JERUSALEM (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday it's time to further disable Iran-backed militias that have struck at U.S. forces and ships in the Middle East and the U.S. is preparing to take significant action in response to the deaths of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-jordan-drone-attack-iran-tower-22-israel-hamas-war-0265beed527e3009a966c0531c08838e">three U.S. service members</a>&nbsp;in Jordan.

For days the U.S. has hinted strikes are imminent. While the threat of retaliation for Sunday's deaths has driven some militant groups to say they were stopping hostilities, as late as Thursday Yemen’s Houthi rebels were still attacking vessels and fired a ballistic missile at a Liberian-flagged container ship in the Red Sea.

“At this point, it’s time to take away even more capability than we’ve taken in the past,” Austin said Thursday in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/austin-pentagon-cancer-secret-hospital-313255a7126a0482a67ec18b7474a8c1">first press conference</a>&nbsp;since he was hospitalized on Jan. 1 due to complications from prostate cancer treatment.

Previous U.S. strikes have not deterred the attacks. Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out in October, Iranian-backed militant groups have struck U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria at least 166 times with rockets, missiles and one-way attack drones, drawing about a half-dozen U.S. counterstrikes on militant facilities in both countries. The U.S. military also has carried out airstrikes targeting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.

The U.S. has attributed the attack on Tower 22 in Jordan to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias that includes the militant group Kataib Hezbollah.

While Iran has denied involvement, Austin said Thursday that “how much Iran knew or didn’t know, we don’t know. But it really doesn’t matter because Iran sponsors these groups.”

Austin said “without that facilitation, these kinds of things don’t happen.” He said the Pentagon is still looking at the forensics of the drone that struck Tower 22, a secretive base in northeastern Jordan that’s been crucial to the American presence in neighboring Syria.

“I don’t think the adversaries are of a ‘one and done’ mindset. And so they have a lot of capability. I have a lot more,” Austin said. "We’re going to do what’s necessary to protect our troops."

In the Red Sea, the Houthis have fired on commercial and military ships almost 40 times since November. In the latest attack, they fired a ballistic missile at a Liberian-flagged container ship on Thursday, U.S. defense officials said.

The attack happened west of Hodeida, a port city in Yemen long held by the rebels, said the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, a British military group overseeing Mideast waterways. It said the crew and the vessel were safe and the blast came far off the vessel's starboard side.

The U.S. defense officials identified the targeted container ship as the Koi, a Bermuda-owned vessel. Its management could not be immediately reached for comment. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters. The Houthis did not claim responsibility for the assault.

The Houthis say they are targeting ships over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade between Asia, the Mideast and Europe.

The Houthis hit a commercial vessel with a missile on Jan. 26,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-red-sea-israel-hamas-war-attacks-f36fc8911e069a5b4dbc4d9e67f31e50">sparking a fire that burned for hours</a>.

The Pentagon has the aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower in the region, along with at least a half dozen other major U.S. warships, U.S. Air Force fighter jets and radar aircraft. It has already been regularly using those assets to conduct strikes and defend ships.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1705112808392.png" alt="View of aircraft launch for the attack Jan. 11 -image U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>View of aircraft launch for the attack Jan. 11 -image U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday it's time to further disable Iran-backed militias that have struck at U.S. forces and ships in the Middle East and the U.S. is preparing to take significant action in response to the deaths of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-jordan-drone-attack-iran-tower-22-israel-hamas-war-0265beed527e3009a966c0531c08838e">three U.S. service members</a>&nbsp;in Jordan.For days the U.S. has hinted strikes are imminent. While the threat of retaliation for Sunday's deaths has driven some militant groups to say they were stopping hostilities, as late as Thursday Yemen’s Houthi rebels were still attacking vessels and fired a ballistic missile at a Liberian-flagged container ship in the Red Sea.“At this point, it’s time to take away even more capability than we’ve taken in the past,” Austin said Thursday in his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/austin-pentagon-cancer-secret-hospital-313255a7126a0482a67ec18b7474a8c1">first press conference</a>&nbsp;since he was hospitalized on Jan. 1 due to complications from prostate cancer treatment.Previous U.S. strikes have not deterred the attacks. Since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out in October, Iranian-backed militant groups have struck U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria at least 166 times with rockets, missiles and one-way attack drones, drawing about a half-dozen U.S. counterstrikes on militant facilities in both countries. The U.S. military also has carried out airstrikes targeting the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.The U.S. has attributed the attack on Tower 22 in Jordan to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias that includes the militant group Kataib Hezbollah.While Iran has denied involvement, Austin said Thursday that “how much Iran knew or didn’t know, we don’t know. But it really doesn’t matter because Iran sponsors these groups.”Austin said “without that facilitation, these kinds of things don’t happen.” He said the Pentagon is still looking at the forensics of the drone that struck Tower 22, a secretive base in northeastern Jordan that’s been crucial to the American presence in neighboring Syria.“I don’t think the adversaries are of a ‘one and done’ mindset. And so they have a lot of capability. I have a lot more,” Austin said. "We’re going to do what’s necessary to protect our troops."In the Red Sea, the Houthis have fired on commercial and military ships almost 40 times since November. In the latest attack, they fired a ballistic missile at a Liberian-flagged container ship on Thursday, U.S. defense officials said.The attack happened west of Hodeida, a port city in Yemen long held by the rebels, said the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, a British military group overseeing Mideast waterways. It said the crew and the vessel were safe and the blast came far off the vessel's starboard side.The U.S. defense officials identified the targeted container ship as the Koi, a Bermuda-owned vessel. Its management could not be immediately reached for comment. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters. The Houthis did not claim responsibility for the assault.The Houthis say they are targeting ships over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade between Asia, the Mideast and Europe.The Houthis hit a commercial vessel with a missile on Jan. 26,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-red-sea-israel-hamas-war-attacks-f36fc8911e069a5b4dbc4d9e67f31e50">sparking a fire that burned for hours</a>.The Pentagon has the aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower in the region, along with at least a half dozen other major U.S. warships, U.S. Air Force fighter jets and radar aircraft. It has already been regularly using those assets to conduct strikes and defend ships.

Pentagon: New plans in place for US strikes against Iran-backed militias

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State of Kansas ends January 2024 with total tax collections at $928.6 million. That is $64.1 million, or 6.5%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 11.3% from January 2023, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Revenue.

Collections in December were 3.4%, below the estimate and&nbsp;2.1%, below the estimate for November.

Click to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYnVkZ2V0LmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzA3X0phbnVhcnlfUmV2ZW51ZV9GWTIwMjRfMDItMDEtMjAyNF9GaW5hbC5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjAxLjg5NTEzODYxIn0.CnFazZrSS1nYbxdcsUsTqsPaWMSFy3ecg81JznQoDtE/s/1303160919/br/236402344204-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;view the January 2024 revenue numbers.

"Coming short of the estimates for the third month in a row emphasizes that tax cuts must be done in a fiscally responsible way,"&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. "The bipartisan tax package that I've proposed to the legislature provides substantive and direct tax relief to all Kansans – without putting at risk our overall economy."

Governor Kelly’s bipartisan tax plan was&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi9nb3Zlcm5vci1rZWxseXMtYmlwYXJ0aXNhbi10YXgtcGxhbi1pbnRyb2R1Y2VkLWluLWthbnNhcy1ob3VzZS1hbmQtc2VuYXRlLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMDEuODk1MTM4NjEifQ.BovyWpOF6wKvQ5Qungx8eJdX2mFrBlZ9bQXQO4syJ24/s/1303160919/br/236402344204-l" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas House and Senate last month.

