SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that critically injured one person.

Just after 11p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting call at the intersection of SE 6th St. and Sherman Street in Topeka, according to a media release.

Police then received information on a shooting victim arriving at a local hospital by private vehicle. The shooting victim was air-lifted to a Kansas City hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police have reported no additional details.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that critically injured one person.Just after 11p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting call at the intersection of SE 6th St. and Sherman Street in Topeka, according to a media release.Police then received information on a shooting victim arriving at a local hospital by private vehicle. The shooting victim was air-lifted to a Kansas City hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police have reported no additional details.

Police: Kansas shooting victim air lifted to a hospital

RILEY COUNTY— An elementary school was briefly evacuated on Friday due a fire.

Just before noon Friday, crews responded to a small fire at Marlatt Elementary School,&nbsp;2715 Hobbs Drive in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Manhattan Fire Department.. Before 1p.m. the fire was extinguished and students&nbsp; allowed back into the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; The fire department has not released details on what cause the fire ore additional information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768597195335.png" alt="Photo Manhattan Fire Department." />
 <figcaption>Photo Manhattan Fire Department.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY— An elementary school was briefly evacuated on Friday due a fire.Just before noon Friday, crews responded to a small fire at Marlatt Elementary School,&nbsp;2715 Hobbs Drive in Manhattan, according to a social media report from the Manhattan Fire Department.. Before 1p.m. the fire was extinguished and students&nbsp; allowed back into the building. No injuries were reported.&nbsp; The fire department has not released details on what cause the fire ore additional information.

Kan. elementary school evacuated due to fire

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Legislators got their first look at Gov. Laura Kelly’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 on Wednesday, finding a plan that prioritizes funding for schools and special education, expanded mental health services and creating a 10-year water plan.

Budget director and administration secretary Adam Proffitt presented the spending blueprint virtually at the joint meeting of the Senate and House budget committees.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://budget.kansas.gov/budget-report/" target="_blank">governor’s budget</a>&nbsp;was set after Kelly completed a statewide tour to hear from Kansans, Proffitt said.

“Last fall, I spoke directly with Kansans, who were clear about the priorities they wanted reflected in my budget: fully funded public schools, investments in health care, and action to address our water challenges,” Kelly said in a news release. “My budget delivers on Kansans’ wishes while remaining balanced and ensuring that we protect Kansas’ fiscal foundation.”

The governor’s budget used a projected 1.7% revenue growth for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1, as a basis, Proffitt said. The recommended budget total of $10.8 billion comes in 1.6% higher than last fiscal year’s approved budget, he said.

Proffitt said $35 million of the increase comes from one-time expenditures, and if those expenditures are removed, the budget increase would be 1.3%, the amount total tax collections are expected to grow during the upcoming fiscal year.&nbsp;

Diving into budget details, Proffitt said a few spending increases are tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which shifted some costs to the states. For instance, the state will pay a higher portion of administrative costs for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which the governor accounted for by including $21 million in the budget, he said.

Legislators at the hearing questioned whether the budget included paying a penalty for&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/13/committee-questions-delay-on-implementing-kansas-food-assistance-ban-on-soda-candy/">the state’s high SNAP error rate</a>, which could be between $20-40 million, depending on the rate, but Proffitt said the penalty won’t be assessed until fiscal year 2028.&nbsp;

That gives the state time to get the error rate below 6%, which would carry no penalty, he said.

The error rate measures mistakes that have been made in allocating dollars for recipients, and can include data entry mistakes and incorrect calculations. The federal goal is a rate below 6%.&nbsp; Kansas had a 9% rate for 2025.

The federal law also had more stringent work requirements for SNAP recipients, which increased administrative costs at the state level an estimated $4 million, Proffitt said.

Kelly recommended full funding for K-12 general education for two full years, Proffitt said, which provides predictability to school districts.

The school funding formula sunsets at the end of fiscal year 2027, and Proffitt said the governor’s budget extends the current school finance formula into 2028.

The governor recommended spending $2.5 million to eliminate the co-pay for 34,000 students who receive reduced lunches.

“The governor is recommending an incremental $50.6 million of (State General Fund) to fund special education for fiscal year 2027,” Proffitt said, adding that is 70% of excess costs, which is still well below the 92% required in statute.

The state has not funded special education to the 92% level in 15 years, he said.

“Funding for special education is really a shared responsibility between the federal government and the state government,” Proffitt said. “The governor is calling on the feds again to meet their obligation and increase their level of funding here in Kansas for special education. We simply cannot get to 92% without more federal support.”

“Water remains among the top priorities in the state, not just for the administration but obviously for many in the Legislature,” Proffitt said. “It’s one of the most critical resources we have in the state, and we know we have a tall order ahead of us to make sure it’s available for the next several generations.”

The governor’s budget recommends full funding at $8 million for the state water plan fund, and Kelly wants to work with the Legislature to develop a long-term water roadmap, Proffitt said.&nbsp;

Kelly asked for $12.6 million to fully fund a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/04/kansas-advocacy-organizations-offer-strategy-for-curtailing-waitlist-for-disability-services/">new Community Support waiver</a>, which is expected to eliminate some of the stress from the current intellectual and developmental disability waiver, Proffitt said.

In addition, Kelly’s budget outlines an additional $10 million to address increased demand on the technology assistance waiver, which helps individuals younger than 21 who need life-sustaining medical equipment and technology.

Kelly’s budget includes $15 million to support increased Children’s Health Insurance Program caseloads. Her budget includes dollars for contract nursing at Larned State Hospital and Osawatomie State Hospital, about $37 million for both.

The state hospital system has been scrutinized closely over the past couple of years, Proffitt said, and the governor recommends a budget allocation of $38.9 million to strengthen the system.

“We recognize that there is both a capacity issue across the state hospital system but also staffing issues,” Proffitt said.

The House proposed a budget bill,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/hb2434_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2434</a>, this week, breaking tradition with past years when the governor’s budget is taken into consideration before they put together their budget,

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768390967902.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly during her State of the State speech on Jan. 13, 2026, in the Kansas House. (Photo by Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly during her State of the State speech on Jan. 13, 2026, in the Kansas House. (Photo by Thad Allton for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Legislators got their first look at Gov. Laura Kelly’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2027 on Wednesday, finding a plan that prioritizes funding for schools and special education, expanded mental health services and creating a 10-year water plan.Budget director and administration secretary Adam Proffitt presented the spending blueprint virtually at the joint meeting of the Senate and House budget committees.The&nbsp;<a href="https://budget.kansas.gov/budget-report/" target="_blank">governor’s budget</a>&nbsp;was set after Kelly completed a statewide tour to hear from Kansans, Proffitt said.“Last fall, I spoke directly with Kansans, who were clear about the priorities they wanted reflected in my budget: fully funded public schools, investments in health care, and action to address our water challenges,” Kelly said in a news release. “My budget delivers on Kansans’ wishes while remaining balanced and ensuring that we protect Kansas’ fiscal foundation.”The governor’s budget used a projected 1.7% revenue growth for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1, as a basis, Proffitt said. The recommended budget total of $10.8 billion comes in 1.6% higher than last fiscal year’s approved budget, he said.Proffitt said $35 million of the increase comes from one-time expenditures, and if those expenditures are removed, the budget increase would be 1.3%, the amount total tax collections are expected to grow during the upcoming fiscal year.&nbsp;Diving into budget details, Proffitt said a few spending increases are tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which shifted some costs to the states. For instance, the state will pay a higher portion of administrative costs for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which the governor accounted for by including $21 million in the budget, he said.Legislators at the hearing questioned whether the budget included paying a penalty for&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2026/01/13/committee-questions-delay-on-implementing-kansas-food-assistance-ban-on-soda-candy/">the state’s high SNAP error rate</a>, which could be between $20-40 million, depending on the rate, but Proffitt said the penalty won’t be assessed until fiscal year 2028.&nbsp;That gives the state time to get the error rate below 6%, which would carry no penalty, he said.The error rate measures mistakes that have been made in allocating dollars for recipients, and can include data entry mistakes and incorrect calculations. The federal goal is a rate below 6%.&nbsp; Kansas had a 9% rate for 2025.The federal law also had more stringent work requirements for SNAP recipients, which increased administrative costs at the state level an estimated $4 million, Proffitt said.<h2>Education</h2>Kelly recommended full funding for K-12 general education for two full years, Proffitt said, which provides predictability to school districts.The school funding formula sunsets at the end of fiscal year 2027, and Proffitt said the governor’s budget extends the current school finance formula into 2028.The governor recommended spending $2.5 million to eliminate the co-pay for 34,000 students who receive reduced lunches.“The governor is recommending an incremental $50.6 million of (State General Fund) to fund special education for fiscal year 2027,” Proffitt said, adding that is 70% of excess costs, which is still well below the 92% required in statute.The state has not funded special education to the 92% level in 15 years, he said.“Funding for special education is really a shared responsibility between the federal government and the state government,” Proffitt said. “The governor is calling on the feds again to meet their obligation and increase their level of funding here in Kansas for special education. We simply cannot get to 92% without more federal support.”<h2>Water funding</h2>“Water remains among the top priorities in the state, not just for the administration but obviously for many in the Legislature,” Proffitt said. “It’s one of the most critical resources we have in the state, and we know we have a tall order ahead of us to make sure it’s available for the next several generations.”The governor’s budget recommends full funding at $8 million for the state water plan fund, and Kelly wants to work with the Legislature to develop a long-term water roadmap, Proffitt said.&nbsp;<h2>Human services</h2>Kelly asked for $12.6 million to fully fund a&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/04/kansas-advocacy-organizations-offer-strategy-for-curtailing-waitlist-for-disability-services/">new Community Support waiver</a>, which is expected to eliminate some of the stress from the current intellectual and developmental disability waiver, Proffitt said.In addition, Kelly’s budget outlines an additional $10 million to address increased demand on the technology assistance waiver, which helps individuals younger than 21 who need life-sustaining medical equipment and technology.Kelly’s budget includes $15 million to support increased Children’s Health Insurance Program caseloads. Her budget includes dollars for contract nursing at Larned State Hospital and Osawatomie State Hospital, about $37 million for both.The state hospital system has been scrutinized closely over the past couple of years, Proffitt said, and the governor recommends a budget allocation of $38.9 million to strengthen the system.“We recognize that there is both a capacity issue across the state hospital system but also staffing issues,” Proffitt said.He said the budget includes:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Nearly $31 million that would fund the new South Central Regional Mental Health Hospital, which would get the facility open in fiscal year 2027 and add 103 beds to the state’s capacity.</li><li>$3 million in capital improvements at the Kansas Neurological Institute in Topeka to create 15-30 behavioral health beds for children.</li><li>$5 million for one-time funding to support six local hospitals with behavioral health beds.</li>
 </ul>The House proposed a budget bill,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/documents/hb2434_00_0000.pdf" target="_blank">House Bill 2434</a>, this week, breaking tradition with past years when the governor’s budget is taken into consideration before they put together their budget,

