KANSAS CITY —A Kansas, man was arrested last week while crossing the border from Mexico back into the United States after being indicted by a federal grand jury for stealing 41 firearms from a gun store in Raytown, Missouri, according to the United State's Attorney.

“We are committed to stanching the flow of illegal firearms on the black market, whether they’re trafficked within the United States or smuggled into Mexico,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore of the Western District of Missouri. “Stolen firearms often supply black market dealers and fuel more crime and violence. It’s critical that we hold to account everyone involved along this chain of criminal activity.”

“The charges demonstrate the power of crime gun intelligence and cooperation with Mexican law enforcement to stem the flow of firearms from the U.S. into Mexico — where they arm the violent cartels that flood our communities with deadly drugs,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “By submitting information about recovered firearms to ATF’s eTrace system, Mexican law enforcement helped us link the alleged theft of firearms in Missouri to their international transport and recovery in Mexico.”

“Mexican organized crime groups use firearms to commit heinous crimes against civilians and rival criminal groups,” stated Bernard G. Hansen, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Kansas City. “There is no safe hiding place for anyone engaged in illegal firearms trafficking to Mexico.&nbsp; Stemming the flow of illegal guns to Mexico is of the highest priority for ATF and we will work relentlessly to investigate firearm thefts in order to prevent and dismantle the flow of illegal firearms.”

Frank Guereca, 22,&nbsp; Olathe, was charged with one count of stealing firearms from a federal firearms licensee in an indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday, April 24. The indictment was unsealed and made public today. Guereca is scheduled for his initial court appearance today at 2:30 p.m. in El Paso, Texas (3:30 p.m. CST) before U.S Magistrate Judge Miguel Torres of the Western District of Texas.

The federal indictment alleges that Guereca, aiding and abetting others, stole the firearms on June 16, 2023. All of the stolen firearms were pistols of various manufacturers and calibers.

According to court documents, Guereca and at least two others used a stolen U-Haul to conduct the firearms theft. One of the stolen pistols from the gun store was recovered in Tracy, Calif., on Nov. 14, 2023. A second stolen pistol was recovered in Chihuahua, Mexico, on Dec. 19, 2023. A third stolen pistol was recovered in Juarez, Mexico, on Feb. 6, 2024.

Guereca was arrested on Thursday, April 25, as he attempted to cross back into the United States from Mexico. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection records, Guereca had previously crossed the border approximately 20 times since the burglary and theft on June 16, 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1702505915425.png" alt="Photo Aristide Economopoulos&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo Aristide Economopoulos&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas, man was arrested last week while crossing the border from Mexico back into the United States after being indicted by a federal grand jury for stealing 41 firearms from a gun store in Raytown, Missouri, according to the United State's Attorney.“We are committed to stanching the flow of illegal firearms on the black market, whether they’re trafficked within the United States or smuggled into Mexico,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore of the Western District of Missouri. “Stolen firearms often supply black market dealers and fuel more crime and violence. It’s critical that we hold to account everyone involved along this chain of criminal activity.”“The charges demonstrate the power of crime gun intelligence and cooperation with Mexican law enforcement to stem the flow of firearms from the U.S. into Mexico — where they arm the violent cartels that flood our communities with deadly drugs,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “By submitting information about recovered firearms to ATF’s eTrace system, Mexican law enforcement helped us link the alleged theft of firearms in Missouri to their international transport and recovery in Mexico.”“Mexican organized crime groups use firearms to commit heinous crimes against civilians and rival criminal groups,” stated Bernard G. Hansen, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Kansas City. “There is no safe hiding place for anyone engaged in illegal firearms trafficking to Mexico.&nbsp; Stemming the flow of illegal guns to Mexico is of the highest priority for ATF and we will work relentlessly to investigate firearm thefts in order to prevent and dismantle the flow of illegal firearms.”Frank Guereca, 22,&nbsp; Olathe, was charged with one count of stealing firearms from a federal firearms licensee in an indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday, April 24. The indictment was unsealed and made public today. Guereca is scheduled for his initial court appearance today at 2:30 p.m. in El Paso, Texas (3:30 p.m. CST) before U.S Magistrate Judge Miguel Torres of the Western District of Texas.The federal indictment alleges that Guereca, aiding and abetting others, stole the firearms on June 16, 2023. All of the stolen firearms were pistols of various manufacturers and calibers.According to court documents, Guereca and at least two others used a stolen U-Haul to conduct the firearms theft. One of the stolen pistols from the gun store was recovered in Tracy, Calif., on Nov. 14, 2023. A second stolen pistol was recovered in Chihuahua, Mexico, on Dec. 19, 2023. A third stolen pistol was recovered in Juarez, Mexico, on Feb. 6, 2024.Guereca was arrested on Thursday, April 25, as he attempted to cross back into the United States from Mexico. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection records, Guereca had previously crossed the border approximately 20 times since the burglary and theft on June 16, 2023.

Kan. man caught at Mexico border accused in theft of 41 firearms

WASHINGTON (AP) — “Star Wars” actor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-star-wars-luke-hamill-app-08ec03bf1a2c9c0378857090079f00f9">Mark Hamill dropped by the White House</a>&nbsp;on Friday for a visit with President Joe Biden and walked away with a pair of the president's aviator sunglasses and a greater respect for the office.

(click below to watch Hamill's fun during the press briefing)

“I love the merch," he said, taking off the glasses during a quick appearance at the White House daily press briefing following his visit with Biden. Hamill, 72, famous for playing Luke Skywalker, kidded with reporters that he'd take a few questions — as long as they weren't about “Star Wars.”

“I was honored to be asked to come to the White House to meet the president,” he said. He's been to the White House before, during the Carter and Obama administrations, but he'd never checked out the Oval Office, and that was quite something, he said. Biden showed off photographs and other Oval Office items, Hamill said.

Hamill said Biden told him to call him “Joe,” to which Hamill offered an alternative suggestion: “Can I call you Joe-bi-Wan Kenobi?”

“He liked that,” said Hamill, who also voiced the Joker in “Batman: The Animated Series.”

Both Hamill and the White House were vague about his reason for visiting. But Hamill, a Democrat and Biden supporter with a huge social media following, has been posting about the president's reelection campaign this week.

“May The First Not Quench Your Thirst For Biden’s Re-election!” he wrote on May 1.

On Friday he posted, “May The Third Be Absurd That The Guy Who Tried To Steal A Fair Election Is Allowed To Run Again," a reference to Donald Trump and his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election.

May 4th is unofficially “Star Wars” Day, in part because of the famous Jedi phrase “May the force be with you." The pun goes, “May the fourth be with you.”

Hamill also lent his voice to “Air Alert” — a downloadable app linked to Ukraine’s air defense system. His voice urges people to take cover whenever Russia unleashes another aerial bombardment on Ukraine.

WASHINGTON (AP) — “Star Wars” actor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-star-wars-luke-hamill-app-08ec03bf1a2c9c0378857090079f00f9">Mark Hamill dropped by the White House</a>&nbsp;on Friday for a visit with President Joe Biden and walked away with a pair of the president's aviator sunglasses and a greater respect for the office.(click below to watch Hamill's fun during the press briefing)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F280489755135170%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=150" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>“I love the merch," he said, taking off the glasses during a quick appearance at the White House daily press briefing following his visit with Biden. Hamill, 72, famous for playing Luke Skywalker, kidded with reporters that he'd take a few questions — as long as they weren't about “Star Wars.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">May The Fourth Be The Day A Make-Believe Defender Of The Galaxy Met A Real-Life Defender Of Democracy<a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/yXPlW7W7Y7">pic.twitter.com/yXPlW7W7Y7</a>&mdash; Mark Hamill (@MarkHamill) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkHamill/status/1786720218443641299?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 4, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“I was honored to be asked to come to the White House to meet the president,” he said. He's been to the White House before, during the Carter and Obama administrations, but he'd never checked out the Oval Office, and that was quite something, he said. Biden showed off photographs and other Oval Office items, Hamill said.Hamill said Biden told him to call him “Joe,” to which Hamill offered an alternative suggestion: “Can I call you Joe-bi-Wan Kenobi?”“He liked that,” said Hamill, who also voiced the Joker in “Batman: The Animated Series.”Both Hamill and the White House were vague about his reason for visiting. But Hamill, a Democrat and Biden supporter with a huge social media following, has been posting about the president's reelection campaign this week.“May The First Not Quench Your Thirst For Biden’s Re-election!” he wrote on May 1.On Friday he posted, “May The Third Be Absurd That The Guy Who Tried To Steal A Fair Election Is Allowed To Run Again," a reference to Donald Trump and his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election.May 4th is unofficially “Star Wars” Day, in part because of the famous Jedi phrase “May the force be with you." The pun goes, “May the fourth be with you.”Hamill also lent his voice to “Air Alert” — a downloadable app linked to Ukraine’s air defense system. His voice urges people to take cover whenever Russia unleashes another aerial bombardment on Ukraine.

🎥'Star Wars' actor drops by White House for a visit with 'Joe-bi-Wan Kenobi'

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Topeka Police Department (TPD) arrested a man for his role in an officer-involved shooting that occurred April 20, in Topeka.

