KANSAS CITY—Eleven people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kansas City.

Kansas City Police reported a GMC Acadia and a Chevy Malibu were southbound in the 8800 Block of Raytown Road at a high rate of speed. Both vehicles left the roadway to the right.

The Chevy with seven occupants including four toddlers struck a tree and the GMC with four occupants rolled.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Two of the toddlers from the Chevy were ejected out of the vehicle and the other two were without proper child safety seats, according to KCPD.

Due to the severity of the accident extrication was needed, according to the Raytown Fire Protection District. A total of 8 ambulances were requested for transport.

EMS transported the toddlers to a local hospital. One had life-threatening injuries, one had critical injuries and the two others were seriously injured.

The driver of the Chevy was hospitalized with critical injuries and the front passenger also had serious injuries, according to KCPD.&nbsp; There was one teen in the backseat that received non life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the GMC and three other occupants suffered from minor to serious injuries. The crash is under investigation with concerns of impairment, according to KCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707133618334.png" alt="Photo Raytown Fire Protection District" />
 <figcaption>Photo Raytown Fire Protection District</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Eleven people were injured in an accident just after 1:30p.m. Sunday in Kansas City.Kansas City Police reported a GMC Acadia and a Chevy Malibu were southbound in the 8800 Block of Raytown Road at a high rate of speed. Both vehicles left the roadway to the right.The Chevy with seven occupants including four toddlers struck a tree and the GMC with four occupants rolled.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707133595864.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Two of the toddlers from the Chevy were ejected out of the vehicle and the other two were without proper child safety seats, according to KCPD.Due to the severity of the accident extrication was needed, according to the Raytown Fire Protection District. A total of 8 ambulances were requested for transport.EMS transported the toddlers to a local hospital. One had life-threatening injuries, one had critical injuries and the two others were seriously injured.The driver of the Chevy was hospitalized with critical injuries and the front passenger also had serious injuries, according to KCPD.&nbsp; There was one teen in the backseat that received non life-threatening injuries.The driver of the GMC and three other occupants suffered from minor to serious injuries. The crash is under investigation with concerns of impairment, according to KCPD.

Police: Alcohol a possible factor in KC crash that injured 4 children

BEIRUT (AP) — A drone attack on a base housing U.S. troops in eastern Syria killed six allied Kurdish fighters late Sunday, in the first significant attack in Syria or Iraq since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mideast-tensions-things-to-know-7085f1dba25ca1a9ecc81d208717c9a2">U.S. launched retaliatory strikes</a>&nbsp;over the weekend against Iran-backed militias that have been targeting its forces in the region.

The U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces said Monday the attack hit a training ground at al-Omar base in Syria’s eastern province of Deir el-Zour, where the forces' commando units are trained. No casualties were reported among U.S. troops.

An umbrella group of Iran-backed Iraqi militias, dubbed the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, released a video claiming responsibility for the attack and showing them launching a drone from an unspecified location.

In late January,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">a drone attack by the same group killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;and wounded dozens more at a desert base in Jordan. The U.S. military launched dozens of retaliatory strikes targeting Iran-backed militant groups in western Iraq and eastern Syria and also struck the Houthis in Yemen.

The SDF initially accused “Syrian regime-backed mercenaries” of carrying out Sunday's attack but in a second statement blamed “Iran-backed militias” after investigating the attack.

The umbrella group has launched dozens of drone attacks on U.S. military bases and troops in Iraq and Syria, and has called for the withdrawal of American soldiers from both countries.

The attack comes as tensions flare across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>, which was sparked by Hamas' rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7.

Meanwhile, Britain-based opposition war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least seven SDF fighters were killed in the attack on Sunday and at least 18 others wounded, some in critical condition.

The attack late Sunday came two days after the U.S. military carried out strikes against militant targets linked to Iran in Syria and Iraq.

The SDF said it has the right to respond to the attack.

The U.S. military said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-iran-syria-jordan-strikes-us-2f235ac0d00edc266576ef0d76fa33e4">struck four anti-ship missiles on Sunday</a>&nbsp;that were prepared to be fired at vessels in the Red Sea from Houthi rebel-controlled areas in Yemen.

In a statement early Monday, the U.S. Central Command said the strikes were in self-defense and came after forces determined the missiles “presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.”

Sunday’s strikes came a day after the U.S. and Britain launched a second wave of strikes against the Houthis, meant to degrade the Iranian-backed group’ capabilities to attack vessels in the Red Sea. The U.S. and Britain said they hit 36 Houthi targets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707089021196.png" alt="Photo of the U.S.. aircraft launching Saturday in support of the attacks on Iran-backed terrorists- U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the U.S.. aircraft launching Saturday in support of the attacks on Iran-backed terrorists- U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>BEIRUT (AP) — A drone attack on a base housing U.S. troops in eastern Syria killed six allied Kurdish fighters late Sunday, in the first significant attack in Syria or Iraq since the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mideast-tensions-things-to-know-7085f1dba25ca1a9ecc81d208717c9a2">U.S. launched retaliatory strikes</a>&nbsp;over the weekend against Iran-backed militias that have been targeting its forces in the region.The U.S.-backed, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces said Monday the attack hit a training ground at al-Omar base in Syria’s eastern province of Deir el-Zour, where the forces' commando units are trained. No casualties were reported among U.S. troops.An umbrella group of Iran-backed Iraqi militias, dubbed the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, released a video claiming responsibility for the attack and showing them launching a drone from an unspecified location.In late January,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">a drone attack by the same group killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;and wounded dozens more at a desert base in Jordan. The U.S. military launched dozens of retaliatory strikes targeting Iran-backed militant groups in western Iraq and eastern Syria and also struck the Houthis in Yemen.The SDF initially accused “Syrian regime-backed mercenaries” of carrying out Sunday's attack but in a second statement blamed “Iran-backed militias” after investigating the attack.The umbrella group has launched dozens of drone attacks on U.S. military bases and troops in Iraq and Syria, and has called for the withdrawal of American soldiers from both countries.The attack comes as tensions flare across the Middle East amid the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>, which was sparked by Hamas' rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7.Meanwhile, Britain-based opposition war monitor Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said at least seven SDF fighters were killed in the attack on Sunday and at least 18 others wounded, some in critical condition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707001097326.png" alt="U.S. Warship supporting strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets-image U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Warship supporting strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi targets-image U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>The attack late Sunday came two days after the U.S. military carried out strikes against militant targets linked to Iran in Syria and Iraq.The SDF said it has the right to respond to the attack.The U.S. military said it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-iran-syria-jordan-strikes-us-2f235ac0d00edc266576ef0d76fa33e4">struck four anti-ship missiles on Sunday</a>&nbsp;that were prepared to be fired at vessels in the Red Sea from Houthi rebel-controlled areas in Yemen.In a statement early Monday, the U.S. Central Command said the strikes were in self-defense and came after forces determined the missiles “presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region.”Sunday’s strikes came a day after the U.S. and Britain launched a second wave of strikes against the Houthis, meant to degrade the Iranian-backed group’ capabilities to attack vessels in the Red Sea. The U.S. and Britain said they hit 36 Houthi targets.

Drone attack on Syrian base housing US troops kills 6 Kurdish fighters 

TYLER, Texas (AP) — The father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was arrested in East Texas on at least his third charge of driving while intoxicated, according to jail records. The legal issue comes as the younger Mahomes prepares to lead his team into the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.

Patrick Mahomes Sr., 54, was arrested Saturday night in Tyler and his bond was set at $10,000. He was released on Sunday, according to jail records from Smith County, Texas.

Mahomes' attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail from The Associated Press seeking comment.

His arrest occurred a little more than a week before his son leads the Chiefs against San Francisco in Las Vegas as Kansas City attempts to repeat as Super Bowl champion.

The younger Mahomes likely will face questions at Super Bowl media night on Monday about whether his father's arrest will be a distraction. That could be a storyline going into next weekend.

Mahomes Sr. was arrested on the same charge in 2019 and was sentenced to 40 days in jail, Smith County records show.

Mahomes Sr. played 11 seasons (1992-2003) in Major League Baseball as a pitcher.

The right-hander was 42-39 with a 5.47 ERA in 308 career games (63 starts) for the Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Rangers, Cubs and Pirates. He was part of the 1999 NL playoffs with the Mets.

