JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas woman accused of a deadly overdose death is guilty, according to a jury in Johnson County.

Last week, a jury convicted 48-year-old Trina L. Golden of distribution of drugs causing death and use of a communication facility during a drug felony, according to Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe.

The victim was 19-year-old Maddelyn Miller who died of an overdose in July of 2020 at her home in Overland Park.

According to her obituary,&nbsp;Miller attended Olathe East High School, graduated in 2019 and&nbsp; planned to study at Johnson County Community College. Golden is scheduled for sentencing in September.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721483651727.png" alt="Golden -photo Johnson Co." />
                        <figcaption>Golden -photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas woman accused of a deadly overdose death is guilty, according to a jury in Johnson County.</p><p>Last week, a jury convicted 48-year-old Trina L. Golden of distribution of drugs causing death and use of a communication facility during a drug felony, according to Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe.</p><p>The victim was 19-year-old Maddelyn Miller who died of an overdose in July of 2020 at her home in Overland Park.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721484305174.png" alt="Maddelyn Miller courtesy photo" />
                        <figcaption>Maddelyn Miller courtesy photo</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>According to her obituary,&nbsp;Miller attended Olathe East High School, graduated in 2019 and&nbsp; planned to study at Johnson County Community College. Golden is scheduled for sentencing in September.</p>

Jury: Woman guilty in drug deal death of Kansas teen

RENO COUNTY —A Kansas felon is back in custody after a chase in Reno County.

Just before 3:30 p.m. Monday, agents with the Department of Corrections Enforcement, Apprehension, and Investigation (EAI) Task Force located a wanted subject, James M. Smith, 36, of Hutchinson, near 11th Ave and Severance Street, according to a media release.

Before they were able to make contact, Smith left the area in a vehicle and fled from officers with Hutchinson Police Department. Officers did not pursue Smith at that time due to Smith’s history of fleeing from law enforcement.

Smith was later located walking near 12th Ave and Milcon Street. Smith was armed with a handgun and fled from officers on foot. Kansas Highway Patrol located Smith after he got back in his vehicle and fled the area. A pursuit ensued at that time.

At approximately 3:48 p.m., Smith ran a stop sign at 4th Ave and Maple Street striking another vehicle that was occupied by one person. Smith fled on foot, and while doing so fired a shot from his handgun. It is believed that Smith was not firing the handgun at pursuing officers. Smith was taken into custody a short time later. During this incident, one citizen suffered minor injuries from the crash caused by Smith. No officers were injured.

Kansas Highway Patrol is the lead agency on the crash investigation and Hutchinson Police Department is the lead agency on the criminal investigation. Smith was arrested on requested chartes of Felony Flee and Elude, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Aggravated Battery,&nbsp; Felony Interference with Law Enforcement,&nbsp; Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Reckless Driving, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and Three Felony Warrants.

Smith is being held with no bond at this time.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for drugs and Flee or elude LEO with five or more moving violations, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721692841949.png" alt="Smith has previous convictions for drugs and&nbsp;Flee or elude LEO with five or more moving violations, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
                        <figcaption>Smith has previous convictions for drugs and&nbsp;Flee or elude LEO with five or more moving violations, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>RENO COUNTY —A Kansas felon is back in custody after a chase in Reno County.</p><p>Just before 3:30 p.m. Monday, agents with the Department of Corrections Enforcement, Apprehension, and Investigation (EAI) Task Force located a wanted subject, James M. Smith, 36, of Hutchinson, near 11th Ave and Severance Street, according to a media release.</p><p>Before they were able to make contact, Smith left the area in a vehicle and fled from officers with Hutchinson Police Department. Officers did not pursue Smith at that time due to Smith’s history of fleeing from law enforcement.</p><p>Smith was later located walking near 12th Ave and Milcon Street. Smith was armed with a handgun and fled from officers on foot. Kansas Highway Patrol located Smith after he got back in his vehicle and fled the area. A pursuit ensued at that time.</p><p>At approximately 3:48 p.m., Smith ran a stop sign at 4th Ave and Maple Street striking another vehicle that was occupied by one person. Smith fled on foot, and while doing so fired a shot from his handgun. It is believed that Smith was not firing the handgun at pursuing officers. Smith was taken into custody a short time later. During this incident, one citizen suffered minor injuries from the crash caused by Smith. No officers were injured.</p><p>Kansas Highway Patrol is the lead agency on the crash investigation and Hutchinson Police Department is the lead agency on the criminal investigation. Smith was arrested on requested chartes of Felony Flee and Elude, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Aggravated Battery,&nbsp; Felony Interference with Law Enforcement,&nbsp; Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Reckless Driving, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and Three Felony Warrants.</p><p>Smith is being held with no bond at this time.&nbsp; He has previous convictions for drugs and Flee or elude LEO with five or more moving violations, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</p>

Wanted Kansas felon captured after chase, crash and shots fired

JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man is going to prison for the murder of a Kansas woman and her unborn child.

On July 15, Judge T. Kelly Ryan sentenced 30-year-old Doniel Sublett, Jr., to life with no possibility of parole until he has serves 50-years, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

In November, Sublett plead guilty to pre meditated first-degree murder of Kathleen Jane Dampier and her unborn baby boy.

In September of 2022,&nbsp;&nbsp;police responded to report of a medical emergency at an apartment in the 7400 Block of Flint in Olathe, according to a media release from police.

At the scene, officers located 25-year-old Kathleen J. Dampier with gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police took Sublette into custody for questioning and made an arrest.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1663757512945.png" alt="Sublett photo Johnson Co." />
                        <figcaption>Sublett photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas man is going to prison for the murder of a Kansas woman and her unborn child.</p><p>On July 15, Judge T. Kelly Ryan sentenced 30-year-old Doniel Sublett, Jr., to life with no possibility of parole until he has serves 50-years, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.</p><p>In November, Sublett plead guilty to pre meditated first-degree murder of Kathleen Jane Dampier and her unborn baby boy.</p><p>In September of 2022,&nbsp;&nbsp;police responded to report of a medical emergency at an apartment in the 7400 Block of Flint in Olathe, according to a media release from police.</p><p>At the scene, officers located 25-year-old Kathleen J. Dampier with gunshot wounds. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Police took Sublette into custody for questioning and made an arrest.</p>

Hard 50: Kansas man killed woman, her unborn child

President Joe Biden announced on Sunday his decision to end his reelection bid. On Monday, Missouri governor Mike Parson released a statement on the decision.

<p>President Joe Biden announced on Sunday his decision to end his reelection bid. On Monday, Missouri governor Mike Parson released a statement on the decision.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Family is what matters most, and while Teresa and I dedicated yesterday to celebrating our granddaughter’s 5th birthday, I did want to offer my thoughts on Sunday’s news: <a href="https://t.co/5EysTlXgP0">pic.twitter.com/5EysTlXgP0</a></p>&mdash; Governor Mike Parson (@GovParsonMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovParsonMO/status/1815503970812481764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Missouri governor comments on Biden dropping out of 2024 race

&nbsp;KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City and asking the public for help to identify a suspect seen on security cameras.