Just before noon Friday, Terrell D. Hayes-Osby, 34, of Topeka, was arrested on a requested charge of attempted capital murder of a law enforcement officer, aggravated burglary, aggravated assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and unlawfully tampering with electronic monitoring equipment, according to a media release from the KBI.

Hayes-Osby was arrested as he was released from Stormont Vail Hospital where he was recovering from injuries sustained in the shooting.

The attempted capital murder charge was secured by the KBI who is investigating the officer-involved shooting near 16th&nbsp;St. and Tyler St., where Hayes-Osby fired a pistol multiple times toward TPD officers. The remaining felony charges were secured by TPD in their investigation into the theft at gunpoint of a pickup truck, occurring prior to the shooting at the gas station at 2740 SE California Ave.

Following the arrest, Hayes-Osby was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714762892804.png" alt="Hayes-Osby-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Hayes-Osby-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Topeka Police Department (TPD) arrested a man for his role in an officer-involved shooting that occurred April 20, in Topeka.Just before noon Friday, Terrell D. Hayes-Osby, 34, of Topeka, was arrested on a requested charge of attempted capital murder of a law enforcement officer, aggravated burglary, aggravated assault, criminal possession of a weapon, and unlawfully tampering with electronic monitoring equipment, according to a media release from the KBI.Hayes-Osby was arrested as he was released from Stormont Vail Hospital where he was recovering from injuries sustained in the shooting.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713660808243.png" alt="Photo of the police investigation courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the police investigation courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>The attempted capital murder charge was secured by the KBI who is investigating the officer-involved shooting near 16th&nbsp;St. and Tyler St., where Hayes-Osby fired a pistol multiple times toward TPD officers. The remaining felony charges were secured by TPD in their investigation into the theft at gunpoint of a pickup truck, occurring prior to the shooting at the gas station at 2740 SE California Ave.Following the arrest, Hayes-Osby was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Kan. carjacking suspect shot by police moved from hospital to jail

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A man who tried to kill a woman and shot at a car with her and their children in it pleaded guilty on Thursday, before his trial was scheduled to start Monday.

According to Reno County Senior Assistant District Attorney Kimberly Rodebaugh, on Thursday Kamden Campos plead guilty to one count of aggravated kidnapping, no contest to four separate attempts to kill the woman, guilty to knowingly causing great bodily harm to the 22 month old in the car, as a&nbsp;bullet had entered the license plate, gone through the car seat and entered the back of the minor child.

Campos also plead no contest to attempted murder in the first degree of a baby who was also in the back seat when the car was shot at and plead guilty to two counts of criminal threat.

The pleas of guilty were admission of guilt. The no contest pleas were admissions that the State of Kansas had sufficient evidence to prove his guilt and that evidence was not contested.&nbsp;

The prosecution informed the Court of the factual basis to support the counts and he was then found guilty.

Sentencing is set in Division I on June 7, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.

In July of 2022, Campos was arrested after allegedly abducting a woman and her family in Wichita. They drove out to Cheney Lake. When the woman tried to escape in a vehicle, Campos allegedly shot at the vehicle, hitting a 2-year-old girl.&nbsp;

The woman drove into Sedgwick County and called 911. The child was taken to Wesley Medical Center where she underwent surgery and has recovered.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669822978225.jpeg" alt="Kamden Campos photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Kamden Campos photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A man who tried to kill a woman and shot at a car with her and their children in it pleaded guilty on Thursday, before his trial was scheduled to start Monday.According to Reno County Senior Assistant District Attorney Kimberly Rodebaugh, on Thursday Kamden Campos plead guilty to one count of aggravated kidnapping, no contest to four separate attempts to kill the woman, guilty to knowingly causing great bodily harm to the 22 month old in the car, as a&nbsp;bullet had entered the license plate, gone through the car seat and entered the back of the minor child.Campos also plead no contest to attempted murder in the first degree of a baby who was also in the back seat when the car was shot at and plead guilty to two counts of criminal threat.The pleas of guilty were admission of guilt. The no contest pleas were admissions that the State of Kansas had sufficient evidence to prove his guilt and that evidence was not contested.&nbsp;The prosecution informed the Court of the factual basis to support the counts and he was then found guilty.Sentencing is set in Division I on June 7, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.In July of 2022, Campos was arrested after allegedly abducting a woman and her family in Wichita. They drove out to Cheney Lake. When the woman tried to escape in a vehicle, Campos allegedly shot at the vehicle, hitting a 2-year-old girl.&nbsp;The woman drove into Sedgwick County and called 911. The child was taken to Wesley Medical Center where she underwent surgery and has recovered.

Man enters plea in abduction, shooting of Kan. toddler

KANSAS CITY&nbsp; (AP) — Advocates on Friday turned in more than twice the needed number of signatures to put a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-abortion-campaign-fundraising-election-740fd1267ab84d5e2a4cf6ebe5a56b71">proposal to legalize abortion</a>&nbsp;on the Missouri ballot this year.

The campaign said it turned in more than 380,000 voter signatures — more than double the minimum 171,000 needed to qualify for the ballot.

“Our message is simple and clear,” ACLU Missouri lawyer and campaign spokesperson Tori Schafer said in a statement. “We want to make decisions about our bodies free from political interference.”

If approved by voters, the constitutional amendment would ensure abortion rights until&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-viability-ballot-initiatives-2024-roe-fcf440373973b01f740912cd3bbd98a4">viability</a>.

A moderate, Republican-led Missouri campaign earlier this year abandoned an effort for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-constitutional-amendment-viability-37e28b7609607ae762626206ea1a72c1">an alternate amendment</a>&nbsp;that would have allowed abortion up to 12 weeks and after that with only limited exceptions.

Like many Republican-controlled states, Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-missouri-government-and-politics-7bb5798bae32c3f15abad3a10941dfb5">outlawed almost all abortions</a>&nbsp;with no exceptions in the case of rape or incest immediately after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Missouri law only allows abortions for medical emergencies.

There has been a movement to put&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion rights questions</a>&nbsp;to voters following the 2022 decision. So far, voters in seven states — California, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Montana, Ohio and Vermont — have sided with abortion rights supporters on ballot measures.

It’s not clear yet how many states will vote on measures to enshrine abortion access in November. In some, the question is whether amendment supporters can get enough valid signatures. In others, it’s up to the legislature. And there’s legal wrangling in the process in some states.

In Missouri, it's now up to Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft to check the validity of the abortion-rights campaign's signatures.

Signature-gathering efforts by the campaign were delayed in part because of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-constitution-amendment-ballot-31e5d91121b0be6ae41548eb11f2e751">legal battle with Ashcroft</a>&nbsp;last year over how to word the abortion question if it gets on the ballot.

Ashcroft had proposed asking voters whether they are in favor of allowing “dangerous and unregulated abortions until live birth.”

A state appeals court in October&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-ballot-constitution-ruling-edb5f44fc0f9799d01cda22cd1f70b40">said the wording was politically partisan</a>.

Meanwhile, Republican state lawmakers in Missouri are feuding over another proposed constitutional amendment that would raise the bar for voters to enact future constitutional amendments.

The hope is that the changes would go before voters on the August primary ballot, so the higher threshold for&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/3d6e2f0d0f5993ddd75522b662d2eb34">constitutional amendments</a>&nbsp;would be in place if the abortion-rights amendment is on the November ballot.

A faction of Senate Republicans staged a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-senate-medicaid-42928944fde4b20c47390b4d8473d92f">days-long filibuster</a>&nbsp;this week in an attempt to more quickly force the constitutional amendment through the Legislature. But the House and Senate passed different versions of the proposal, and there are only two weeks left before lawmakers' deadline to pass legislation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714753111369.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By SUMMER BALLENTINEKANSAS CITY&nbsp; (AP) — Advocates on Friday turned in more than twice the needed number of signatures to put a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-abortion-campaign-fundraising-election-740fd1267ab84d5e2a4cf6ebe5a56b71">proposal to legalize abortion</a>&nbsp;on the Missouri ballot this year.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FMOConstitutionalFreedom%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02xvEZsoKCddN9mbuvMQTWrWCceZBiLX81qzUHBMXusWPXiK6tz1jReqvXdgcSe8F6l&show_text=true&width=500&is_preview=true" width="500" height="648" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The campaign said it turned in more than 380,000 voter signatures — more than double the minimum 171,000 needed to qualify for the ballot.“Our message is simple and clear,” ACLU Missouri lawyer and campaign spokesperson Tori Schafer said in a statement. “We want to make decisions about our bodies free from political interference.”If approved by voters, the constitutional amendment would ensure abortion rights until&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-viability-ballot-initiatives-2024-roe-fcf440373973b01f740912cd3bbd98a4">viability</a>.A moderate, Republican-led Missouri campaign earlier this year abandoned an effort for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-constitutional-amendment-viability-37e28b7609607ae762626206ea1a72c1">an alternate amendment</a>&nbsp;that would have allowed abortion up to 12 weeks and after that with only limited exceptions.Like many Republican-controlled states, Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-missouri-government-and-politics-7bb5798bae32c3f15abad3a10941dfb5">outlawed almost all abortions</a>&nbsp;with no exceptions in the case of rape or incest immediately after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022. Missouri law only allows abortions for medical emergencies.There has been a movement to put&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion rights questions</a>&nbsp;to voters following the 2022 decision. So far, voters in seven states — California, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Montana, Ohio and Vermont — have sided with abortion rights supporters on ballot measures.It’s not clear yet how many states will vote on measures to enshrine abortion access in November. In some, the question is whether amendment supporters can get enough valid signatures. In others, it’s up to the legislature. And there’s legal wrangling in the process in some states.In Missouri, it's now up to Republican Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft to check the validity of the abortion-rights campaign's signatures.Signature-gathering efforts by the campaign were delayed in part because of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-constitution-amendment-ballot-31e5d91121b0be6ae41548eb11f2e751">legal battle with Ashcroft</a>&nbsp;last year over how to word the abortion question if it gets on the ballot.Ashcroft had proposed asking voters whether they are in favor of allowing “dangerous and unregulated abortions until live birth.”A state appeals court in October&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-missouri-ballot-constitution-ruling-edb5f44fc0f9799d01cda22cd1f70b40">said the wording was politically partisan</a>.Meanwhile, Republican state lawmakers in Missouri are feuding over another proposed constitutional amendment that would raise the bar for voters to enact future constitutional amendments.The hope is that the changes would go before voters on the August primary ballot, so the higher threshold for&nbsp;<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/3d6e2f0d0f5993ddd75522b662d2eb34">constitutional amendments</a>&nbsp;would be in place if the abortion-rights amendment is on the November ballot.A faction of Senate Republicans staged a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-senate-medicaid-42928944fde4b20c47390b4d8473d92f">days-long filibuster</a>&nbsp;this week in an attempt to more quickly force the constitutional amendment through the Legislature. But the House and Senate passed different versions of the proposal, and there are only two weeks left before lawmakers' deadline to pass legislation.