Last month, the quarterback's brother, Jackson Mahomes, had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charges-dropped-jackson-mahomes-sexual-assault-e342afb174f0567499b9458504b79c2b?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">three felony charges against him dismissed</a>. He had been accused of grabbing a woman’s neck and kissing her without her consent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707097553263.png" alt="Mahomes photo Smith County, Texas Jail" />
 <figcaption>Mahomes photo Smith County, Texas Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>TYLER, Texas (AP) — The father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was arrested in East Texas on at least his third charge of driving while intoxicated, according to jail records. The legal issue comes as the younger Mahomes prepares to lead his team into the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.Patrick Mahomes Sr., 54, was arrested Saturday night in Tyler and his bond was set at $10,000. He was released on Sunday, according to jail records from Smith County, Texas.Mahomes' attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail from The Associated Press seeking comment.His arrest occurred a little more than a week before his son leads the Chiefs against San Francisco in Las Vegas as Kansas City attempts to repeat as Super Bowl champion.The younger Mahomes likely will face questions at Super Bowl media night on Monday about whether his father's arrest will be a distraction. That could be a storyline going into next weekend.Mahomes Sr. was arrested on the same charge in 2019 and was sentenced to 40 days in jail, Smith County records show.Mahomes Sr. played 11 seasons (1992-2003) in Major League Baseball as a pitcher.The right-hander was 42-39 with a 5.47 ERA in 308 career games (63 starts) for the Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Rangers, Cubs and Pirates. He was part of the 1999 NL playoffs with the Mets.Last month, the quarterback's brother, Jackson Mahomes, had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charges-dropped-jackson-mahomes-sexual-assault-e342afb174f0567499b9458504b79c2b?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">three felony charges against him dismissed</a>. He had been accused of grabbing a woman’s neck and kissing her without her consent.

Patrick Mahomes' father arrested for alleged DWI for 3rd time

KANSAS CITY —A victim wounded in a shooting last week in Kansas City died over the weekend.

Just before 11:00a.m. Jan. 31, police responded to a shooting in the 100 block of West 99th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.

First responders found a victim in parking garage suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS transported the victim to a hospital in critical condition.

On Saturday, police were notified that the victim died from the injuries. Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation of the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707015657341.png" alt="Building near the scene of the homicide-Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Building near the scene of the homicide-Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A victim wounded in a shooting last week in Kansas City died over the weekend.Just before 11:00a.m. Jan. 31, police responded to a shooting in the 100 block of West 99th Terrace, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.First responders found a victim in parking garage suffering from a gunshot wound. EMS transported the victim to a hospital in critical condition.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707015570930.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Saturday, police were notified that the victim died from the injuries. Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation of the shooting.

Police: Victim found in KC parking garage dies 3 days after shooting

MILLER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 12-midnight Sunday in Miller County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 GMC Sierra driven by Timothy E. Perkins, 47, Iberia, was eastbound on Highway 139 TT in Iberia.

The pickup traveled off the left side of a private driveway, struck a fence, continued rolling, struck another fence and a tree. Perkins was pronounced dead at the scene. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

MILLER COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 12-midnight Sunday in Miller County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 GMC Sierra driven by Timothy E. Perkins, 47, Iberia, was eastbound on Highway 139 TT in Iberia.The pickup traveled off the left side of a private driveway, struck a fence, continued rolling, struck another fence and a tree. Perkins was pronounced dead at the scene. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man dies after pickup travels off private drive, strikes tree

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.

Just after 2a.m.&nbsp;February 2, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a truck in the vicinity of 94th&nbsp;and U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a quantity of methamphetamine was located. &nbsp;The driver, Travis Wallace Ray, 41, of Louisburg, Kansas was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ray was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706971743236.png" alt="Ray-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Ray-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.Just after 2a.m.&nbsp;February 2, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a truck in the vicinity of 94th&nbsp;and U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a quantity of methamphetamine was located. &nbsp;The driver, Travis Wallace Ray, 41, of Louisburg, Kansas was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ray was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Sheriff: Kansas man was selling methamphetamine

KANSAS CITY —A jury last week convicted a Kansas City man in a double homicide from August 2020, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Cleon D. White, 36, was convicted of two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.

According to court records, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to the area of the 2700 block of Guinotte Avenue in Kansas City on a reported shooting. 

Police found two deceased men in a gold Honda. The victims were identified as 23-year-0ld Jahmiere Green and 27-year-old Brandon Rainey.

Video surveillance showed the victim's vehicle being followed by a white SUV on Guinottte Avenue. The SUV pulled up to the driver's side of the victims' vehicle, then the victims' vehicle rolls slowly to a stop. 

No movement is obvious after the SUV leaves. The SUV does return but leaves again. Detectives also determined the SUV returned to a parking lot on East Third Street soon after the murder and the man who got out of the SUV matches the build and clothing of a man shown meeting with one of the victims shortly before the homicide. 

After a search warrant was obtained, detectives determined a search of the defendant's phone showed a vehicle with wording on the windshield that can be seen in surveillance video of the vehicle on the day of the fatal shootings. Formal sentencing is set for March 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706826084203.png" alt="White-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>White-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A jury last week convicted a Kansas City man in a double homicide from August 2020, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Cleon D. White, 36, was convicted of two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and two counts of Armed Criminal Action.According to court records, Kansas City police officers were dispatched to the area of the 2700 block of Guinotte Avenue in Kansas City on a reported shooting. Police found two deceased men in a gold Honda. The victims were identified as 23-year-0ld Jahmiere Green and 27-year-old Brandon Rainey.Video surveillance showed the victim's vehicle being followed by a white SUV on Guinottte Avenue. The SUV pulled up to the driver's side of the victims' vehicle, then the victims' vehicle rolls slowly to a stop. No movement is obvious after the SUV leaves. The SUV does return but leaves again. Detectives also determined the SUV returned to a parking lot on East Third Street soon after the murder and the man who got out of the SUV matches the build and clothing of a man shown meeting with one of the victims shortly before the homicide. After a search warrant was obtained, detectives determined a search of the defendant's phone showed a vehicle with wording on the windshield that can be seen in surveillance video of the vehicle on the day of the fatal shootings. Formal sentencing is set for March 14.

Video surveillance helps jury convict KC man in double homicide

&nbsp;By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/dylan-lysen">Dylan Lysen</a>, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/kansasnewsservice">Kansas News Service</a>

Shelly Lamb argues in a federal lawsuit that coworkers and inmates at the Kansas Department of Corrections harassed her and the department violated her civil rights and committed sex discrimination because she is a transgender woman.

A transgender woman is suing the Kansas Department of Corrections in federal court for creating a hostile work environment when she transitioned.

Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor for the agency’s prison facility in Hutchinson, argues her civil rights were violated because the state agency refused to acknowledge her transition, use her new name or stop employees and inmates from misusing her pronouns and catcalling her.

She also argues the agency retaliated against her when she pushed for her civil rights by moving her office to a basement closet and then another office with no air conditioning before she eventually resigned in 2022.

Madeline Johnson of Missouri Kansas Queer Law, who is representing Lamb, said the agency’s actions are a violation of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits workplace discrimination based on sex.

“It's a pretty clear-cut case of discrimination and retaliation,” Johnson said, “because Shelly came out in her place of employment.”

Lamb is seeking an unspecified amount of financial compensation for lost pay and benefits.

The Kansas Department of Corrections has not yet filed a response to the complaint. Officials also declined to comment. Spokesperson David Thompson said in an email that the department does not comment on pending litigation.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court. That means the case bypasses the state law known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-05-25/kansas-anti-transgender-law-bathroom-bill" target="_blank">“Women’s Bill of Rights,”</a>&nbsp;which legally defines a man and woman by their sex assigned at birth. Opponents also argued the law would bar transgender women from using women’s bathrooms, but the ACLU of Kansas and Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach now say there is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">no enforcement mechanism</a>.

Johnson said the state law, enacted last year, would also not apply to Lamb because the alleged discrimination occurred before then.

According to the filed complaint, Lamb said she notified the Kansas Department of Corrections in October 2021 that she planned to transition and begin presenting herself as a woman. But the agency’s human resources department allegedly told her it would not acknowledge her transition and prohibited her from wearing a hairpiece, makeup, nail polish or women’s clothing. Lamb was also told not to use the women’s bathroom, according to the complaint.