Just after 4:30a.m. July 19, police responded on a shots fired call at 54th and Prospect, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders located a man identified as 45-year-old&nbsp;Ernest J. Scott suffering from gunshot wounds in a grassy area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police interviewed witnesses and found surveillance video in an effort to identify the suspect.

This is 80th homicide of 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously that leads to an arrest in the case.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721670632152.png" alt="Photo KCPD" />
                        <figcaption>Photo KCPD</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City and asking the public for help to identify a suspect seen on security cameras.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721406797743.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KCTV" />
                        <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Just after 4:30a.m. July 19, police responded on a shots fired call at 54th and Prospect, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.</p><p>First responders located a man identified as 45-year-old&nbsp;Ernest J. Scott suffering from gunshot wounds in a grassy area. He was pronounced dead at the scene.</p><p>Police interviewed witnesses and found surveillance video in an effort to identify the suspect.</p><p>This is 80th homicide of 2024 in Kansas City, Missouri, according to KCPD.</p><p>Anyone with information is asked to contact the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously that leads to an arrest in the case.</p>

KCPD asks for help to ID suspect in weekend killing 

WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Monday Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.

&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;announced Sunday&nbsp;that he is dropping his reelection bid against Donald Trump. He has not been seen in public since last week.

<p>WASHINGTON— President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 while traveling Wednesday in Las Vegas. On Monday Dr. Kevin O'Connor, the president's physician, provided an update on Biden's recovery.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721673941588.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;announced Sunday&nbsp;that he is dropping his reelection bid against Donald Trump. He has not been seen in public since last week.</p>

Read doctor's Monday update on Biden's COVID recovery

SHAWNEE COUNTY –Authorities have identified as Kansas man who died in an accident just after 3a.m. Sunday in Shawnee County as Chance M. Lucas, 28, of Topeka.

According to Deputy Abigail Christian, investigators determined a&nbsp; 2019 Nissan Altima driven by Lucas was westbound on SW 33rd Street when it drove through the stop sign at SW Auburn Road and struck a tree on the west side of the roadway. Lucas&nbsp;was pronounced deceased at the scene.

This accident is still under investigation, according to Christian.

<p>SHAWNEE COUNTY –Authorities have identified as Kansas man who died in an accident just after 3a.m. Sunday in Shawnee County as Chance M. Lucas, 28, of Topeka.</p><p>According to Deputy Abigail Christian, investigators determined a&nbsp; 2019 Nissan Altima driven by Lucas was westbound on SW 33rd Street when it drove through the stop sign at SW Auburn Road and struck a tree on the west side of the roadway. Lucas&nbsp;was pronounced deceased at the scene.</p><p>This accident is still under investigation, according to Christian.</p>

Sheriff IDs Kansas man who died after car strikes a tree

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are now investigating a homicide after a man found wounded in Kansas City died.

Just after 4p.m. Friday, police responded to NE 34th and NE Chouteau Trafficway in Kansas City after reports of a stolen vehicle, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp;

First responders found a man suffering gunshot trauma inside a vehicle. On Sunday Forte' reported police learned the victim died of his injuries.

Police have not reported additional information including the name of the victim.

<p>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are now investigating a homicide after a man found wounded in Kansas City died.</p><p>Just after 4p.m. Friday, police responded to NE 34th and NE Chouteau Trafficway in Kansas City after reports of a stolen vehicle, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp;</p><p>First responders found a man suffering gunshot trauma inside a vehicle. On Sunday Forte' reported police learned the victim died of his injuries.</p><p>Police have not reported additional information including the name of the victim.</p>

KCPD: Stolen vehicle report leads to homicide investigation

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris&nbsp;spoke Monday at a White House celebration with the NCAA championship teams, her first appearance since President Biden announced he was leaving the race.

Harris is set to travel to Wilmington Monday afternoon to meet with Biden campaign staff.

<p>WASHINGTON —&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris&nbsp;spoke Monday at a White House celebration with the NCAA championship teams, her first appearance since President Biden announced he was leaving the race.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a>: &quot;Joe Biden&#39;s legacy of accomplishment over the past three years is unmatched in modern history.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/m12gjVAkD6">pic.twitter.com/m12gjVAkD6</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1815421541628125644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 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/2024/7/1721650226823.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Harris is set to travel to Wilmington Monday afternoon to meet with Biden campaign staff.</p>

🎥Harris makes first public comments since Biden ended campaign

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

Just after 10p.m. Sunday police arrested Penny Marie Webster, 59, of Manhattan, according to a media release from Riley County Police. 

Webster is being held on a $125,000 bond on distribution of a controlled substance resulting in fatality and distribution of opiate/opium/ narcotic/stimulant/heroin of unknown quantity.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The arrest stems from an incident that occurred in January of 2021 wherein law enforcement officers investigated the overdose death of a 61-year-old male in Manhattan, Kansas.

The investigation is ongoing. Investigations into all other Fentanyl-related overdoses in our community remain active and ongoing as well. Any individuals possessing pertinent information are urged to come forward and assist law enforcement authorities.

<p>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a fentanyl related death and have made an arrest.</p><p>Just after 10p.m. Sunday police arrested Penny Marie Webster, 59, of Manhattan, according to a media release from Riley County Police. </p><p>Webster is being held on a $125,000 bond on distribution of a controlled substance resulting in fatality and distribution of opiate/opium/ narcotic/stimulant/heroin of unknown quantity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The arrest stems from an incident that occurred in January of 2021 wherein law enforcement officers investigated the overdose death of a 61-year-old male in Manhattan, Kansas.</p><p>The investigation is ongoing. Investigations into all other Fentanyl-related overdoses in our community remain active and ongoing as well. Any individuals possessing pertinent information are urged to come forward and assist law enforcement authorities.</p>

Kansas woman accused in man's fentanyl death

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp;criminal destruction of property in the 1200 block of Bertrand Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Just before 3p.m. Friday, officers listed a 26-year-old man as the victim. He reported a known suspect poured glue all over his vehicle, and others' vehicles. 

Total loss associated with this report at this time is approximately $2,700.

<p>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp;criminal destruction of property in the 1200 block of Bertrand Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.</p><p>Just before 3p.m. Friday, officers listed a 26-year-old man as the victim. He reported a known suspect poured glue all over his vehicle, and others' vehicles. </p><p>Total loss associated with this report at this time is approximately $2,700.</p>

Police: Kan. suspect poured glue all over vehicles

WASHINGTON—&nbsp;The Secret Service director&nbsp;Kim Cheatle testified Monday before the House Oversight committee as calls mount for her to resign over security failures at a rally where a 20-year-old gunman&nbsp;attempted to assassinate&nbsp;former President&nbsp;Donald Trump.

