies about immigration, voting, LGBTQ rights and abortion access.Working at the local level, Kubic said, will help if the federal government seeks to compel local officials to assist with policies like mass deportations.“When the Trump administration comes calling,” Kubic said, “we want there to be a firewall in place at the local level from elected officials who know that is not something that their own voters, their own constituents, the residents of their places want them to do.”&nbsp;At the same time, Kubic said, the ACLU will keep working to mobilize state lawmakers to block legislation the organization opposes. He said the organization had success defeating “attacks on voting rights” and a proposed ban on gender-affirming healthcare.Kubic said he also expected abortion rights to be an issue in the Kansas Legislature, despite the state’s 2022 vote to keep abortion enshrined in the Kansas Constitution.“We’re able to defeat them because there is a large number of Kansans who don’t want that stuff. … Regardless of how they voted on Election Day, we know that Kansans don’t want bodily autonomy to be restricted,” he said.&nbsp;The ACLU of Kansas’ fledgling political action committee, Kansans United for Civil Liberties, will continue, Kubic said. The ACLU spent money educating voters in opposition to candidates in 10 legislative races in November, but only one of those candidates was defeated.The ACLU’s most prominent work, its litigation efforts, will also continue, he said.“We will sue anybody who needs suing when the time comes,” Kubic said. “ … We have been preparing for the Trump administration in particular for a very long time.”&nbsp;While the ACLU’s views on those issues often align with those of Democrats, Kubic said the organization has worked to pursue its priorities no matter who is in power. He noted the ACLU criticized Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, for signing legislation stopping Wyandotte County from issuing identification cards to undocumented immigrants.

ACLU of Kansas prepares for second Trump term and ‘attacks on civil liberties’

Several laws, such as the 72-hour waiting period, were temporarily blocked. But Planned Parenthood says enough restrictions remain in place to prevent abortion services from resuming

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/"></a><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A Missouri judge on Friday temporarily struck down several laws that Planned Parenthood clinics have said made access to abortion all but impossible across the state.&nbsp;

Among the laws Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang blocked include a 72-hour waiting period for an abortion and a mandate that physicians performing abortions have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals.

But abortions will not yet restart in the state because licensure requirements remain in place.

Planned Parenthood Great Plains, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers and the ACLU of Missouri in a joint statement Friday evening said the state’s several clinics remain unlicensed.

“As a result of today’s mixed decision,” they wrote. “Missourians continue to be deprived of time-sensitive, essential, and constitutionally protected health care, despite voting in favor of a constitutional right to abortion.”

After more than two years of a near-total abortion ban, Missourians voted to legalize the procedure in November.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">Planned Parenthood and the ACLU of Missouri immediately sued</a>&nbsp;the state in the hopes of invalidating dozens of abortion regulations they believed were now unconstitutional.&nbsp;

On Friday afternoon,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/2416-CV31931.COMP%20HEALTH.Prelim%20Injuction%20ORDER_FINAL.pdf?courtCode=16&amp;di=26642271" target="_blank">Zhang granted some of Planned Parenthood’s requests and denied others</a>. This means that for the time being at least, some of the state’s strictest “targeted regulation of abortion providers,” or TRAP, laws are not enforceable.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood clinics in Missouri did not immediately say how soon they may begin offering abortion as a result of the judge’s order.

State officials, including Attorney General Andrew Bailey, agreed Amendment 3 makes null and void the state’s current ban on abortion, which only allows exceptions for medical emergencies.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/05/abortion-lawsuit-planned-parenthood-amendment-3-missouri-jackson-county/">during a Dec. 4 hearing</a>, Bailey’s office panned Planned Parenthood’s arguments that current TRAP laws cause irreparable harm and are unnecessary.&nbsp;

The state asked that the case be dismissed, arguing that because abortion is still accessible by mail or by leaving the state, Planned Parenthood didn’t have the standing to ask for an emergency injunction.

In her Friday order, Zhang wrote that, “as plaintiffs argue, they and their patients are suffering serious harm, whereas defendants only stand to lose the ability temporarily to enforce some laws that are likely to be held unconstitutional and which further no valid compelling state interest.”

She went on to temporarily strike down the following TRAP laws as unconstitutional:&nbsp;

Zhang kept in place the following TRAP laws:

After the court hearing but before Friday’s decision, a spokeswoman with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said the department continued to view the state’s TRAP laws as constitutional but declined to comment on specific aspects of the lawsuit as the litigation is ongoing.