Kansas governor’s budget highlights education, mental health care, water and state employee raises

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that that critically injured a woman.

Just after 3a.m. Thursday, police responded to an aggravated assault in the 1800 Block of East 76th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to a statement from police.

First responders found a woman on the front porch of a home suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. EMS transported the woman was to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; Police reported no additional detais.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that that critically injured a woman.Just after 3a.m. Thursday, police responded to an aggravated assault in the 1800 Block of East 76th Terrace in Kansas City, Missouri, according to a statement from police.First responders found a woman on the front porch of a home suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. EMS transported the woman was to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries.&nbsp; Police reported no additional detais.

KCPD: Woman shot on the porch of her home

The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum in Atchison is once again nominated to be a part of USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards.  

For a second consecutive year, the museum is nominated in the Best History Museum category.  The hangar museum has come in at number four the last two years, first ranking on the Best New Museum list. 

Executive Director Mindi Love Pendergraft says it's an amazing recognition to be on the national stage among all these other museums 

“Some of the museums that are also included like the Heinz History Center and the American Revolutionary Museum up in Philadelphia, those are amazing museums, they’re very large and they’re in very large cities,” Pendergraft tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.  “So, to be included in a list like that is just really a wonderful opportunity for our museum.” 

There is one other museum from Kansas on the list as well, the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia, in north central Kansas.   

Pendergraft says making those lists has an impact on the museum, and it shows, because many people do find them because of it. 

“The hard thing to is people are like well I saw it online, but I don’t remember where exactly, but others have absolutely said the USA Today list,” Pendergraft says.  “So that’s wonderful especially international and destination visitors as I call them, folks not from the Kansas and Missouri region, the close end they absolutely say that, and we’ve had visitors from all 50 states.”  

Pendergraft says every single year visitors from all 50 states have come to the museum through its almost three years, as well as from around 10 to 20 countries with about 40 represented.  

Pendergraft says coming at number four is great, and just making the list is an honor in itself, but the hope is to be higher this year 

“I’d love to be number one, love to be higher than four, so that’s our goal this year is to really push votes and have a higher ranking than number four, although four is tremendous,” Pendergraft explains. 

You can vote daily online for the museum until February 9th.  The top 10 list will be announced on February 18th. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681315152747.jpeg" alt="The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum is again nominated among the best history museums in the nation on the 10Best USA Today list/ File photo" />
 <figcaption>The Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum is again nominated among the best history museums in the nation on the 10Best USA Today list/ File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostThe Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum in Atchison is once again nominated to be a part of USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards. For a second consecutive year, the museum is nominated in the Best History Museum category. The hangar museum has come in at number four the last two years, first ranking on the Best New Museum list. Executive Director Mindi Love Pendergraft says it's an amazing recognition to be on the national stage among all these other museums “Some of the museums that are also included like the Heinz History Center and the American Revolutionary Museum up in Philadelphia, those are amazing museums, they’re very large and they’re in very large cities,” Pendergraft tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. “So, to be included in a list like that is just really a wonderful opportunity for our museum.” There is one other museum from Kansas on the list as well, the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia, in north central Kansas. Pendergraft says making those lists has an impact on the museum, and it shows, because many people do find them because of it. “The hard thing to is people are like well I saw it online, but I don’t remember where exactly, but others have absolutely said the USA Today list,” Pendergraft says. “So that’s wonderful especially international and destination visitors as I call them, folks not from the Kansas and Missouri region, the close end they absolutely say that, and we’ve had visitors from all 50 states.” Pendergraft says every single year visitors from all 50 states have come to the museum through its almost three years, as well as from around 10 to 20 countries with about 40 represented. Pendergraft says coming at number four is great, and just making the list is an honor in itself, but the hope is to be higher this year “I’d love to be number one, love to be higher than four, so that’s our goal this year is to really push votes and have a higher ranking than number four, although four is tremendous,” Pendergraft explains. You can vote daily online for the museum until February 9th. The top 10 list will be announced on February 18th. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Amelia Earhart Hanger Museum nominated again as best history museum in nation

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Billy Long’s prospects of becoming ambassador to Iceland hit a stumbling block this week, as the former Missouri congressman had to apologize Thursday after facing backlash for his comments suggesting the country should become a U.S. state, with him serving as governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Long, in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.arctictoday.com/trumps-iceland-ambassador-pick-apologizes-for-52nd-state-comment/" target="_blank">an interview with Arctic Today</a>, a non-profit Alaska-based digital news publication that covers the Arctic region, apologized for joking with former colleagues in the U.S. House that Iceland will become the 52nd state, after America takes over Greenland.&nbsp;

The comments set off a firestorm of criticism in the Arctic nation, where Long was nominated to serve as ambassador after stepping down from his leadership role at the Internal Revenue Service last year.&nbsp;

The Icelandic Foreign Ministry confirmed to Politico that it&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.eu/article/iceland-us-ambassador-billy-long-donald-trump-52nd-state/" target="_blank">contacted the U.S. embassy in Reykjavík&nbsp;</a>seeking clarification about the comments. And a member of Iceland’s ruling party said Long’s statement must be taken seriously and represented a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mbl.is/frettir/innlent/2026/01/15/sigmar_ekkert_serstaklega_fyndid_grin/" target="_blank">fundamental disrespect for the sovereignty of small nations</a>.

“There is no doubt that this is very serious for a small country like Iceland. We need to understand that all the security arguments made by the U.S. regarding Greenland also apply to Iceland,” Viðreisn Sigmar Guðmundsson, a member of Iceland’s parliament, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mbl.is/frettir/innlent/2026/01/15/sigmar_ekkert_serstaklega_fyndid_grin/" target="_blank">a local newspaper</a>.&nbsp;

Icelanders launched a petition urging Foreign Minister Katrín Gunnarsdóttir to reject Long as ambassador. It currently has 2,000 signatures.

Long told the editor of Arctic Today that he was not serious when he made that statement. It was a joke, he said, about Jeff Landry, President Donald Trump’s U.S. Special Envoy to Greenland, becoming governor of Greenland.

“I was with some people, who I hadn’t met for three years, and they were kidding about Jeff Landry being governor of Greenland,” Long told Arctic Today, “and they started joking about me. And if anyone took offense to it, then I apologize.”