Lamb alleges the department would not require other employees to use her new name or female pronouns when referring to her, resulting in other employees and inmates harassing her. And the agency would not acknowledge her name in its database for months despite Lamb obtaining a new driver’s license showing the change, according to the complaint.

Lamb also alleges the human resources department implied that her position required her to be a man, despite other female employees working in the same position.

After Lamb’s transition, the agency allegedly changed Lamb's job duties, took away her counseling caseload and moved the office she shared with other employees to a basement office that was originally a supply closet. Lamb’s office was later changed again to an unused portion of the facility that did not have air conditioning, according to her complaint.

Lamb contends in the lawsuit that her employers were trying to force her to resign. She eventually resigned from the position in August 2022.

After speaking to an attorney, Lamb notified the human resources department that she had a right to present as a woman and that she would continue to do so at work. She also said she would sue if she was continued to be required to “hide her gender identity and remain ‘closeted.’”

Johnson said the actions from Kansas Department of Corrections employees result in sex discrimination and retaliation. She points to the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/06/15/863498848/supreme-court-delivers-major-victory-to-lgbtq-employees" target="_blank">landmark decision</a>&nbsp;in 2020 — known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/17-1618_hfci.pdf" target="_blank">Bostock v. Clayton County</a>&nbsp;— that ruled federal civil rights law prohibits workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Justice Neil Gorsuch, who was appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, wrote in the ruling that the law extends to people who are transgender.

"An employer who fired an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex," Gorsuch wrote for the court. “Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what (the civil rights law) forbids.”

While Kansas’ “Women’s Bill of Rights” does not apply to the federal case, it does highlight the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">conservative view toward transgender individuals</a>. The law was one of two the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature passed in 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-04-05/kansas-lawmakers-override-democratic-governors-veto-enacting-ban-on-transgender-athletes" target="_blank">restricting transgender rights</a>.

Johnson said those laws are likely unconstitutional.

“This is an important case and a very important time,” Johnson said. “We’re very confident in our pleadings and believe Shelly has a very strong case.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707055717302.png" alt="The Kansas Department of Corrections allegedly discriminated against Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor, for transitioning.&nbsp; photo Dylan Lysen, Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Department of Corrections allegedly discriminated against Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor, for transitioning.&nbsp; photo Dylan Lysen, Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/dylan-lysen">Dylan Lysen</a>, <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/kansasnewsservice">Kansas News Service</a><h2>Shelly Lamb argues in a federal lawsuit that coworkers and inmates at the Kansas Department of Corrections harassed her and the department violated her civil rights and committed sex discrimination because she is a transgender woman.</h2>A transgender woman is suing the Kansas Department of Corrections in federal court for creating a hostile work environment when she transitioned.Shelly Lamb, a former counselor and supervisor for the agency’s prison facility in Hutchinson, argues her civil rights were violated because the state agency refused to acknowledge her transition, use her new name or stop employees and inmates from misusing her pronouns and catcalling her.She also argues the agency retaliated against her when she pushed for her civil rights by moving her office to a basement closet and then another office with no air conditioning before she eventually resigned in 2022.Madeline Johnson of Missouri Kansas Queer Law, who is representing Lamb, said the agency’s actions are a violation of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits workplace discrimination based on sex.“It's a pretty clear-cut case of discrimination and retaliation,” Johnson said, “because Shelly came out in her place of employment.”Lamb is seeking an unspecified amount of financial compensation for lost pay and benefits.The Kansas Department of Corrections has not yet filed a response to the complaint. Officials also declined to comment. Spokesperson David Thompson said in an email that the department does not comment on pending litigation.The lawsuit was filed in federal court. That means the case bypasses the state law known as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-05-25/kansas-anti-transgender-law-bathroom-bill" target="_blank">“Women’s Bill of Rights,”</a>&nbsp;which legally defines a man and woman by their sex assigned at birth. Opponents also argued the law would bar transgender women from using women’s bathrooms, but the ACLU of Kansas and Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach now say there is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">no enforcement mechanism</a>.Johnson said the state law, enacted last year, would also not apply to Lamb because the alleged discrimination occurred before then.According to the filed complaint, Lamb said she notified the Kansas Department of Corrections in October 2021 that she planned to transition and begin presenting herself as a woman. But the agency’s human resources department allegedly told her it would not acknowledge her transition and prohibited her from wearing a hairpiece, makeup, nail polish or women’s clothing. Lamb was also told not to use the women’s bathroom, according to the complaint.Lamb alleges the department would not require other employees to use her new name or female pronouns when referring to her, resulting in other employees and inmates harassing her. And the agency would not acknowledge her name in its database for months despite Lamb obtaining a new driver’s license showing the change, according to the complaint.Lamb also alleges the human resources department implied that her position required her to be a man, despite other female employees working in the same position.After Lamb’s transition, the agency allegedly changed Lamb's job duties, took away her counseling caseload and moved the office she shared with other employees to a basement office that was originally a supply closet. Lamb’s office was later changed again to an unused portion of the facility that did not have air conditioning, according to her complaint.Lamb contends in the lawsuit that her employers were trying to force her to resign. She eventually resigned from the position in August 2022.After speaking to an attorney, Lamb notified the human resources department that she had a right to present as a woman and that she would continue to do so at work. She also said she would sue if she was continued to be required to “hide her gender identity and remain ‘closeted.’”Johnson said the actions from Kansas Department of Corrections employees result in sex discrimination and retaliation. She points to the U.S. Supreme Court’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/06/15/863498848/supreme-court-delivers-major-victory-to-lgbtq-employees" target="_blank">landmark decision</a>&nbsp;in 2020 — known as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/17-1618_hfci.pdf" target="_blank">Bostock v. Clayton County</a>&nbsp;— that ruled federal civil rights law prohibits workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.Justice Neil Gorsuch, who was appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, wrote in the ruling that the law extends to people who are transgender."An employer who fired an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex," Gorsuch wrote for the court. “Sex plays a necessary and undisguisable role in the decision, exactly what (the civil rights law) forbids.”While Kansas’ “Women’s Bill of Rights” does not apply to the federal case, it does highlight the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/2023-06-26/kobach-says-trans-kansans-ids-will-be-changed-back-to-their-sex-assigned-at-birth" target="_blank">conservative view toward transgender individuals</a>. The law was one of two the Republican-controlled Kansas Legislature passed in 2023&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-04-05/kansas-lawmakers-override-democratic-governors-veto-enacting-ban-on-transgender-athletes" target="_blank">restricting transgender rights</a>.Johnson said those laws are likely unconstitutional.“This is an important case and a very important time,” Johnson said. “We’re very confident in our pleadings and believe Shelly has a very strong case.”

Transgender Kan. state employee says she was harassed at work after her transition

SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after items reported found on a playground that could cause serious injury to children.

On Saturday, police reported a citizen found pieces of a broken single edge razor blade and kitchen shears at the park for small children&nbsp; located at Watson Park, 500 North Logan Street in Belle Plaine, according to a social media report from Police Chief Bill Berry.

 The items were said to be in the sand at the end of the slide where a child would end up after coming down the slide. 

The citizens told police the shears had the handles down in the sand with the pointed ends sticking up, which could have impaled a child. 

"Please check the play areas if you take your kiddos to play in any park. Please share with your friends and family." If anyone knows anything about this please share with an officer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706996377514.png" alt="Photo Belle Plaine Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Belle Plaine Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SUMNER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after items reported found on a playground that could cause serious injury to children.On Saturday, police reported a citizen found pieces of a broken single edge razor blade and kitchen shears at the park for small children&nbsp; located at Watson Park, 500 North Logan Street in Belle Plaine, according to a social media report from Police Chief Bill Berry.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706996346295.png" alt="Photo Belle Plaine Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Belle Plaine Police</figcaption>
 </figure> The items were said to be in the sand at the end of the slide where a child would end up after coming down the slide. The citizens told police the shears had the handles down in the sand with the pointed ends sticking up, which could have impaled a child. "Please check the play areas if you take your kiddos to play in any park. Please share with your friends and family." If anyone knows anything about this please share with an officer.&nbsp;

Kan. playground alert: Shears, razor blade found in sand

More than half of state legislatures across the country started their 2024 legislative sessions in January, and plenty of abortion-related bills have already been introduced, especially in states where the procedure is already banned.

It can be difficult to monitor them all, so States Newsroom’s Reproductive Rights Today team will track certain bills that could become law in their respective states in a bi-weekly legislative roundup. Depending on the partisan makeup of a state’s legislature and other state government officials, some bills have a higher chance of passing and becoming law than others.