Individual income tax collections were $475.9 million. That is $19.1 million, or 3.9%, below the estimate, and down 3.9% from January 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $89.8 million. That is $25.2 million, or 21.9%, below the estimate and down 45.9% from January 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $344.3 million, which is $18.7 million, or 5.1%, below the estimate and down $16.9 million, or 4.7%, from January 2023.&nbsp;

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The State of Kansas ends January 2024 with total tax collections at $928.6 million. That is $64.1 million, or 6.5%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 11.3% from January 2023, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Revenue.Collections in December were 3.4%, below the estimate and&nbsp;2.1%, below the estimate for November.Click to&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYnVkZ2V0LmthbnNhcy5nb3Yvd3AtY29udGVudC91cGxvYWRzLzA3X0phbnVhcnlfUmV2ZW51ZV9GWTIwMjRfMDItMDEtMjAyNF9GaW5hbC5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjQwMjAxLjg5NTEzODYxIn0.CnFazZrSS1nYbxdcsUsTqsPaWMSFy3ecg81JznQoDtE/s/1303160919/br/236402344204-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;view the January 2024 revenue numbers."Coming short of the estimates for the third month in a row emphasizes that tax cuts must be done in a fiscally responsible way,"&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. "The bipartisan tax package that I've proposed to the legislature provides substantive and direct tax relief to all Kansans – without putting at risk our overall economy."Governor Kelly’s bipartisan tax plan was&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi9nb3Zlcm5vci1rZWxseXMtYmlwYXJ0aXNhbi10YXgtcGxhbi1pbnRyb2R1Y2VkLWluLWthbnNhcy1ob3VzZS1hbmQtc2VuYXRlLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyNDAyMDEuODk1MTM4NjEifQ.BovyWpOF6wKvQ5Qungx8eJdX2mFrBlZ9bQXQO4syJ24/s/1303160919/br/236402344204-l" target="_blank">introduced</a>&nbsp;in the Kansas House and Senate last month.Individual income tax collections were $475.9 million. That is $19.1 million, or 3.9%, below the estimate, and down 3.9% from January 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $89.8 million. That is $25.2 million, or 21.9%, below the estimate and down 45.9% from January 2023.Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $344.3 million, which is $18.7 million, or 5.1%, below the estimate and down $16.9 million, or 4.7%, from January 2023.&nbsp;

Kan. tax collections below estimate for 3rd month in a row

WASHINGTON – Three men pleaded guilty yesterday to felony charges related to their actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election., according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Kyle Kumer, 43, of Kansas City and William “Jessie” Stover, 46, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to one count of civil disorder, a felony. Alan Michael St. Onge, 36, of Brevard, North Carolina pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to two counts of civil disorder, a felony. U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Nichols will sentence Stover on May 3, 2024, and St. Onge and Kumer on May 17, 2024.

&nbsp;According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, beginning at 2:42 p.m., numerous members of the mob illegally assembled on the Capitol grounds and attacked members of the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) and Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who were lawfully engaged in the performance of their official duties defending an entrance to the U.S. Capitol on the Lower West Terrace known as the “Tunnel.”

The Tunnel was the site of some of the most violent attacks against police on January 6th.&nbsp; Over the course of more than two hours, the mob struck police with thrown items, sprayed police with chemical irritants, pushed against the police, and stole items from the police defending the Tunnel. St. Onge, Kumer, and Stover were members of the mob that relentlessly pushed against police officers in the Lower West Terrace tunnel to breach the line of law enforcement defending Congress. St. Onge also pushed against the line of police officers in the West Plaza prior to the police line falling in that location.

St. Onge initially approached the Capitol from the east before moving to the West Front of the Capitol. At approximately 2:12 p.m., as officers in the West Plaza were resisting the efforts of the mob to overcome the police line there, St. Onge pushed against the police barricade and the police who were trying to resist the rioters’ efforts. After the police line fell on the West Front, St. Onge made his way up the Inaugural Stage before arriving at the Lower West Terrace tunnel. 

St. Onge was initially outside the entrance to the tunnel beginning at 2:55 p.m.&nbsp; At 3:09 p.m., St. Onge made his way further into the tunnel and joined in with the crowd’s concerted push against the police line. Specifically, surveillance video footage captured images of St. Onge pushing, with great effort, against other rioters in an attempt to collectively breach the police line. At approximately 3:18 p.m., the police inside the tunnel gained momentum and successfully pushed the rioters, including St. Onge, out of the tunnel.&nbsp;St. Onge was arrested June 16, 2023, in Brevard, N.C.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Kumer, accompanied by his mother, made this way up to the Lower West Terrace and onto the Inaugural Stage at about the same time. As the crowd began to push in unison against the police line at 3:08 p.m., Kumer turned his body so that his back was pushing up against the rioters between him and the police and began to push against them. As he pushed, Kumer called out, “Let’s go! C’mon! Let’s go!” to the rioters around them to encourage them to join the push against the police.&nbsp; At 3:11 p.m., another group push began in the tunnel against the police. 

Kumer joined in again. This group push effort caused a MPD officer to be crushed between the crowd and the door. At 3:15 p.m., numerous rioters left the tunnel leaving ample open space for Kumer and his mother to also leave, but they remained in the tunnel. At&nbsp; 3:16 p.m., another group push effort was made against the police line by the rioters inside the tunnel. Kumer joined again. By 3:18 p.m., the police inside the tunnel succeeded in pushing all of the rioters back to the entrance of the tunnel. Kumer and his mother were two of the last rioters to be cleared from inside the tunnel. Kumer was arrested June 21, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo.

&nbsp;Stover arrived at the tunnel entrance at 3:16 p.m. and joined with others in the fracas to push again the police line. Stover, along with the other rioters, was eventually expelled from the tunnel entrance by police. But Stover returned with others to push against police, this time grabbing onto the side of the tunnel entrance to leverage his weight and increase his force. Stover then reached over the heads of the other rioters to grab the helmet of a police officer. 

Moments later, Stover received a U.S. Capitol Police riot shield which he then handed to another rioter who climbed up behind him. That rioter took the shield from Stover and used it to attack police. Stover remained at the entrance to the tunnel as the rioters fought police for 20 more minutes. At about 4:10 p.m., he was pushed away from the mouth of the tunnel by the crowd. Stover was arrested July 10, 2023, in Elizabethtown, Ky.

In the 36 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,265 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 440 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706826492286.png" alt="Kyke Kumer-&nbsp; image from the Nov. release of Jan 6 videos from House Speaker Mike Johnson&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kyke Kumer-&nbsp; image from the Nov. release of Jan 6 videos from House Speaker Mike Johnson&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – Three men pleaded guilty yesterday to felony charges related to their actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election., according to the U.S. Department of Justice.Kyle Kumer, 43, of Kansas City and William “Jessie” Stover, 46, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to one count of civil disorder, a felony. Alan Michael St. Onge, 36, of Brevard, North Carolina pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to two counts of civil disorder, a felony. U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Nichols will sentence Stover on May 3, 2024, and St. Onge and Kumer on May 17, 2024.&nbsp;According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, beginning at 2:42 p.m., numerous members of the mob illegally assembled on the Capitol grounds and attacked members of the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) and Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who were lawfully engaged in the performance of their official duties defending an entrance to the U.S. Capitol on the Lower West Terrace known as the “Tunnel.”The Tunnel was the site of some of the most violent attacks against police on January 6th.&nbsp; Over the course of more than two hours, the mob struck police with thrown items, sprayed police with chemical irritants, pushed against the police, and stole items from the police defending the Tunnel. St. Onge, Kumer, and Stover were members of the mob that relentlessly pushed against police officers in the Lower West Terrace tunnel to breach the line of law enforcement defending Congress. St. Onge also pushed against the line of police officers in the West Plaza prior to the police line falling in that location.St. Onge initially approached the Capitol from the east before moving to the West Front of the Capitol. At approximately 2:12 p.m., as officers in the West Plaza were resisting the efforts of the mob to overcome the police line there, St. Onge pushed against the police barricade and the police who were trying to resist the rioters’ efforts. After the police line fell on the West Front, St. Onge made his way up the Inaugural Stage before arriving at the Lower West Terrace tunnel. St. Onge was initially outside the entrance to the tunnel beginning at 2:55 p.m.&nbsp; At 3:09 p.m., St. Onge made his way further into the tunnel and joined in with the crowd’s concerted push against the police line. Specifically, surveillance video footage captured images of St. Onge pushing, with great effort, against other rioters in an attempt to collectively breach the police line. At approximately 3:18 p.m., the police inside the tunnel gained momentum and successfully pushed the rioters, including St. Onge, out of the tunnel.&nbsp;St. Onge was arrested June 16, 2023, in Brevard, N.C.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kumer, accompanied by his mother, made this way up to the Lower West Terrace and onto the Inaugural Stage at about the same time. As the crowd began to push in unison against the police line at 3:08 p.m., Kumer turned his body so that his back was pushing up against the rioters between him and the police and began to push against them. As he pushed, Kumer called out, “Let’s go! C’mon! Let’s go!” to the rioters around them to encourage them to join the push against the police.&nbsp; At 3:11 p.m., another group push began in the tunnel against the police. Kumer joined in again. This group push effort caused a MPD officer to be crushed between the crowd and the door. At 3:15 p.m., numerous rioters left the tunnel leaving ample open space for Kumer and his mother to also leave, but they remained in the tunnel. At&nbsp; 3:16 p.m., another group push effort was made against the police line by the rioters inside the tunnel. Kumer joined again. By 3:18 p.m., the police inside the tunnel succeeded in pushing all of the rioters back to the entrance of the tunnel. Kumer and his mother were two of the last rioters to be cleared from inside the tunnel. Kumer was arrested June 21, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo.&nbsp;Stover arrived at the tunnel entrance at 3:16 p.m. and joined with others in the fracas to push again the police line. Stover, along with the other rioters, was eventually expelled from the tunnel entrance by police. But Stover returned with others to push against police, this time grabbing onto the side of the tunnel entrance to leverage his weight and increase his force. Stover then reached over the heads of the other rioters to grab the helmet of a police officer. Moments later, Stover received a U.S. Capitol Police riot shield which he then handed to another rioter who climbed up behind him. That rioter took the shield from Stover and used it to attack police. Stover remained at the entrance to the tunnel as the rioters fought police for 20 more minutes. At about 4:10 p.m., he was pushed away from the mouth of the tunnel by the crowd. Stover was arrested July 10, 2023, in Elizabethtown, Ky.In the 36 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,265 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 440 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

KC man who went with mom to Capitol on Jan. 6 enters plea

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man has been found guilty in a drug deal killing of a teenager.