Click below to watch a replay of the hearing.

Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri and Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas are members of the House Oversight Committee.

<p>WASHINGTON—&nbsp;The Secret Service director&nbsp;Kim Cheatle testified Monday before the House Oversight committee as calls mount for her to resign over security failures at a rally where a 20-year-old gunman&nbsp;attempted to assassinate&nbsp;former President&nbsp;Donald Trump.</p><p>Click below to watch a replay of the hearing.</p><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hyP3tKtgtnw?si=Pqhet5TaSu_xleoJ&amp;start=999" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><p>Rep. Eric Burlison, Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri and Rep. Jake LaTurner of Kansas are members of the House Oversight Committee.</p>

🎥 Secret Service director testifies on attempted assassination of Donald Trump

JOHNSON COUNTY —Two adults and a child were displaced after a weekend fire possibly caused by carless discard of smoking materials.

Just after 3a.m. Saturday, crews were called to a fire at 120th and Hayes Street in Overland Park, according to a media release.

First responders found smoke and fire coming from the back of the 2-story duplex. Fire crews went to work attacking a fire in the chimney box that spread from the ground level to the second story and into the ceiling. It took firefighters 20-minutes to bring the fire under control.&nbsp;

Two adults and a child escaped safely and are staying with relatives. Residents in the adjacent unit were able to reoccupy. There were no injuries and the unit did have working smoke alarms.

One of the residents reported smoking outside before the fire. While investigators believe the cause of the fire to be careless discard of smoking materials, the exact cause is still under investigation.&nbsp; Authorities did not release a damage estimate.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721616902647.png" alt="Image Overland Park Fire" />
                        <figcaption>Image Overland Park Fire</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>JOHNSON COUNTY —Two adults and a child were displaced after a weekend fire possibly caused by carless discard of smoking materials.</p><p>Just after 3a.m. Saturday, crews were called to a fire at 120th and Hayes Street in Overland Park, according to a media release.</p><p>First responders found smoke and fire coming from the back of the 2-story duplex. Fire crews went to work attacking a fire in the chimney box that spread from the ground level to the second story and into the ceiling. It took firefighters 20-minutes to bring the fire under control.&nbsp;</p><p>Two adults and a child escaped safely and are staying with relatives. Residents in the adjacent unit were able to reoccupy. There were no injuries and the unit did have working smoke alarms.</p><p>One of the residents reported smoking outside before the fire. While investigators believe the cause of the fire to be careless discard of smoking materials, the exact cause is still under investigation.&nbsp; Authorities did not release a damage estimate.</p>

Careless discard of smoking materials may have caused Kan. fire

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a reported Sunday homicide in Kansas City learned the victim was still alive in critical condition at an area hospital, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Just after 8p.m. Sunday, police responded to a deadly shooting at 13th and Paseo, just&nbsp;north of the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy.

First responders learned the victim had been taken to a nearby hospital and was alive, according to Gonzalez.

Just before 9p.m. Sunday, police reported the victim remained in the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police released no additional details including what prompted the shooting or possible suspect information.

<p>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a reported Sunday homicide in Kansas City learned the victim was still alive in critical condition at an area hospital, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.</p><p>Just after 8p.m. Sunday, police responded to a deadly shooting at 13th and Paseo, just&nbsp;north of the Kansas City MLB Urban Youth Academy.</p><p>First responders learned the victim had been taken to a nearby hospital and was alive, according to Gonzalez.</p><p>Just before 9p.m. Sunday, police reported the victim remained in the hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police released no additional details including what prompted the shooting or possible suspect information.</p>

KCPD: Victim of reported homicide found alive in the hospital

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Lawmakers immediately called for Biden to resign from office.

In a statement from his office, Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "President Joe Biden's announcement that he will suspend his reelection campaign is an admission of something that Americans have observed for a long time – he is not fit to be president, which also means he can no longer serve as commander in chief."

Biden's announcement throws the Democratic Party into chaos just months before the election. Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720133821321.png" alt="File photo White House" />
                        <figcaption>File photo White House</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden announced Sunday he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump.&nbsp;</p><p>Lawmakers immediately called for Biden to resign from office.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If Joe Biden is unable to serve another term, then he must resign right now. If he&#39;s unfit to campaign, he should not have the nuclear codes - it&#39;s that simple.</p>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1815100264380252171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If Joe Biden isn&#39;t fit to run for re-election, he&#39;s clearly no longer fit to serve as President. He already did what he thought was best for his party. Now he needs to do what’s best for our country. It’s time for President Biden to resign from office.</p>&mdash; Rep. Sam Graves (@RepSamGraves) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepSamGraves/status/1815101527431745620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Then RESIGN your office. If you can’t run a mere political campaign, you can’t be President <a href="https://t.co/wbO9fs0TyN">https://t.co/wbO9fs0TyN</a></p>&mdash; Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawleyMO/status/1815082478417358942?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">At this unprecedented juncture in American history, we must be clear about what just happened. The Democrat Party forced the Democrat nominee off the ballot, just over 100 days before the election.<br> <br>Having invalidated the votes of more than 14 million Americans who selected Joe…</p>&mdash; Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerJohnson/status/1815093011669516433?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Joe Biden should resign.<br><br>If he’s not capable of being a candidate after he won the primary he’s not capable of being President. <a href="https://t.co/pb7LTFFxpd">https://t.co/pb7LTFFxpd</a></p>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1815099700233855036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>In a statement from his office, Kansas 4th District Rep. Ron Estes wrote, "President Joe Biden's announcement that he will suspend his reelection campaign is an admission of something that Americans have observed for a long time – he is not fit to be president, which also means he can no longer serve as commander in chief."</p><p>Biden's announcement throws the Democratic Party into chaos just months before the election. Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;</p>

Lawmakers: Biden must resign after ending reelection campaign

PUEBLO COUNTY — A wanted Kansas suspect captured at a motel in Colorado is scheduled to return to a Kansas courtroom on Monday.

Ryan Antalek, 40, Wichita, is charged with criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated assault, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, stalking, two counts of criminal threat, and criminal damage to property, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Earlier this month, the Pueblo County Sheriff’s communication center received a tip that 40-year-old Ryan Antalek of Wichita was possibly staying at the Days Inn in Colorado City, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

Kansas authorities had been seeking Antalek, who was considered dangerous, on the warrant and had heightened the search after learning he had made repeated homicidal statements. Antalek also was noted to have a criminal history involving weapons and known to carry firearms.

Sheriff's detectives and U.S. Marshals responded to the Days Inn at about 12:30 a.m. and located in the parking lot a 2019 Black Chevy Colorado truck Antalek was reportedly driving. After confirming that Antalek was in the hotel, detectives, with assistance from the Marshals, devised a plan and were able to get him to leave his hotel room where he was taken into custody without incident.