Long acknowledged that the reaction was justified, given the tensions internationally regarding Greenland.&nbsp;

Long, a former auctioneer and talk radio host who represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to lead the IRS in June. &nbsp;Two months later&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/08/08/repub/missouris-billy-long-ousted-by-trump-as-irs-chief-after-less-than-2-months-in-office/">he was pushed out with little explanation</a>&nbsp;and nominated instead to be ambassador for Iceland. He has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/01/nominations-sent-to-the-senate-078c/" target="_blank">not yet been confirmed</a>&nbsp;by the Senate for that job.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1754682615731.png" alt="Billy Long, former Missouri Congressman, photo IRS" />
 <figcaption>Billy Long, former Missouri Congressman, photo IRS</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Billy Long’s prospects of becoming ambassador to Iceland hit a stumbling block this week, as the former Missouri congressman had to apologize Thursday after facing backlash for his comments suggesting the country should become a U.S. state, with him serving as governor.&nbsp;&nbsp;Long, in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.arctictoday.com/trumps-iceland-ambassador-pick-apologizes-for-52nd-state-comment/" target="_blank">an interview with Arctic Today</a>, a non-profit Alaska-based digital news publication that covers the Arctic region, apologized for joking with former colleagues in the U.S. House that Iceland will become the 52nd state, after America takes over Greenland.&nbsp;The comments set off a firestorm of criticism in the Arctic nation, where Long was nominated to serve as ambassador after stepping down from his leadership role at the Internal Revenue Service last year.&nbsp;The Icelandic Foreign Ministry confirmed to Politico that it&nbsp;<a href="https://www.politico.eu/article/iceland-us-ambassador-billy-long-donald-trump-52nd-state/" target="_blank">contacted the U.S. embassy in Reykjavík&nbsp;</a>seeking clarification about the comments. And a member of Iceland’s ruling party said Long’s statement must be taken seriously and represented a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mbl.is/frettir/innlent/2026/01/15/sigmar_ekkert_serstaklega_fyndid_grin/" target="_blank">fundamental disrespect for the sovereignty of small nations</a>.“There is no doubt that this is very serious for a small country like Iceland. We need to understand that all the security arguments made by the U.S. regarding Greenland also apply to Iceland,” Viðreisn Sigmar Guðmundsson, a member of Iceland’s parliament, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mbl.is/frettir/innlent/2026/01/15/sigmar_ekkert_serstaklega_fyndid_grin/" target="_blank">a local newspaper</a>.&nbsp;Icelanders launched a petition urging Foreign Minister Katrín Gunnarsdóttir to reject Long as ambassador. It currently has 2,000 signatures.Long told the editor of Arctic Today that he was not serious when he made that statement. It was a joke, he said, about Jeff Landry, President Donald Trump’s U.S. Special Envoy to Greenland, becoming governor of Greenland.“I was with some people, who I hadn’t met for three years, and they were kidding about Jeff Landry being governor of Greenland,” Long told Arctic Today, “and they started joking about me. And if anyone took offense to it, then I apologize.”Long acknowledged that the reaction was justified, given the tensions internationally regarding Greenland.&nbsp;Long, a former auctioneer and talk radio host who represented Missouri in the U.S. House from 2011 to 2023, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate to lead the IRS in June. &nbsp;Two months later&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/08/08/repub/missouris-billy-long-ousted-by-trump-as-irs-chief-after-less-than-2-months-in-office/">he was pushed out with little explanation</a>&nbsp;and nominated instead to be ambassador for Iceland. He has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/01/nominations-sent-to-the-senate-078c/" target="_blank">not yet been confirmed</a>&nbsp;by the Senate for that job.

Missouri’s Billy Long apologizes after joking Iceland should become 52nd state

On his social media account, Jackson County, Missouri Legislator Manny Abarca posted a video of&nbsp; federal agents telling him he was trespassing after he showed up at a nearly 1-million-square-foot warehouse on the outskirts of Kansas City.

Abarca wrote, "Folks, I shared the below video in nearly the moments it happened: 

I was informed that ICE/DHS was touring a potential “mega detention facility” in south <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/KansasCity?src=hashtag_click">#KansasCity</a> and decided to stop by."

"As I was observing, from my truck at a taxpayer subsidized facility; I was swarmed by ice agents. They attempted to threaten to have me arrested for trespassing if I didn’t leave; however they blocked me in both the front and rear of my truck"

"I refused to get out until a supervisor came over. 

I identified myself and my position, and asked what was going on. I confirmed they are looking to place a 7,500 bed facility in this or a similar building in the area from the agents. 

Local Electeds must step up, and engage. We cannot sit ideally by and let things happen in our community. Today, I put my and my families security on the line. What are YOU willing to sacrifice for democracy in America?"

On his social media account, Jackson County, Missouri Legislator Manny Abarca posted a video of&nbsp; federal agents telling him he was trespassing after he showed up at a nearly 1-million-square-foot warehouse on the outskirts of Kansas City.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Folks, I shared the below video in nearly the moments it happened: I was informed that ICE/DHS was touring a potential “mega detention facility” in south <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KansasCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KansasCity</a> and decided to stop by. As I was observing, from my truck at a taxpayer subsidized facility; I was swarmed by… <a href="https://t.co/PF6g52gO6s">pic.twitter.com/PF6g52gO6s</a>&mdash; Manny Abarca (@MannyAbarcaIV) <a href="https://twitter.com/MannyAbarcaIV/status/2011843933517631828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Abarca wrote, "Folks, I shared the below video in nearly the moments it happened: 

I was informed that ICE/DHS was touring a potential “mega detention facility” in south <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/KansasCity?src=hashtag_click">#KansasCity</a> and decided to stop by.""As I was observing, from my truck at a taxpayer subsidized facility; I was swarmed by ice agents. They attempted to threaten to have me arrested for trespassing if I didn’t leave; however they blocked me in both the front and rear of my truck"<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today, Kansas City took action to protect our community&#39;s priorities. A 5-year ban on non-city detention facilities ensures our focus stays on building businesses, homes, and schools, not large-scale detention centers. <a href="https://t.co/qVZOJdlUlN">pic.twitter.com/qVZOJdlUlN</a>&mdash; Mayor Quinton Lucas (@MayorLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorLucasKC/status/2011923905234059523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>"I refused to get out until a supervisor came over. 

I identified myself and my position, and asked what was going on. I confirmed they are looking to place a 7,500 bed facility in this or a similar building in the area from the agents. 

Local Electeds must step up, and engage. We cannot sit ideally by and let things happen in our community. Today, I put my and my families security on the line. What are YOU willing to sacrifice for democracy in America?"

ICE officials looking at large detention space in Kansas City

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/nlGbtxEp3G">pic.twitter.com/nlGbtxEp3G</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2011964069075448319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Donald J. Trump meets with María Corina Machado of Venezuela in the Oval Office, during which she presented the President with her Nobel Peace Prize in recognition and honor.🕊️ <a href="https://t.co/v7pYHjVNVO">pic.twitter.com/v7pYHjVNVO</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2012006221340164338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

What President Trump said about gift of Machado's Nobel Peace Prize

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/squinn/">Steph Quinn</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Missouri Senate Democrats blocked debate on more than a dozen gubernatorial appointments Thursday, bringing the chamber to a standstill and vowing to spend the year slowing down the legislative process.&nbsp;

For two hours Thursday, a Democratic filibuster prevented the Senate from considering appointments by Gov. Mike Kehoe to various boards and commissions. With no end in sight, the Senate adjourned for the week without taking the appointments up for a vote.&nbsp;

Democrats argued their stall tactics were an effort to restore the Senate’s role as the more deliberative legislative chamber that thoroughly vets bills before they go to governor.&nbsp;

“It’s probably more important than ever that there is at least one entity in this government that serves as a speed check,” said state Sen. Stephen Webber, a Columbia Democrat, “that says ‘whoa, we’re gonna pump the brakes and do our jobs.’ If we do, we’ll get better public policy.”

The filibuster was the fulfillment of a threat Democrats made before the legislative session began earlier this month.&nbsp;

The party, which holds only 10 of the Senate’s 34 seats, fumed as Republicans invoked a rarely-used rule to cut off debate four times last year to pass an abortion ban amendment, repeal expanded sick leave, put initiative petition changes on the ballot and approve a gerrymandered congressional map.&nbsp;

Most expected Democrats to show up on the session’s first day ready to engage in procedural trench warfare, using the few tools available to them to slow the chamber to a crawl and exact some measure of payback.