Mo. abortion-rights campaign has signatures needed to get on ballot

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the burglary and theft of a law enforcement vehicle and equipment made an arrest.

The burglary occurred April 17, in the overnight hours at the Spring Hill Suites,  2745 SW Fairlawn Avenue in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Police later located the vehicle unoccupied in the 1800 block of SE Maryland Street.

Investigators identified a suspect and have been working to find him. Just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday, located and arrested Vashawn M. Fitzpatrick, 36, of Topeka, in the 4400 block of SE Michigan Avenue in Topeka.

Fitzpatrick was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Theft $25,000 &lt;$100,000 Motor Vehicle, Theft of Firearm with value less than $25,000 (From Motor Vehicle), Possession of stolen property; Felony Theft &gt;$1,500 &lt;$25,000 Motor Vehicle and 8 warrants. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714693812722.png" alt="Fitzpatrick-Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Fitzpatrick-Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the burglary and theft of a law enforcement vehicle and equipment made an arrest.The burglary occurred April 17, in the overnight hours at the Spring Hill Suites, 2745 SW Fairlawn Avenue in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Police later located the vehicle unoccupied in the 1800 block of SE Maryland Street.Investigators identified a suspect and have been working to find him. Just after 10:30p.m. Tuesday, located and arrested Vashawn M. Fitzpatrick, 36, of Topeka, in the 4400 block of SE Michigan Avenue in Topeka.Fitzpatrick was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Theft $25,000 &lt;$100,000 Motor Vehicle, Theft of Firearm with value less than $25,000 (From Motor Vehicle), Possession of stolen property; Felony Theft &gt;$1,500 &lt;$25,000 Motor Vehicle and 8 warrants. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Kansas man accused of burglary, theft of law enforcement vehicle

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating another fentanyl related death and have made an arrest.

On Thursday, officers with the Riley County Police Department secured the arrest of Luke Patrick Johnson,21, of Manhattan, in cooperation with the Pottawattamie County Sherriff’s Office, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Johnson was located in Pottawattamie County and taken into custody on the Riley County District Court warrant by the Pottawattamie County Sherriff’s Office.&nbsp;

Johnson was arrested on four separate warrants. The requested charges include distribution of a controlled substance causing death, aggravated battery, distribution of opiate/opium/ narcotic/ stimulant/ heroin dosage &lt;10 units x2, use of a communication facility, distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm and aggravated endangering a child.

Johnson’s charges are linked to the death of an 18-year-old female in May of 2023. &nbsp;Other charges stem from 2022 and 2023 cases involving controlled substances which resulted in bodily harm and an aggravated battery incident which occurred in Aggieville in late 2022.

Johnson is being held in Riley County on a bond of $1,575,000.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating another fentanyl related death and have made an arrest.On Thursday, officers with the Riley County Police Department secured the arrest of Luke Patrick Johnson,21, of Manhattan, in cooperation with the Pottawattamie County Sherriff’s Office, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Johnson was located in Pottawattamie County and taken into custody on the Riley County District Court warrant by the Pottawattamie County Sherriff’s Office.&nbsp;Johnson was arrested on four separate warrants. The requested charges include distribution of a controlled substance causing death, aggravated battery, distribution of opiate/opium/ narcotic/ stimulant/ heroin dosage &lt;10 units x2, use of a communication facility, distribution of a controlled substance causing great bodily harm and aggravated endangering a child.Johnson’s charges are linked to the death of an 18-year-old female in May of 2023. &nbsp;Other charges stem from 2022 and 2023 cases involving controlled substances which resulted in bodily harm and an aggravated battery incident which occurred in Aggieville in late 2022.Johnson is being held in Riley County on a bond of $1,575,000.&nbsp;

Kansas man accused in teen's fentanyl death

ST. LOUIS (AP) — A man charged with killing a St. Louis police officer in 2020 was found guilty of murder Thursday.

After a nearly two-week trial, a St. Louis jury convicted Thomas Kinworthy, 46, of first-degree murder and eight other charges in the death of 29-year-old Officer Tamarris Bohannon,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-courts/man-found-guilty-of-killing-cop-in-st-louis-tower-grove-south-neighborhood/article_139cf102-08b8-11ef-87e0-473e348e5fff.html#tracking-source=home-top-story">the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.</a>

Bohannon&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-mo-state-wire-racial-injustice-us-news-6b06c5bda8cb88d5bac0d934e2d52571">had responded to a call</a>&nbsp;on Aug. 29, 2020, after an armed man ordered a family out of their home and barricaded himself inside, police said. Officers were searching for another reported shooting victim when Bohannon was shot in the head and a second officer was shot in the leg, according to police.

Bohannon died the next day. He had been with the department for 3 1/2 years and was survived by his wife and three children.

Kinworthy did not dispute at trial that he had barricaded himself inside a St. Louis home and shot two officers, killing one of them, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The jury took about three hours to convict Kinworthy of first-degree murder, first-degree assault, burglary, resisting arrest and three counts of armed criminal action, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. Conviction on a first-degree murder charge carries a mandatory term of life in prison.

He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Kinworthy has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-mo-state-wire-racial-injustice-us-news-6b06c5bda8cb88d5bac0d934e2d52571">a criminal record dating to the 1990s,</a>&nbsp;when he spent nine months in prison for a drug crime in St. Louis County.

Court records show that Kinworthy was convicted in a 1998 road rage incident in Brevard County, Florida. After the car Kinworthy was in rammed a Ford Mustang, Kinworthy shot the Mustang driver, causing him to lose three fingers. Kinworthy was convicted in 2001 and served six years in prison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598987436467.png" alt="Thomas Kinworthy-photo St. Louis Police" />
 <figcaption>Thomas Kinworthy-photo St. Louis Police</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. LOUIS (AP) — A man charged with killing a St. Louis police officer in 2020 was found guilty of murder Thursday.After a nearly two-week trial, a St. Louis jury convicted Thomas Kinworthy, 46, of first-degree murder and eight other charges in the death of 29-year-old Officer Tamarris Bohannon,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-courts/man-found-guilty-of-killing-cop-in-st-louis-tower-grove-south-neighborhood/article_139cf102-08b8-11ef-87e0-473e348e5fff.html#tracking-source=home-top-story">the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.</a>Bohannon&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-mo-state-wire-racial-injustice-us-news-6b06c5bda8cb88d5bac0d934e2d52571">had responded to a call</a>&nbsp;on Aug. 29, 2020, after an armed man ordered a family out of their home and barricaded himself inside, police said. Officers were searching for another reported shooting victim when Bohannon was shot in the head and a second officer was shot in the leg, according to police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598868684937.png" alt="<a href="https://apnews.com/a5041aa153b0e3c70ce5c409400b83aa">Tamarris L. Bohannon</a>&nbsp;-photo St. Louis Police" />
 <figcaption><a href="https://apnews.com/a5041aa153b0e3c70ce5c409400b83aa">Tamarris L. Bohannon</a>&nbsp;-photo St. Louis Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Bohannon died the next day. He had been with the department for 3 1/2 years and was survived by his wife and three children.Kinworthy did not dispute at trial that he had barricaded himself inside a St. Louis home and shot two officers, killing one of them, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.The jury took about three hours to convict Kinworthy of first-degree murder, first-degree assault, burglary, resisting arrest and three counts of armed criminal action, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. Conviction on a first-degree murder charge carries a mandatory term of life in prison.He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 27, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.Kinworthy has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-mo-state-wire-racial-injustice-us-news-6b06c5bda8cb88d5bac0d934e2d52571">a criminal record dating to the 1990s,</a>&nbsp;when he spent nine months in prison for a drug crime in St. Louis County.Court records show that Kinworthy was convicted in a 1998 road rage incident in Brevard County, Florida. After the car Kinworthy was in rammed a Ford Mustang, Kinworthy shot the Mustang driver, causing him to lose three fingers. Kinworthy was convicted in 2001 and served six years in prison.