“Our regulations remain in place,” Sami Jo Freeman, spokeswoman for the department, said on Dec. 11. “We believe those regulations are not overly burdensome and establish necessary safety standards for these procedures. We cannot comment on pending litigation at this time.”

Brian Westbrook, executive director of Coalition Life, said in a statement Friday that his organization will be closely monitoring the licensing process of any abortion clinics in Missouri.

“We are gratified that the court has rightly decided to retain licensing requirements for abortion facilities and doctors who perform abortions,” Westbrook said. “Even while we mourn the loss of protections that are vital to the safety of women and the protection of preborn children.”

<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">On Nov. 5, Missourians narrowly approved Amendment 3</a>, which&nbsp;states, in part, that “the right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, interfered with, delayed, or otherwise restricted unless the government demonstrates that such action is justifiable by a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”&nbsp;

The constitutional amendment officially took effect Dec. 6.

Had all the challenged TRAP laws been struck down, Planned Parenthood clinics said they were prepared to immediately begin offering abortions at some of their locations.

“It is unacceptable that tomorrow, just like for the past two weeks, Missourians will have a constitutional right that cannot be realized in their home state,” Emily Wales, president and CEO of Comprehensive Health of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said in a statement. “We’re relieved the court recognized and enjoined many oppressive laws on the books that serve no purpose except to put abortion out of reach. Unfortunately, a key tool weaponized by anti-abortion politicians — the licensure process — remains in effect, and we are unable to restore care.”

The plaintiffs in a statement said they are evaluating their legal options. A spokesperson for the Missouri Attorney General’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Zhang’s order is temporary until a trial litigating the challenged laws takes place. The next case management conference is scheduled for late February in Kansas City.

<a href="https://www.whatsnext4mo.org/home/#CTA" target="_blank">“What’s Next,”&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;an Amendment 3 accountability group made up organizers and activists who previously called for a constitutional amendment with no restrictions on abortion, said the ruling was far from a win.

“‘Ending the ban’ is window dressing as long as restrictions such as facility license requirements designed to keep clinics closed are in effect and access to care is not a reality for abortion seekers and providers,” they wrote. “This is what we warned about and our fears are unfolding exactly how we predicted.”