But the Senate proceeded for the first two weeks with no drama though mostly ceremonial and procedural business. That changed Thursday, when it tried to conduct its first real business of the year by approving gubernatorial appointments.

Democrats didn’t focus on Republicans cutting off debate last year. Instead, they spent Thursday afternoon digging into legislation they argue the Senate rubber stamped that should have received more scrutiny.

State Sen. Tracy McCreery, an Olivette Democrat, pointed to last year’s capital gains tax cut, which was approved by the Senate despite concerns that the estimated $111 million annual revenue reduction was inaccurate.

The state budget director now says the revenue loss&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/missouri-faces-budget-crunch-as-capital-gains-tax-cut-hits-harder-than-expected/">could be as much as $500 million</a>&nbsp;the first year and $360 million annual thereafter.

Webber said the same could be said of the gerrymandered congressional map. A lawsuit claims&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/18/court-battle-looms-over-kc-precinct-listed-twice-in-missouris-new-congressional-map/">one Kansas City precinct was accidentally placed in two different districts</a>, something Webber said would have been avoided if the Senate didn’t rush the map through the process.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“If we’d spent some time drawing it ourselves,” he said, “that wouldn’t have happened.”

Democrats also questioned whether the Senate is doing a good enough job vetting gubernatorial appointments.&nbsp;

“Somewhere along the way,” McCreery said, “it feels like senators have slowly been removed from the process.”

State Sen. Steven Roberts, a St. Louis Democrat and member of the Senate Gubernatorial Appointments Committee, asked President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, a Shelbina Republican and the committee’s chair, about the process to approve reappointments.

“My understanding is, for reappointments, and these are folks who may be reappointed for six years later, we don’t really have any background information on them,” Roberts said.

“You would have to ask the Governor’s Office,” O’Laughlin said.&nbsp;

Roberts said he was struck by the lack of public hearings of the state Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. O’Laughlin is sponsoring two nominees for that board.

“It just caught me by surprise that by this one, it seems like all of their meetings are closed, and it gives me a little bit of concern,” Roberts said.

Roberts asked O’Laughlin whether the board sends newsletters about their decision-making process.

“No, I have never even thought about that,” O’Laughlin said. “I do think a lot of people feel that way about us.”

“But all of our meetings have to be public,” Roberts said.

“Well, supposedly,” O’Laughlin responded.

State Sen. Jason Bean, a Holcomb Republican, said Thursday’s Democratic filibuster didn’t come as a surprise.&nbsp;

“We knew this was going to&nbsp; occur, because of what happened last session,” he said, adding: “Up until now, we’ve run pretty smoothly. We’ve still got a long session ahead of us, and we’ll just see what that brings.”

Democrats have no intention of killing the appointments that were stalled Thursday. But&nbsp;Webber said the filibuster is a sign of things to come, with his party trying to force a much slower legislative pace and demanding more oversight.

“I’ve had Republicans come to me,” he said, “and say they want to get back to the way the Senate has been in the past.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768568828068.png" alt="State Sen. Stephen Webber, a Columbia Democrat, speaks in the Senate on Sept. 10, 2025 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Stephen Webber, a Columbia Democrat, speaks in the Senate on Sept. 10, 2025 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/squinn/">Steph Quinn</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Missouri Senate Democrats blocked debate on more than a dozen gubernatorial appointments Thursday, bringing the chamber to a standstill and vowing to spend the year slowing down the legislative process.&nbsp;For two hours Thursday, a Democratic filibuster prevented the Senate from considering appointments by Gov. Mike Kehoe to various boards and commissions. With no end in sight, the Senate adjourned for the week without taking the appointments up for a vote.&nbsp;Democrats argued their stall tactics were an effort to restore the Senate’s role as the more deliberative legislative chamber that thoroughly vets bills before they go to governor.&nbsp;“It’s probably more important than ever that there is at least one entity in this government that serves as a speed check,” said state Sen. Stephen Webber, a Columbia Democrat, “that says ‘whoa, we’re gonna pump the brakes and do our jobs.’ If we do, we’ll get better public policy.”The filibuster was the fulfillment of a threat Democrats made before the legislative session began earlier this month.&nbsp;The party, which holds only 10 of the Senate’s 34 seats, fumed as Republicans invoked a rarely-used rule to cut off debate four times last year to pass an abortion ban amendment, repeal expanded sick leave, put initiative petition changes on the ballot and approve a gerrymandered congressional map.&nbsp;Most expected Democrats to show up on the session’s first day ready to engage in procedural trench warfare, using the few tools available to them to slow the chamber to a crawl and exact some measure of payback.But the Senate proceeded for the first two weeks with no drama though mostly ceremonial and procedural business. That changed Thursday, when it tried to conduct its first real business of the year by approving gubernatorial appointments.Democrats didn’t focus on Republicans cutting off debate last year. Instead, they spent Thursday afternoon digging into legislation they argue the Senate rubber stamped that should have received more scrutiny.State Sen. Tracy McCreery, an Olivette Democrat, pointed to last year’s capital gains tax cut, which was approved by the Senate despite concerns that the estimated $111 million annual revenue reduction was inaccurate.The state budget director now says the revenue loss&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/18/missouri-faces-budget-crunch-as-capital-gains-tax-cut-hits-harder-than-expected/">could be as much as $500 million</a>&nbsp;the first year and $360 million annual thereafter.Webber said the same could be said of the gerrymandered congressional map. A lawsuit claims&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/09/18/court-battle-looms-over-kc-precinct-listed-twice-in-missouris-new-congressional-map/">one Kansas City precinct was accidentally placed in two different districts</a>, something Webber said would have been avoided if the Senate didn’t rush the map through the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If we’d spent some time drawing it ourselves,” he said, “that wouldn’t have happened.”Democrats also questioned whether the Senate is doing a good enough job vetting gubernatorial appointments.&nbsp;“Somewhere along the way,” McCreery said, “it feels like senators have slowly been removed from the process.”State Sen. Steven Roberts, a St. Louis Democrat and member of the Senate Gubernatorial Appointments Committee, asked President Pro Tem Cindy O’Laughlin, a Shelbina Republican and the committee’s chair, about the process to approve reappointments.“My understanding is, for reappointments, and these are folks who may be reappointed for six years later, we don’t really have any background information on them,” Roberts said.“You would have to ask the Governor’s Office,” O’Laughlin said.&nbsp;Roberts said he was struck by the lack of public hearings of the state Board of Cosmetology and Barber Examiners. O’Laughlin is sponsoring two nominees for that board.“It just caught me by surprise that by this one, it seems like all of their meetings are closed, and it gives me a little bit of concern,” Roberts said.Roberts asked O’Laughlin whether the board sends newsletters about their decision-making process.“No, I have never even thought about that,” O’Laughlin said. “I do think a lot of people feel that way about us.”“But all of our meetings have to be public,” Roberts said.“Well, supposedly,” O’Laughlin responded.State Sen. Jason Bean, a Holcomb Republican, said Thursday’s Democratic filibuster didn’t come as a surprise.&nbsp;“We knew this was going to&nbsp; occur, because of what happened last session,” he said, adding: “Up until now, we’ve run pretty smoothly. We’ve still got a long session ahead of us, and we’ll just see what that brings.”Democrats have no intention of killing the appointments that were stalled Thursday. But&nbsp;Webber said the filibuster is a sign of things to come, with his party trying to force a much slower legislative pace and demanding more oversight.“I’ve had Republicans come to me,” he said, “and say they want to get back to the way the Senate has been in the past.”

Democrats stall Missouri governor’s appointments, vow to slow Senate pace

Washington&nbsp;–&nbsp;On Thursday, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall issued a statement in support of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/01/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-calls-on-congress-to-enact-the-great-healthcare-plan/">Great Healthcare Plan</a>&nbsp;– a comprehensive package released by President Trump.

<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/01/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-calls-on-congress-to-enact-the-great-healthcare-plan/">Click here to read details on President Trump's plan</a>

“President Trump’s Great Healthcare Plan includes many of the key reforms we’ve been fighting for in a comprehensive healthcare package,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“Price transparency is exactly what my Price Tags legislation delivers — lowering costs for every American by empowering patients to shop for care and forcing the system to compete. We must also put patients back in control through Health Savings Accounts and cut out the PBM middleman that drives up prescription drug prices. I’m ready to work with President Trump and my colleagues to get this done.”