Antalek was arrested on a no bond fugitive of justice warrant from Kansas.&nbsp; He remains jailed in Sedgwick County on a $500,000 bond.

He is due for a court appearance at 10:30a.m. Monday, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719500728222.png" alt="Antalek-photo Pueblo Co. Colorado" />
                        <figcaption>Antalek-photo Pueblo Co. Colorado</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>PUEBLO COUNTY — A wanted Kansas suspect captured at a motel in Colorado is scheduled to return to a Kansas courtroom on Monday.</p><p>Ryan Antalek, 40, Wichita, is charged with criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated assault, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, stalking, two counts of criminal threat, and criminal damage to property, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.</p><p>Earlier this month, the Pueblo County Sheriff’s communication center received a tip that 40-year-old Ryan Antalek of Wichita was possibly staying at the Days Inn in Colorado City, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720708672444.png" alt="Antalek -photo Sedgwick Co." />
                        <figcaption>Antalek -photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Kansas authorities had been seeking Antalek, who was considered dangerous, on the warrant and had heightened the search after learning he had made repeated homicidal statements. Antalek also was noted to have a criminal history involving weapons and known to carry firearms.</p><p>Sheriff's detectives and U.S. Marshals responded to the Days Inn at about 12:30 a.m. and located in the parking lot a 2019 Black Chevy Colorado truck Antalek was reportedly driving. After confirming that Antalek was in the hotel, detectives, with assistance from the Marshals, devised a plan and were able to get him to leave his hotel room where he was taken into custody without incident.</p><p>Antalek was arrested on a no bond fugitive of justice warrant from Kansas.&nbsp; He remains jailed in Sedgwick County on a $500,000 bond.</p><p>He is due for a court appearance at 10:30a.m. Monday, according to the district attorney's office.</p>

Kansas fugitive captured at hotel in Colorado due back in court

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A New York man was sentenced in Sedgwick County District Court last week for his role in a “romance scam” that defrauded an elderly Wichita woman of more than $100,000.

Jango Touray, 35 of New York City, pled guilty earlier this year to the felony crime of Mistreatment of an Elder Person. Touray was placed on a three-year probation and ordered to pay full restitution to his victim, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

If Touray violates his probation or fails to pay restitution, he could serve the 34-month prison sentence imposed by District Court Judge Jeffrey Syrios.

Touray was identified during an investigation by the District Attorney’s office as the person who received a $110,000 check from the 78-year-old Wichita woman who was widowed and lived alone. The investigation revealed that the woman was being contacted through social media in late 2020 by someone asking for money. The victim believed that she was sending the money to a person named “Victor.” The victim told investigators that she believed she was helping “Victor” through some financial difficulties so that they could be together someday.

As part of the investigation, a financial crimes investigator was able to freeze multiple financial accounts connected to Touray, who agreed to liquidate those accounts and give the money back to the victim. So far, the victim has recovered about $38,000 of the $110,000 that was taken. The balance of the restitution is to be paid in payments over the next three years.

The District Attorney’s office warns people to be suspicious of requests for money from people they meet online. Elderly residents who live alone can be especially vulnerable to sophisticated romance scammers that use the internet to find, befriend and defraud their victims.

The case was investigated by Kristen Zluticky of the District Attorney’s Office. 

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721420537843.png" alt="Touray from the arrest in 2022 on requested charges of mistreatment of an elderly person; deception, false pretense, duress and&nbsp; theft of&nbsp; property or services" />
                        <figcaption>Touray from the arrest in 2022 on requested charges of mistreatment of an elderly person; deception, false pretense, duress and&nbsp; theft of&nbsp; property or services</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A New York man was sentenced in Sedgwick County District Court last week for his role in a “romance scam” that defrauded an elderly Wichita woman of more than $100,000.</p><p>Jango Touray, 35 of New York City, pled guilty earlier this year to the felony crime of Mistreatment of an Elder Person. Touray was placed on a three-year probation and ordered to pay full restitution to his victim, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.</p><p>If Touray violates his probation or fails to pay restitution, he could serve the 34-month prison sentence imposed by District Court Judge Jeffrey Syrios.</p><p>Touray was identified during an investigation by the District Attorney’s office as the person who received a $110,000 check from the 78-year-old Wichita woman who was widowed and lived alone. The investigation revealed that the woman was being contacted through social media in late 2020 by someone asking for money. The victim believed that she was sending the money to a person named “Victor.” The victim told investigators that she believed she was helping “Victor” through some financial difficulties so that they could be together someday.</p><p>As part of the investigation, a financial crimes investigator was able to freeze multiple financial accounts connected to Touray, who agreed to liquidate those accounts and give the money back to the victim. So far, the victim has recovered about $38,000 of the $110,000 that was taken. The balance of the restitution is to be paid in payments over the next three years.</p><p>The District Attorney’s office warns people to be suspicious of requests for money from people they meet online. Elderly residents who live alone can be especially vulnerable to sophisticated romance scammers that use the internet to find, befriend and defraud their victims.</p><p>The case was investigated by Kristen Zluticky of the District Attorney’s Office. </p>

Romance Scam: Kansas woman sent $110,000 to New York man

KANSAS CITY—A teen driver died after an accident just before 5a.m. Saturday in Jackson County, Missouri.

According to police, a Nissan Altima driven by 18-year-old Joshua Snowbarger was&nbsp;southbound on Noland Road, approaching 35th Street in Independence. The driver lost control of the car. It traveled off the road and struck a nearby business.

Officers on patrol found the crash just after it occurred. Despite lifesaving efforts, Snowbarger was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident remains under investigation.

<p>KANSAS CITY—A teen driver died after an accident just before 5a.m. Saturday in Jackson County, Missouri.</p><p>According to police, a Nissan Altima driven by 18-year-old Joshua Snowbarger was&nbsp;southbound on Noland Road, approaching 35th Street in Independence. The driver lost control of the car. It traveled off the road and struck a nearby business.</p><p>Officers on patrol found the crash just after it occurred. Despite lifesaving efforts, Snowbarger was pronounced dead at the scene. The accident remains under investigation.</p>

Teen driver dies after crash into Kansas City area building

JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas City area man is going to prison for a deadly Kansas crash.

Last week, Judge Christiina Gyllenborg sentenced 24-year-old Uconn Comemann of Grain Valley to 25-years in prison for a fatal crash while he was fleeing police, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

In May, Coleman pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, aggravated battery, fleeing and eluding a police officer, and leaving the scene of a crash.