Last week, 27-year-old Jaron Palmer of Wichita was found guilty of first-degree murder in the April 2021 death of Eric Stokes Jr. at a west Wichita apartment complex, according to the Sedgwick County district attorney's office.

In April of 2021 , police were dispatched to report of a shooting at the&nbsp;Morgan's Landing Apartments complex in the 3800 Block of West 13th Street in Wichita, according to Police Captain Jason Stephens.

When officers arrived, they learned there were five individuals inside the apartment at the time of the incident including 17-year-old Eric Stokes of Wichita who was shot and killed.

Through the investigation, detectives determined two suspects and possibly others were involved in the incident.

EMS transported a second shooting victim identified as a 17-year-old boy to a local hospital. He was treated for minor injuries and released, according to Stephens.

Investigators learned that three unknown, armed suspects arrived at the apartment, forced their way in and fired several shots that killed Stokes.&nbsp; The suspects fled on foot from the apartment complex.&nbsp; It was not a random incident and drugs are believed to have played a part, according to Stephens.

Police released a video of two suspects involved in the homicide.&nbsp; After the release, police received numerous tips from the community, which led to the identification and arrest of 18-year-old Easton Palmer&nbsp; and&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20070532">18-year-old Breckyn I. Elliot</a>&nbsp;both of Wichita. They were originally charged with first degree murder and&nbsp; aggravated robbery.&nbsp;Elliott charge were later reduced to attempted obstruction and attempted possession of marijuana.

On June 21, police arrested Jaron Palmer.&nbsp; He is scheduled for sentencing in March, according to the district attorney's office.

Stokes was killed at Morgan's Landing Apartments near 13th and West Street. Police say Stokes and four others were in an apartment when three armed suspects in masks forced their way inside.&nbsp;Stokes and the others&nbsp;went into a bedroom, and police allege the suspects fired several shots. A second teen suffered minor injuries in the shooting.

Investigators said they believed the shooting to be drug-related.

Easton Shaner-Palmer, 21, Jaron's brother, was also arrested in connection to the shooting. He pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and attempted robbery in August of 2023 and was sentenced to five years and five months in prison. The third suspect, 21-year-old Breckyn Elliott, is charged with attempted obstruction and attempted possession of marijuana.&nbsp;

Palmer is scheduled for sentencing on March 8.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1624361905393.png" alt="Palmer-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Palmer-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man has been found guilty in a drug deal killing of a teenager.Last week, 27-year-old Jaron Palmer of Wichita was found guilty of first-degree murder in the April 2021 death of Eric Stokes Jr. at a west Wichita apartment complex, according to the Sedgwick County district attorney's office.In April of 2021 , police were dispatched to report of a shooting at the&nbsp;Morgan's Landing Apartments complex in the 3800 Block of West 13th Street in Wichita, according to Police Captain Jason Stephens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706540892595.png" alt="Security camera image Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>When officers arrived, they learned there were five individuals inside the apartment at the time of the incident including 17-year-old Eric Stokes of Wichita who was shot and killed.Through the investigation, detectives determined two suspects and possibly others were involved in the incident.EMS transported a second shooting victim identified as a 17-year-old boy to a local hospital. He was treated for minor injuries and released, according to Stephens.Investigators learned that three unknown, armed suspects arrived at the apartment, forced their way in and fired several shots that killed Stokes.&nbsp; The suspects fled on foot from the apartment complex.&nbsp; It was not a random incident and drugs are believed to have played a part, according to Stephens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619618101953.png" alt="Palmer photo Sedgwick Countuy" />
 <figcaption>Palmer photo Sedgwick Countuy</figcaption>
 </figure>Police released a video of two suspects involved in the homicide.&nbsp; After the release, police received numerous tips from the community, which led to the identification and arrest of 18-year-old Easton Palmer&nbsp; and&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20070532">18-year-old Breckyn I. Elliot</a>&nbsp;both of Wichita. They were originally charged with first degree murder and&nbsp; aggravated robbery.&nbsp;Elliott charge were later reduced to attempted obstruction and attempted possession of marijuana. On June 21, police arrested Jaron Palmer.&nbsp; He is scheduled for sentencing in March, according to the district attorney's office.Stokes was killed at Morgan's Landing Apartments near 13th and West Street. Police say Stokes and four others were in an apartment when three armed suspects in masks forced their way inside.&nbsp;Stokes and the others&nbsp;went into a bedroom, and police allege the suspects fired several shots. A second teen suffered minor injuries in the shooting.Investigators said they believed the shooting to be drug-related.Easton Shaner-Palmer, 21, Jaron's brother, was also arrested in connection to the shooting. He pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary and attempted robbery in August of 2023 and was sentenced to five years and five months in prison. The third suspect, 21-year-old Breckyn Elliott, is charged with attempted obstruction and attempted possession of marijuana.&nbsp;Palmer is scheduled for sentencing on March 8.&nbsp;

Security camera image led to conviction in murder of Kan. teen

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri's high court entertained arguments Thursday on whether to force changes to the state's Senate districts in a case that has divided majority-party Republicans over how to apply new voter-approved redistricting criteria.

The lawsuit brought by voters contends that Senate districts in suburban St. Louis and western Missouri's Buchanan County violate the state constitution by needlessly splitting cities or counties into multiple districts. It seeks revised districts before this year's elections.

Missouri is one of a dozen states where legal challenges are still pending against congressional or state legislative boundaries that were redrawn based on the 2020 census. In many states, those fights have pitted Democrats against Republicans as each party strains to shape districts to its advantage.

But the Missouri lawsuit has divided Republicans into two camps. A Republican Senate committee supports&nbsp;<a href="https://oa.mo.gov/sites/default/files/Senate_StatewideSpringfield.pdf">the map</a>&nbsp;enacted in 2022 by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-redistricting-elections-census-2020-a522adc541fedfe42cace39440a29ca8?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">a panel of appeals court judges</a>. But a GOP House committee sided with Democratic-aligned voters suing for the districts to be overturned.

Each side contends its approach best&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymandering-2022-elections-e576c35ee37ef7ae14337953a42541c2?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">discourages gerrymandering</a>, in which mapmakers manipulate boundaries to benefit a particular political party, racial group or incumbent lawmakers. The outcome of the case won't affect immediate control of the Senate, where Republicans hold a 24-10 majority over Democrats.

“But what it will do is affect the next redistricting and how we do it” after the 2030 census by establishing which criteria are most important, plaintiffs' attorney Chuck Hatfield said after Thursday's arguments.

It’s unclear how quickly the court will rule. Candidate filing for the August primary elections is scheduled to run from Feb. 27 to March 26.

At issue are revised redistricting criteria approved by voters in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-voter-dump-redistricting-reform-a9e177612d135176ff53718b9b0e5436?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">2020 ballot measure</a>. The first criterion says districts must be nearly equal as practical in population but can deviate up to 3% “if necessary to follow political subdivision lines,” such as counties and cities.

The second criterion requires compliance with the federal Voting Rights Act, the third prioritizes “contiguous” and “compact” districts, and the fourth requires communities to be kept whole in districts if possible under the equal population guidelines.

The lawsuit contends it was unconstitutional to split Buchanan County into two districts represented by Republicans and the St. Louis suburb of Hazelwood into two districts represented by Democrats. A trial judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-senate-redistricting-lawsuit-990b0d6bfde970a5686879a01cf466ca?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">rejected that assertion</a>&nbsp;in September, ruling the map was reasonable because the constitution places a higher priority on compact districts than intact communities.

But Hatfield argued to Supreme Court judges that it's more important to keep counties and cities intact than to draw compact districts. Otherwise, it will "enable efforts to gerrymander state legislative districts for nefarious political purposes” by splitting communities, Hatfield wrote in a court brief.

The state attorney general's office defended the current Senate map. Deputy Solicitor General Maria Lanahan told judges that various other Senate districts — though not challenged by plaintiffs — also split counties while not following political subdivision lines. She said the plaintiffs were suggesting a standard that would be particularly hard to follow in heavily populated counties.