The Great Healthcare Plan is a comprehensive package aimed at lowering costs for American families and improving access to patient-centered care. Many of its core components align with Senator Marshall’s ‘<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-marshall-drops-the-marshall-plan/">Marshall Plan’</a>, including stronger price transparency requirements, expanded HSAs, reforms to reduce prescription drug middlemen, and targeted efforts to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse.&nbsp;

Washington&nbsp;–&nbsp;On Thursday, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall issued a statement in support of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/01/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-calls-on-congress-to-enact-the-great-healthcare-plan/">Great Healthcare Plan</a>&nbsp;– a comprehensive package released by President Trump.<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2026/01/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-calls-on-congress-to-enact-the-great-healthcare-plan/">Click here to read details on President Trump's plan</a><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">THE GREAT HEALTHCARE PLAN. President Donald J. Trump unveils the Great Healthcare Plan to lower costs and deliver money directly to the American people. 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/VWtNZzNbQC">pic.twitter.com/VWtNZzNbQC</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2011833504452002121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PressSec</a> Karoline Leavitt outlines &quot;The Great Health Care Plan&quot; <a href="https://t.co/vknyBPdgMR">pic.twitter.com/vknyBPdgMR</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2011867730677547239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“President Trump’s Great Healthcare Plan includes many of the key reforms we’ve been fighting for in a comprehensive healthcare package,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“Price transparency is exactly what my Price Tags legislation delivers — lowering costs for every American by empowering patients to shop for care and forcing the system to compete. We must also put patients back in control through Health Savings Accounts and cut out the PBM middleman that drives up prescription drug prices. I’m ready to work with President Trump and my colleagues to get this done.”The Great Healthcare Plan is a comprehensive package aimed at lowering costs for American families and improving access to patient-centered care. Many of its core components align with Senator Marshall’s ‘<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-marshall-drops-the-marshall-plan/">Marshall Plan’</a>, including stronger price transparency requirements, expanded HSAs, reforms to reduce prescription drug middlemen, and targeted efforts to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse.&nbsp;

🎥Kan. U.S. Senator supports President Trump's new healthcare plan

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the recovery of stolen government property and/or the arrest of individuals responsible for the destruction and theft of government property in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

On January 14, 2026, at approximately 7:00 p.m., FBI personnel responded to an assault on a federal officer investigation in North Minneapolis, Minnesota.&nbsp; Several government vehicles were subsequently vandalized and broken into, and government property was stolen from inside the vehicles.&nbsp; The FBI seeks information that will lead to the recovery of the stolen government property and/or the arrest of the individuals responsible for the destruction and theft of government property.

If you have any information concerning this case, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). You may also contact your<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/" target="_blank">local FBI office</a>, the nearest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legat/" target="_blank">American Embassy or Consulate</a>, or you can submit a tip online at&nbsp;<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/" target="_blank">tips.fbi.gov</a>.

Field Office:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/minneapolis">Minneapolis</a>

<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/?fugitive_type=fbi&amp;fugitive_name=VANDALISM%2C+DESTRUCTION%2C+AND+THEFT+OF+GOVERNMENT+PROPERTY" target="_blank">Submit an anonymous Tip online</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768524103609.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The FBI is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the recovery of stolen government property and/or the arrest of individuals responsible for the destruction and theft of government property in Minneapolis, Minnesota.On January 14, 2026, at approximately 7:00 p.m., FBI personnel responded to an assault on a federal officer investigation in North Minneapolis, Minnesota.&nbsp; Several government vehicles were subsequently vandalized and broken into, and government property was stolen from inside the vehicles.&nbsp; The FBI seeks information that will lead to the recovery of the stolen government property and/or the arrest of the individuals responsible for the destruction and theft of government property.<h2>Submit a Tip:</h2>If you have any information concerning this case, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). You may also contact your<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/" target="_blank">local FBI office</a>, the nearest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legat/" target="_blank">American Embassy or Consulate</a>, or you can submit a tip online at&nbsp;<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/" target="_blank">tips.fbi.gov</a>.Field Office:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/minneapolis">Minneapolis</a><a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/?fugitive_type=fbi&amp;fugitive_name=VANDALISM%2C+DESTRUCTION%2C+AND+THEFT+OF+GOVERNMENT+PROPERTY" target="_blank">Submit an anonymous Tip online</a>

FBI offering reward to find items taken from federal  vehicles

WASHINGTON — An indictment unsealed Wednesday in the District of Kansas charged a Honduran man and Kansas woman for conspiring to submit, and submitting, a sponsorship application with false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of an Unaccompanied Alien Child (UAC) after the child entered the U.S. illegally, according to a statement from the Department of Justice.

“This indictment represents the Justice Department’s ongoing commitment to prosecuting individuals who fraudulently pose as suitable&nbsp;Unaccompanied Alien Child sponsors to obtain custody of vulnerable children,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This conduct represents a violation of the societal responsibility to safeguard children. Our efforts are a continuation of the Department’s commitment to hold accountable those who commit crimes related to the exploitation of UACs, and will serve to strengthen ORR’s UAC program and ensure it is not manipulated.”

“We are determined to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “This task often takes a multi-faceted approach involving multiple agencies and superior coordination. Given Task Force Alpha’s efforts, we are seeing real results, and my office is happy to be on the front line.”

According to the indictment, Romulo Hernandez Murillo, 45, a Honduran national without legal authorization to be in the U.S., agreed to pay defendant Lisa Marie Lopez Perdomo, 48, of Syracuse, Kansas, to assist him with applying to sponsor and obtain custody of a Honduran Unaccompanied Alien Child.

 The agreement included being permitted to misrepresent himself by using Lopez’s address on the application to sponsor the minor. The defendants intended for the child to reside with Hernandez and work in the United States. In furtherance of his fraudulent sponsorship application, Hernandez submitted and signed, under the penalty of perjury, documents falsely claiming he resided at Lopez’s address. An employee of the HHS-funded care provider where the child was staying ultimately recommended that Hernandez’s application be denied after an investigation uncovered Hernandez’s false representations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The defendants are both charged with one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement and one count of conspiracy to commit the same offense. If convicted of either offense, the defendants face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.&nbsp;

This investigation was coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and ForfeitureSection, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 435 domestic and international arrests, which includes those of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 385 U.S. convictions; more than 330 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood.

HHS’s Office of Inspector General and DHS’s Homeland Security Investigations are investigating the case with assistance from the Kansas Department of Labor, Special Investigations Unit; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; and the Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided invaluable assistance along with the United States Marshals Service.

Acting Deputy Chief Christian Levesque and Trial Attorney Matthew Thiman of the Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for the District of Kansas are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768511964072.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — An indictment unsealed Wednesday in the District of Kansas charged a Honduran man and Kansas woman for conspiring to submit, and submitting, a sponsorship application with false statements to the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) to gain custody of an Unaccompanied Alien Child (UAC) after the child entered the U.S. illegally, according to a statement from the Department of Justice.“This indictment represents the Justice Department’s ongoing commitment to prosecuting individuals who fraudulently pose as suitable&nbsp;Unaccompanied Alien Child sponsors to obtain custody of vulnerable children,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This conduct represents a violation of the societal responsibility to safeguard children. Our efforts are a continuation of the Department’s commitment to hold accountable those who commit crimes related to the exploitation of UACs, and will serve to strengthen ORR’s UAC program and ensure it is not manipulated.”“We are determined to protect the most vulnerable members of our society,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas. “This task often takes a multi-faceted approach involving multiple agencies and superior coordination. Given Task Force Alpha’s efforts, we are seeing real results, and my office is happy to be on the front line.”According to the indictment, Romulo Hernandez Murillo, 45, a Honduran national without legal authorization to be in the U.S., agreed to pay defendant Lisa Marie Lopez Perdomo, 48, of Syracuse, Kansas, to assist him with applying to sponsor and obtain custody of a Honduran Unaccompanied Alien Child. The agreement included being permitted to misrepresent himself by using Lopez’s address on the application to sponsor the minor. The defendants intended for the child to reside with Hernandez and work in the United States. In furtherance of his fraudulent sponsorship application, Hernandez submitted and signed, under the penalty of perjury, documents falsely claiming he resided at Lopez’s address. An employee of the HHS-funded care provider where the child was staying ultimately recommended that Hernandez’s application be denied after an investigation uncovered Hernandez’s false representations. &nbsp;&nbsp;The defendants are both charged with one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement and one count of conspiracy to commit the same offense. If convicted of either offense, the defendants face a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.&nbsp;This investigation was coordinated under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and ForfeitureSection, the Office of Enforcement Operations, and the Office of International Affairs, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 435 domestic and international arrests, which includes those of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 385 U.S. convictions; more than 330 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood.HHS’s Office of Inspector General and DHS’s Homeland Security Investigations are investigating the case with assistance from the Kansas Department of Labor, Special Investigations Unit; the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations; and the Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration. Additionally, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided invaluable assistance along with the United States Marshals Service.Acting Deputy Chief Christian Levesque and Trial Attorney Matthew Thiman of the Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for the District of Kansas are prosecuting the case.An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Indictment: Kan. woman fraudulently obtained custody of unaccompanied alien child

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating the death of two people at a Kansas City home.