In June of 2023 a speeding Ford Fusion driven by Coleman struck a Honda Accord driven by 19-year-old Benny Kleczka who was stopped at the intersection of Antioch and Shawnee Mission Parkway.&nbsp;&nbsp;A woman in the Honda was also injured.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709829161651.png" alt="Coleman-photo Johnson Co." />
                        <figcaption>Coleman-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas City area man is going to prison for a deadly Kansas crash.</p><p>Last week, Judge Christiina Gyllenborg sentenced 24-year-old Uconn Comemann of Grain Valley to 25-years in prison for a fatal crash while he was fleeing police, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's office.</p><p>In May, Coleman pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, aggravated battery, fleeing and eluding a police officer, and leaving the scene of a crash.</p><p>In June of 2023 a speeding Ford Fusion driven by Coleman struck a Honda Accord driven by 19-year-old Benny Kleczka who was stopped at the intersection of Antioch and Shawnee Mission Parkway.&nbsp;&nbsp;A woman in the Honda was also injured.</p>

Prison for deadly Kansas crash while fleeing police

WASHINGTON —President Joe Biden announced Sunday afternoon he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump. Missouri and Kansas lawmakers used their social media accounts to respond to the the news.

Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719969869999.png" alt="File photo White House" />
                        <figcaption>File photo White House</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON —President Joe Biden announced Sunday afternoon he was dropping out of the 2024 race following a disastrous debate with Republican Donald Trump. Missouri and Kansas lawmakers used their social media accounts to respond to the the news.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Now the Democrats are rigging their *own* elections</p>&mdash; Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/HawleyMO/status/1815089547400896560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My Statement on President Biden&#39;s Decision to Step Down as Nominee and Endorsement of Kamala Harris for President. <a href="https://t.co/StVSRV7Wj5">pic.twitter.com/StVSRV7Wj5</a></p>&mdash; Cori Bush (@CoriBush) <a href="https://twitter.com/CoriBush/status/1815107531334934907?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yeah I said it. <a href="https://t.co/TxUKrosDtC">pic.twitter.com/TxUKrosDtC</a></p>&mdash; Eric Schmitt (@Eric_Schmitt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Eric_Schmitt/status/1815110762404462893?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">For more than five decades, President Biden has made it his life’s work to better our country for hardworking Americans. Above all, he has been firm in his desire to safeguard democracy in a time of hyper-polarization and divisiveness. I thank him for his service and steadfast…</p>&mdash; Laura Kelly (@LauraKellyKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/LauraKellyKS/status/1815091624805818599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Has anyone told Joe yet? <a href="https://t.co/zyHmx9iPKi">https://t.co/zyHmx9iPKi</a></p>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1815092715383861325?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Biden has dedicated his life to serving our country and his time as our President has restored decency to the highest office. By stepping aside from the presidential race today, he has once again put the future of our country first.</p>&mdash; Sharice Davids (@sharicedavids) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharicedavids/status/1815097222985589166?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My full statement on President Biden&#39;s decision to not seek re-election. <a href="https://t.co/SaFL9zLN9f">pic.twitter.com/SaFL9zLN9f</a></p>&mdash; Tracey Mann (@RepMann) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMann/status/1815109571330838911?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Biden has thrown his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris, the party’s instant favorite for the nomination at its August convention in Chicago.&nbsp;</p>

Mo., Kan. lawmakers respond to Biden ending 2024 campaign

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;President Biden announced Sunday is dropping out of the 2024 race for the White House. “I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”

Shortly after releasing his letter,&nbsp; Biden throw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721330354017.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>WASHINGTON —&nbsp;President Biden announced Sunday is dropping out of the 2024 race for the White House. “I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.”</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721585094795.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My fellow Democrats, I have decided not to accept the nomination and to focus all my energies on my duties as President for the remainder of my term. My very first decision as the party nominee in 2020 was to pick Kamala Harris as my Vice President. And it’s been the best… <a href="https://t.co/x8DnvuImJV">pic.twitter.com/x8DnvuImJV</a></p>&mdash; Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1815087772216303933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Shortly after releasing his letter,&nbsp; Biden throw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris.</p>

Read letter from President Biden on dropping out of 2024 race

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a standoff.&nbsp;

On July 18, a deputy with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located a subject with an active felony standing in the driveway of a residence in the 2800 BLK SW Indian Hills Road, according to Shawnee County Sheriff' s Lt. Scott Wanamaker.

 The deputy attempted to make contact with the subject, who immediately ran inside the residence. When deputies approached the residence, a second subject holding an AR-style rifle confronted them. When deputies confronted that subject, he refused to comply with any law enforcement commands and performed movements consistent with chambering around inside the firearm.

Deputies established a security perimeter and were able to communicate with all individuals inside the residence. After a 24-minute standoff, one subject exited the residence and was taken into custody. After an hour elapsed, the second subject, who confronted deputies with the firearm, exited the residence and was taken into custody. No shots were fired during the incident and no injuries were reported.

Nathaniel Javier Ayala-Hinkle, 26, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on charges of Felony Interference with Law Enforcement, as well as two Shawnee County felony warrants, and a misdemeanor warrant from the City of Topeka,

Francisco Javier Ayala-Silva, 55, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on two counts of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721419060442.png" alt="Ayala-Silva-photo Shawnee Co." />
                        <figcaption>Ayala-Silva-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a standoff.&nbsp;</p><p>On July 18, a deputy with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located a subject with an active felony standing in the driveway of a residence in the 2800 BLK SW Indian Hills Road, according to Shawnee County Sheriff' s Lt. Scott Wanamaker.</p><p> The deputy attempted to make contact with the subject, who immediately ran inside the residence. When deputies approached the residence, a second subject holding an AR-style rifle confronted them. When deputies confronted that subject, he refused to comply with any law enforcement commands and performed movements consistent with chambering around inside the firearm.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721418991291.png" alt="Ayala-Hinkle -photo Shawnee Co." />
                        <figcaption>Ayala-Hinkle -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Deputies established a security perimeter and were able to communicate with all individuals inside the residence. After a 24-minute standoff, one subject exited the residence and was taken into custody. After an hour elapsed, the second subject, who confronted deputies with the firearm, exited the residence and was taken into custody. No shots were fired during the incident and no injuries were reported.</p><p>Nathaniel Javier Ayala-Hinkle, 26, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on charges of Felony Interference with Law Enforcement, as well as two Shawnee County felony warrants, and a misdemeanor warrant from the City of Topeka,</p><p>Francisco Javier Ayala-Silva, 55, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on two counts of Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement.</p>

Suspect threatened Kansas deputies with AR-style rifle

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mayasmith/">MAYA SMITH</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Kansas Medicaid secured $2.5 million for school-based services, including funding for in-school mental health services, increased outreach and enrolling more families in Medicaid.

The goal of the grant, announced by&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSDHE/bulletins/3a51949" target="_blank">KDHE on June 25</a>, is to increase Medicaid health care services for children and their families within schools, which now includes services specifically for mental health.

The United Methodist Health Ministry Fund spent two months applying for the grant, as well as gathering support and research from other organizations around Kansas.

“This is really a win for all schools across the state,” said David Jordan,&nbsp;president of the organization. “It will help modernize Kansas schools’ Medicaid program,&nbsp;and open up an opportunity for schools to be reimbursed and offer new services to more kids.”