Man found guilty of murder in fatal shooting of Missouri officer

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Posting a “Wizard of Oz” meme and accusing Gov. Laura Kelly of “political spite,” House Speaker Dan Hawkins led the charge to make those who severely injure or kill police dogs pay for their medical care or funerals.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2583/">House Bill 2583</a>, known as “Bane’s Law,” was inspired by a Sedgwick County service dog named Bane that was killed&nbsp;last year by a fleeing suspect the dog had chased into a sewer drain.

Kelly vetoed the bill but on Monday was overridden 105-20 in the House and 29-10 in the Senate The law increases penalties for inflicting harm on law enforcement animals, including horses. The felony crime is now punishable by a minimum of 90 days in jail and a minimum fine of $10,000.

During the incarceration period, the perpetrator also will have to go through a psychological evaluation and completion of an anger management program as a condition of probation, although this provision is already included in Kansas statute.

The bill was introduced by Hawkins, R-Wichita, and Rep. Stephen Owens, R-Hesston, earlier in the session. Kansas statute previously required a minimum of 30 days in jail and a fine of more than $500 and less than $5,000 for the crime of severely harming or killing police dogs.

In her veto explanation, Kelly said the death of law enforcement animals is always a tragedy, but the heightened sentencing, psychological evaluation and anger management requirements were not mandated for other, more severe offenses.

“House Bill 2583 imposes mandatory minimum sentences that disregard important factors that should be left to the discretion of a judge through the regular sentencing process,” Kelly said. “Second, the mandatory sentences are out of line with other, more severe crimes without justification for why that is required. Third, while the requirement for a psychological evaluation and anger management program are important, we do not apply this same standard to many other heinous crimes.”

In response, Hawkins&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/DanHawkinsKS/status/1781494536834830482/photo/1">posted on X&nbsp;</a>a meme of Kelly photoshopped into a picture of the Wicked Witch of the West from “The Wizard of Oz,” with the caption, “I’ll get you law enforcement, and your little dogs too!” Underneath, he wrote: “Don’t forget Gov. Kelly vetoed a bill increasing penalties for killing or injuring police dogs out of pure political spite.”

Others shared Kelly’s concerns about the implications of the bill’s heightened punishments.

Because people who harm or kill these animals under the law are now responsible for restitution to the law enforcement agency — paying for the injured animal’s medical treatment, as well as funeral expenses if the animal dies, and the cost of replacing and training a new animal — expenses can be thousands of dollars, adding an additional burden to the jail time and fine.

Rep. Ford Carr, D-Wichita, mentioned the historical use of police dogs to harm people fighting for equality during the Civil Rights movement in previous bill debate.

“We should trust the police, but oftentimes we can’t, and that’s an issue,” Carr said during Monday’s House veto override debate.

Rep. Timothy Johnson, R-Basehor, who worked for decades in law enforcement and had experience with police dog training, pushed back on Carr’s claims. Johnson said the dogs were highly trained for all circumstances.

“They are not used as bite dogs. That is not their focus,” Johnson said. “… They become your family. I had one of the most wonderful German Shepherds in my entire life experience. We literally had a family funeral when he passed away. That animal would obey every and any command. I could walk in a schoolhouse among children and you would never know. Please, do not equate things that happened in the 1960s, in the ‘50s, with the way training is done now. It’s not allowed.”

Owens brought up the circumstance of Bane’s death in his defense of the bill, emphasizing K-9 officers’ role in protecting officers.

“That defendant brutally kicked that dog and caused significant internal damage to the point it was so weak that that individual was able to strangle that dog to death,” Owens said. “I want you to think if we had sent a law enforcement officer down there, how that might have played out.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700174387964.png" alt="A memorial service held Nov. 29 for K9 officer Bane -photo Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A memorial service held Nov. 29 for K9 officer Bane -photo Sedgwick County Sheriff's office.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Posting a “Wizard of Oz” meme and accusing Gov. Laura Kelly of “political spite,” House Speaker Dan Hawkins led the charge to make those who severely injure or kill police dogs pay for their medical care or funerals.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sometimes the truth hurts. Don’t forget Gov Kelly vetoed a bill increasing penalties for killing or injuring police dogs out of pure political spite. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/sgui3tBXm4">pic.twitter.com/sgui3tBXm4</a>&mdash; Dan Hawkins (@DanHawkinsKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanHawkinsKS/status/1781494536834830482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2583/">House Bill 2583</a>, known as “Bane’s Law,” was inspired by a Sedgwick County service dog named Bane that was killed&nbsp;last year by a fleeing suspect the dog had chased into a sewer drain.Kelly vetoed the bill but on Monday was overridden 105-20 in the House and 29-10 in the Senate The law increases penalties for inflicting harm on law enforcement animals, including horses. The felony crime is now punishable by a minimum of 90 days in jail and a minimum fine of $10,000.During the incarceration period, the perpetrator also will have to go through a psychological evaluation and completion of an anger management program as a condition of probation, although this provision is already included in Kansas statute.The bill was introduced by Hawkins, R-Wichita, and Rep. Stephen Owens, R-Hesston, earlier in the session. Kansas statute previously required a minimum of 30 days in jail and a fine of more than $500 and less than $5,000 for the crime of severely harming or killing police dogs.In her veto explanation, Kelly said the death of law enforcement animals is always a tragedy, but the heightened sentencing, psychological evaluation and anger management requirements were not mandated for other, more severe offenses.“House Bill 2583 imposes mandatory minimum sentences that disregard important factors that should be left to the discretion of a judge through the regular sentencing process,” Kelly said. “Second, the mandatory sentences are out of line with other, more severe crimes without justification for why that is required. Third, while the requirement for a psychological evaluation and anger management program are important, we do not apply this same standard to many other heinous crimes.”In response, Hawkins&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/DanHawkinsKS/status/1781494536834830482/photo/1">posted on X&nbsp;</a>a meme of Kelly photoshopped into a picture of the Wicked Witch of the West from “The Wizard of Oz,” with the caption, “I’ll get you law enforcement, and your little dogs too!” Underneath, he wrote: “Don’t forget Gov. Kelly vetoed a bill increasing penalties for killing or injuring police dogs out of pure political spite.”Others shared Kelly’s concerns about the implications of the bill’s heightened punishments.Because people who harm or kill these animals under the law are now responsible for restitution to the law enforcement agency — paying for the injured animal’s medical treatment, as well as funeral expenses if the animal dies, and the cost of replacing and training a new animal — expenses can be thousands of dollars, adding an additional burden to the jail time and fine.Rep. Ford Carr, D-Wichita, mentioned the historical use of police dogs to harm people fighting for equality during the Civil Rights movement in previous bill debate.“We should trust the police, but oftentimes we can’t, and that’s an issue,” Carr said during Monday’s House veto override debate.Rep. Timothy Johnson, R-Basehor, who worked for decades in law enforcement and had experience with police dog training, pushed back on Carr’s claims. Johnson said the dogs were highly trained for all circumstances.“They are not used as bite dogs. That is not their focus,” Johnson said. “… They become your family. I had one of the most wonderful German Shepherds in my entire life experience. We literally had a family funeral when he passed away. That animal would obey every and any command. I could walk in a schoolhouse among children and you would never know. Please, do not equate things that happened in the 1960s, in the ‘50s, with the way training is done now. It’s not allowed.”Owens brought up the circumstance of Bane’s death in his defense of the bill, emphasizing K-9 officers’ role in protecting officers.“That defendant brutally kicked that dog and caused significant internal damage to the point it was so weak that that individual was able to strangle that dog to death,” Owens said. “I want you to think if we had sent a law enforcement officer down there, how that might have played out.”

Inspired by death of beloved dog, Kan. police animal protection bill set to become law

KANSAS CITY —A shoplifting suspect died while in custody of the Kansas City Police Department.

Just after 6:30pm Thursday, two KCPD officers were working off-duty security at Walmart in the 8500 block of N Boardwalk Avenue, according to Police Captain Jake Becchina.

.At that time the officers took a man into custody for investigation of shoplifting. Officers escorted the subject to the security office. While the man was seated in the office officers observed him attempt to swallow an unknown object.

Officers attempted to get the man&nbsp; to spit the object out but he refused. The man began to exhibit difficulty breathing and then lost consciousness.

Officers immediately began to render aid and called for EMS. Officers continued lifesaving efforts until EMS arrived and took over. EMS transported the man to the hospital for treatment in life threatening condition.

He was later declared deceased at the hospital, according to Becchina. KCPD Detectives responded for a death investigation and worked with crime scene investigators to process the scene.