Prior to Thursday's arguments, the Missouri House Republican Campaign Committee filed a court brief supporting the appeal. It asserted the community splits in the Senate map are “completely unnecessary" and that the House map — which avoided such splits — could be open to lawsuits if the court prioritized compactness.

The Republicans' Missouri Senate Campaign Committee countered with its own court brief, contending that House Republicans had “aligned with Democratic interests” and that individual representatives may have “personal interest in tailoring Senate districts in which they hope to run in the future.”

Senate Republicans asserted that the current map avoids partisan manipulation that can occur when overemphasizing communities.

"Compact, contiguous territory is the first and most powerful line of defense against political and racial gerrymanders,” Senate Republicans wrote in a brief filed by attorney Eddie Greim.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706831969221.png" alt="Missouri Senate Map" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Senate Map</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri's high court entertained arguments Thursday on whether to force changes to the state's Senate districts in a case that has divided majority-party Republicans over how to apply new voter-approved redistricting criteria.The lawsuit brought by voters contends that Senate districts in suburban St. Louis and western Missouri's Buchanan County violate the state constitution by needlessly splitting cities or counties into multiple districts. It seeks revised districts before this year's elections.Missouri is one of a dozen states where legal challenges are still pending against congressional or state legislative boundaries that were redrawn based on the 2020 census. In many states, those fights have pitted Democrats against Republicans as each party strains to shape districts to its advantage.But the Missouri lawsuit has divided Republicans into two camps. A Republican Senate committee supports&nbsp;<a href="https://oa.mo.gov/sites/default/files/Senate_StatewideSpringfield.pdf">the map</a>&nbsp;enacted in 2022 by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-redistricting-elections-census-2020-a522adc541fedfe42cace39440a29ca8?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">a panel of appeals court judges</a>. But a GOP House committee sided with Democratic-aligned voters suing for the districts to be overturned.Each side contends its approach best&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/redistricting-gerrymandering-2022-elections-e576c35ee37ef7ae14337953a42541c2?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">discourages gerrymandering</a>, in which mapmakers manipulate boundaries to benefit a particular political party, racial group or incumbent lawmakers. The outcome of the case won't affect immediate control of the Senate, where Republicans hold a 24-10 majority over Democrats.“But what it will do is affect the next redistricting and how we do it” after the 2030 census by establishing which criteria are most important, plaintiffs' attorney Chuck Hatfield said after Thursday's arguments.It’s unclear how quickly the court will rule. Candidate filing for the August primary elections is scheduled to run from Feb. 27 to March 26.At issue are revised redistricting criteria approved by voters in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-voter-dump-redistricting-reform-a9e177612d135176ff53718b9b0e5436?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">2020 ballot measure</a>. The first criterion says districts must be nearly equal as practical in population but can deviate up to 3% “if necessary to follow political subdivision lines,” such as counties and cities.The second criterion requires compliance with the federal Voting Rights Act, the third prioritizes “contiguous” and “compact” districts, and the fourth requires communities to be kept whole in districts if possible under the equal population guidelines.The lawsuit contends it was unconstitutional to split Buchanan County into two districts represented by Republicans and the St. Louis suburb of Hazelwood into two districts represented by Democrats. A trial judge&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-senate-redistricting-lawsuit-990b0d6bfde970a5686879a01cf466ca?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">rejected that assertion</a>&nbsp;in September, ruling the map was reasonable because the constitution places a higher priority on compact districts than intact communities.But Hatfield argued to Supreme Court judges that it's more important to keep counties and cities intact than to draw compact districts. Otherwise, it will "enable efforts to gerrymander state legislative districts for nefarious political purposes” by splitting communities, Hatfield wrote in a court brief.The state attorney general's office defended the current Senate map. Deputy Solicitor General Maria Lanahan told judges that various other Senate districts — though not challenged by plaintiffs — also split counties while not following political subdivision lines. She said the plaintiffs were suggesting a standard that would be particularly hard to follow in heavily populated counties.Prior to Thursday's arguments, the Missouri House Republican Campaign Committee filed a court brief supporting the appeal. It asserted the community splits in the Senate map are “completely unnecessary" and that the House map — which avoided such splits — could be open to lawsuits if the court prioritized compactness.The Republicans' Missouri Senate Campaign Committee countered with its own court brief, contending that House Republicans had “aligned with Democratic interests” and that individual representatives may have “personal interest in tailoring Senate districts in which they hope to run in the future.”Senate Republicans asserted that the current map avoids partisan manipulation that can occur when overemphasizing communities."Compact, contiguous territory is the first and most powerful line of defense against political and racial gerrymanders,” Senate Republicans wrote in a brief filed by attorney Eddie Greim.

Missouri Republicans are split over changes to state Senate districts

JERUSALEM (AP) — Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired two ballistic missiles Thursday at a Liberian-flagged container ship in the Red Sea, a U.S. defense official said, the latest attack by the rebels as America launches airstrikes targeting them.

The attack happened west of Hodeida, a port city in Yemen long held by the rebels, said the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, a British military group overseeing Mideast waterways. It said the crew and the vessel were safe and the blast came far off the vessel’s starboard side.

The U.S. defense official identified the targeted container ship as the Koi. Its management could not be immediately reached for comment. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters.

The Houthis did not immediately claim responsibility for the assault. The private security firm Ambrey reported Wednesday night that a ship was targeted with a missile southwest of Aden, Yemen, near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis claimed that attack also targeted the Koi, though American officials had no immediate information on any attack Wednesday night.

Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade between Asia, the Mideast and Europe.

Late Wednesday, American F/A-18 fighter jets struck and destroyed 10 Houthi drones that were prepared to launch, as well as a ground control station used by the rebels, the U.S. military said. The U.S. also intercepted a ballistic missile and other drones already in the air during the day.

JERUSALEM (AP) — Yemen’s Houthi rebels fired two ballistic missiles Thursday at a Liberian-flagged container ship in the Red Sea, a U.S. defense official said, the latest attack by the rebels as America launches airstrikes targeting them.The attack happened west of Hodeida, a port city in Yemen long held by the rebels, said the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, a British military group overseeing Mideast waterways. It said the crew and the vessel were safe and the blast came far off the vessel’s starboard side.The U.S. defense official identified the targeted container ship as the Koi. Its management could not be immediately reached for comment. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters.The Houthis did not immediately claim responsibility for the assault. The private security firm Ambrey reported Wednesday night that a ship was targeted with a missile southwest of Aden, Yemen, near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Houthis claimed that attack also targeted the Koi, though American officials had no immediate information on any attack Wednesday night.Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s offensive in Gaza against Hamas</a>. But they have frequently targeted vessels with tenuous or no clear links to Israel, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade between Asia, the Mideast and Europe.The Houthis hit a commercial vessel with a missile on Jan. 26,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/yemen-houthi-red-sea-israel-hamas-war-attacks-f36fc8911e069a5b4dbc4d9e67f31e50">sparking a fire that burned for hours</a>.Late Wednesday, American F/A-18 fighter jets struck and destroyed 10 Houthi drones that were prepared to launch, as well as a ground control station used by the rebels, the U.S. military said. The U.S. also intercepted a ballistic missile and other drones already in the air during the day.

Iran-backed rebels continue missile attacks in the Red Sea 

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp;

Just after 4p.m. Wednesday, sheriff's deputies received a call of a theft that occurred on US 281 Highway, somewhere south of the City of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

The victim was flagged down by a motorist who claimed to need assistance getting to New York. The motorist claimed he was broke and needed money for the trip. The motorist conned the victim into purchasing fake jewelry to fund his travels. The victim found out the jewelry was fake after the transaction.

The two suspects appear to be of Middle Eastern descent and one of them was wearing a blue sport coat. They were seen driving a late model, white Chevrolet Traverse with a Texas license TVF 8226. Additional possible license is Texas SPN 9592, also on a white Chevrolet Traverse.

Several similar incidents have occurred in nearby counties in Kansas with the same descriptions. The public is cautioned to not interact with these people if encountered and call 911 immediately to report.

The photo above shows body cam footage from another sheriff’s office also investigating this series of thefts. Barton County Sheriff’s detectives are working to identify these suspects.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706797059909.jpeg" alt="The photo shows body cam footage from another sheriff’s office also investigating this series of thefts.-Barton Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>The photo shows body cam footage from another sheriff’s office also investigating this series of thefts.-Barton Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp;Just after 4p.m. Wednesday, sheriff's deputies received a call of a theft that occurred on US 281 Highway, somewhere south of the City of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.The victim was flagged down by a motorist who claimed to need assistance getting to New York. The motorist claimed he was broke and needed money for the trip. The motorist conned the victim into purchasing fake jewelry to fund his travels. The victim found out the jewelry was fake after the transaction.The two suspects appear to be of Middle Eastern descent and one of them was wearing a blue sport coat. They were seen driving a late model, white Chevrolet Traverse with a Texas license TVF 8226. Additional possible license is Texas SPN 9592, also on a white Chevrolet Traverse.Several similar incidents have occurred in nearby counties in Kansas with the same descriptions. The public is cautioned to not interact with these people if encountered and call 911 immediately to report.The photo above shows body cam footage from another sheriff’s office also investigating this series of thefts. Barton County Sheriff’s detectives are working to identify these suspects.