Just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to the 1200 block of NE 83rd Terrace, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino As officers arrived they were directed inside a residence where hey located a man and woman both suffering from gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers also located a juvenile boy with an unknown injury. 

The child was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Both the man and woman were pronounced deceased at the scene.This is currently a death investigation and investigators are not looking for anyone else involved. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the incident.&nbsp;

Police did not release the names of the two who died or additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768509792019.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating the death of two people at a Kansas City home.Just after 8:30p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to the 1200 block of NE 83rd Terrace, according to KCPD Sergeant Phil DiMartino As officers arrived they were directed inside a residence where hey located a man and woman both suffering from gunshot wounds.&nbsp; Officers also located a juvenile boy with an unknown injury. The child was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Both the man and woman were pronounced deceased at the scene.This is currently a death investigation and investigators are not looking for anyone else involved. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the incident.&nbsp;Police did not release the names of the two who died or additional details.

Police: Couple found dead, infant injured at KC home

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Court records show Rachel M. Perkins, the former director of the Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club, has been charged with one count of theft by deception involving an alleged loss of between $1,500 and $25,000.

According to Reno County booking records, Perkins was booked into the Reno County Detention Center on Jan. 2. She made her first appearance in Reno County District Court on Jan. 9. As of now, no additional court date has been announced.

Charging documents allege Perkins stole approximately $10,000 from the wrestling club. Further details surrounding the allegations were not immediately available in court filings.

She met the requirement for bond and is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768498994656.png" alt="Perkins photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Perkins photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — Court records show Rachel M. Perkins, the former director of the Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club, has been charged with one count of theft by deception involving an alleged loss of between $1,500 and $25,000.According to Reno County booking records, Perkins was booked into the Reno County Detention Center on Jan. 2. She made her first appearance in Reno County District Court on Jan. 9. As of now, no additional court date has been announced.Charging documents allege Perkins stole approximately $10,000 from the wrestling club. Further details surrounding the allegations were not immediately available in court filings.She met the requirement for bond and is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Former director accused of theft from kids wrestling club in Kansas

By:<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/max-nesterak/">Max Nesterak</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/alyssachen/">Alyssa Chen</a> <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump threatened on Thursday morning to send the military into Minnesota to stop protests, following another shooting by immigration agents that injured one person, seven days after an agent fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis.

Writing on his own social media platform, Trump said he would invoke the Insurrection Act, a 19th-century law empowering the government to deploy the military domestically to “repress insurrections and repel invasions.”

“If the corrupt politicians of Minnesota don’t obey the law and stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking the Patriots of I.C.E., who are only trying to do their job, I will institute the INSURRECTION ACT, which many Presidents have done before me, and quickly put an end to the travesty that is taking place in that once great State. Thank you for you attention to this matter! President DJT,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/115899252938886431" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on Truth Social.

The law grants an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the military from performing domestic law enforcement.

The Insurrection Act was last invoked in 1992 under President George H. W. Bush in response to civil unrest that included the deaths of 63 people, following the acquittal of four white police officers charged with beating to death Black driver Rodney King. The statute has been used about 30 times since the country’s founding, according to records kept by the Brennan Center for Justice.

Protests erupted across the Twin Cities after Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent Jonathan Ross&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/07/ice-officer-fatally-shoots-driver-through-car-window-in-minneapolis/">shot and killed</a>&nbsp;37-year-old Renee Good in south Minneapolis on Jan. 7.

The demonstrations escalated Wednesday night after a federal immigration agent shot and injured a man in north Minneapolis.&nbsp;

According to a statement issued by the Department of Homeland Security, a man crashed his vehicle and ran away as agents were “conducting a targeted traffic stop” at 6:50 p.m. Central time. An agent fired “a defensive shot to defend his life” after the man and two bystanders “attacked the law enforcement officer with a snow shovel and broom handle,” according to the statement.&nbsp;

The agent shot the man in the leg, according to the department. The statement described the man as “an illegal alien from Venezuela who was released into the country by Joe Biden in 2022.”

States Newsroom’s Minnesota Reformer was unable to confirm the account.&nbsp;

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said in a late-night press conference that the man was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Reformer&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/14/second-person-in-a-week-shot-by-federal-immigration-agent-in-minneapolis/">reported</a>&nbsp;that scores of demonstrators arrived at the scene, sparking a back-and-forth with agents, who deployed tear gas and flash bangs. Agents detained at least two people after someone threw fireworks at the agents. At least two vehicles believed to be used by federal officers were vandalized. The clashes largely stopped by 11:30 p.m., according to the Reformer.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey asked for calm and reiterated his call for the Trump administration to remove ICE from the city.

Trump surged more ICE agents to Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Good, bringing the total to roughly 3,000 — far outnumbering the city’s 600 local police officers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768497897095.jpeg" alt="Federal Bureau of Prisons officers on the scene where a federal immigration agent shot a man Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, in north Minneapolis. (Photo by Max Nesterak/Minnesota Reformer)" />
 <figcaption>Federal Bureau of Prisons officers on the scene where a federal immigration agent shot a man Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, in north Minneapolis. (Photo by Max Nesterak/Minnesota Reformer)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/max-nesterak/">Max Nesterak</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/alyssachen/">Alyssa Chen</a> <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump threatened on Thursday morning to send the military into Minnesota to stop protests, following another shooting by immigration agents that injured one person, seven days after an agent fatally shot a woman in Minneapolis.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768498113412.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Writing on his own social media platform, Trump said he would invoke the Insurrection Act, a 19th-century law empowering the government to deploy the military domestically to “repress insurrections and repel invasions.”“If the corrupt politicians of Minnesota don’t obey the law and stop the professional agitators and insurrectionists from attacking the Patriots of I.C.E., who are only trying to do their job, I will institute the INSURRECTION ACT, which many Presidents have done before me, and quickly put an end to the travesty that is taking place in that once great State. Thank you for you attention to this matter! President DJT,” Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/115899252938886431" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on Truth Social.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/EFBOPpNluy">pic.twitter.com/EFBOPpNluy</a>&mdash; Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovTimWalz/status/2011832759522615367?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The law grants an exception to the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the military from performing domestic law enforcement.The Insurrection Act was last invoked in 1992 under President George H. W. Bush in response to civil unrest that included the deaths of 63 people, following the acquittal of four white police officers charged with beating to death Black driver Rodney King. The statute has been used about 30 times since the country’s founding, according to records kept by the Brennan Center for Justice.Protests erupted across the Twin Cities after Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent Jonathan Ross&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/07/ice-officer-fatally-shoots-driver-through-car-window-in-minneapolis/">shot and killed</a>&nbsp;37-year-old Renee Good in south Minneapolis on Jan. 7.The demonstrations escalated Wednesday night after a federal immigration agent shot and injured a man in north Minneapolis.&nbsp;According to a statement issued by the Department of Homeland Security, a man crashed his vehicle and ran away as agents were “conducting a targeted traffic stop” at 6:50 p.m. Central time. An agent fired “a defensive shot to defend his life” after the man and two bystanders “attacked the law enforcement officer with a snow shovel and broom handle,” according to the statement.&nbsp;The agent shot the man in the leg, according to the department. The statement described the man as “an illegal alien from Venezuela who was released into the country by Joe Biden in 2022.”States Newsroom’s Minnesota Reformer was unable to confirm the account.&nbsp;Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara said in a late-night press conference that the man was transported to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.The Reformer&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2026/01/14/second-person-in-a-week-shot-by-federal-immigration-agent-in-minneapolis/">reported</a>&nbsp;that scores of demonstrators arrived at the scene, sparking a back-and-forth with agents, who deployed tear gas and flash bangs. Agents detained at least two people after someone threw fireworks at the agents. At least two vehicles believed to be used by federal officers were vandalized. The clashes largely stopped by 11:30 p.m., according to the Reformer.Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey asked for calm and reiterated his call for the Trump administration to remove ICE from the city.Trump surged more ICE agents to Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Good, bringing the total to roughly 3,000 — far outnumbering the city’s 600 local police officers.&nbsp;

President Trump threatens to use Insurrection Act, deploy military in Minnesota

&nbsp;In another pre-dawn action Thursday, Marines and Sailors from Joint Task Force Southern Spear, in support of the Department of Homeland Security, launched from USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and apprehended Motor/Tanker Veronica without incident, according to a statement from the U.S. Southern Command.