KANSAS CITY —A shoplifting suspect died while in custody of the Kansas City Police Department.Just after 6:30pm Thursday, two KCPD officers were working off-duty security at Walmart in the 8500 block of N Boardwalk Avenue, according to Police Captain Jake Becchina..At that time the officers took a man into custody for investigation of shoplifting. Officers escorted the subject to the security office. While the man was seated in the office officers observed him attempt to swallow an unknown object.Officers attempted to get the man&nbsp; to spit the object out but he refused. The man began to exhibit difficulty breathing and then lost consciousness.Officers immediately began to render aid and called for EMS. Officers continued lifesaving efforts until EMS arrived and took over. EMS transported the man to the hospital for treatment in life threatening condition.He was later declared deceased at the hospital, according to Becchina. KCPD Detectives responded for a death investigation and worked with crime scene investigators to process the scene.

KCPD: Shoplifting suspect dies after taken into custody

TOPEKA -&nbsp;Kansas law prohibits the University of Kansas from granting pro-Hamas protesters’ demands, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach wrote in a letter sent Thursday to KU Chancellor Doug Girod and members of the Kansas Board of Regents.

“As is often the case with uninformed, petulant loudmouths, (the protesters) have not done their research. And their views are reprehensible. I trust that you will not honor them,” Kobach’s letter reads.&nbsp; Click&nbsp;<a href="http://%20https//ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/letter-to-ku-and-board-of-regents.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to read the letter from Attorney General Kobach.

Protesters at KU are demanding that the university divest financial ties to Israel. However, the Kansas Legislature has already spoken on the topic.“The University of Kansas has many hallowed traditions, but siding with bloodthirsty, antisemitic terrorists is not one of them. I encourage you to enforce all applicable university rules and regulations so that the educational mission of the university is not disrupted,” Kobach wrote. “The taxpayers of Kansas expect and deserve the very best from KU.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714585191259.png" alt="Protestors at KU Photo by JuYeon Kim courtesy KSHB TV" />
 <figcaption>Protestors at KU Photo by JuYeon Kim courtesy KSHB TV</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA -&nbsp;Kansas law prohibits the University of Kansas from granting pro-Hamas protesters’ demands, Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach wrote in a letter sent Thursday to KU Chancellor Doug Girod and members of the Kansas Board of Regents.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/universityofkansas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#universityofkansas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/unversityprotests?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#unversityprotests</a> <a href="https://t.co/rf6tdQikFF">pic.twitter.com/rf6tdQikFF</a>&mdash; University Daily Kansan 🌾 (@KansanNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/KansanNews/status/1786116092076662990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714585098880.png" alt="Letter from protesters to the KU Chancellor" />
 <figcaption>Letter from protesters to the KU Chancellor</figcaption>
 </figure>“As is often the case with uninformed, petulant loudmouths, (the protesters) have not done their research. And their views are reprehensible. I trust that you will not honor them,” Kobach’s letter reads.&nbsp; Click&nbsp;<a href="http://%20https//ag.ks.gov/docs/default-source/documents/letter-to-ku-and-board-of-regents.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to read the letter from Attorney General Kobach.Protesters at KU are demanding that the university divest financial ties to Israel. However, the Kansas Legislature has already spoken on the topic.“The University of Kansas has many hallowed traditions, but siding with bloodthirsty, antisemitic terrorists is not one of them. I encourage you to enforce all applicable university rules and regulations so that the educational mission of the university is not disrupted,” Kobach wrote. “The taxpayers of Kansas expect and deserve the very best from KU.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kan. AG reminds KU that pro-Hamas protesters’ demands are illegal

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — United Methodist delegates on Thursday removed a 52-year-old declaration from their official social teachings that deemed “the practice of homosexuality ... incompatible with Christian teaching” — part of a wider series of historic reversals of the denomination’s longstanding disapproval of LGBTQ activity.

The historic vote came as delegates also approved a new definition of marriage as a covenant between “two people of faith” while recognizing the couple may or may not involve a man and a woman. That replaces an exclusively heterosexual definition of marriage and followed a debate that exposed tensions between some U.S. and international delegates.

The 523-161 vote to approve a section of the church's Revised Social Principles took place at the General Conference of the United Methodist Church in the penultimate day of their 11-day legislative gathering in Charlotte.

It came a day after the General Conference&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-methodist-lgbtq-clergy-general-conference-acabe18fe22b6838e3005ad8895534fa">removed its longstanding ban</a>&nbsp;on "self-avowed practicing homosexuals” from being ordained or appointed as ministers. Step by step, delegates have been removing anti-LGBTQ language throughout their official documents.

But the marriage definition was approved only after debate and a compromise amendment — one of the few instances of open debate during this otherwise overwhelmingly progressive conference.

“God designed marriage to be between a man and a woman,” said Nimia Peralta from the Northwest Philippines. While the conference earlier approved a regionalization plan enabling different parts of the global church to adapt rules to their local contexts, “God’s Word can never be regionalized,” she said.

But the Rev. James Howell of Western North Carolina applauded the new language.

“Cynics and young adults will not listen to us talk about Jesus if we say we do not condone people they love and care about,” Howell said. “Friends, it’s time.”

The Rev. Kalaba Chali, based in Kansas, said the principles are general enough without forcing people in different cultural contexts “to do things the same way.”

The approval came only after an amendment offered by lay delegate Molly Mwayera of East Zimbabwe, who noted that many African countries do not allow for same-sex marriage. After extended wordsmithing, the assembly settled on an amendment with a parenthetical clause that affirmed marriage as a sacred covenant bringing “two people of faith (adult man and woman of consenting age or two adult persons of consenting age) into union."

It’s the UMC’s first legislative gathering since 2019, one that features its most progressive slate of delegates in memory due to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congregations-leaving-united-methodist-church-lgbtq-bans-70b8c89ea49174597f4548c249bab24f">departure of many conservatives</a>&nbsp;from the denomination. More than 7,600 mostly conservative congregations in the United States — one quarter of the denomination's American total — disaffiliated because the UMC essentially stopped enforcing its bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination.

A temporary window enabled American churches to leave with their properties, normally held by the denomination, under more favorable than normal terms. While the conference voted against extending that window to international churches, the conference votes could still prompt departures of some international churches through different means — particularly in Africa, where conservative sexual values prevail and where same-sex activity is criminalized in some countries.

After the vote, contrasting gatherings were held nearby outside the Charlotte Convention Center — a celebratory gathering of LGBTQ people and their allies at one end of a long courtyard, a defiant gathering of prayer and song by dozens of African delegates who opposed the changes.

“We are deeply devastated now to be part of a denomination that will contradict the Bible ’s teaching on marriage and sexual morality,” said the Rev. Jerry Kulah, of the conservative advocacy group Africa Initiative. He said African conferences will have to decide their future, but he contended the denomination was “willing to lose Africans and Africa to fulfill this progressive agenda.”

Some African delegates have spoken in support of the regionalization proposal, which can allow church regions to maintain their bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination even as American churches go without them.

The progressive momentum of the General Conference was evident from the vote Thursday. They voted on the last of a series of approvals of a wholesale rewrite of the denomination’s Social Principles — a non-binding but influential compendium of the denomination’s social stances on everything from war and peace to the environment and family relations.

The new version no longer includes the clause: “The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching." It had also urged members not to condemn gays and lesbians.

The old version said sexual relations are "affirmed only with the covenant of monogamous, heterosexual marriage."

The new version omits this phrase and describes “human sexuality as a sacred gift” and a “healthy and natural part of life that is expressed in wonderfully diverse ways.” It doesn't say anything about restricting sexual activity to marriage. It does say people have the right to consent to sex and condemns sexual harassment and exploitation and opposes pornography as “destructive.”

The new version calls for human rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and other racial, ethnic and gender categories.

Thursday’s change is particularly significant because the “incompatible” clause dates back to the beginning of the 52-year-old debate on LGBTQ issues within one of the nation’s largest Protestant denominations. The phrasing was adopted on the floor of the 1972 General Conference via an amendment proposed by a delegate, added to the original draft statement that had said “persons of homosexual orientation are persons of sacred worth.”

The denomination had been revising and adding to the Social Principles for decades; this amounts to the first wholesale rewrite in many years. Other revisions were approved earlier this week.