<h2>Several laws, such as the 72-hour waiting period, were temporarily blocked. But Planned Parenthood says enough restrictions remain in place to prevent abortion services from resuming</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/"></a><a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A Missouri judge on Friday temporarily struck down several laws that Planned Parenthood clinics have said made access to abortion all but impossible across the state.&nbsp;Among the laws Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang blocked include a 72-hour waiting period for an abortion and a mandate that physicians performing abortions have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals.But abortions will not yet restart in the state because licensure requirements remain in place.Planned Parenthood Great Plains, Planned Parenthood Great Rivers and the ACLU of Missouri in a joint statement Friday evening said the state’s several clinics remain unlicensed.“As a result of today’s mixed decision,” they wrote. “Missourians continue to be deprived of time-sensitive, essential, and constitutionally protected health care, despite voting in favor of a constitutional right to abortion.”After more than two years of a near-total abortion ban, Missourians voted to legalize the procedure in November.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">Planned Parenthood and the ACLU of Missouri immediately sued</a>&nbsp;the state in the hopes of invalidating dozens of abortion regulations they believed were now unconstitutional.&nbsp;On Friday afternoon,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/2416-CV31931.COMP%20HEALTH.Prelim%20Injuction%20ORDER_FINAL.pdf?courtCode=16&amp;di=26642271" target="_blank">Zhang granted some of Planned Parenthood’s requests and denied others</a>. This means that for the time being at least, some of the state’s strictest “targeted regulation of abortion providers,” or TRAP, laws are not enforceable.&nbsp;Planned Parenthood clinics in Missouri did not immediately say how soon they may begin offering abortion as a result of the judge’s order.State officials, including Attorney General Andrew Bailey, agreed Amendment 3 makes null and void the state’s current ban on abortion, which only allows exceptions for medical emergencies.&nbsp;But&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/05/abortion-lawsuit-planned-parenthood-amendment-3-missouri-jackson-county/">during a Dec. 4 hearing</a>, Bailey’s office panned Planned Parenthood’s arguments that current TRAP laws cause irreparable harm and are unnecessary.&nbsp;The state asked that the case be dismissed, arguing that because abortion is still accessible by mail or by leaving the state, Planned Parenthood didn’t have the standing to ask for an emergency injunction.In her Friday order, Zhang wrote that, “as plaintiffs argue, they and their patients are suffering serious harm, whereas defendants only stand to lose the ability temporarily to enforce some laws that are likely to be held unconstitutional and which further no valid compelling state interest.”She went on to temporarily strike down the following TRAP laws as unconstitutional:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>A requirement that physicians providing abortions have admitting privileges at hospitals with obstetric or gynecological care within 30 miles or a 15-minute drive.&nbsp;</li><li>A mandatory 72-hour waiting period between an initial abortion consultation and the abortion procedure.</li><li>The state’s informed consent requirement, which includes access to the state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/families/womenshealth/pregnancyassistance/pdf/Mo.InformedConsentBooklet-Revisedpgs.12-15August2019jkOGCReviewed.pdf" target="_blank">informed consent booklet</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>In cases of medication abortions, a requirement that the medication be administered in the presence of the doctor who prescribed it. Planned Parenthood refers to this as a “telemedicine ban,” which prevents doctors from prescribing a medication in-person but allowing the patient to take the medication at home or in the presence of another medical professional.</li><li>A requirement that before administering medication abortion, providers must have a complication plan in place, which includes access to an on-call OB-GYN who is available at any time, in the case of a complication. Zhang wrote that this law was not helpful to those traveling from rural Missouri to an urban Planned Parenthood clinic, for example.&nbsp;</li><li>A law requiring all fetal tissue removed from the uterus during an abortion be sent to a pathologist.</li>
 </ul>Zhang kept in place the following TRAP laws:<ul>
 <li>A requirement that patients must first see a doctor for an in-person appointment to confirm gestational age before prescribing the pills used in medication abortions.</li><li>A law stating that abortions can only be performed by physicians, and not physicians assistants or other advanced practice clinicians.&nbsp;</li><li>A law allowing the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to place separate regulations and standards that apply to ambulatory surgical centers on abortion clinics, including size requirements for hallways, room and doors.&nbsp;This law also requires clinics to keep a written plan for managing medical emergencies, including a transfer plan for patients to a nearby hospital. Zhang said she was denying the injunction related to these licensure requirements because the statutes “pertain to the actual licensure of the facilities rather than the rights of individuals seeking reproductive care.”</li>
 </ul>After the court hearing but before Friday’s decision, a spokeswoman with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services said the department continued to view the state’s TRAP laws as constitutional but declined to comment on specific aspects of the lawsuit as the litigation is ongoing.“Our regulations remain in place,” Sami Jo Freeman, spokeswoman for the department, said on Dec. 11. “We believe those regulations are not overly burdensome and establish necessary safety standards for these procedures. We cannot comment on pending litigation at this time.”Brian Westbrook, executive director of Coalition Life, said in a statement Friday that his organization will be closely monitoring the licensing process of any abortion clinics in Missouri.“We are gratified that the court has rightly decided to retain licensing requirements for abortion facilities and doctors who perform abortions,” Westbrook said. “Even while we mourn the loss of protections that are vital to the safety of women and the protection of preborn children.”<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/05/missouri-voters-overturn-states-near-total-abortion-ban/">On Nov. 5, Missourians narrowly approved Amendment 3</a>, which&nbsp;states, in part, that “the right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, interfered with, delayed, or otherwise restricted unless the government demonstrates that such action is justifiable by a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”&nbsp;The constitutional amendment officially took effect Dec. 6.Had all the challenged TRAP laws been struck down, Planned Parenthood clinics said they were prepared to immediately begin offering abortions at some of their locations.“It is unacceptable that tomorrow, just like for the past two weeks, Missourians will have a constitutional right that cannot be realized in their home state,” Emily Wales, president and CEO of Comprehensive Health of Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said in a statement. “We’re relieved the court recognized and enjoined many oppressive laws on the books that serve no purpose except to put abortion out of reach. Unfortunately, a key tool weaponized by anti-abortion politicians — the licensure process — remains in effect, and we are unable to restore care.”The plaintiffs in a statement said they are evaluating their legal options. A spokesperson for the Missouri Attorney General’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.Zhang’s order is temporary until a trial litigating the challenged laws takes place. The next case management conference is scheduled for late February in Kansas City.<a href="https://www.whatsnext4mo.org/home/#CTA" target="_blank">“What’s Next,”&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;an Amendment 3 accountability group made up organizers and activists who previously called for a constitutional amendment with no restrictions on abortion, said the ruling was far from a win.“‘Ending the ban’ is window dressing as long as restrictions such as facility license requirements designed to keep clinics closed are in effect and access to care is not a reality for abortion seekers and providers,” they wrote. “This is what we warned about and our fears are unfolding exactly how we predicted.”