Sheriff warns of highway jewelry sales scam across Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY – A used car dealership in Maize and its owner have entered into a consent judgment with the Office of the District Attorney, resolving allegations of violations of the Kansas Consumer protection Act. 

The District Attorney’s Office investigated Maize Motors, LLC,&nbsp; 5203 N Maize Rd, Maize,  and Gabriel Nicholson after receiving a consumer complaint when a buyer could not register and title a vehicle.

The Consumer Protection Division alleged Nicholson and Maize Motors failed to deliver title to a Mustang within 60 days as required by Kansas law and failed to disclose to the consumers that the dealership could not provide title within 60 days of the purchase. The investigation identified the dealership sold the Mustang on two prior occasions and attempted to transfer title to the vehicle via a “Permit to Sell” obtained from a Louisiana seller.

 However, both prior buyers returned the Mustang to the dealership when they could not register it. The dealership maintains it believed the “Permit to Sell” was sufficient to transfer title in Kansas. Prior to settlement, the dealership obtained quiet title to the Mustang and delivered title to the consumers outside the 60 days required by Kansas law.

While both Nicholson and the dealership denied intentionally violating the Kansas Consumer Protection Act, they agreed to enter a consent judgment to resolve the allegations. Both will be on probation for 12 months with the Consumer Protection Division during which they will be liable for $5,000 in civil penalties as well as additional investigative expenses and court costs. They also agreed to pay $1,000 in restitution to the impacted consumers. As part of the consent judgment, Nicholson and the dealership agreed to cooperate with any future complaints and are enjoined for five years from deceptive and unconscionable acts in consumer transactions. Both agreed in the future to provide full refunds to consumers if the dealership fails to deliver title within 60 days and the customer elects to void the transaction.

The District Attorney reminds that buyers should receive certificates of title within 60 days of vehicle purchase so they can register the vehicle. Failure to provide title within 60 days makes the transaction “fraudulent and void” entitling buyers to a full refund. K.S.A. 8-135(c)(7). Used vehicles that do not have a Kansas title must pass inspection with the Kansas Highway Patrol prior to being registered with the County Treasurer. 

The consent judgment was approved by Judge Stephen Ternes and filed on January 23, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706629505174.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY – A used car dealership in Maize and its owner have entered into a consent judgment with the Office of the District Attorney, resolving allegations of violations of the Kansas Consumer protection Act. The District Attorney’s Office investigated Maize Motors, LLC,&nbsp; 5203 N Maize Rd, Maize, and Gabriel Nicholson after receiving a consumer complaint when a buyer could not register and title a vehicle.The Consumer Protection Division alleged Nicholson and Maize Motors failed to deliver title to a Mustang within 60 days as required by Kansas law and failed to disclose to the consumers that the dealership could not provide title within 60 days of the purchase. The investigation identified the dealership sold the Mustang on two prior occasions and attempted to transfer title to the vehicle via a “Permit to Sell” obtained from a Louisiana seller. However, both prior buyers returned the Mustang to the dealership when they could not register it. The dealership maintains it believed the “Permit to Sell” was sufficient to transfer title in Kansas. Prior to settlement, the dealership obtained quiet title to the Mustang and delivered title to the consumers outside the 60 days required by Kansas law.While both Nicholson and the dealership denied intentionally violating the Kansas Consumer Protection Act, they agreed to enter a consent judgment to resolve the allegations. Both will be on probation for 12 months with the Consumer Protection Division during which they will be liable for $5,000 in civil penalties as well as additional investigative expenses and court costs. They also agreed to pay $1,000 in restitution to the impacted consumers. As part of the consent judgment, Nicholson and the dealership agreed to cooperate with any future complaints and are enjoined for five years from deceptive and unconscionable acts in consumer transactions. Both agreed in the future to provide full refunds to consumers if the dealership fails to deliver title within 60 days and the customer elects to void the transaction.The District Attorney reminds that buyers should receive certificates of title within 60 days of vehicle purchase so they can register the vehicle. Failure to provide title within 60 days makes the transaction “fraudulent and void” entitling buyers to a full refund. K.S.A. 8-135(c)(7). Used vehicles that do not have a Kansas title must pass inspection with the Kansas Highway Patrol prior to being registered with the County Treasurer. The consent judgment was approved by Judge Stephen Ternes and filed on January 23, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. car dealer on probation with DA after complaint about sale

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a. homicide in Topeka.&nbsp;

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 one individual suffering from a gunshot wound. This individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Police release no additional details. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706795135183.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a. homicide in Topeka.&nbsp;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 one individual suffering from a gunshot wound. This individual was pronounced deceased at the scene.Police release no additional details. Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Police: One dead after shooting at Kansas apartment complex 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday he never told his staff to keep his cancer surgery and hospitalization secret from the White House, but acknowledged he should have handled it differently and he apologized for keeping President Joe Biden and others in the dark for weeks.

“We did not handle this right and I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I take full responsibility,” Austin told reporters in a lengthy Pentagon briefing. “I have apologized directly to President Biden and I’ve told him that I’m deeply sorry for not letting him know immediately that I received a heavy diagnosis and was getting treatment.”

Known as an intensely private man, Austin provided his most extensive comments to date on the secrecy surrounding his cancer diagnosis and struggles with complications since his surgery on Dec. 22. It was the first time he has answered questions from reporters since his cancer surgery, and his answers were often bluntly personal, offering rare insights into the deeply private matter.

“The news shook me,” Austin, 70, said about getting the initial diagnosis in early December. “It was a gut punch. And, frankly my first instinct was to keep it private.”

While he said he "never directed anyone to keep my January hospitalization from the White House,” Austin dodged questions about any repercussions on his staff or any decisions they made about disclosing it.

He said he doesn't believe he has created “a culture of secrecy” in his office. And he said he did not tell his aides to ask first responders to avoid using lights and sirens when calling for an ambulance on Jan. 1. But, he acknowledged, “there will be security officers, there will be other staff members who may perceive that they’re doing things in my best interest.”

His lack of disclosure prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-white-house-lloyd-austin-cabinet-f3e03c04ff7d9a0ab062a57ac181bb8f">changes in federal guidelines</a>&nbsp;and triggered an internal Pentagon review and an inspector general review into his department’s notification procedures. Both reviews are ongoing, and members of Congress have called for hearings on the matter.

Austin was taken by ambulance to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Jan. 1 after experiencing extreme pain due to complications from the surgery. He was admitted to the intensive care unit the next day. He was released from the hospital on Jan. 15.

He transferred decision-making authorities to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, but did not tell her why. Some top staff members were told about his hospitalization on Jan. 2, but no one told the White House or the president until two days later. His hospitalization was publicly announced on Jan. 5, but his cancer diagnosis and surgery were not disclosed until the following week.

A key question is why Austin's chief of staff Kelly Magsamen or his senior military assistant, Lt. Gen. Ron Clark, didn't inform the White House or key leaders more quickly.

Austin's solo appearance in the Pentagon briefing room was also a rare moment. He is known for avoiding the media as much as possible. But he appeared calm and even joked a few times during the 35-minute press conference. His ongoing leg pain was evident as he walked carefully to the podium, but he said he expects to recover, although it will be incremental and take time.

Pressed on why he didn't tell the president and others about his diagnosis and surgery, Austin said, “I’m a pretty private guy. I never like burdening others with my problems. It’s just not my way.” He added that the president has a lot of things on his plate and he didn't want to add his personal issue to that.

“I apologize to my teammates and to the American people,” he said.

He said he has learned from the experience. “Taking this kind of job means losing some of the privacy that most of us expect,” he said. “The American people have a right to know if their leaders are facing health challenges that might affect their ability to perform their duties even temporarily. So a wider circle should have been notified, especially the president.”

Austin also acknowledged that he missed a crucial opportunity to use his prostate check and early discovery of the cancer as a teaching moment, for his many male troops and workers across the department, and, even more importantly, for the African American population.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men. It affects 1 in every 8 men — and 1 in every 6 African American men — during their lifetime.

“I’m here with a clear message to other men, especially older men,” Austin said. “Get screened, get your regular checkups. Prostate cancer has a glass jaw. If your doctor can spot it, they can treat it and beat it.”