Rather than give potential resources to families, the grant will allow for students to get a wide variety of health care services right in their own school.

“This will help more children get access to health care services by accessing the services during the school day,” said KDHE spokeswoman Jill Bronaugh. “After the school day ends, families may not have transportation, know where the services are or the support to access the needed services. When health care services are delivered during the school day, it normalizes the experience for the child.”

Greenbush Education Service Center community supports director Monica Murnan, a former state legislator, works directly with Medicaid billing for schools as well as in special education. She said this grant will make services in schools a more streamlined process.

“The grant sends a message to the state saying, ‘Let’s make this easier to get these important services to kids,’ ” Murnan said. “For many children, school is where they receive health care services. If the school can support that through funding from the federal government, it seems to be a good use of our time to figure out how to do that.”

One of the focuses of the grant will be expanding mental health services directly within schools.

“KDHE receives a number of grants to improve the health of Kansans, but I think this is sort of the first of its kind,” Jordan said. “It would allow for direct therapy, care coordination and other services to be provided in schools by professionals.”

Before this grant, students could receive services primarily for speech or occupational therapy as part of an individualized education plan. Now, schools can focus on an even bigger population of students, as well as advancing opportunities for mental health services.

“Before, this was written into your IEP, and that’s it,” Murnan said. “Which was great for speech occupational therapy services, but didn’t fit that need for behavioral health services. The vision of the federal government is to help improve school safety and also behavioral health opportunities for kids and families by using the school as the conduit.”

Murnan said this as an opportunity for expansion moving forward.

“School districts struggle with providing social and emotional support to kids, (and) this will allow for more services to be reimbursed,” Murnan said. “It’s kind of the right place, right time, right relationship model.”

Although the grant will bring more funding into school health services than ever before, Jordan believes this is only a step in the right direction for Kansas health.

“Our hope is that Kansas is able to take advantage of federal grants and to bring dollars back to improve the health of Kansans,” Jordan said. “And improve our Medicaid program so that we’re better supporting our most vulnerable Kansans and improving health.”

<p>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mayasmith/">MAYA SMITH</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a></p><p>TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Kansas Medicaid secured $2.5 million for school-based services, including funding for in-school mental health services, increased outreach and enrolling more families in Medicaid.</p><p>The goal of the grant, announced by&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSDHE/bulletins/3a51949" target="_blank">KDHE on June 25</a>, is to increase Medicaid health care services for children and their families within schools, which now includes services specifically for mental health.</p><p>The United Methodist Health Ministry Fund spent two months applying for the grant, as well as gathering support and research from other organizations around Kansas.</p><p>“This is really a win for all schools across the state,” said David Jordan,&nbsp;president of the organization. “It will help modernize Kansas schools’ Medicaid program,&nbsp;and open up an opportunity for schools to be reimbursed and offer new services to more kids.”</p><p>Rather than give potential resources to families, the grant will allow for students to get a wide variety of health care services right in their own school.</p><p>“This will help more children get access to health care services by accessing the services during the school day,” said KDHE spokeswoman Jill Bronaugh. “After the school day ends, families may not have transportation, know where the services are or the support to access the needed services. When health care services are delivered during the school day, it normalizes the experience for the child.”</p><p>Greenbush Education Service Center community supports director Monica Murnan, a former state legislator, works directly with Medicaid billing for schools as well as in special education. She said this grant will make services in schools a more streamlined process.</p><p>“The grant sends a message to the state saying, ‘Let’s make this easier to get these important services to kids,’ ” Murnan said. “For many children, school is where they receive health care services. If the school can support that through funding from the federal government, it seems to be a good use of our time to figure out how to do that.”</p><p>One of the focuses of the grant will be expanding mental health services directly within schools.</p><p>“KDHE receives a number of grants to improve the health of Kansans, but I think this is sort of the first of its kind,” Jordan said. “It would allow for direct therapy, care coordination and other services to be provided in schools by professionals.”</p><p>Before this grant, students could receive services primarily for speech or occupational therapy as part of an individualized education plan. Now, schools can focus on an even bigger population of students, as well as advancing opportunities for mental health services.</p><p>“Before, this was written into your IEP, and that’s it,” Murnan said. “Which was great for speech occupational therapy services, but didn’t fit that need for behavioral health services. The vision of the federal government is to help improve school safety and also behavioral health opportunities for kids and families by using the school as the conduit.”</p><p>Murnan said this as an opportunity for expansion moving forward.</p><p>“School districts struggle with providing social and emotional support to kids, (and) this will allow for more services to be reimbursed,” Murnan said. “It’s kind of the right place, right time, right relationship model.”</p><p>Although the grant will bring more funding into school health services than ever before, Jordan believes this is only a step in the right direction for Kansas health.</p><p>“Our hope is that Kansas is able to take advantage of federal grants and to bring dollars back to improve the health of Kansans,” Jordan said. “And improve our Medicaid program so that we’re better supporting our most vulnerable Kansans and improving health.”</p>

$2.5 million Medicaid grant will expand mental health services in Kansas schools

Campaign finance reports list the $25,000 expense as a donation from Mike Kehoe, who personally leased the bus because he ‘didn’t want to use campaign funds’

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/"><i>Missouri Independent</i></a>

In his campaign for governor, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/zuJaKjcTcI8?si=XRQ_PPBhshDmXPtm" target="_blank">has promised Republican voters</a>&nbsp;he will stop China “from buying up our farmland.”

He’s doing so while traveling the state in a bus owned by Jewell Patek, a former legislator who is the only Missouri lobbyist employed by the Chinese business that owns a significant chunk of agricultural land in the state.

The Republican primary for governor has&nbsp;<a href="https://s1.sos.mo.gov/candidatesonweb/DisplayCandidatesPlacement.aspx?OfficeCode=SW05&amp;ElectionCode=750006341" target="_blank">nine candidates listed</a>&nbsp;on the ballot, with three – Kehoe, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel – running full-scale campaigns. The issue of foreign land ownership, especially by China, has been one of the major issues.

Eigel made it the subject of his&nbsp;first advertisement of the campaign, and Ashcroft has backed legislation to bar China and other hostile nations from owning farmland and enlisted his father, former Gov. John Ashcroft, to&nbsp;<a href="https://ashcroftformissouri.com/kehoelieschina" target="_blank">deliver the message</a>.

The cost of using Patek’s bus isn’t listed among the expenses reported in Kehoe’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mec.mo.gov/CampaignFinanceReports/Generator.aspx?Keys=B2G41dEVPKgI8cDcdGFsgJsm99XwPL2GSyN%2fGprI6nlGRCrmuhxRX9oDQrH8CbiFnjV9Lv7r2YLMjsxqHY8QXNjGyR8%2b214x" target="_blank">latest campaign finance report</a>. Instead, his campaign spokeswoman Gabriella Picard said the bus cost is covered by a June 4 entry showing Kehoe himself made a $25,000 “in-kind” donation.