Missouri judge strikes down abortion ban, but clinics say access remains blocked

KANSAS CITY —Two people died in an accident just before 3p.m. Saturday in Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp;City.

A preliminary investigation of the accident revealed that a Honda two door passenger vehicle was westbound on 23rd Street at Stark Avenue in Kansas City at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Officer Jake Becchins.

The Honda traveled off the roadway into the embankment and rolled. Both occupants were not wearing their seatbelts and were ejected from the vehicle. One occupant was pronounced dead on scene and the other one was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

These are fatalities 91 and 92 for 2024, according to Becchina.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY —Two people died in an accident just before 3p.m. Saturday in Kansas&nbsp; &nbsp;City.A preliminary investigation of the accident revealed that a Honda two door passenger vehicle was westbound on 23rd Street at Stark Avenue in Kansas City at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Officer Jake Becchins.The Honda traveled off the roadway into the embankment and rolled. Both occupants were not wearing their seatbelts and were ejected from the vehicle. One occupant was pronounced dead on scene and the other one was pronounced dead at a local hospital.These are fatalities 91 and 92 for 2024, according to Becchina.&nbsp;

KCPD: 2 dead after ejected in rollover crash

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted by a federal grand jury today for their roles in a conspiracy to illegally traffic firearms and for illegally possessing firearms, according to the United State's Attorney.

Ernest L. Hall, 61, and Rodney O. Ellison, 57, were charged in a 12-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.

The indictment replaces federal criminal complaints that charged Hall and Ellison separately on Nov. 27, 2024. Both Hall and Ellison remain in federal custody without bond.

The indictment alleges that Hall and Ellison participated in a conspiracy to traffic firearms from June 15 to Nov. 26, 2024. The indictment also charges Hall and Ellison together with one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and charges Hall and Ellison separately with five counts each of trafficking firearms. Hall and Ellison each also are charged with being a felon in possession of firearms.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, a confidential informant working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives purchased firearms from both Ellison and Hall on several occasions at their residences. Between June 18, 2024, and Nov. 25, 2024, the confidential informant allegedly purchased six firearms from Ellison and five firearms from Hall.

On Nov. 26, 2024, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at the residences of both Hall and Ellison. Ellison was arrested at his residence but Hall left his residence carrying a large bag and drove away as officers were approaching. When law enforcement began to follow him, Hall turned off his headlights and drove into oncoming traffic to elude them. Investigators then executed the search warrant for Hall’s residence and seized one firearm. Officers seized seven firearms from Ellison’s residence, including two firearms with obliterated or missing serial numbers.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Hall has three prior felony convictions for armed criminal action, two prior felony convictions for robbery, and prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle, voluntary manslaughter, unlawful use of a weapon, assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. Ellison has prior felony convictions for murder, armed criminal action, and tampering with service utility.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D. Michael Green. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted by a federal grand jury today for their roles in a conspiracy to illegally traffic firearms and for illegally possessing firearms, according to the United State's Attorney.Ernest L. Hall, 61, and Rodney O. Ellison, 57, were charged in a 12-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.The indictment replaces federal criminal complaints that charged Hall and Ellison separately on Nov. 27, 2024. Both Hall and Ellison remain in federal custody without bond.The indictment alleges that Hall and Ellison participated in a conspiracy to traffic firearms from June 15 to Nov. 26, 2024. The indictment also charges Hall and Ellison together with one count of engaging in firearm sales without a license, and charges Hall and Ellison separately with five counts each of trafficking firearms. Hall and Ellison each also are charged with being a felon in possession of firearms.According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, a confidential informant working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives purchased firearms from both Ellison and Hall on several occasions at their residences. Between June 18, 2024, and Nov. 25, 2024, the confidential informant allegedly purchased six firearms from Ellison and five firearms from Hall.On Nov. 26, 2024, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at the residences of both Hall and Ellison. Ellison was arrested at his residence but Hall left his residence carrying a large bag and drove away as officers were approaching. When law enforcement began to follow him, Hall turned off his headlights and drove into oncoming traffic to elude them. Investigators then executed the search warrant for Hall’s residence and seized one firearm. Officers seized seven firearms from Ellison’s residence, including two firearms with obliterated or missing serial numbers.Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Hall has three prior felony convictions for armed criminal action, two prior felony convictions for robbery, and prior felony convictions for tampering with a motor vehicle, voluntary manslaughter, unlawful use of a weapon, assault, and endangering the welfare of a child. Ellison has prior felony convictions for murder, armed criminal action, and tampering with service utility.The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney D. Michael Green. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