The Veronica is the latest tanker operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean, proving the effectiveness of Operation Southern Spear yet again.  

These operations are backed by the full power of the U.S. Navy’s Amphibious Ready Group, including the ready and lethal platforms of USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS San Antonio (LPD 17), and USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28). 

"The only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully. The Department of War in coordination with interagency partners, will defend our homeland by ending illicit activity and restoring security in the Western Hemisphere."

&nbsp;In another pre-dawn action Thursday, Marines and Sailors from Joint Task Force Southern Spear, in support of the Department of Homeland Security, launched from USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and apprehended Motor/Tanker Veronica without incident, according to a statement from the U.S. Southern Command.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Through <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OpSouthernSpear?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OpSouthernSpear</a>, the Department of War is unwavering in its mission to crush illicit activity in the Western Hemisphere in partnership with <a href="https://twitter.com/USCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCG</a> through <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DHSgov</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheJusticeDept</a>. In another pre-dawn action, Marines and Sailors from Joint Task Force Southern Spear,… <a href="https://t.co/brxO9xXUu3">pic.twitter.com/brxO9xXUu3</a>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2011798070816612578?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The Veronica is the latest tanker operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Caribbean, proving the effectiveness of Operation Southern Spear yet again. 

These operations are backed by the full power of the U.S. Navy’s Amphibious Ready Group, including the ready and lethal platforms of USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), USS San Antonio (LPD 17), and USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD 28). "The only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully. The Department of War in coordination with interagency partners, will defend our homeland by ending illicit activity and restoring security in the Western Hemisphere."

🎥  US seizes in Caribbean Sea another sanctioned oil tanker

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is aware of a recent event where a skimming device was used in a Wichita store resulting in the theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from 46 Kansas households, according to a media release from the agency.

&nbsp;An investigation by DCF, it was discovered a skimming device had been placed on a point of sale terminal at a Wichita store to steal Kansas Benefits Card (electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card) information. That stolen information was then used to drain the SNAP benefits from the cards. 

The impacted cards were all used at the same store.Currently, this event is affecting 46 SNAP recipients with a total of approximately $9,800 in stolen SNAP benefits.

On Jan. 5, 2026, DCF received notification from several Kansans that their benefits were being used in Pennsylvania. 

DCF immediately began investigating and deactivating cards that had been used at a suspected location as a precaution to prevent additional theft of benefits.Further investigation by DCF indicates possible skimming activity associated with Kansas Benefits Cards (electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards) in the Kansas City, Kansas area. 

The investigation is ongoing and DCF is working with law enforcement on this case.

Affected cardholders should receive notice in the mail. Cardholders with Self-Service Portal (SSP) accounts who have opted in to receive communications will also get a text message or email prompting them to review a message in the portal.​ Affected cardholders will receive new Kansas Benefits Cards mailed to their homes.

<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/skimming" target="_blank">Skimmers</a>&nbsp;are devices criminals use to steal data from credit, debit and EBT cards. These devices are illegally placed on point-of-sale terminals to capture card data. The criminals then use the data to create fake cards and make illegal purchases. Criminals may use the stolen card information to make purchases in other states because skimming events are often part of a larger theft ring.

How to help prevent EBT card theft

Stolen benefits cannot be replaced. DCF strongly encourages cardholders to use the free ebtEDGE app from DCF’s EBT contractor, Fidelity Information Services (FIS), or the ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do" target="_blank">ebtedge.com</a>&nbsp;to monitor their account and help further safeguard their benefits by using the following features:

Third-party EBT apps do not provide the same protection features as ebtEDGE. The ebtEDGE app can be accessed in the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

Cardholders are also encouraged to beware of phishing attempts, and they should not share their card info or the PIN over the phone or via text message. DCF and FIS will never call or text cardholders and explicitly ask for their card number or PIN. 

Learn more about protecting EBT cards at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/EBT-Online.aspx" target="_blank">ebtcards.dcf.ks.gov</a>.What should cardholders do if they suspect their card has been compromised?If a cardholder suspects their EBT card has been compromised,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do" target="_blank">ebtedge.com</a>.Will stolen benefits be replaced?Federally funded replacement for stolen SNAP and TANF benefits ended in December 2024. In addition, there is no state money available for reimbursement. This means stolen SNAP and TANF benefits cannot be replaced.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739672428485.png" alt="Image DCF" />
 <figcaption>Image DCF</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) is aware of a recent event where a skimming device was used in a Wichita store resulting in the theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from 46 Kansas households, according to a media release from the agency.&nbsp;An investigation by DCF, it was discovered a skimming device had been placed on a point of sale terminal at a Wichita store to steal Kansas Benefits Card (electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card) information. That stolen information was then used to drain the SNAP benefits from the cards. The impacted cards were all used at the same store.Currently, this event is affecting 46 SNAP recipients with a total of approximately $9,800 in stolen SNAP benefits.On Jan. 5, 2026, DCF received notification from several Kansans that their benefits were being used in Pennsylvania. DCF immediately began investigating and deactivating cards that had been used at a suspected location as a precaution to prevent additional theft of benefits.Further investigation by DCF indicates possible skimming activity associated with Kansas Benefits Cards (electronic benefits transfer (EBT) cards) in the Kansas City, Kansas area. The investigation is ongoing and DCF is working with law enforcement on this case.Affected cardholders should receive notice in the mail. Cardholders with Self-Service Portal (SSP) accounts who have opted in to receive communications will also get a text message or email prompting them to review a message in the portal.​ Affected cardholders will receive new Kansas Benefits Cards mailed to their homes.<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/skimming" target="_blank">Skimmers</a>&nbsp;are devices criminals use to steal data from credit, debit and EBT cards. These devices are illegally placed on point-of-sale terminals to capture card data. The criminals then use the data to create fake cards and make illegal purchases. Criminals may use the stolen card information to make purchases in other states because skimming events are often part of a larger theft ring.How to help prevent EBT card theftStolen benefits cannot be replaced. DCF strongly encourages cardholders to use the free ebtEDGE app from DCF’s EBT contractor, Fidelity Information Services (FIS), or the ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do" target="_blank">ebtedge.com</a>&nbsp;to monitor their account and help further safeguard their benefits by using the following features:<ol>
 <li>Freeze the EBT card when not using it. Cardholders must unfreeze the card when they are ready to make a purchase.</li><li>​Block out-of-state and online transactions. Cardholders will have to unblock these transactions when they want to make an out-of-state or online purchase.</li><li>Regularly change the four-digit PIN and use number combinations that are not easy for others to figure out. For example, don’t use birthdays or anniversaries.​​</li>
 </ol>Third-party EBT apps do not provide the same protection features as ebtEDGE. The ebtEDGE app can be accessed in the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.Cardholders are also encouraged to beware of phishing attempts, and they should not share their card info or the PIN over the phone or via text message. DCF and FIS will never call or text cardholders and explicitly ask for their card number or PIN. Learn more about protecting EBT cards at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/EBT-Online.aspx" target="_blank">ebtcards.dcf.ks.gov</a>.What should cardholders do if they suspect their card has been compromised?If a cardholder suspects their EBT card has been compromised,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ebtedge.com/gov/portal/PortalHome.do" target="_blank">ebtedge.com</a>.Will stolen benefits be replaced?Federally funded replacement for stolen SNAP and TANF benefits ended in December 2024. In addition, there is no state money available for reimbursement. This means stolen SNAP and TANF benefits cannot be replaced.-------

DCF investigating EBT card skimming across Kansas

JOHNSON COUNTY—Police are asking help in identifying an individual in connection with a burglary spree in Lenexa.

Since the first of the year, multiple work vehicles at local businesses have been broken into, with tools and equipment stolen. These crimes don’t just result in stolen property—they also cause vehicle damage and disrupt daily business operations. The burglaries occurred in the 8100 Lenexa Drive, in the 8200 block of Melrose, at 95th and Pflumm at 10100 Marshall among other locations, according to police.

If you recognize this person or have information about their identity, please contact our detective at 913-825-8120.