The bus, she wrote in an email to The Independent, was “personally leased” by Kehoe.

The exterior wrap on the bus, with campaign messages and a larger-than-life photo of the candidate and his wife Claudia, is reported among the campaign’s expenses. It cost $15,591 at Impact Signs Awnings Wraps Inc. in Sedalia.

“The Kehoes personally didn’t want to use the campaign funds for a bus,” Picard said in an interview. “The reason that it was reported as an in-kind donation by Mike Kehoe is for that reason, because we just didn’t want to use money that people have donated for a bus. And he wanted to personally make that contribution himself.”

Charter bus rental&nbsp;<a href="https://gogocharters.com/charter-bus-prices" target="_blank">can cost $1,200 to $1,700 a day</a>&nbsp;plus mileage, depending on the size and interior amenities. The bus owned by Patek is a 2000 model, according to records in the&nbsp;<a href="https://moniteaucountycollector.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=vis57hk5fffdgs0bqtm87d8902" target="_blank">Moniteau County Collector’s office</a>, and is assessed at the nominal value of $100.

Picard would not say whether the reported amount is how much Kehoe is paying Patek for use of the bus.

“All fuel and associated costs with the bus tour are being covered by the campaign,” she said in a message Saturday. “The lease for the bus was negotiated between Mike Kehoe and the owner. Everything has been reported to the MEC as required.”

Since 2007, Patek has lobbied for Smithfield Foods, which in 2013 was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/business/2013/05/29/chinese-firm-to-buy-u/21667658007/" target="_blank">acquired by Shuanghui International</a>, now known as WH Group, China’s largest pork producer. Smithfield operates a facility once known as Premium Standard Farms on more than 40,000 acres near Princeton in northern Missouri.

Patek is Smithfield’s only lobbyist but not Patek’s only client. Patek became a lobbyist in 2003 and his Missouri Ethics Commission filings list 44 other clients, including utility providers Evergy and Spire, the Heavy Constructors Association of Kansas City and Cheyenne International, a discount cigarette manufacturer.

Patek did not return a call seeking comment.

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Prior to 2013, Missouri law banned foreign ownership of agricultural land. To accommodate the sale of Smithfield, lawmakers that year made it legal for up to 1% of the state’s farmland to be foreign owned.

Kehoe, a member of the Senate at the time, voted for the bill and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/13info/Journals/VDay0109111-36.pdf" target="_blank">to override a veto</a>&nbsp;by then-Gov. Jay Nixon.

In his veto message, Nixon wrote that the allowance for 1% foreign ownership was never debated until it was inserted into the legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/world/americas/missouri-legislation-may-help-chinese-smithfield-buy-idUSBRE95913G/" target="_blank">at the last minute</a>&nbsp;“without the benefit of a hearing that would have allowed for public testimony” and over the objections of agricultural groups.

Criticism of the legislation didn’t take long to develop – backers of Josh Hawley’s campaign for attorney general broadcast an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/missouri-asian-american-community-speaks-out-against-seemingly-xenophobic-campaign-n616951" target="_blank">ad in 2016 with actors speaking Chinese</a>&nbsp;attacking his Republican primary opponent, then-state Sen. Kurt Schaefer, for backing the legislation.

Schaefer, of Columbia, this year is seeking the Republican nomination for Congress in the 3rd District.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/12/bipartisan-group-of-lawmakers-push-to-restrict-foreign-ownership-of-missouri-farmland/">growing bipartisan support</a>&nbsp;for repeal or revisions to the 2013 legislation – 13 bills altering the 1% allowance were introduced by Republicans and Democrats this year alone – nothing has passed to the governor’s desk.

Eigel won Senate approval this year of an amendment barring foreign ownership of Missouri farmland&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_web/amendments/3361S06.02S.pdf" target="_blank">within 500 miles of a military base</a>, but it was stripped out before the bill was sent to Gov. Mike Parson.

In January, Parson issued an executive order&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2024-01-02/parson-restricts-countries-like-china-from-owning-missouri-farmland-near-military-installations" target="_blank">banning land purchases</a>&nbsp;by “foreign adversaries” within 10 miles of “critical military facilities.”

In an interview earlier this month with The Independent, Kehoe said he doesn’t believe “an enemy of our country should own anything here.”

He defended his 2013 vote, saying “you’re talking about very different circumstances in the relationship the U.S. had with other countries than today.”

“That happened 11 years ago,” he said. “Times have changed, and so we would move forward with the position that I have very clearly stated that I do not want any enemy of this country owning anything.”

Using a bus owned by Smithfield’s lobbyist – and obscuring that fact by calling it a donation from Kehoe – drew fire from Eigel and Ashcroft’s campaigns, who have both worked to portray him as too close to interest groups.

“China has owned Kehoe for a long time, and of course they’ll own him as governor, too,” said Sophia Shore, campaign manager for Eigel. “He voted four times to sell Missouri to the Chinese; everything that has followed is completely unsurprising.”

The bus is symbolic of Kehoe’s whole campaign, said Jason Roe, an adviser to Ashcroft.