Asked about the matter earlier in January, Biden said it was a lapse in judgment for Austin not to tell him about his hospitalization, but he said he still has confidence in his Pentagon chief.

Austin, who worked from home for two weeks after his release from the hospital, returned to work in the Pentagon on Monday. He had not been in the building since Dec. 21.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday he never told his staff to keep his cancer surgery and hospitalization secret from the White House, but acknowledged he should have handled it differently and he apologized for keeping President Joe Biden and others in the dark for weeks.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDef</a> Austin on his recent cancer diagnosis and transparency: &quot;We did not handle this right. I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis, and I should have also told my team and the American public. I take full responsibility.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/rt3WjjjJdl">pic.twitter.com/rt3WjjjJdl</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1753085290221076661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We did not handle this right and I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I take full responsibility,” Austin told reporters in a lengthy Pentagon briefing. “I have apologized directly to President Biden and I’ve told him that I’m deeply sorry for not letting him know immediately that I received a heavy diagnosis and was getting treatment.”Known as an intensely private man, Austin provided his most extensive comments to date on the secrecy surrounding his cancer diagnosis and struggles with complications since his surgery on Dec. 22. It was the first time he has answered questions from reporters since his cancer surgery, and his answers were often bluntly personal, offering rare insights into the deeply private matter.“The news shook me,” Austin, 70, said about getting the initial diagnosis in early December. “It was a gut punch. And, frankly my first instinct was to keep it private.”While he said he "never directed anyone to keep my January hospitalization from the White House,” Austin dodged questions about any repercussions on his staff or any decisions they made about disclosing it.He said he doesn't believe he has created “a culture of secrecy” in his office. And he said he did not tell his aides to ask first responders to avoid using lights and sirens when calling for an ambulance on Jan. 1. But, he acknowledged, “there will be security officers, there will be other staff members who may perceive that they’re doing things in my best interest.”His lack of disclosure prompted&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-white-house-lloyd-austin-cabinet-f3e03c04ff7d9a0ab062a57ac181bb8f">changes in federal guidelines</a>&nbsp;and triggered an internal Pentagon review and an inspector general review into his department’s notification procedures. Both reviews are ongoing, and members of Congress have called for hearings on the matter.Austin was taken by ambulance to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on Jan. 1 after experiencing extreme pain due to complications from the surgery. He was admitted to the intensive care unit the next day. He was released from the hospital on Jan. 15.He transferred decision-making authorities to Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen Hicks, but did not tell her why. Some top staff members were told about his hospitalization on Jan. 2, but no one told the White House or the president until two days later. His hospitalization was publicly announced on Jan. 5, but his cancer diagnosis and surgery were not disclosed until the following week.A key question is why Austin's chief of staff Kelly Magsamen or his senior military assistant, Lt. Gen. Ron Clark, didn't inform the White House or key leaders more quickly.Austin's solo appearance in the Pentagon briefing room was also a rare moment. He is known for avoiding the media as much as possible. But he appeared calm and even joked a few times during the 35-minute press conference. His ongoing leg pain was evident as he walked carefully to the podium, but he said he expects to recover, although it will be incremental and take time.Pressed on why he didn't tell the president and others about his diagnosis and surgery, Austin said, “I’m a pretty private guy. I never like burdening others with my problems. It’s just not my way.” He added that the president has a lot of things on his plate and he didn't want to add his personal issue to that.“I apologize to my teammates and to the American people,” he said.He said he has learned from the experience. “Taking this kind of job means losing some of the privacy that most of us expect,” he said. “The American people have a right to know if their leaders are facing health challenges that might affect their ability to perform their duties even temporarily. So a wider circle should have been notified, especially the president.”Austin also acknowledged that he missed a crucial opportunity to use his prostate check and early discovery of the cancer as a teaching moment, for his many male troops and workers across the department, and, even more importantly, for the African American population.Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among American men. It affects 1 in every 8 men — and 1 in every 6 African American men — during their lifetime.“I’m here with a clear message to other men, especially older men,” Austin said. “Get screened, get your regular checkups. Prostate cancer has a glass jaw. If your doctor can spot it, they can treat it and beat it.”Asked about the matter earlier in January, Biden said it was a lapse in judgment for Austin not to tell him about his hospitalization, but he said he still has confidence in his Pentagon chief.Austin, who worked from home for two weeks after his release from the hospital, returned to work in the Pentagon on Monday. He had not been in the building since Dec. 21.

🎥 Defense Secretary explains his secret hospital stay

SEDGWICK COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Wichita.

According to Police Lt. Aaron Moses, a motorcycle driven by 41-year-old Robert Johnson of Wichita, collided with a sedan&nbsp;in the 1800 block of North Rock Road.

EMS transported Johnson to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Investigators from the Wichita Police Department Accident Follow-up Section and the Critical Accident Team responded to the collision. Information gathered through the investigation has shown that speed appeared to be a factor in the collision, according to Moses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706808990638.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Wichita.According to Police Lt. Aaron Moses, a motorcycle driven by 41-year-old Robert Johnson of Wichita, collided with a sedan&nbsp;in the 1800 block of North Rock Road.EMS transported Johnson to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.Investigators from the Wichita Police Department Accident Follow-up Section and the Critical Accident Team responded to the collision. Information gathered through the investigation has shown that speed appeared to be a factor in the collision, according to Moses.

Police: Speed a factor in motorcycle crash that killed Kan. man

MIAMI COUNTY, Kansas —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged animal cruelty at a rural Kansas location that is possibly linked to a much larger organization.

Last week, the Miami County Sheriff's office responded to the 25900 Block of Rockville Road for a welfare check on multiple dogs on the property, according to Sheriff Frank Kelly.

Deputies discovered several malnourished and deceased animals on the property. Deputies then obtained a search warrant and found ten Great Danes deceased. They also located nine other Great Danes and a Shepherd Mix in need of immediate medical attention. There was no one on the property at the time of this investigation, according to Kelly.

Necropsies are pending on the deceased dogs to determine the cause of death. The other animals are at a local veterinary or a sanctuary helping care for them. The dogs are not available to be visited or adopted until the investigation on the case is completed, according to Kelly.

Sheriff's office investigators believe this rural Kansas location is part of a&nbsp; larger operation that spans across the state and the United States.&nbsp; Detectives are working with investigators in other jurisdictions and believe about 100 other dogs are in a similar condition. 

On Tuesday,&nbsp; police executed a search warrant in the 1400 block of SW Fillmore Street in Topeka in response to a reported animal abuse case. Officers found dozens of cats and dogs living in hazardous conditions with little to no access to food and clean water.

Humane Society of the United States transported the rescued animals to a confidential, safe location where they will continue to be examined by licensed veterinarians and receive the care they need.

Detectives have also identified several suspects in the Miami County case.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706791485324.png" alt="Location of the investigation north of Louisburg, Kansas Google map" />
 <figcaption>Location of the investigation north of Louisburg, Kansas Google map</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY, Kansas —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged animal cruelty at a rural Kansas location that is possibly linked to a much larger organization.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706791874046.png" alt="Detectives have identified several suspects in the Miami County case, according to the sheriff's office-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Detectives have identified several suspects in the Miami County case, according to the sheriff's office-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Last week, the Miami County Sheriff's office responded to the 25900 Block of Rockville Road for a welfare check on multiple dogs on the property, according to Sheriff Frank Kelly.Deputies discovered several malnourished and deceased animals on the property. Deputies then obtained a search warrant and found ten Great Danes deceased. They also located nine other Great Danes and a Shepherd Mix in need of immediate medical attention. There was no one on the property at the time of this investigation, according to Kelly.Necropsies are pending on the deceased dogs to determine the cause of death. The other animals are at a local veterinary or a sanctuary helping care for them. The dogs are not available to be visited or adopted until the investigation on the case is completed, according to Kelly.Sheriff's office investigators believe this rural Kansas location is part of a&nbsp; larger operation that spans across the state and the United States.&nbsp; Detectives are working with investigators in other jurisdictions and believe about 100 other dogs are in a similar condition. On Tuesday,&nbsp; police executed a search warrant in the 1400 block of SW Fillmore Street in Topeka in response to a reported animal abuse case. Officers found dozens of cats and dogs living in hazardous conditions with little to no access to food and clean water.Humane Society of the United States transported the rescued animals to a confidential, safe location where they will continue to be examined by licensed veterinarians and receive the care they need.Detectives have also identified several suspects in the Miami County case.&nbsp;

Sheriff: Kan. animal cruelty investigation could span nationwide 

SUMNER COUNTY —A Kansas Highway Patrol trooper went above and beyond earlier this month to help deliver a baby.

According to a social media report from the KHP, the special delivery occurred just after 4a.m. January 12, on northbound Interstate 35, the&nbsp;Kansas Turnpike Authority, near the southern terminal plaza.