Despite Kansas voters’ overwhelming rejection of abortion bans in a referendum shortly after the Dobbs decision in 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-abortion-kansas">Kansas Reflector reported</a>&nbsp;a near-total abortion ban bill introduced in the legislature in early January,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/11/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-on-abortion-in-kansas/">House Bill 2492</a>. It’s opposed by both abortion rights supporters and opponents, including Kansans for Life, the main proponent of the “yes” side of the referendum. A spokesperson for that organization said legislators should focus on bills that stand a chance of becoming law.

Aside from the ban bill, two other abortion-related pieces of legislation have been introduced, but haven’t received public hearings yet. Abortion is legal in Kansas, and six clinics provide in-clinic services.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb354/">Senate Bill 354</a>:&nbsp;Designating facilities where elective abortions are performed as ineligible to purchase professional liability insurance from the state’s health care stabilization fund, while maintaining the requirement of liability insurance to remain a licensed facility.

Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committee

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Mark Steffen

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2515/">House Bill 2515</a>:&nbsp;Creating a civil cause of action that can be used against a health care provider who injures a child during an attempted abortion, for a minimum of $10,000 in damages. The bill includes so-called “born alive” language, which has been pushed by anti-abortion groups for many years and decried by organizations like Planned Parenthood,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/fact-check-so-called-born-alive-is-another-lie-to-stigmatize-abortion-2">who say</a>&nbsp;it is a “problem that doesn’t exist” and doctors are already required to provide adequate medical care.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Brett Fairchild

Abortion is legal in Iowa after a court blocked a six-week abortion ban from going into effect in July 2023, but&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/bill-would-require-schools-show-fetal-development-videos-students">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reports some lawmakers are attempting to include material produced by an anti-abortion group in the public school curriculum statewide.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ba=HF2031">House File 2031</a>:&nbsp;According to the bill, a video showing the development of a fetus would be required to be shown in health classes in Iowa schools. Teachers would be required to show students a video displaying an ultrasound and fetal development, and the bill called out the “Meet Baby Olivia” video as an example. That video is produced by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.liveaction.org/">Live Action</a>, an anti-abortion organization. Reproductive rights groups say the video contains medically inaccurate information. A similar bill became law in North Dakota in 2023, and proposals have been introduced in Missouri, Kentucky and West Virginia, but only Iowa’s bill has advanced past committee so far.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Luana Stoltenberg

Republicans control both chambers of the general assembly and the offices of governor and attorney general, and Republican legislators have introduced two bills that could have significant implications for the state if they advance. Indiana has a near-total abortion ban with exceptions for rape and incest and fatal fetal anomalies or if the pregnant patient faces a serious health risk.

<a target="_blank" href="https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2024/bills/senate/217/details">Senate Bill 217</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the prescription or possession of an abortion-inducing drug. A practitioner found in violation of the law would be charged with a misdemeanor for the first offense, and a felony for subsequent offenses. Nonprofit organizations would also be prohibited from offering any financial assistance for abortion-inducing drugs.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Michael Young

According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/most-abortions-illegal-missouri-few-expect-new-bills-will-get-traction-year">Missouri Independent</a>, one abortion-related bill was already withdrawn by its sponsor after backlash because it proposed murder charges for women seeking abortions. But another bill of significance is still pending in the state where a near-total abortion ban is in place.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=270">Senate Bill 1077</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the state from contracting, awarding grants, tax credits, bonding authority, training resources, access to government programs or other financial benefits to a company or political subdivision that has provided assistance to its employees or another entity on behalf of employees who need an abortion.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Andrew Koenig

Oklahoma’s legislative session doesn’t start until Monday, Feb. 5, but lawmakers have pre-filed bills to be considered as soon as the session gets underway. The state has a near-total abortion ban. Here are a few to keep an eye on.

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1778&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1778</a>:&nbsp;This bill is nearly identical to a law passed in Idaho in 2023 prohibiting so-called “abortion trafficking,” which is defined as individuals who help a minor obtain an abortion without the permission or consent of their parents. It doesn’t include a civil cause of action, like Idaho’s law, but it does include two to five years in prison as a punishment.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Nathan Dahm

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=HB3013&amp;session=2400">House Bill 3013</a>:&nbsp;The act of “trafficking” abortion pills would become a felony, punishable by a $100,000 fine, 10 years in prison or both. It does not apply to pharmacists or manufacturers lawfully distributing abortion-inducing medication.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Reps. Denise Crosswhite Hader and Jim Olsen

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1729&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1729</a>: This bill would expand the existing abortion ban to allow the pregnant person to be prosecuted and charged with murder.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Dusty Deevers

<a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1895&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1895</a>:&nbsp;This bill is similar to Idaho’s law, but doesn’t hew as closely to the same text as Oklahoma’s proposal. It also includes the act of obtaining abortion pills for a minor, regardless of where the pills were obtained. It does not pertain to parents or legal guardians, but any other violators are subject to a Class C felony, which is punishable by three to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. It also includes a civil cause of action.

Status:&nbsp;Referred to committee and scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 6

Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Jason Zachary

<a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1729&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1729</a>:&nbsp;Specifies that criminal abortion does not include an abortion performed during a medical emergency affecting the physical or mental health of the pregnant person, or performed on a patient whose pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.