The suspect has been seen driving a dark Honda CR-V, which is shown at the end of this video.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Police are asking help in identifying an individual in connection with a burglary spree in Lenexa.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">We’re asking for the public’s help in identifying this individual in connection with a burglary spree in Lenexa. Since the first of the year, multiple work vehicles at local businesses have been broken into, with tools and equipment stolen. These crimes don’t just result in… <a href="https://t.co/zkLXFwXYCN">pic.twitter.com/zkLXFwXYCN</a>&mdash; Lenexa Police (@LenexaPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/LenexaPolice/status/2011540208941220131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Since the first of the year, multiple work vehicles at local businesses have been broken into, with tools and equipment stolen. These crimes don’t just result in stolen property—they also cause vehicle damage and disrupt daily business operations. The burglaries occurred in the 8100 Lenexa Drive, in the 8200 block of Melrose, at 95th and Pflumm at 10100 Marshall among other locations, according to police.If you recognize this person or have information about their identity, please contact our detective at 913-825-8120.The suspect has been seen driving a dark Honda CR-V, which is shown at the end of this video.

Police ask for help to ID Kansas burglary suspect

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.

Just after 10a.m. Wednesday, crews were dispatched to a reported fire in the 3300 block of Flora Avenue, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke and fire showing from a 1-story home. An offensive interior fire attack was initiated, and 2 hose lines were advanced to extinguish the fire. The fire was placed under controlat 10:18 a.m.&nbsp;Searches throughout the structure were performed and came back all clear.&nbsp; &nbsp;City Planning and Dangerous Buildings have been requested to the scene.&nbsp;No injuries have been reported from this incident. Red Cross has been requested to assist with 3 adults.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768412352357.png" alt="Photo KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.Just after 10a.m. Wednesday, crews were dispatched to a reported fire in the 3300 block of Flora Avenue, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768412329824.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke and fire showing from a 1-story home. An offensive interior fire attack was initiated, and 2 hose lines were advanced to extinguish the fire. The fire was placed under controlat 10:18 a.m.&nbsp;Searches throughout the structure were performed and came back all clear.&nbsp; &nbsp;City Planning and Dangerous Buildings have been requested to the scene.&nbsp;No injuries have been reported from this incident. Red Cross has been requested to assist with 3 adults.

3 adults displaced after fire at home in Kansas City

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>

WASHINGTON — Vice President JD Vance broke a tied Senate vote to block advancement of a war powers resolution that would have stopped President Donald Trump from taking further military action against Venezuela without congressional authorization.

Senate Republicans used a procedural maneuver Wednesday night to halt debate on the Vietnam War-era&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R47603" target="_blank">statute</a>&nbsp;that gives Congress a check on the president’s deployments abroad.&nbsp;

Sens. Todd Young of Indiana and Josh Hawley of Missouri flipped on their previous votes to advance the resolution, splitting support at 50-50 — and delivering a victory to Trump, who had strongly criticized Republican senators who earlier defected from the administration.

Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine and Rand Paul of Kentucky voted to keep the effort alive in the Senate. Paul is the only Republican co-sponsor of the bill. Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia was the leading Democratic co-sponsor.

Young said while he “strongly” believes Congress must be involved in any decisions about the commitment of U.S. troops, administration officials assured him that is not the state of play in Venezuela.

“After numerous conversations with senior national security officials, I have received assurances that there are no American troops in Venezuela. I’ve also received a commitment that if President Trump were to determine American forces are needed in major military operations in Venezuela, the Administration will come to Congress in advance to ask for an authorization of force,” Young said in a written statement after he cast his vote.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768445947287.png" alt=" U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., talks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol on June 28, 2025 (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom)." />
 <figcaption> U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., talks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol on June 28, 2025 (Ashley Murray/States Newsroom).</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/ashley-murray/">Ashley Murray</a>WASHINGTON — Vice President JD Vance broke a tied Senate vote to block advancement of a war powers resolution that would have stopped President Donald Trump from taking further military action against Venezuela without congressional authorization.Senate Republicans used a procedural maneuver Wednesday night to halt debate on the Vietnam War-era&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R47603" target="_blank">statute</a>&nbsp;that gives Congress a check on the president’s deployments abroad.&nbsp;Sens. Todd Young of Indiana and Josh Hawley of Missouri flipped on their previous votes to advance the resolution, splitting support at 50-50 — and delivering a victory to Trump, who had strongly criticized Republican senators who earlier defected from the administration.Sens. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, Susan Collins of Maine and Rand Paul of Kentucky voted to keep the effort alive in the Senate. Paul is the only Republican co-sponsor of the bill. Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine of Virginia was the leading Democratic co-sponsor.Young said while he “strongly” believes Congress must be involved in any decisions about the commitment of U.S. troops, administration officials assured him that is not the state of play in Venezuela.“After numerous conversations with senior national security officials, I have received assurances that there are no American troops in Venezuela. I’ve also received a commitment that if President Trump were to determine American forces are needed in major military operations in Venezuela, the Administration will come to Congress in advance to ask for an authorization of force,” Young said in a written statement after he cast his vote.<h2>Rare rebuke doesn’t last</h2>The vote came less than a week after Young and Hawley were among the&nbsp; five Senate Republicans who broke with party ranks to move the resolution across an initial procedural hurdle — a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/us-senate-gop-support-advances-war-powers-resolution-rebuking-trump-venezuela" target="_blank">rare rebuke</a>&nbsp;of Trump from some in his own party.Trump pointedly attacked the five GOP senators after they voted, writing on his Truth Social platform that the lawmakers “should never be elected to office again.”&nbsp;Senate Republicans argued a resolution to rein in Trump’s military actions against Venezuela is not relevant because “there’s no troops there, there is nothing to terminate,” as Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jim Risch said on the floor ahead of the vote.“Now, I know some of my colleagues will argue that a vote for this resolution is a prospective statement about limiting future action in Venezuela. That’s not what it says. They argue, ‘we still have ships in the Caribbean, and clearly the president is ready to invade again,’ they say. But again, that is not what the resolution says. … No language in this resolution addresses future action,” said Risch, R-Idaho, who moved to table the measure.The vote came 11 days after U.S. special forces apprehended Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their bedroom during a surprise overnight raid. The couple was wanted by U.S. authorities on federal drug and conspiracy charges.The vote also comes after a monthslong bombing campaign on small boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean in which U.S. strikes killed more than 115 alleged “narco-terrorists,” according to U.S. Southern Command.Within an hour before senators voted to block any advancement of the war powers resolution, Trump posted on social media that he “had a very good call” Thursday morning with Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez.“We are making tremendous progress, as we help Venezuela stabilize and recover. Many topics were discussed, including Oil, Minerals, Trade and, of course, National Security. This partnership between the United States of America and Venezuela will be a spectacular one FOR ALL. Venezuela will soon be great and prosperous again, perhaps more so than ever before!” Trump wrote on his own platform, Truth Social.Trump hosted oil executives at the White House Friday for a meeting on potential investment in Venezuela’s oil industry. Prior to the meeting, the president announced the South American nation had already agreed to give the U.S. between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil. Trump said he would control the money made from the sale.<h2>‘We are heavily engaged’</h2>Paul and Democratic sponsors of the war powers resolution vehemently disagreed with the GOP statements about the U.S. presence in and around Venezuela.“You don’t have to be a great expert in military affairs to know that we are heavily engaged,” said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, ahead of the vote.“Donald Trump says we’re not engaged in hostilities? Tell that to the 16,000 U.S. service members currently deployed in the Caribbean. Tell that to our service members on the Ford carrier strike force. Look at the Marine expeditionary unit operating in the region,” Schumer said. “Donald Trump is turning the Caribbean into a dangerous powder keg — and Congress must rein him in before one mistake ignites a larger, more unstable conflict.”Kaine likened the Republicans’ procedural move to “a parliamentary gag rule on discussion of this military operation.”“If this cause and if this legal basis were so righteous and so lawful, the administration and its supporters would not be so afraid to have this debate before the public and the United States Senate,” Kaine said on the floor ahead of the vote.Paul said the administration’s claim that Venezuela is not an official war is “an absurdity.”“The invasion of another country, blockading of a country and removing another country’s leader, to my mind, clearly, is war,” Paul said on the floor ahead of the vote.U.S. Southern Command declined to confirm Wednesday the exact number of troops and warships present in the region.Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello said more than 100 were killed in the raid, according to numerous media outlets that posted a&nbsp;<a href="https://cnnespanol.cnn.com/2026/01/07/venezuela/video/venezuela-ataques-muertos-estados-unidos-diosdado-cabello" target="_blank">video</a>&nbsp;of his statement. The Cuban government announced on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1JzbcBUyHz/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>&nbsp;32 of its citizens were among the dead.Seven U.S. troops were injured in the incursion, according to the Pentagon. Five returned to work within days after the attack, while two were still recovering as of Jan. 8. Pentagon officials declined to comment further on their conditions Wednesday.