2 KC men sold illegally trafficked firearms to ATF informant

FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement are working to identify the body of a man found on Thursday in Franklin County.

On December 19, officers and detectives with the Ottawa Police Department were investigating a missing person case, according to a media release from the department.

 During the investigation the area around the Main Street bridge crossing over the Marais Des Cygnes River was searched.  During this search, investigators located the body of deceased man under the bridge. 

Police reported they had not identified the man but he is believed to be the subject of the original searcn.

 Pending identification and notification of next-of-kin, specifics about the identification will not be released.&nbsp; There is no indication of a crime.

FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement are working to identify the body of a man found on Thursday in Franklin County.On December 19, officers and detectives with the Ottawa Police Department were investigating a missing person case, according to a media release from the department. During the investigation the area around the Main Street bridge crossing over the Marais Des Cygnes River was searched. During this search, investigators located the body of deceased man under the bridge. Police reported they had not identified the man but he is believed to be the subject of the original searcn. Pending identification and notification of next-of-kin, specifics about the identification will not be released.&nbsp; There is no indication of a crime.

Police found body during search for missing person

DAYTON, Ohio – A former Kansas doctor was arrested by federal agents this week and charged with making false statements related to a 1989 rape, according to the United State's Attorney.

 Officials ask anyone with information regarding this or any other similar rape to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

It is alleged that Frederick Louis Tanzer, 66, knowingly made a false statement to FBI agents. His current home on Kenwood Road in&nbsp;Sycamore Township, Ohio and vehicles were searched and Tanzer appeared in federal court in Dayton following his arrest.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Tanzer was recently identified as the prime suspect in the cold-case rape. In recent months, agents collected DNA evidence from a Starbucks cup that Tanzer discarded at a local BMV. The DNA extracted from Tanzer’s coffee cup was confirmed by a forensic laboratory as a match to the DNA the rapist had left at the 1989 crime scene.

It is alleged that Tanzer made several materially false statements to federal investigators when approached today, including denying having seen or interacted with the victim on the date she was raped.

Tanzer is a medical doctor who has lived and practiced medicine in Kansas, Colorado and Ohio.

The affidavit details that on Aug. 1, 1989, the victim was violently raped in her condominium on Creighton Place in Cincinnati after arriving home from work.