Sponsor:&nbsp;Democratic Rep. Yusuf Hakeem

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706986402189.jpeg" alt=" Kevan Myers, left, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Clifton Boje, of Bonner Springs, protest outside the House chamber ahead of the State of the Judiciary speech in January 2023. The Kansas Supreme Court in 2019 determined the Kansas Constitution’s right to bodily autonomy extends to the decision to terminate a pregnancy. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Kevan Myers, left, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Clifton Boje, of Bonner Springs, protest outside the House chamber ahead of the State of the Judiciary speech in January 2023. The Kansas Supreme Court in 2019 determined the Kansas Constitution’s right to bodily autonomy extends to the decision to terminate a pregnancy. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>More than half of state legislatures across the country started their 2024 legislative sessions in January, and plenty of abortion-related bills have already been introduced, especially in states where the procedure is already banned.It can be difficult to monitor them all, so States Newsroom’s Reproductive Rights Today team will track certain bills that could become law in their respective states in a bi-weekly legislative roundup. Depending on the partisan makeup of a state’s legislature and other state government officials, some bills have a higher chance of passing and becoming law than others.<h2>Kansas</h2>Despite Kansas voters’ overwhelming rejection of abortion bans in a referendum shortly after the Dobbs decision in 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-abortion-kansas">Kansas Reflector reported</a>&nbsp;a near-total abortion ban bill introduced in the legislature in early January,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2024/01/11/house-gop-lawmakers-introduce-bill-imposing-near-total-ban-on-abortion-in-kansas/">House Bill 2492</a>. It’s opposed by both abortion rights supporters and opponents, including Kansans for Life, the main proponent of the “yes” side of the referendum. A spokesperson for that organization said legislators should focus on bills that stand a chance of becoming law.Aside from the ban bill, two other abortion-related pieces of legislation have been introduced, but haven’t received public hearings yet. Abortion is legal in Kansas, and six clinics provide in-clinic services.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb354/">Senate Bill 354</a>:&nbsp;Designating facilities where elective abortions are performed as ineligible to purchase professional liability insurance from the state’s health care stabilization fund, while maintaining the requirement of liability insurance to remain a licensed facility.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Mark Steffen<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/hb2515/">House Bill 2515</a>:&nbsp;Creating a civil cause of action that can be used against a health care provider who injures a child during an attempted abortion, for a minimum of $10,000 in damages. The bill includes so-called “born alive” language, which has been pushed by anti-abortion groups for many years and decried by organizations like Planned Parenthood,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/fact-check-so-called-born-alive-is-another-lie-to-stigmatize-abortion-2">who say</a>&nbsp;it is a “problem that doesn’t exist” and doctors are already required to provide adequate medical care.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Brett Fairchild<h2>Iowa</h2>Abortion is legal in Iowa after a court blocked a six-week abortion ban from going into effect in July 2023, but&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/bill-would-require-schools-show-fetal-development-videos-students">Iowa Capital Dispatch</a>&nbsp;reports some lawmakers are attempting to include material produced by an anti-abortion group in the public school curriculum statewide.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ba=HF2031">House File 2031</a>:&nbsp;According to the bill, a video showing the development of a fetus would be required to be shown in health classes in Iowa schools. Teachers would be required to show students a video displaying an ultrasound and fetal development, and the bill called out the “Meet Baby Olivia” video as an example. That video is produced by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.liveaction.org/">Live Action</a>, an anti-abortion organization. Reproductive rights groups say the video contains medically inaccurate information. A similar bill became law in North Dakota in 2023, and proposals have been introduced in Missouri, Kentucky and West Virginia, but only Iowa’s bill has advanced past committee so far.Status:&nbsp;Passed by subcommittee, 2-1Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Luana Stoltenberg<h2>Indiana</h2>Republicans control both chambers of the general assembly and the offices of governor and attorney general, and Republican legislators have introduced two bills that could have significant implications for the state if they advance. Indiana has a near-total abortion ban with exceptions for rape and incest and fatal fetal anomalies or if the pregnant patient faces a serious health risk.<a target="_blank" href="https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2024/bills/senate/217/details">Senate Bill 217</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the prescription or possession of an abortion-inducing drug. A practitioner found in violation of the law would be charged with a misdemeanor for the first offense, and a felony for subsequent offenses. Nonprofit organizations would also be prohibited from offering any financial assistance for abortion-inducing drugs.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Michael Young<h2>Missouri</h2>According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/most-abortions-illegal-missouri-few-expect-new-bills-will-get-traction-year">Missouri Independent</a>, one abortion-related bill was already withdrawn by its sponsor after backlash because it proposed murder charges for women seeking abortions. But another bill of significance is still pending in the state where a near-total abortion ban is in place.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/24info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&amp;BillID=270">Senate Bill 1077</a>:&nbsp;Prohibits the state from contracting, awarding grants, tax credits, bonding authority, training resources, access to government programs or other financial benefits to a company or political subdivision that has provided assistance to its employees or another entity on behalf of employees who need an abortion.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Andrew Koenig<h2>Oklahoma</h2>Oklahoma’s legislative session doesn’t start until Monday, Feb. 5, but lawmakers have pre-filed bills to be considered as soon as the session gets underway. The state has a near-total abortion ban. Here are a few to keep an eye on.<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1778&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1778</a>:&nbsp;This bill is nearly identical to a law passed in Idaho in 2023 prohibiting so-called “abortion trafficking,” which is defined as individuals who help a minor obtain an abortion without the permission or consent of their parents. It doesn’t include a civil cause of action, like Idaho’s law, but it does include two to five years in prison as a punishment.Status:&nbsp;Pre-filedSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Nathan Dahm<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=HB3013&amp;session=2400">House Bill 3013</a>:&nbsp;The act of “trafficking” abortion pills would become a felony, punishable by a $100,000 fine, 10 years in prison or both. It does not apply to pharmacists or manufacturers lawfully distributing abortion-inducing medication.Status:&nbsp;Pre-filedSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Reps. Denise Crosswhite Hader and Jim Olsen<a target="_blank" href="http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=SB1729&amp;session=2400">Senate Bill 1729</a>: This bill would expand the existing abortion ban to allow the pregnant person to be prosecuted and charged with murder.Status:&nbsp;Pre-filedSponsor:&nbsp;Republican Sen. Dusty Deevers<h2>Tennessee</h2><a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1895&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1895</a>:&nbsp;This bill is similar to Idaho’s law, but doesn’t hew as closely to the same text as Oklahoma’s proposal. It also includes the act of obtaining abortion pills for a minor, regardless of where the pills were obtained. It does not pertain to parents or legal guardians, but any other violators are subject to a Class C felony, which is punishable by three to 15 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. It also includes a civil cause of action.Status:&nbsp;Referred to committee and scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 6Sponsor:&nbsp;Republican Rep. Jason Zachary<a target="_blank" href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1729&amp;GA=113">House Bill 1729</a>:&nbsp;Specifies that criminal abortion does not include an abortion performed during a medical emergency affecting the physical or mental health of the pregnant person, or performed on a patient whose pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.Status:&nbsp;Introduced and referred to committeeSponsor:&nbsp;Democratic Rep. Yusuf Hakeem

State legislators aim to restrict abortion pills, ‘trafficking’ next in states with bans

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly shooting of another teen in Wichita and have arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder.

Just before 9 p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

 At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries.

The investigation revealed that the shooting occurred in the 100 block of N. Zelta, and the circumstances of what led up to the shooting are still under investigation.&nbsp;

The diligent efforts of the investigators and officers resulted in the swift arrest of the suspect. This was not a random incident and the involved parties are known to each other.

The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707013524240.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly shooting of another teen in Wichita and have arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder.Just before 9 p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries.The investigation revealed that the shooting occurred in the 100 block of N. Zelta, and the circumstances of what led up to the shooting are still under investigation.&nbsp;The diligent efforts of the investigators and officers resulted in the swift arrest of the suspect. This was not a random incident and the involved parties are known to each other.The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s office.

Police: 14-year-old accused in another killing in Kansas

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating circumstances related to body found in a field.

Just after 11a.m. Saturday, deputies were dispatched to a report of a dead body found in a ditch at Duncan Road and Sweeney Road, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp; &nbsp;Investigators determined it was a man's body.&nbsp;&nbsp;Independence Police CSI processed the scene.

Authorities released no additional details early Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707007648074.png" alt="Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating circumstances related to body found in a field.Just after 11a.m. Saturday, deputies were dispatched to a report of a dead body found in a ditch at Duncan Road and Sweeney Road, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp; &nbsp;Investigators determined it was a man's body.&nbsp;&nbsp;Independence Police CSI processed the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707007625748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities released no additional details early Sunday.

Sheriff: Body found in KC-area field

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3665864/joint-statement-from-australia-bahrain-denmark-canada-the-netherlands-new-zeala/">The United States and Britain</a>&nbsp;struck 36&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/houthis">Houthi</a>&nbsp;targets in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/yemen">Yemen</a>&nbsp;on Saturday in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-syria-strikes-hamas-militia-iran-us-62be7c7b500de1d0f1287a9b2c6f82dc">second wave of assaults</a>&nbsp;meant to further disable Iran-backed groups that have relentlessly attacked American and international interests in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>. But Washington once more did not directly target Iran as it tries to find a balance between a forceful response and intensifying the conflict.

U.S. Central Command said its forces conducted an additional strike on Sunday “in self-defense against a Houthi anti-ship cruise missile prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea,” according to a post on X, formerly Twitter.

“U.S. forces identified the cruise missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined it presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region. This action will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels,” the post added.

The strikes on Saturday against the Houthis were launched by U.S. warships and American and British fighter jets. The strikes followed an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/attack-military-iran-iraq-houthis-229a735edbb7759ba9ade543013917df">air assault</a>&nbsp;in Iraq and Syria on Friday that targeted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-hezbollah-houthis-iran-militant-groups-745bfc36e23997ee3f0bc499a9f5c16d">other Iranian-backed militias</a>&nbsp;and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in retaliation for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">drone strike that killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;in Jordan last weekend.

The Houthi targets on Saturday were in 13 different locations and were struck by U.S. F/A-18 fighter jets from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier, by British Typhoon FGR4 fighter aircraft and by the Navy destroyers USS Gravely and the USS Carney firing Tomahawk missiles from the Red Sea, according to U.S. officials and the U.K. Defense Ministry. The U.S. officials were not authorized to publicly discuss the military operation and spoke on condition of anonymity.

The U.S. warned its response after the soldiers’ deaths at the Tower 22 base in Jordan last Sunday would not be limited to one night, one target or one group. While there has been no suggestion the Houthis were directly responsible, they have been one of the prime U.S. adversaries since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry</a>&nbsp;in Hamas-ruled Gaza said that more than 26,000 people have been killed and more than 64,400 wounded in the Israeli military operation since the war began.

The Houthis have been conducting almost daily missile or drone attacks against commercial and military ships transiting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and they have made clear that they have no intention of scaling back their campaign despite pressure from the American and British campaign.

Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a Houthi official, said “military operations against Israel will continue until the crimes of genocide in Gaza are stopped and the siege on its residents is lifted, no matter the sacrifices it costs us.” He wrote online that the “American-British aggression against Yemen will not go unanswered, and we will meet escalation with escalation.”