&nbsp;KHP Master Trooper Da'Von Brame received a call of a family heading to the hospital to have a baby, and they weren't going to make it, according to the social media report from the agency.

 Master Trooper Brame and the father helped deliver the baby boy roadside just shortly after they stopped on the shoulder of the turnpike.

Baby Pierson had arrived!. Mom, Dad, and KHP's newest Junior Trooper Pierson made their way to the hospital and all are doing great.

"Pierson and his big brother will always have a KHP Trooper Bear watching out for them! Congratulations to the Rosales family."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706798755800.png" alt="Photo KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>SUMNER COUNTY —A Kansas Highway Patrol trooper went above and beyond earlier this month to help deliver a baby.According to a social media report from the KHP, the special delivery occurred just after 4a.m. January 12, on northbound Interstate 35, the&nbsp;Kansas Turnpike Authority, near the southern terminal plaza.&nbsp;KHP Master Trooper Da'Von Brame received a call of a family heading to the hospital to have a baby, and they weren't going to make it, according to the social media report from the agency. Master Trooper Brame and the father helped deliver the baby boy roadside just shortly after they stopped on the shoulder of the turnpike.Baby Pierson had arrived!. Mom, Dad, and KHP's newest Junior Trooper Pierson made their way to the hospital and all are doing great."Pierson and his big brother will always have a KHP Trooper Bear watching out for them! Congratulations to the Rosales family."

State trooper helps deliver baby on the Kansas Tunpike

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

TOPEKA —&nbsp;A Republican state senator demanded answers Tuesday on deaths in Kansas’ foster system, asking if children are still slipping through the cracks after a 5-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and died last year after living in a homeless camp.

Sen. Molly Baumgardner, a member of the Senate committee that oversees public health and welfare, said she knew of two more foster care kids who had died this month, though she did not provide other details.

Baumgardner, R-Louisburg, asked Kansas Department for Children and Families secretary Laura Howard to give an estimate of how many foster children have died over the past year, as well as more details about the death of the 5-year-old, a case that sparked widespread outrage over system failures.&nbsp;

“When will we find out more information about the little five-year-old here in Topeka that was murdered, living in a tent home and that trail of contacted, not contacted, touched, not touched as far as with law enforcement or with DCF?” Baumgardner asked.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A department spokeswoman did not immediately respond to Reflector inquiry on the number of foster care deaths.&nbsp;

In October, the five-year-old was found at a gas station in southeast Topeka, sexually assaulted and with life-threatening injuries. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment but died shortly after. Her former neighbors said she had been living in a homeless camp at the time of her death, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/05/zoey-felix-former-topeka-home-city-evergy-utilities-shut-off/71061637007/">Topeka Capital-Journal reported</a>.&nbsp;

The state’s child welfare agency received multiple reports asking the state to look into her case before her death. The Kansas Reflector obtained a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/18/kansas-dcf-received-nine-reports-including-allegations-of-drug-use-before-death-of-5-year-old/">summary of the reports</a>, showing five home visits and a phone call from department officials. The reports, which ranged from September 2022&nbsp; to little more than a month before her death, warned that the child wasn’t supervised, was living in a home without utilities and was around drugs, among other allegations.&nbsp;

Howard said she could not release many of the details publicly due to state statute, but said the agency has implemented policy changes such as requiring tighter time frames for workers to contact law enforcement if they aren’t able to reach families, along with supporting legislation that would allow more public release of data in cases such as these.&nbsp;

Beyond keeping children physically safe, other questions for the department focused on how to help them after they become young adults.&nbsp;Sen. Chase Blasi, R-Wichita, said he wanted to ensure youths leaving the system had adequate resources.&nbsp;

“What steps are we doing or can we do to ensure kids who are aging out of foster care don’t just go to the streets?” Blasi said. “Ultimately that is a very horrific thing to do in a first world country. I mean, I hope that something that’s not something we can do to help address that.”&nbsp;

Howard said there were housing partnerships and subsidies to help youths exiting the system, but her agency was working on the best ways to engage this population.&nbsp;

“How do we best support them in understanding that these resources that are available to them aren’t about trying to control them or keep them in a system or anything like that” Howard said.&nbsp; “This is about giving them the opportunity to be successful as they leave the system. And, again, we do have fairly robust supports, I think the issue is engagement.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706794589091.png" alt="Laura Howard, secretary of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, faced questions from state senators about the death last year of a 5-year-old girl. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Laura Howard, secretary of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, faced questions from state senators about the death last year of a 5-year-old girl. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/rmipro/">RACHEL MIPRO</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA —&nbsp;A Republican state senator demanded answers Tuesday on deaths in Kansas’ foster system, asking if children are still slipping through the cracks after a 5-year-old girl was sexually assaulted and died last year after living in a homeless camp.Sen. Molly Baumgardner, a member of the Senate committee that oversees public health and welfare, said she knew of two more foster care kids who had died this month, though she did not provide other details.Baumgardner, R-Louisburg, asked Kansas Department for Children and Families secretary Laura Howard to give an estimate of how many foster children have died over the past year, as well as more details about the death of the 5-year-old, a case that sparked widespread outrage over system failures.&nbsp;“When will we find out more information about the little five-year-old here in Topeka that was murdered, living in a tent home and that trail of contacted, not contacted, touched, not touched as far as with law enforcement or with DCF?” Baumgardner asked.&nbsp;&nbsp;A department spokeswoman did not immediately respond to Reflector inquiry on the number of foster care deaths.&nbsp;In October, the five-year-old was found at a gas station in southeast Topeka, sexually assaulted and with life-threatening injuries. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment but died shortly after. Her former neighbors said she had been living in a homeless camp at the time of her death, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2023/10/05/zoey-felix-former-topeka-home-city-evergy-utilities-shut-off/71061637007/">Topeka Capital-Journal reported</a>.&nbsp;The state’s child welfare agency received multiple reports asking the state to look into her case before her death. The Kansas Reflector obtained a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/10/18/kansas-dcf-received-nine-reports-including-allegations-of-drug-use-before-death-of-5-year-old/">summary of the reports</a>, showing five home visits and a phone call from department officials. The reports, which ranged from September 2022&nbsp; to little more than a month before her death, warned that the child wasn’t supervised, was living in a home without utilities and was around drugs, among other allegations.&nbsp;Howard said she could not release many of the details publicly due to state statute, but said the agency has implemented policy changes such as requiring tighter time frames for workers to contact law enforcement if they aren’t able to reach families, along with supporting legislation that would allow more public release of data in cases such as these.&nbsp;Beyond keeping children physically safe, other questions for the department focused on how to help them after they become young adults.&nbsp;Sen. Chase Blasi, R-Wichita, said he wanted to ensure youths leaving the system had adequate resources.&nbsp;“What steps are we doing or can we do to ensure kids who are aging out of foster care don’t just go to the streets?” Blasi said. “Ultimately that is a very horrific thing to do in a first world country. I mean, I hope that something that’s not something we can do to help address that.”&nbsp;Howard said there were housing partnerships and subsidies to help youths exiting the system, but her agency was working on the best ways to engage this population.&nbsp;“How do we best support them in understanding that these resources that are available to them aren’t about trying to control them or keep them in a system or anything like that” Howard said.&nbsp; “This is about giving them the opportunity to be successful as they leave the system. And, again, we do have fairly robust supports, I think the issue is engagement.”

Kansas DCF questioned on transparency, resources for youths aging out of system

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House accomplished something unusual Wednesday in passing with broad, bipartisan support a roughly $79 billion tax cut package that would enhance the child tax credit for millions of lower-income families and boost three tax breaks for businesses, a combination that gives lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taxes-poll-high-mistrust-local-government-bad406b062041ea2d0626058cab5491b">coveted policy wins</a>.

Prospects for the measure becoming law are uncertain with the Senate still having to take it up, but for a House that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-santos-ukraine-border-mccarthy-speaker-johnson-dda73a13a198293803e386976cf3414d">has struggled</a>&nbsp;to get bills of consequence over the finish line, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/tax-reform">tax legislation</a>&nbsp;could represent a rare breakthrough. The bill passed by a vote of 357-70.

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., threw his support behind the bill on Wednesday morning. He spent part of the previous day meeting with GOP lawmakers who were concerned about particular features of the bill, namely the expanded child tax credit. Some were also unhappy that it failed to address the $10,000 cap on the total amount of property taxes or state or local taxes that consumers can deduct on their federal returns. Raising the cap is a top priority of lawmakers from the Republican members of the New York congressional delegation, whose victories in 2022 helped the GOP take the majority.

Johnson committed to moving a bill that addresses the cap, but there is no bill text yet and legislation would have to move through the House Rules Committee, which leaves the timing very much in flux. Athina Lawson, a spokeswoman for Johnson, said the speaker and the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., agreed to work with lawmakers to “find a path forward."