Federal law enforcement officials ask the public to consider these circumstances of the rape and to contact the FBI with any similar information:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734724913138.png" alt="Tanzer photo Shelby County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Tanzer photo Shelby County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>DAYTON, Ohio – A former Kansas doctor was arrested by federal agents this week and charged with making false statements related to a 1989 rape, according to the United State's Attorney. Officials ask anyone with information regarding this or any other similar rape to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.It is alleged that Frederick Louis Tanzer, 66, knowingly made a false statement to FBI agents. His current home on Kenwood Road in&nbsp;Sycamore Township, Ohio and vehicles were searched and Tanzer appeared in federal court in Dayton following his arrest.According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, Tanzer was recently identified as the prime suspect in the cold-case rape. In recent months, agents collected DNA evidence from a Starbucks cup that Tanzer discarded at a local BMV. The DNA extracted from Tanzer’s coffee cup was confirmed by a forensic laboratory as a match to the DNA the rapist had left at the 1989 crime scene.It is alleged that Tanzer made several materially false statements to federal investigators when approached today, including denying having seen or interacted with the victim on the date she was raped.Tanzer is a medical doctor who has lived and practiced medicine in Kansas, Colorado and Ohio.The affidavit details that on Aug. 1, 1989, the victim was violently raped in her condominium on Creighton Place in Cincinnati after arriving home from work.Federal law enforcement officials ask the public to consider these circumstances of the rape and to contact the FBI with any similar information:<ul>
 <li>When the victim arrived home, she noticed an odor that smelled to her like brewed tea or burnt marijuana.</li><li>The rapist was dressed from head to toe in black Lycra, including black gloves and a face mask. He had a black gym bag with him.</li><li>The assailant held a knife to the victim’s throat.</li><li>The rapist used white surgical tape from the gym bag to wrap around the victim’s eyes and head. He used stockings and panty hose from the victim’s dresser to bind her hands and feet to the headboard and footboard of her bed.</li><li>The rapist cut or tore the victim’s clothing and used Vaseline.</li><li>The rapist assaulted the victim vaginally, orally and anally. In between bouts of sexual conduct, the assailant used a cloth to wipe the victim’s mouth and genital areas.</li><li>The rapist said nothing during the entire encounter. He occasionally took breaks from sexually assaulting the victim while the victim remained tied to her bed.</li><li>The rapist listened to and erased answering machine messages. He looked through papers in the victim’s living room and rummaged through her purse. He unplugged and/or disconnected telephones.</li><li>On the handset of the telephone in the bedroom, the rapist taped a piece of newspaper that had been cut from the paper on the couch in the victim’s living room and wrote, “No police or I’ll be back Mis [sic] [name of victim’s employer]”</li><li>The victim described the rapist as white, with dark brown hair, approximately six feet tall with a thin or athletic build.</li><li>The assault took place over the course of more than five and a half hours.</li>
 </ul>

FBI seeks victims of former Kan. doctor accused of rape

DAMASCUS —On Thursday,&nbsp;U.S. Forces conducted a precision  airstrike targeting ISIS leader Abu Yusif aka Mahmud in the Dayr az Zawr  Province, Syria resulting in two ISIS operatives killed, including Abu  Yusif, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

"This  airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners  in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan,  organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel  from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and  beyond."

This strike was conducted in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.

“As  stated before, the United States — working with allies and partners in  the region — will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current  situation in Syria and reconstitute. ISIS has the intent to break out of  detention the over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently being held in  facilities in Syria. We will aggressively target these leaders and  operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to  Syria," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734705079925.png" alt="A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle patrols the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.-photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle patrols the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.-photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>DAMASCUS —On Thursday,&nbsp;U.S. Forces conducted a precision airstrike targeting ISIS leader Abu Yusif aka Mahmud in the Dayr az Zawr Province, Syria resulting in two ISIS operatives killed, including Abu Yusif, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command."This airstrike is part of CENTCOM’s ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond."This strike was conducted in an area formerly controlled by the Syrian regime and Russians.“As stated before, the United States — working with allies and partners in the region — will not allow ISIS to take advantage of the current situation in Syria and reconstitute. ISIS has the intent to break out of detention the over 8,000 ISIS operatives currently being held in facilities in Syria. We will aggressively target these leaders and operatives, including those trying to conduct operations external to Syria," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, CENTCOM commander.

U.S. airstrike kills ISIS terror leader

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a registered Kansas offender on new allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 9:30p.m. Dec. 16, a sheriff's deputy stopped a Toyota Corolla for a traffic violation on U.S. Hwy 75 near 118th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 The driver of the vehicle, Robert Thomas Johnson, 66, of Topeka, was arrested for 5 offender registry violations and driving while suspended.

As part of his drug conviction sentence, Johnson has been required to register as an offender for 15 years. He was convicted in 2009 for selling meth, according to the Kansas offender registry.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1734574862116.png" alt="Johnson photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Johnson photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a registered Kansas offender on new allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 9:30p.m. Dec. 16, a sheriff's deputy stopped a Toyota Corolla for a traffic violation on U.S. Hwy 75 near 118th Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The driver of the vehicle, Robert Thomas Johnson, 66, of Topeka, was arrested for 5 offender registry violations and driving while suspended.As part of his drug conviction sentence, Johnson has been required to register as an offender for 15 years. He was convicted in 2009 for selling meth, according to the Kansas offender registry.