The Biden administration has indicated that this is likely not the last of its strikes. The U.S. has blamed the Jordan attack on the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of Iranian-backed militias. Iran has tried to distance itself from the drone strike, saying the militias act independently of its direction.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement that the military action, with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, “sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will continue to bear further consequences if they do not end their illegal attacks on international shipping and naval vessels.”

He added: “We will not hesitate to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways.”

The Defense Department said the strikes targeted sites associated with the Houthis’ deeply buried weapons storage facilities, missile systems and launchers, air defense systems, radars and helicopters. The British military said it struck a ground control station west of Yemen's capital, Sanaa, that has been used to control Houthi drones that have launched against vessels in the Red Sea.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the strikes before he left Delaware on Saturday for a West Coast campaign trip, according to an administration official.

The latest strikes marked the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthis-biden-retaliation-attacks-0804b93372cd5e874a0dd03513fe36a2">third time</a>&nbsp;the U.S. and Britain had conducted a large joint operation to strike Houthi weapon launchers, radar sites and drones. The strikes in Yemen are meant to underscore the broader message to Iran that Washington holds Tehran responsible for arming, funding and training the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-hezbollah-houthis-iran-militant-groups-745bfc36e23997ee3f0bc499a9f5c16d">array of militias</a>&nbsp;— from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and the Houthis in Yemen — who are behind attacks across the Mideast against U.S. and international interests.

Video shared online by people in Sanaa included the sound of explosions and at least one blast was seen lighting up the night sky. Residents described the blasts as happening around buildings associated with the Yemeni presidential compound. The Houthi-controlled state-run news agency, SABA, reported strikes in al-Bayda, Dhamar, Hajjah, Hodeida, Taiz and Sanaa provinces.

Hours before the latest joint operation, the U.S. took another self-defense strike on a site in Yemen, destroying six anti-ship cruise missiles, as it has repeatedly when it has detected a missile or drone ready to launch. The day before the strikes the U.S. destroyer Laboon and F/A-18s from the Eisenhower shot down seven drones fired from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into the Red Sea and the destroyer Carney shot down a drone fired in the Gulf of Aden and U.S. forces took out four more drones that were prepared to launch.

The Houthis’ attacks have led shipping companies to reroute their vessels from the Red Sea, sending them around Africa through the Cape of Good Hope — a much longer, costlier and less efficient passage. The threats also have led the U.S. and its allies to set up a joint mission where warships from participating nations provide a protective umbrella of air defense for ships as they travel the critical waterway that runs from the Suez Canal down to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

During normal operations, about 400 commercial vessels transit the southern Red Sea at any given time.

In the wake of the strikes Friday in Iraq and Syria, Hussein al-Mosawi, spokesperson for Harakat al-Nujaba, one of the main Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, said Washington “must understand that every action elicits a reaction.” But in an AP interview in Baghdad, he also struck a more conciliatory tone. "We do not wish to escalate or widen regional tensions,” he said.

Iraqi officials have attempted to rein in the militias, while also condemning U.S. retaliatory strikes as a violation of Iraqi sovereignty and calling for an exit of the 2,500 U.S. troops who are in the country as part of an international coalition to fight the Islamic State group. Last month, Iraqi and U.S. military officials launched formal talks to wind down the coalition’s presence, a process that will likely take years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707001115180.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3665864/joint-statement-from-australia-bahrain-denmark-canada-the-netherlands-new-zeala/">The United States and Britain</a>&nbsp;struck 36&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/houthis">Houthi</a>&nbsp;targets in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/yemen">Yemen</a>&nbsp;on Saturday in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-syria-strikes-hamas-militia-iran-us-62be7c7b500de1d0f1287a9b2c6f82dc">second wave of assaults</a>&nbsp;meant to further disable Iran-backed groups that have relentlessly attacked American and international interests in the wake of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>. But Washington once more did not directly target Iran as it tries to find a balance between a forceful response and intensifying the conflict.U.S. Central Command said its forces conducted an additional strike on Sunday “in self-defense against a Houthi anti-ship cruise missile prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea,” according to a post on X, formerly Twitter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707001097326.png" alt="photo of the U.S. effort on Saturday -U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>photo of the U.S. effort on Saturday -U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>“U.S. forces identified the cruise missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined it presented an imminent threat to U.S. Navy ships and merchant vessels in the region. This action will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels,” the post added.The strikes on Saturday against the Houthis were launched by U.S. warships and American and British fighter jets. The strikes followed an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/attack-military-iran-iraq-houthis-229a735edbb7759ba9ade543013917df">air assault</a>&nbsp;in Iraq and Syria on Friday that targeted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-hezbollah-houthis-iran-militant-groups-745bfc36e23997ee3f0bc499a9f5c16d">other Iranian-backed militias</a>&nbsp;and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in retaliation for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-american-service-members-killed-jordan-iran-5cb774fd835a558d840ae91263037489">drone strike that killed three U.S. troops</a>&nbsp;in Jordan last weekend.The Houthi targets on Saturday were in 13 different locations and were struck by U.S. F/A-18 fighter jets from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier, by British Typhoon FGR4 fighter aircraft and by the Navy destroyers USS Gravely and the USS Carney firing Tomahawk missiles from the Red Sea, according to U.S. officials and the U.K. Defense Ministry. The U.S. officials were not authorized to publicly discuss the military operation and spoke on condition of anonymity.The U.S. warned its response after the soldiers’ deaths at the Tower 22 base in Jordan last Sunday would not be limited to one night, one target or one group. While there has been no suggestion the Houthis were directly responsible, they have been one of the prime U.S. adversaries since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostages. The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">Health Ministry</a>&nbsp;in Hamas-ruled Gaza said that more than 26,000 people have been killed and more than 64,400 wounded in the Israeli military operation since the war began.The Houthis have been conducting almost daily missile or drone attacks against commercial and military ships transiting the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden and they have made clear that they have no intention of scaling back their campaign despite pressure from the American and British campaign.Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a Houthi official, said “military operations against Israel will continue until the crimes of genocide in Gaza are stopped and the siege on its residents is lifted, no matter the sacrifices it costs us.” He wrote online that the “American-British aggression against Yemen will not go unanswered, and we will meet escalation with escalation.”The Biden administration has indicated that this is likely not the last of its strikes. The U.S. has blamed the Jordan attack on the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of Iranian-backed militias. Iran has tried to distance itself from the drone strike, saying the militias act independently of its direction.Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement that the military action, with support from Australia, Bahrain, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and New Zealand, “sends a clear message to the Houthis that they will continue to bear further consequences if they do not end their illegal attacks on international shipping and naval vessels.”He added: “We will not hesitate to defend lives and the free flow of commerce in one of the world’s most critical waterways.”The Defense Department said the strikes targeted sites associated with the Houthis’ deeply buried weapons storage facilities, missile systems and launchers, air defense systems, radars and helicopters. The British military said it struck a ground control station west of Yemen's capital, Sanaa, that has been used to control Houthi drones that have launched against vessels in the Red Sea.President Joe Biden was briefed on the strikes before he left Delaware on Saturday for a West Coast campaign trip, according to an administration official.The latest strikes marked the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthis-biden-retaliation-attacks-0804b93372cd5e874a0dd03513fe36a2">third time</a>&nbsp;the U.S. and Britain had conducted a large joint operation to strike Houthi weapon launchers, radar sites and drones. The strikes in Yemen are meant to underscore the broader message to Iran that Washington holds Tehran responsible for arming, funding and training the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/hamas-hezbollah-houthis-iran-militant-groups-745bfc36e23997ee3f0bc499a9f5c16d">array of militias</a>&nbsp;— from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq and the Houthis in Yemen — who are behind attacks across the Mideast against U.S. and international interests.Video shared online by people in Sanaa included the sound of explosions and at least one blast was seen lighting up the night sky. Residents described the blasts as happening around buildings associated with the Yemeni presidential compound. The Houthi-controlled state-run news agency, SABA, reported strikes in al-Bayda, Dhamar, Hajjah, Hodeida, Taiz and Sanaa provinces.Hours before the latest joint operation, the U.S. took another self-defense strike on a site in Yemen, destroying six anti-ship cruise missiles, as it has repeatedly when it has detected a missile or drone ready to launch. The day before the strikes the U.S. destroyer Laboon and F/A-18s from the Eisenhower shot down seven drones fired from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen into the Red Sea and the destroyer Carney shot down a drone fired in the Gulf of Aden and U.S. forces took out four more drones that were prepared to launch.The Houthis’ attacks have led shipping companies to reroute their vessels from the Red Sea, sending them around Africa through the Cape of Good Hope — a much longer, costlier and less efficient passage. The threats also have led the U.S. and its allies to set up a joint mission where warships from participating nations provide a protective umbrella of air defense for ships as they travel the critical waterway that runs from the Suez Canal down to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.During normal operations, about 400 commercial vessels transit the southern Red Sea at any given time.In the wake of the strikes Friday in Iraq and Syria, Hussein al-Mosawi, spokesperson for Harakat al-Nujaba, one of the main Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, said Washington “must understand that every action elicits a reaction.” But in an AP interview in Baghdad, he also struck a more conciliatory tone. "We do not wish to escalate or widen regional tensions,” he said.Iraqi officials have attempted to rein in the militias, while also condemning U.S. retaliatory strikes as a violation of Iraqi sovereignty and calling for an exit of the 2,500 U.S. troops who are in the country as part of an international coalition to fight the Islamic State group. Last month, Iraqi and U.S. military officials launched formal talks to wind down the coalition’s presence, a process that will likely take years.___