“Kehoe has hundreds of lobbyists supporting his campaign,” Roe said. “Any lobbyist could subsidize the bus for him, but this one is pretty interesting.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721564397456.png" alt="Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe exits his campaign bus in Cuba, Missouri, on July 11 (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent)." />
                        <figcaption>Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe exits his campaign bus in Cuba, Missouri, on July 11 (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
                    </figure><h2>Campaign finance reports list the $25,000 expense as a donation from Mike Kehoe, who personally leased the bus because he ‘didn’t want to use campaign funds’</h2><p>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/"><i>Missouri Independent</i></a></p><p>In his campaign for governor, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/zuJaKjcTcI8?si=XRQ_PPBhshDmXPtm" target="_blank">has promised Republican voters</a>&nbsp;he will stop China “from buying up our farmland.”</p><p>He’s doing so while traveling the state in a bus owned by Jewell Patek, a former legislator who is the only Missouri lobbyist employed by the Chinese business that owns a significant chunk of agricultural land in the state.</p><p>The Republican primary for governor has&nbsp;<a href="https://s1.sos.mo.gov/candidatesonweb/DisplayCandidatesPlacement.aspx?OfficeCode=SW05&amp;ElectionCode=750006341" target="_blank">nine candidates listed</a>&nbsp;on the ballot, with three – Kehoe, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel – running full-scale campaigns. The issue of foreign land ownership, especially by China, has been one of the major issues.</p><p>Eigel made it the subject of his&nbsp;first advertisement of the campaign, and Ashcroft has backed legislation to bar China and other hostile nations from owning farmland and enlisted his father, former Gov. John Ashcroft, to&nbsp;<a href="https://ashcroftformissouri.com/kehoelieschina" target="_blank">deliver the message</a>.</p><p>The cost of using Patek’s bus isn’t listed among the expenses reported in Kehoe’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mec.mo.gov/CampaignFinanceReports/Generator.aspx?Keys=B2G41dEVPKgI8cDcdGFsgJsm99XwPL2GSyN%2fGprI6nlGRCrmuhxRX9oDQrH8CbiFnjV9Lv7r2YLMjsxqHY8QXNjGyR8%2b214x" target="_blank">latest campaign finance report</a>. Instead, his campaign spokeswoman Gabriella Picard said the bus cost is covered by a June 4 entry showing Kehoe himself made a $25,000 “in-kind” donation.</p><p>The bus, she wrote in an email to The Independent, was “personally leased” by Kehoe.</p><p>The exterior wrap on the bus, with campaign messages and a larger-than-life photo of the candidate and his wife Claudia, is reported among the campaign’s expenses. It cost $15,591 at Impact Signs Awnings Wraps Inc. in Sedalia.</p><p>“The Kehoes personally didn’t want to use the campaign funds for a bus,” Picard said in an interview. “The reason that it was reported as an in-kind donation by Mike Kehoe is for that reason, because we just didn’t want to use money that people have donated for a bus. And he wanted to personally make that contribution himself.”</p><p>Charter bus rental&nbsp;<a href="https://gogocharters.com/charter-bus-prices" target="_blank">can cost $1,200 to $1,700 a day</a>&nbsp;plus mileage, depending on the size and interior amenities. The bus owned by Patek is a 2000 model, according to records in the&nbsp;<a href="https://moniteaucountycollector.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=vis57hk5fffdgs0bqtm87d8902" target="_blank">Moniteau County Collector’s office</a>, and is assessed at the nominal value of $100.</p><p>Picard would not say whether the reported amount is how much Kehoe is paying Patek for use of the bus.</p><p>“All fuel and associated costs with the bus tour are being covered by the campaign,” she said in a message Saturday. “The lease for the bus was negotiated between Mike Kehoe and the owner. Everything has been reported to the MEC as required.”</p><p>Since 2007, Patek has lobbied for Smithfield Foods, which in 2013 was&nbsp;<a href="https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/business/2013/05/29/chinese-firm-to-buy-u/21667658007/" target="_blank">acquired by Shuanghui International</a>, now known as WH Group, China’s largest pork producer. Smithfield operates a facility once known as Premium Standard Farms on more than 40,000 acres near Princeton in northern Missouri.</p><p>Patek is Smithfield’s only lobbyist but not Patek’s only client. Patek became a lobbyist in 2003 and his Missouri Ethics Commission filings list 44 other clients, including utility providers Evergy and Spire, the Heavy Constructors Association of Kansas City and Cheyenne International, a discount cigarette manufacturer.</p><p>Patek did not return a call seeking comment.</p><p>GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX</p><p>SUBSCRIBE</p><p>Prior to 2013, Missouri law banned foreign ownership of agricultural land. To accommodate the sale of Smithfield, lawmakers that year made it legal for up to 1% of the state’s farmland to be foreign owned.</p><p>Kehoe, a member of the Senate at the time, voted for the bill and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/13info/Journals/VDay0109111-36.pdf" target="_blank">to override a veto</a>&nbsp;by then-Gov. Jay Nixon.</p><p>In his veto message, Nixon wrote that the allowance for 1% foreign ownership was never debated until it was inserted into the legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/world/americas/missouri-legislation-may-help-chinese-smithfield-buy-idUSBRE95913G/" target="_blank">at the last minute</a>&nbsp;“without the benefit of a hearing that would have allowed for public testimony” and over the objections of agricultural groups.</p><p>Criticism of the legislation didn’t take long to develop – backers of Josh Hawley’s campaign for attorney general broadcast an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/missouri-asian-american-community-speaks-out-against-seemingly-xenophobic-campaign-n616951" target="_blank">ad in 2016 with actors speaking Chinese</a>&nbsp;attacking his Republican primary opponent, then-state Sen. Kurt Schaefer, for backing the legislation.</p><p>Schaefer, of Columbia, this year is seeking the Republican nomination for Congress in the 3rd District.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Despite&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/12/12/bipartisan-group-of-lawmakers-push-to-restrict-foreign-ownership-of-missouri-farmland/">growing bipartisan support</a>&nbsp;for repeal or revisions to the 2013 legislation – 13 bills altering the 1% allowance were introduced by Republicans and Democrats this year alone – nothing has passed to the governor’s desk.</p><p>Eigel won Senate approval this year of an amendment barring foreign ownership of Missouri farmland&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_web/amendments/3361S06.02S.pdf" target="_blank">within 500 miles of a military base</a>, but it was stripped out before the bill was sent to Gov. Mike Parson.</p><p>In January, Parson issued an executive order&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2024-01-02/parson-restricts-countries-like-china-from-owning-missouri-farmland-near-military-installations" target="_blank">banning land purchases</a>&nbsp;by “foreign adversaries” within 10 miles of “critical military facilities.”</p><p>In an interview earlier this month with The Independent, Kehoe said he doesn’t believe “an enemy of our country should own anything here.”</p><p>He defended his 2013 vote, saying “you’re talking about very different circumstances in the relationship the U.S. had with other countries than today.”</p><p>“That happened 11 years ago,” he said. “Times have changed, and so we would move forward with the position that I have very clearly stated that I do not want any enemy of this country owning anything.”</p><p>Using a bus owned by Smithfield’s lobbyist – and obscuring that fact by calling it a donation from Kehoe – drew fire from Eigel and Ashcroft’s campaigns, who have both worked to portray him as too close to interest groups.</p><p>“China has owned Kehoe for a long time, and of course they’ll own him as governor, too,” said Sophia Shore, campaign manager for Eigel. “He voted four times to sell Missouri to the Chinese; everything that has followed is completely unsurprising.”</p><p>The bus is symbolic of Kehoe’s whole campaign, said Jason Roe, an adviser to Ashcroft.</p><p>“Kehoe has hundreds of lobbyists supporting his campaign,” Roe said. “Any lobbyist could subsidize the bus for him, but this one is pretty interesting.”</p>

Kehoe campaign for Missouri governor riding on bus owned by lobbyist for Chinese pork producer

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement investigating a Saturday shooting in Topeka have identified the victim as 31-year-old Earon Cooper of Lawrence.

Just after 12a.m. Saturday, police responded to a shooting in the 2900 block of SW Topeka Blvd., according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.

First responders located Cooper suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

This 11th homicide investigation of 2024 in Topeka, according to Connell.

<p>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement investigating a Saturday shooting in Topeka have identified the victim as 31-year-old Earon Cooper of Lawrence.</p><p>Just after 12a.m. Saturday, police responded to a shooting in the 2900 block of SW Topeka Blvd., according to Police Lt. Ronnie Connell.</p><p>First responders located Cooper suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.</p><p>This 11th homicide investigation of 2024 in Topeka, according to Connell.</p>