The drafters chose general language because the denomination spans countries and cultures, said John Hill, interim general secretary at the Board of Church and Society, at a news conference earlier this week.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714692325534.png" alt="Kaleigh Corbett and Thomas Lank of the Greater New Jersey Conference embrace after General Conference delegates voted on May 2 to eliminate the longtime assertion in the denomination’s Social Principles that “the practice of homosexuality… is incompatible with Christian teaching.” The legislative assembly is meeting in Charlotte, N.C., through May 3. Photo by Larry McCormack, courtesy UM News." />
 <figcaption>Kaleigh Corbett and Thomas Lank of the Greater New Jersey Conference embrace after General Conference delegates voted on May 2 to eliminate the longtime assertion in the denomination’s Social Principles that “the practice of homosexuality… is incompatible with Christian teaching.” The legislative assembly is meeting in Charlotte, N.C., through May 3. Photo by Larry McCormack, courtesy UM News.</figcaption>
 </figure>CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — United Methodist delegates on Thursday removed a 52-year-old declaration from their official social teachings that deemed “the practice of homosexuality ... incompatible with Christian teaching” — part of a wider series of historic reversals of the denomination’s longstanding disapproval of LGBTQ activity.The historic vote came as delegates also approved a new definition of marriage as a covenant between “two people of faith” while recognizing the couple may or may not involve a man and a woman. That replaces an exclusively heterosexual definition of marriage and followed a debate that exposed tensions between some U.S. and international delegates.The 523-161 vote to approve a section of the church's Revised Social Principles took place at the General Conference of the United Methodist Church in the penultimate day of their 11-day legislative gathering in Charlotte.It came a day after the General Conference&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-methodist-lgbtq-clergy-general-conference-acabe18fe22b6838e3005ad8895534fa">removed its longstanding ban</a>&nbsp;on "self-avowed practicing homosexuals” from being ordained or appointed as ministers. Step by step, delegates have been removing anti-LGBTQ language throughout their official documents.But the marriage definition was approved only after debate and a compromise amendment — one of the few instances of open debate during this otherwise overwhelmingly progressive conference.“God designed marriage to be between a man and a woman,” said Nimia Peralta from the Northwest Philippines. While the conference earlier approved a regionalization plan enabling different parts of the global church to adapt rules to their local contexts, “God’s Word can never be regionalized,” she said.But the Rev. James Howell of Western North Carolina applauded the new language.“Cynics and young adults will not listen to us talk about Jesus if we say we do not condone people they love and care about,” Howell said. “Friends, it’s time.”The Rev. Kalaba Chali, based in Kansas, said the principles are general enough without forcing people in different cultural contexts “to do things the same way.”The approval came only after an amendment offered by lay delegate Molly Mwayera of East Zimbabwe, who noted that many African countries do not allow for same-sex marriage. After extended wordsmithing, the assembly settled on an amendment with a parenthetical clause that affirmed marriage as a sacred covenant bringing “two people of faith (adult man and woman of consenting age or two adult persons of consenting age) into union."It’s the UMC’s first legislative gathering since 2019, one that features its most progressive slate of delegates in memory due to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congregations-leaving-united-methodist-church-lgbtq-bans-70b8c89ea49174597f4548c249bab24f">departure of many conservatives</a>&nbsp;from the denomination. More than 7,600 mostly conservative congregations in the United States — one quarter of the denomination's American total — disaffiliated because the UMC essentially stopped enforcing its bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination.A temporary window enabled American churches to leave with their properties, normally held by the denomination, under more favorable than normal terms. While the conference voted against extending that window to international churches, the conference votes could still prompt departures of some international churches through different means — particularly in Africa, where conservative sexual values prevail and where same-sex activity is criminalized in some countries.After the vote, contrasting gatherings were held nearby outside the Charlotte Convention Center — a celebratory gathering of LGBTQ people and their allies at one end of a long courtyard, a defiant gathering of prayer and song by dozens of African delegates who opposed the changes.“We are deeply devastated now to be part of a denomination that will contradict the Bible ’s teaching on marriage and sexual morality,” said the Rev. Jerry Kulah, of the conservative advocacy group Africa Initiative. He said African conferences will have to decide their future, but he contended the denomination was “willing to lose Africans and Africa to fulfill this progressive agenda.”Some African delegates have spoken in support of the regionalization proposal, which can allow church regions to maintain their bans on same-sex marriage and LGBTQ ordination even as American churches go without them.The progressive momentum of the General Conference was evident from the vote Thursday. They voted on the last of a series of approvals of a wholesale rewrite of the denomination’s Social Principles — a non-binding but influential compendium of the denomination’s social stances on everything from war and peace to the environment and family relations.The new version no longer includes the clause: “The United Methodist Church does not condone the practice of homosexuality and considers this practice incompatible with Christian teaching." It had also urged members not to condemn gays and lesbians.The old version said sexual relations are "affirmed only with the covenant of monogamous, heterosexual marriage."The new version omits this phrase and describes “human sexuality as a sacred gift” and a “healthy and natural part of life that is expressed in wonderfully diverse ways.” It doesn't say anything about restricting sexual activity to marriage. It does say people have the right to consent to sex and condemns sexual harassment and exploitation and opposes pornography as “destructive.”The new version calls for human rights for all, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and other racial, ethnic and gender categories.Thursday’s change is particularly significant because the “incompatible” clause dates back to the beginning of the 52-year-old debate on LGBTQ issues within one of the nation’s largest Protestant denominations. The phrasing was adopted on the floor of the 1972 General Conference via an amendment proposed by a delegate, added to the original draft statement that had said “persons of homosexual orientation are persons of sacred worth.”The denomination had been revising and adding to the Social Principles for decades; this amounts to the first wholesale rewrite in many years. Other revisions were approved earlier this week.The drafters chose general language because the denomination spans countries and cultures, said John Hill, interim general secretary at the Board of Church and Society, at a news conference earlier this week.

United Methodists remove anti-gay language from their official teachings on societal issues

JERUSALEM (AP) —Dror Or, a 49-year-old held captive in Gaza, has died, the Hostages Families Forum said Friday. Or marks the 38th hostage killed, the forum said.

He was one of about 250 people&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-displaced-hamas-dead-sea-beeri-hotel-94d57fc34dd18a73e38eea8437d15801">abducted when Hamas attacked</a>&nbsp;southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israel says militants&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-hostage-families-ceasefire-ramadan-d1b0da2f7bd2e9882f79ebae874561be">still hold around 100 hostages</a>&nbsp;and the remains of more than 30 others.

Dozens of people demonstrated Thursday night outside Israel’s military headquarters in Tel Aviv, demanding a deal to release the hostages. Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-gaza-palestinian-authority-israel-war-ed7018dbaae09b81513daf3bda38109a">Hamas</a>&nbsp;said it would send a delegation to Cairo as soon as possible to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-05-02-2024-0699ef663cba7318c375c0ee5bbf20ae">keep working on cease-fire talks</a>. A leaked truce proposal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-ceasefire-negotiations-7cec005ccd59dbd817ef9614a8611ca4">hints at compromises by both sides</a>&nbsp;after months of talks languishing in a stalemate.

Across the United States, tent encampments and demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/college-protests-Palestine-updates">spread across university campuses</a>. More than 2,000 protesters have been arrested over the past two weeks as students rally against the war’s death toll and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-protest-gaza-war-arrest-amnesty-ae235703d6a9b99114078fca13a530a0">call for universities to separate themselves</a>&nbsp;from any companies that are advancing Israel’s military efforts in Gaza.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;has driven around 80% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million from their homes, caused vast destruction in several towns and cities, and pushed northern Gaza&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-03-18-2024-eefc526aec97821fe5f1e845801a6640">to the brink of famine</a>. The death toll in Gaza has soared to more than 34,500 people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">according to local health officials</a>, and the territory's entire population has been driven into a humanitarian catastrophe.

Meanwhile, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, while at a news conference Thursday in Hawaii, was asked by a reporter what consequences Israel would face from the U.S. if Israel conducted an offensive operation in Rafah without “appropriately taking into account” civilians in the area.

Austin said it would be up to President Joe Biden and he wouldn’t speculate on that, but that currently, "conditions are not favorable to any kind of operation."

“What we’ve highlighted for the Israelis is that it’s really important to make sure that the civilians that are in that battle space move out of that battle space before any activity is conducted. And that if and when they return to any kind of operation that it be conducted in a more much more precise fashion,” Austin said.

He noted there were about 275,000 people living in and around Rafah before the conflict started but there are now about 1.4 million.

“That’s a lot of people in a very small space. There’s a good chance that without taking the right measures that we’ll see a lot more civilian casualties going forward. So before anything happens, we certainly want to see them address that threat to the civilians,” Austin said.