US continues strikes on Iran-backed militants

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are looking for three suspects seen on a security camera who pulled a truck up to&nbsp;Quincy’s Bar and Grill in the 2000 Block of N. West Street in Wichita at 7a.m. January 9, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

The suspects exited the vehicle, entered the business. They enter and and took the Automated Teller Machine.

 Wichita Police Investigators with the burglary unit are asking for the public’s help with identifying the suspects and locating the&nbsp;light-colored 4-door pickup truck with KS Tag 571 RXB.

Tipsters are asked to submit any information to Crime Stoppers using the QR code or calling 316-267-2111. They are eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.00 if their tip leads to an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706989702487.png" alt="Photo from security camera video of the burglary-Crime StoppersICT" />
 <figcaption>Photo from security camera video of the burglary-Crime StoppersICT</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are looking for three suspects seen on a security camera who pulled a truck up to&nbsp;Quincy’s Bar and Grill in the 2000 Block of N. West Street in Wichita at 7a.m. January 9, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.The suspects exited the vehicle, entered the business. They enter and and took the Automated Teller Machine. Wichita Police Investigators with the burglary unit are asking for the public’s help with identifying the suspects and locating the&nbsp;light-colored 4-door pickup truck with KS Tag 571 RXB.Tipsters are asked to submit any information to Crime Stoppers using the QR code or calling 316-267-2111. They are eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.00 if their tip leads to an arrest.

Security camera shows Kansas suspects stealing ATM

WASHINGTON —The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to purchase or use South Moon, Rebright or FivFivGo eye drops because of the potential risk of eye infection, according to a statement from the agency.

These are copycat eye drop products that consumers can easily mistake for Bausch + Lomb’s Lumify brand eye drops, an over-the-counter product approved for redness relief.

South Moon, Rebright and FivFivGo eye drops are unapproved drugs and should not be available for sale in the U.S. They claim to treat eye conditions such as glaucoma, which is treated with prescription drugs or surgery.

Patients who have signs or symptoms of an eye infection should talk to their health care provider or seek medical care immediately. FDA recommends consumers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/safe-disposal-medicines/disposal-unused-medicines-what-you-should-know">properly discard</a>&nbsp;these products.

The agency tested samples of South Moon and Rebright eye drops, purchased online. The South Moon eye drops were contaminated with&nbsp;Burkholderia cepacia&nbsp;complex, a group of bacteria that could result in an antibiotic-resistant infection. While Rebright testing was negative for contamination, FDA recommends consumers not use this product.

FDA testing of the Rebright and South Moon eye drops also found that these copycat products lacked brimonidine tartrate, the active ingredient in Lumify. FDA was unable to obtain FivFivGo samples.

The origin of these products is currently unclear, and FDA continues to investigate. South Moon is labeled as made by Shantou Cross-border Premium Products E-Commerce Co. Ltd. in China.

FDA has not received any adverse event reports that specifically name the South Moon, Rebright or FivFivGo products. However, the agency has received reports related to possibly fake Lumify, including product quality concerns, eye irritation, pain and infection.

The agency&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/buying-using-medicine-safely/what-you-should-know-about-eye-drops">recommends</a>&nbsp;consumers only buy eye products from reputable retailers such as state-licensed pharmacies and beware of online retailers selling products with false claims.

Comparison of authentic Lumify with copycat products

The South Moon, Rebright and FivFivGo photos are examples of the images that appear on various websites. Some of these copycat products may be falsely labeled with “Bausch + Lomb” at the top of the packaging. The actual products may look different.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706794350177.png" alt="FDA image" />
 <figcaption>FDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to purchase or use South Moon, Rebright or FivFivGo eye drops because of the potential risk of eye infection, according to a statement from the agency.These are copycat eye drop products that consumers can easily mistake for Bausch + Lomb’s Lumify brand eye drops, an over-the-counter product approved for redness relief.South Moon, Rebright and FivFivGo eye drops are unapproved drugs and should not be available for sale in the U.S. They claim to treat eye conditions such as glaucoma, which is treated with prescription drugs or surgery.Patients who have signs or symptoms of an eye infection should talk to their health care provider or seek medical care immediately. FDA recommends consumers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/safe-disposal-medicines/disposal-unused-medicines-what-you-should-know">properly discard</a>&nbsp;these products.The agency tested samples of South Moon and Rebright eye drops, purchased online. The South Moon eye drops were contaminated with&nbsp;Burkholderia cepacia&nbsp;complex, a group of bacteria that could result in an antibiotic-resistant infection. While Rebright testing was negative for contamination, FDA recommends consumers not use this product.FDA testing of the Rebright and South Moon eye drops also found that these copycat products lacked brimonidine tartrate, the active ingredient in Lumify. FDA was unable to obtain FivFivGo samples.The origin of these products is currently unclear, and FDA continues to investigate. South Moon is labeled as made by Shantou Cross-border Premium Products E-Commerce Co. Ltd. in China.FDA has not received any adverse event reports that specifically name the South Moon, Rebright or FivFivGo products. However, the agency has received reports related to possibly fake Lumify, including product quality concerns, eye irritation, pain and infection.The agency&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/drugs/buying-using-medicine-safely/what-you-should-know-about-eye-drops">recommends</a>&nbsp;consumers only buy eye products from reputable retailers such as state-licensed pharmacies and beware of online retailers selling products with false claims.Comparison of authentic Lumify with copycat productsThe South Moon, Rebright and FivFivGo photos are examples of the images that appear on various websites. Some of these copycat products may be falsely labeled with “Bausch + Lomb” at the top of the packaging. The actual products may look different.

FDA warns of contaminated copycat eye drops

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;–&nbsp; This week Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel testified in the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing examining big tech and the online child sexual exploitation crisis. During his opening remarks, Spiegel reaffirmed his support for the Cooper Davis Act (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1080" target="_blank">S. 1080</a>), bipartisan legislation led by Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, according to a media release from the Senator's office.

Named in honor of Kansas teen, Cooper Davis,&nbsp;who died from illicit fentanyl poisoning after a purchase made on social media, this legislation&nbsp;would require social media companies to take a more proactive role against drug dealers preying on America’s youth online.&nbsp;

Mr. Spiegel highlighted the worsening fentanyl crisis in his<a href="https://www.judiciary.senate.gov/download/2024-01-31-testimony-spiegel" target="_blank">&nbsp;testimony</a>&nbsp;and stressed the importance of bringing the Cooper Davis Act to the Senate floor for a vote. Ahead of the hearing, Senator Marshall met with Mr. Spiegal to discuss the urgency of passing this legislation. The bill<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-marshalls-cooper-davis-act-heads-to-the-senate-floor-following-major-victory-out-of-committee/" target="_blank">&nbsp;passed the Judiciary Committee</a>&nbsp;last year by a vote of 16 to 5, and is&nbsp;awaiting consideration on the Senate floor.

Other panel witnesses for the hearing included CEOs of TikTok, Meta, X Corp, and Discord. Snap, Inc. is the only social media company to work collaboratively with families of victims, health care stakeholders, law enforcement, and the Biden Administration in advancing the Cooper Davis Act. U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Todd Young (R-IN) are also sponsors of the bill.