“Right now, the conditions are not favorable to any kind of operation. And we’ve been clear about that. It is necessary to take care of the civilian population that’s in that area before anything else happens,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714731047165.png" alt="Dror Or- photo Hostage and Missing Families" />
 <figcaption>Dror Or- photo Hostage and Missing Families</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM (AP) —Dror Or, a 49-year-old held captive in Gaza, has died, the Hostages Families Forum said Friday. Or marks the 38th hostage killed, the forum said.He was one of about 250 people&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-displaced-hamas-dead-sea-beeri-hotel-94d57fc34dd18a73e38eea8437d15801">abducted when Hamas attacked</a>&nbsp;southern Israel on Oct. 7, killing around 1,200 people, mostly civilians. Israel says militants&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-hostage-families-ceasefire-ramadan-d1b0da2f7bd2e9882f79ebae874561be">still hold around 100 hostages</a>&nbsp;and the remains of more than 30 others.Dozens of people demonstrated Thursday night outside Israel’s military headquarters in Tel Aviv, demanding a deal to release the hostages. Meanwhile,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-gaza-palestinian-authority-israel-war-ed7018dbaae09b81513daf3bda38109a">Hamas</a>&nbsp;said it would send a delegation to Cairo as soon as possible to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-05-02-2024-0699ef663cba7318c375c0ee5bbf20ae">keep working on cease-fire talks</a>. A leaked truce proposal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-ceasefire-negotiations-7cec005ccd59dbd817ef9614a8611ca4">hints at compromises by both sides</a>&nbsp;after months of talks languishing in a stalemate.Across the United States, tent encampments and demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/college-protests-Palestine-updates">spread across university campuses</a>. More than 2,000 protesters have been arrested over the past two weeks as students rally against the war’s death toll and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-protest-gaza-war-arrest-amnesty-ae235703d6a9b99114078fca13a530a0">call for universities to separate themselves</a>&nbsp;from any companies that are advancing Israel’s military efforts in Gaza.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;has driven around 80% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million from their homes, caused vast destruction in several towns and cities, and pushed northern Gaza&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-03-18-2024-eefc526aec97821fe5f1e845801a6640">to the brink of famine</a>. The death toll in Gaza has soared to more than 34,500 people,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">according to local health officials</a>, and the territory's entire population has been driven into a humanitarian catastrophe.Meanwhile, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, while at a news conference Thursday in Hawaii, was asked by a reporter what consequences Israel would face from the U.S. if Israel conducted an offensive operation in Rafah without “appropriately taking into account” civilians in the area.Austin said it would be up to President Joe Biden and he wouldn’t speculate on that, but that currently, "conditions are not favorable to any kind of operation."“What we’ve highlighted for the Israelis is that it’s really important to make sure that the civilians that are in that battle space move out of that battle space before any activity is conducted. And that if and when they return to any kind of operation that it be conducted in a more much more precise fashion,” Austin said.He noted there were about 275,000 people living in and around Rafah before the conflict started but there are now about 1.4 million.“That’s a lot of people in a very small space. There’s a good chance that without taking the right measures that we’ll see a lot more civilian casualties going forward. So before anything happens, we certainly want to see them address that threat to the civilians,” Austin said.“Right now, the conditions are not favorable to any kind of operation. And we’ve been clear about that. It is necessary to take care of the civilian population that’s in that area before anything else happens,” he said.

U.S. confirms another hostage held in Gaza has died 

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A pair of Kansas brothers will serve time in prison for opening fire on law enforcement officers as the officers were investigating an earlier, related shooting.

According to court documents, G’Ante Butler, 24, and Zarion Butler, 26, of Kansas City, Kansas, were both sentenced to 190 months’ imprisonment.

In December 2023, a federal jury found G’Ante Butler guilty of one count of forcible assault on a federal law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Zarion Butler subsequently pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault of a federal law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Co-defendants Nadarius Barnes, 24, Chase Lewis, 23, and Donnell L. Hall, 28, all of Kansas City, Kansas, each pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault on a federal law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Barnes was sentenced to 156 months’ imprisonment, Lewis (a driver who did not shoot at officers) was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment, and Hall is awaiting sentencing.

On August 3, 2020, Kansas City, Kansas police officers responded to a “shots fired” call at a house where the Butler brothers’ parents lived on Farrow Avenue. In response to the investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agents and federally deputized Task Force Officers (TFOs) went to North Allis Street and arrested a suspect in the Farrow Avenue shooting. 

As the officers were returning to their vehicles, multiple shooters began firing at them. The officers tried to immediately take cover, however, not before an officer and a civilian bystander were struck by gunfire.

The Butlers, Barnes, and Hall shot at the North Allis Street house in retaliation for the earlier shooting on Farrow Avenue. Officers later recovered numerous spent shell casings (including 9mm, .40 caliber, .45 caliber, 5.56 caliber, and 7.62 caliber casings) from an alley west of the targeted North Allis Street home.

“Numerous brave Law Enforcement Officers started their day in August of 2020 doing their job by executing a lawful search warrant when they were ambushed by four individuals. No one can be allowed to shoot at law enforcement. 

This sentence sends a clear warning to anyone who thinks they can shoot at Law Enforcement and get away with it – they cannot. If they try, we will tirelessly work with the United States Attorney’s Office and our federal, state, and local partners to investigate and prosecute them to the fullest extent provided by law,” stated Bernard G. Hansen, Special Agent in Charge, Kansas City Field Division. “The actions of the ATF Special Agents and officers from our partner agencies that day are truly commendable as they acted with high regard not only for their safety but those of the surrounding community. I am both grateful for, and inspired by, the professionalism shown by the ATF agents who risked their lives that morning.”

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are investigating the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704406464075.png" alt="G’Ante Butler-photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>G’Ante Butler-photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A pair of Kansas brothers will serve time in prison for opening fire on law enforcement officers as the officers were investigating an earlier, related shooting.According to court documents, G’Ante Butler, 24, and Zarion Butler, 26, of Kansas City, Kansas, were both sentenced to 190 months’ imprisonment.In December 2023, a federal jury found G’Ante Butler guilty of one count of forcible assault on a federal law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714511230399.png" alt="Zarion Butler" />
 <figcaption>Zarion Butler</figcaption>
 </figure>Zarion Butler subsequently pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault of a federal law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.Co-defendants Nadarius Barnes, 24, Chase Lewis, 23, and Donnell L. Hall, 28, all of Kansas City, Kansas, each pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault on a federal law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Barnes was sentenced to 156 months’ imprisonment, Lewis (a driver who did not shoot at officers) was sentenced to 42 months’ imprisonment, and Hall is awaiting sentencing.On August 3, 2020, Kansas City, Kansas police officers responded to a “shots fired” call at a house where the Butler brothers’ parents lived on Farrow Avenue. In response to the investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Special Agents and federally deputized Task Force Officers (TFOs) went to North Allis Street and arrested a suspect in the Farrow Avenue shooting. As the officers were returning to their vehicles, multiple shooters began firing at them. The officers tried to immediately take cover, however, not before an officer and a civilian bystander were struck by gunfire.The Butlers, Barnes, and Hall shot at the North Allis Street house in retaliation for the earlier shooting on Farrow Avenue. Officers later recovered numerous spent shell casings (including 9mm, .40 caliber, .45 caliber, 5.56 caliber, and 7.62 caliber casings) from an alley west of the targeted North Allis Street home.“Numerous brave Law Enforcement Officers started their day in August of 2020 doing their job by executing a lawful search warrant when they were ambushed by four individuals. No one can be allowed to shoot at law enforcement. This sentence sends a clear warning to anyone who thinks they can shoot at Law Enforcement and get away with it – they cannot. If they try, we will tirelessly work with the United States Attorney’s Office and our federal, state, and local partners to investigate and prosecute them to the fullest extent provided by law,” stated Bernard G. Hansen, Special Agent in Charge, Kansas City Field Division. “The actions of the ATF Special Agents and officers from our partner agencies that day are truly commendable as they acted with high regard not only for their safety but those of the surrounding community. I am both grateful for, and inspired by, the professionalism shown by the ATF agents who risked their lives that morning.”The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are investigating the case.

Kan. brothers orchestrated retaliation shooting at law enforcement

KINGMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Thursday in Kingman County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by&nbsp; 55-year-old Drew Thomas of Wheeler, Texas, was northbound on Kansas 14 at southeast 50th Street.&nbsp; The semi hauling cattle drifted to the right and left the roadway. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle&nbsp; overturned.

EMS transported Thomas to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1714660113191.jpeg" alt="A cattle hauler overturned in Kingman County early Thursday, May 2, 2024. Photo Courtesy Kingman County Sheriff's Office." />
 <figcaption>A cattle hauler overturned in Kingman County early Thursday, May 2, 2024. Photo Courtesy Kingman County Sheriff's Office.</figcaption>
 </figure>KINGMAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 1:30a.m. Thursday in Kingman County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Peterbilt semi driven by&nbsp; 55-year-old Drew Thomas of Wheeler, Texas, was northbound on Kansas 14 at southeast 50th Street.&nbsp; The semi hauling cattle drifted to the right and left the roadway. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle&nbsp; overturned.EMS transported Thomas to Wesley Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries.

Driver hospitalized after cattle hauler overturns on Kan. highway

PAWNEE COUNTY—A jury on Wednesday found a Kansas man guilty of felony charges of Forgery and Theft by Deception.

The two-day trial was conducted in the Pawnee County District Court against Adam Collinge, 43 of Topeka, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

The charges stem from an allegation that on January 19, 2022, Collinge passed a forged check at a bank in Larned, Kansas, that had been written on the account of a Lawrence based business. 

At trial, the State presented testimony that in addition to the check presented in Larned,&nbsp; Collinge also presented similar checks that same afternoon at three other branches of the bank in Central Kansas. While Collinge was able to cash checks at the first three branches he entered, the fourth bank declined the attempted transaction after determining it to be suspicion.

Representatives from the business testified Collinge had never been employed by their business and that they had not authorized the issuance of any checks to Collinge. Employees from the bank testified that the Collinge received a total of $8,264.30 from the bank and that the bank reversed the debits from the business’s account since they were fraudulent transactions.

Collinge testified on his own behalf at the trial and advised the Jury that he had been picked up by two unknown men in Topeka that morning and offered construction work in Western Kansas. When they arrived in Central Kansas, he was told all they needed him to do was cash checks. 

He testified he was paid $200 for each check cashed. He further testified he was told the excess money was going to be used to pay undocumented workers who had actually performed the discussed construction work.

The Larned Police Department handled the investigation as to the check presented in Pawnee County.