Washington, D.C.&nbsp;–&nbsp; This week Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel testified in the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing examining big tech and the online child sexual exploitation crisis. During his opening remarks, Spiegel reaffirmed his support for the Cooper Davis Act (<a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1080" target="_blank">S. 1080</a>), bipartisan legislation led by Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, according to a media release from the Senator's office.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dv8m6Ju6wBQ?si=CYjMe3phpJGNpRvc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Named in honor of Kansas teen, Cooper Davis,&nbsp;who died from illicit fentanyl poisoning after a purchase made on social media, this legislation&nbsp;would require social media companies to take a more proactive role against drug dealers preying on America’s youth online.&nbsp;Mr. Spiegel highlighted the worsening fentanyl crisis in his<a href="https://www.judiciary.senate.gov/download/2024-01-31-testimony-spiegel" target="_blank">&nbsp;testimony</a>&nbsp;and stressed the importance of bringing the Cooper Davis Act to the Senate floor for a vote. Ahead of the hearing, Senator Marshall met with Mr. Spiegal to discuss the urgency of passing this legislation. The bill<a href="https://www.marshall.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-marshalls-cooper-davis-act-heads-to-the-senate-floor-following-major-victory-out-of-committee/" target="_blank">&nbsp;passed the Judiciary Committee</a>&nbsp;last year by a vote of 16 to 5, and is&nbsp;awaiting consideration on the Senate floor.Other panel witnesses for the hearing included CEOs of TikTok, Meta, X Corp, and Discord. Snap, Inc. is the only social media company to work collaboratively with families of victims, health care stakeholders, law enforcement, and the Biden Administration in advancing the Cooper Davis Act. U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Todd Young (R-IN) are also sponsors of the bill.

🎥Snapchat CEO calls for action on Sen. Marshall’s Cooper Davis Act 

JERUSALEM —While U.S.&nbsp;Forces were bombing targets Friday night over Iraq and Syria the Navy kept busy in and at the entrance to the Red Sea.

At approximately 10:30 a.m. (Sanaa time), USS Carney (DDG 64) engaged and shot down one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over the Gulf of Aden, according to a state from the U.S. Central Command.&nbsp; There were no injuries or damage reported. 

Later Friday, at approximately 4:40 p.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. forces conducted strikes against four Houthi UAVs that were prepared to launch. 

U.S. forces identified the UAVs in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined that they presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and the U.S. Navy ships in the region. U.S. forces subsequently struck and destroyed the UAVs in self-defense. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697765298614.png" alt="U.S. Carney -photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Carney -photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM —While U.S.&nbsp;Forces were bombing targets Friday night over Iraq and Syria the Navy kept busy in and at the entrance to the Red Sea.At approximately 10:30 a.m. (Sanaa time), USS Carney (DDG 64) engaged and shot down one unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) over the Gulf of Aden, according to a state from the U.S. Central Command.&nbsp; There were no injuries or damage reported. Later Friday, at approximately 4:40 p.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. forces conducted strikes against four Houthi UAVs that were prepared to launch. U.S. forces identified the UAVs in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined that they presented an imminent threat to merchant vessels and the U.S. Navy ships in the region. U.S. forces subsequently struck and destroyed the UAVs in self-defense.

U.S. responds to new Iran-backed rebel threats in Red Sea

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a. homicide in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just after 4a.m. Thursday, police&nbsp;responded to a shooting at an apartment complex in the 2100 block of SE 12th Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

Officers located 33-year-old Gabriel Martinez-Meraz of Topeka. suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

As a result of the investigation, police arrested Tyron Wagner, 33, and Shi Ann Veloris Barnes, 29, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. 

Wagner is being held on requested charges&nbsp;Murder in the 1st Degree, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Stolen Property and a Warrant.

Shi Ann Veloris Barnes is being held on requested charges of Obstructing Apprehension of Prosecution and Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706976224393.png" alt="Wagner-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Wagner-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a. homicide in Topeka have made an arrest.Just after 4a.m. Thursday, police&nbsp;responded to a shooting at an apartment complex in the 2100 block of SE 12th Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706795135183.png" alt="Scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers located 33-year-old Gabriel Martinez-Meraz of Topeka. suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706976566846.png" alt="Barnes-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Barnes-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result of the investigation, police arrested Tyron Wagner, 33, and Shi Ann Veloris Barnes, 29, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Wagner is being held on requested charges&nbsp;Murder in the 1st Degree, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Stolen Property and a Warrant.Shi Ann Veloris Barnes is being held on requested charges of Obstructing Apprehension of Prosecution and Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.

2 arrested for robbery, murder at Kansas apartment

EDMOND, Okla. (AP) — A 5.1 magnitude earthquake shook an area near Oklahoma City late Friday, followed by smaller quakes during the next several hours, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

No injuries were reported and damage appeared to be minimal, mostly items overturned or shaken from shelves inside homes, according to Lincoln County Deputy Emergency Management Director Charlotte Brown.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706970362030.png" alt="Map of where the 11:24p.m. quake was centered -USGS image" />
 <figcaption>Map of where the 11:24p.m. quake was centered -USGS image</figcaption>
 </figure>EDMOND, Okla. (AP) — A 5.1 magnitude earthquake shook an area near Oklahoma City late Friday, followed by smaller quakes during the next several hours, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.No injuries were reported and damage appeared to be minimal, mostly items overturned or shaken from shelves inside homes, according to Lincoln County Deputy Emergency Management Director Charlotte Brown.“Nothing significant ... nothing other than lots of scared people,” Brown said.The earthquake struck at 11:24 p.m. and was centered 8 kilometers (5 miles) northwest of Prague, Oklahoma, about 57 miles (92 kilometers) east of Oklahoma City, the agency said.Residents across the state from Lawton to Enid to Tulsa reported feeling the shaking to the U.S.G.S.The initial earthquake was followed by at least eight smaller temblors through Saturday morning, ranging in strength from magnitude 2.5 to 3.4, according to the geological survey.The earthquake was shallow — just 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) deep, according to the USGS — and temblors that hit close to the surface can make the shaking&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-43db69a895c54081adba8dbcb8d68380">more intense</a>.At least six earthquakes, including two greater than magnitude 4, were&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oklahoma-small-earthquakes-1c7d165b3b87b088b854eb9b406e91e4">recorded near another Oklahoma City suburb</a>&nbsp;in January. In April, a magnitude 4 earthquake was among a series of six that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/earthquake-oklahoma-oil-gas-injection-wells-75b68ff7ef556f434fc325e1504de179">struck the central Oklahoma town of Carney</a>, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) northeast of Oklahoma City.A 5.7 magnitude earthquake struck Prague in 2011, about 60 miles (97 kilometers) south of the state’s strongest recorded earthquake site in Pawnee, which registered a magnitude 5.8 in 2016.Thousands of earthquakes have been recorded in Oklahoma in recent years, many linked to the underground injection of wastewater from oil and natural gas extraction, particularly in what is known as the Arbuckle formation that includes the area around Prague.The epicenter of the Saturday earthquake was nearly the exact spot of the epicenter of the 2011 quake, according to Matt Skinner, spokesperson for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, which regulates the oil and gas industry in the state.“That was one of the early areas where action was taken” to limit the injection of wastewater, said Skinner.“Disposal wells within 10 miles of the quake" must stop operating temporarily, Skinner said.The corporation commission has directed several producers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/https://apnews.com/article/oklahoma-earthquake-63d324336ecd4fb00f3dfea18f4f5f69">to close some injection wells</a>&nbsp;and reduce the volumes in others as a result of the quakes.---------------LINCOLN COUNTY, Okla. —A series of earthquakes shook central Oklahoma late Friday and continued Saturday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A 5.1 magnitude earthquake occurred at 11:24 PM with an epicenter just east of Oklahoma City.&mdash; NWS Wichita (@NWSWichita) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSWichita/status/1753654785272893731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Just before 11:30p.m. Friday, a 5.1 magnitude quake struck approximately 5 miles northwest of Prague, just east of Oklahoma City, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. This was followed by six additional quakes that measured a magnitude of 2.9 to 3.5 in the same region. There are no reports of damage or injury.Thousands of earthquakes have been recorded in Oklahoma in recent years, with many linked to the underground injection of wastewater from oil and gas production. Regulators have directed producers to close some injection wells.&nbsp;