The jury made up of 5 men and 7 women deliberated for approximately thirty-minutes Wednesday before returning Guilty verdicts on both counts.&nbsp;

Under the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines Collinge faces a sentence between 7 months and 23 months in the custody of the Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history.&nbsp; He remains free on supervised release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654102566248.png" alt="Collinge-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Collinge-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—A jury on Wednesday found a Kansas man guilty of felony charges of Forgery and Theft by Deception.The two-day trial was conducted in the Pawnee County District Court against Adam Collinge, 43 of Topeka, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.The charges stem from an allegation that on January 19, 2022, Collinge passed a forged check at a bank in Larned, Kansas, that had been written on the account of a Lawrence based business. At trial, the State presented testimony that in addition to the check presented in Larned,&nbsp; Collinge also presented similar checks that same afternoon at three other branches of the bank in Central Kansas. While Collinge was able to cash checks at the first three branches he entered, the fourth bank declined the attempted transaction after determining it to be suspicion.Representatives from the business testified Collinge had never been employed by their business and that they had not authorized the issuance of any checks to Collinge. Employees from the bank testified that the Collinge received a total of $8,264.30 from the bank and that the bank reversed the debits from the business’s account since they were fraudulent transactions.Collinge testified on his own behalf at the trial and advised the Jury that he had been picked up by two unknown men in Topeka that morning and offered construction work in Western Kansas. When they arrived in Central Kansas, he was told all they needed him to do was cash checks. He testified he was paid $200 for each check cashed. He further testified he was told the excess money was going to be used to pay undocumented workers who had actually performed the discussed construction work.The Larned Police Department handled the investigation as to the check presented in Pawnee County.The jury made up of 5 men and 7 women deliberated for approximately thirty-minutes Wednesday before returning Guilty verdicts on both counts.&nbsp;Under the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines Collinge faces a sentence between 7 months and 23 months in the custody of the Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history.&nbsp; He remains free on supervised release.

Jury: Kan. man guilty of cashing forged payroll check at 4 banks

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Authorities in Pottawatomie County have released the name of the woman who died in the tornado on Tuesday.

According to&nbsp;Becky Ryan, Pottawatomie County Public Information Officer, 58-year-old Ann Miller died from injuries in the tornado.

Just after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, an EF3 tornado struck the Pottawatomie County community of Westmoreland with wind gusts of 140mph, according to a preliminary damage survey by the National Weather Service in Topeka.

&nbsp;Miller was a long term county resident and a county health department employee.

Meanwhile, the American Red Cross is establishing a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Westmoreland to aid residents impacted by the tornado.

The MARC will serve both direct victims and those indirectly affected, including families. It will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, May 3 through Sunday, May 5 at the Methodist Church, located at 109 Main Street in Westmoreland. 

Agencies will be located in the education building immediately south of the church.Visitors to the MARC will have access to a wide range of services from various agencies, including but not limited to:• Pawnee Mental Health• American Red Cross• Pottawatomie County Appraiser’s Office• Pottawatomie County Health Department• AT&amp;T• The Salvation ArmyResidents affected by the disaster are encouraged to take advantage of the support available at the MARC, and community members are urged to spread the word about this important resource.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1714524542202.png" alt="Picture of the Tuesday tornado by Kristen Krainbill. The view is facing west from the Charlson and Wilson offices located at 108 N 2nd in Westmoreland. The buildings in the picture are the old and new Pottawatomie County Courthouse and Jail and County offices." />
 <figcaption>Picture of the Tuesday tornado by Kristen Krainbill. The view is facing west from the Charlson and Wilson offices located at 108 N 2nd in Westmoreland. The buildings in the picture are the old and new Pottawatomie County Courthouse and Jail and County offices.</figcaption>
 </figure>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY —Authorities in Pottawatomie County have released the name of the woman who died in the tornado on Tuesday.According to&nbsp;Becky Ryan, Pottawatomie County Public Information Officer, 58-year-old Ann Miller died from injuries in the tornado.Just after 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, an EF3 tornado struck the Pottawatomie County community of Westmoreland with wind gusts of 140mph, according to a preliminary damage survey by the National Weather Service in Topeka.&nbsp;Miller was a long term county resident and a county health department employee.Meanwhile, the American Red Cross is establishing a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) in Westmoreland to aid residents impacted by the tornado.The MARC will serve both direct victims and those indirectly affected, including families. It will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, May 3 through Sunday, May 5 at the Methodist Church, located at 109 Main Street in Westmoreland. Agencies will be located in the education building immediately south of the church.Visitors to the MARC will have access to a wide range of services from various agencies, including but not limited to:• Pawnee Mental Health• American Red Cross• Pottawatomie County Appraiser’s Office• Pottawatomie County Health Department• AT&amp;T• The Salvation ArmyResidents affected by the disaster are encouraged to take advantage of the support available at the MARC, and community members are urged to spread the word about this important resource.

Officials ID Kansas woman who died in tornado

By U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence

Iran’s leaders regularly espouse the goal of eradicating the state of Israel. Earlier this month, Iran acted on that goal, launching for the first time an attack on Israel from its own soil. Iranian leaders have threatened future responses from Iranian territory.

A line has been crossed. This attack and any future escalation pose a threat to Israel and regional stability, as well as to U.S. troops stationed in the region.

Just as concerning: Iran is increasing its defense cooperation with Russia and China, participating in military exercises with both countries, and pursuing advanced military equipment from and to Moscow.

Meanwhile, the Iranian regime continues to provide support to terrorist groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Gaza, where Israel continues its battle against those responsible for the Oct. 7 attack. Iran also has the technical capability to develop a nuclear weapon if the Supreme Leader orders it.

But Iran’s nefarious plans require funding, and the regime’s economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, which represent up to 70% of its government revenues. By cutting off Iran’s lucrative oil market, we can drain their terrorist slush funds and weaken Iran’s ability to promote further violence.

Since 2010, Congress has passed numerous bipartisan laws to restrict Iran’s oil exports. In the last six months alone, there have been more than 100 bills introduced in Congress aimed at diminishing Iranian oil sales.

Nonetheless, it is the responsibility of the president to enforce these sanctions, and the Biden administration has failed to do so in any meaningful way.

After the Trump administration withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and began its “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimated that Iran’s crude oil fell from 2.5 million barrels per day in 2017 to a mere 400,000 in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698779613018.jpeg" alt="Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, member of the Senate Select Committee on IntelligenceIran’s leaders regularly espouse the goal of eradicating the state of Israel. Earlier this month, Iran acted on that goal, launching for the first time an attack on Israel from its own soil. Iranian leaders have threatened future responses from Iranian territory.A line has been crossed. This attack and any future escalation pose a threat to Israel and regional stability, as well as to U.S. troops stationed in the region.Just as concerning: Iran is increasing its defense cooperation with Russia and China, participating in military exercises with both countries, and pursuing advanced military equipment from and to Moscow.Meanwhile, the Iranian regime continues to provide support to terrorist groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Gaza, where Israel continues its battle against those responsible for the Oct. 7 attack. Iran also has the technical capability to develop a nuclear weapon if the Supreme Leader orders it.But Iran’s nefarious plans require funding, and the regime’s economy is heavily dependent on oil exports, which represent up to 70% of its government revenues. By cutting off Iran’s lucrative oil market, we can drain their terrorist slush funds and weaken Iran’s ability to promote further violence.Since 2010, Congress has passed numerous bipartisan laws to restrict Iran’s oil exports. In the last six months alone, there have been more than 100 bills introduced in Congress aimed at diminishing Iranian oil sales.Nonetheless, it is the responsibility of the president to enforce these sanctions, and the Biden administration has failed to do so in any meaningful way.After the Trump administration withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and began its “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, the U.S. Energy Information Administration estimated that Iran’s crude oil fell from 2.5 million barrels per day in 2017 to a mere 400,000 in 2020.The Biden administration recently announced plans to impose new sanctions on Iran, stating, “These new sanctions and other measures will continue a steady drumbeat of pressure to contain and degrade Iran’s military capacity and effectiveness.”Yet this administration has steadily reduced pressure on Iran and failed to enforce bipartisan sanctions already in place — allowing Iran to return to exporting 1.6 to 1.8 million barrels of oil a day.I have no confidence in the White House to enforce these new sanctions. Posturing and using one-word phrases mean nothing to Iran.Six months have passed since the greatest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust, and Iranian oil prices and production have reached a multi-year high. Since then, an Iran-backed group killed three American servicemembers, and another has effectively closed the Red Sea to commercial shipping. Iranian intelligence continues to plot to assassinate U.S. officials. Whatever goodwill the president hoped to earn from Tehran by looking the other way on sanctions, his policy has only reaped chaos.The greatest beneficiary of Biden’s policy, besides Iran, is China, which is the primary customer of Iran’s oil — buying up to 90% of it at a substantial discount. This, in turn, supports China’s economy and its rapid military modernization that is a threat to the Indo-Pacific region.U.S. officials “have privately acknowledged a gradual relaxation of enforcement on Iranian oil sales.” Any relaxation of congressionally-mandated sanctions against Iran while our trusted allies in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific endure threats to their security and stability is wholly unacceptable.To be sure, sanctions alone are not a panacea to the Iran challenge. They are one tool to be coupled with military and diplomatic pressure to achieve the outcomes we seek. But they are a tool to be wielded. It is far past time for Biden to do so.