Johnson called the tax cut bill on the House floor important, bipartisan legislation that would revive “conservative pro-growth tax reform.” He also said it would bring an early end to a "wasteful COVID-era program" that has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/irs-covid-business-tax-credit-fraud-congress-226ea420bdb2c3a06e135d47ca140a8d">plagued with fraud</a>. Moving up the deadline for claiming the employee retention tax credit is expected to largely offset the cost of the tax cuts in the legislation.

Johnson also emphasized the importance of the bill moving through the House Ways and Means Committee before coming to the full House for a vote, saying it was a good example of how Congress is supposed to work.

House Republicans were anxious to restore full, immediate deductions that businesses can take for the purchase of new equipment and machinery, and for domestic research and development expenses. They argue such investments grow the economy and incentivize American companies to keep their manufacturing facilities and operations in the United States. The bill also provides businesses more flexibility in determining how much borrowing can be deducted.

“Each of these policies will help American businesses grow, create jobs and sharpen their competitive advantage against China,” Smith said as debate began on the House floor.

Democrats focused on boosting the child tax credit. The tax credit is $2,000 per child, but not all of that is refundable. The bill would incrementally raise the amount of the credit available as a refund, increasing it to $1,800 for 2023 tax returns, $1,900 for the following year and $2,000 for 2025 tax returns. The bill also adjusts the topline credit amount to temporarily grow at the rate of inflation.

Households benefitting as a result of the changes in the child tax credit would see an average tax cut of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taxpolicycenter.org/taxvox/bipartisan-ctc-framework-would-help-lowest-income-quintiles">$680 in the first year</a>, according to estimates from the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center.

Democrats pushed to restore the more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-child-tax-credits-work-fa15590a2c60fc665ddc59ced78dacfe">generous tax credit</a>&nbsp;they passed in 2021 in President Joe Biden's first year in office with payments occurring on a monthly basis. The credit was $3,600 annually for children under age 6 and $3,000 for children ages 6 to 17. But most lawmakers were willing to take what gains they could get through the compromise bill.

“You know I’ve been told that a half a loaf is better than none,” said Rep. Danny Davis, D-Ill. “This isn’t even half a loaf, but I’m going to vote for it because our families and businesses need help.”

“What’s in front of us tonight is pretty simple,” said Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass. “Sixteen million children will benefit from the improvement to the child tax credit. That’s a fact.”

But for some Democrats, it wasn’t enough.

“This bill provides billions of dollars in tax relief for the wealthy, pennies for the poor,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn. “Big corporations are richer than ever. There is no even split.”

And for some Republicans, it was too much. The chief critics of the expanded child tax credit likened it to “welfare.”

“What is a refundable tax credit? It’s welfare by a different name. We’re going to give cash payments, checks, to people who don’t even pay taxes,” said Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky.

Rep. Drew Ferguson, R-Ga., chafed at that characterization, saying “we all believe on this side of the aisle that you should work in order to receive federal benefits. That is something that this bill does.”

While there were complaints about the tax bill from some of the most conservative and liberal members of the House, a significant majority from each party voted for it. Proponents are hoping the strong show of support will stir action in the Senate.

The bill keeps a threshold of a household having $2,500 in income to be eligible for refundable child tax credit payments.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House accomplished something unusual Wednesday in passing with broad, bipartisan support a roughly $79 billion tax cut package that would enhance the child tax credit for millions of lower-income families and boost three tax breaks for businesses, a combination that gives lawmakers on both sides of the political aisle&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/taxes-poll-high-mistrust-local-government-bad406b062041ea2d0626058cab5491b">coveted policy wins</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I just voted to pass major bipartisan tax cuts for KS families &amp; small businesses: 👩‍👧‍👦Expansion of the Child Tax Credit 👨‍🏭Support for local small businesses 🏘️Measures to enhance affordable housing These are provisions I&#39;ve long fought for. It&#39;s a big win for middle-class folks!&mdash; Sharice Davids (@sharicedavids) <a href="https://twitter.com/sharicedavids/status/1752870690749911214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Prospects for the measure becoming law are uncertain with the Senate still having to take it up, but for a House that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/congress-santos-ukraine-border-mccarthy-speaker-johnson-dda73a13a198293803e386976cf3414d">has struggled</a>&nbsp;to get bills of consequence over the finish line, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/tax-reform">tax legislation</a>&nbsp;could represent a rare breakthrough. The bill passed by a vote of 357-70.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Tonight the House passed the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act by an overwhelming margin. Before the vote, I spoke on the House floor about the bill&#39;s critical R&amp;D provision needed by Kansas job creators and innovators. <a href="https://t.co/vrccKOrqwi">pic.twitter.com/vrccKOrqwi</a>&mdash; Rep. Ron Estes (@RepRonEstes) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepRonEstes/status/1752868113626882063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 1, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., threw his support behind the bill on Wednesday morning. He spent part of the previous day meeting with GOP lawmakers who were concerned about particular features of the bill, namely the expanded child tax credit. Some were also unhappy that it failed to address the $10,000 cap on the total amount of property taxes or state or local taxes that consumers can deduct on their federal returns. Raising the cap is a top priority of lawmakers from the Republican members of the New York congressional delegation, whose victories in 2022 helped the GOP take the majority.Johnson committed to moving a bill that addresses the cap, but there is no bill text yet and legislation would have to move through the House Rules Committee, which leaves the timing very much in flux. Athina Lawson, a spokeswoman for Johnson, said the speaker and the chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Jason Smith, R-Mo., agreed to work with lawmakers to “find a path forward."Johnson called the tax cut bill on the House floor important, bipartisan legislation that would revive “conservative pro-growth tax reform.” He also said it would bring an early end to a "wasteful COVID-era program" that has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/irs-covid-business-tax-credit-fraud-congress-226ea420bdb2c3a06e135d47ca140a8d">plagued with fraud</a>. Moving up the deadline for claiming the employee retention tax credit is expected to largely offset the cost of the tax cuts in the legislation.Johnson also emphasized the importance of the bill moving through the House Ways and Means Committee before coming to the full House for a vote, saying it was a good example of how Congress is supposed to work.House Republicans were anxious to restore full, immediate deductions that businesses can take for the purchase of new equipment and machinery, and for domestic research and development expenses. They argue such investments grow the economy and incentivize American companies to keep their manufacturing facilities and operations in the United States. The bill also provides businesses more flexibility in determining how much borrowing can be deducted.“Each of these policies will help American businesses grow, create jobs and sharpen their competitive advantage against China,” Smith said as debate began on the House floor.Democrats focused on boosting the child tax credit. The tax credit is $2,000 per child, but not all of that is refundable. The bill would incrementally raise the amount of the credit available as a refund, increasing it to $1,800 for 2023 tax returns, $1,900 for the following year and $2,000 for 2025 tax returns. The bill also adjusts the topline credit amount to temporarily grow at the rate of inflation.Households benefitting as a result of the changes in the child tax credit would see an average tax cut of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.taxpolicycenter.org/taxvox/bipartisan-ctc-framework-would-help-lowest-income-quintiles">$680 in the first year</a>, according to estimates from the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center.Democrats pushed to restore the more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/how-child-tax-credits-work-fa15590a2c60fc665ddc59ced78dacfe">generous tax credit</a>&nbsp;they passed in 2021 in President Joe Biden's first year in office with payments occurring on a monthly basis. The credit was $3,600 annually for children under age 6 and $3,000 for children ages 6 to 17. But most lawmakers were willing to take what gains they could get through the compromise bill.“You know I’ve been told that a half a loaf is better than none,” said Rep. Danny Davis, D-Ill. “This isn’t even half a loaf, but I’m going to vote for it because our families and businesses need help.”“What’s in front of us tonight is pretty simple,” said Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass. “Sixteen million children will benefit from the improvement to the child tax credit. That’s a fact.”But for some Democrats, it wasn’t enough.“This bill provides billions of dollars in tax relief for the wealthy, pennies for the poor,” said Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn. “Big corporations are richer than ever. There is no even split.”And for some Republicans, it was too much. The chief critics of the expanded child tax credit likened it to “welfare.”“What is a refundable tax credit? It’s welfare by a different name. We’re going to give cash payments, checks, to people who don’t even pay taxes,” said Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky.Rep. Drew Ferguson, R-Ga., chafed at that characterization, saying “we all believe on this side of the aisle that you should work in order to receive federal benefits. That is something that this bill does.”While there were complaints about the tax bill from some of the most conservative and liberal members of the House, a significant majority from each party voted for it. Proponents are hoping the strong show of support will stir action in the Senate.The bill keeps a threshold of a household having $2,500 in income to be eligible for refundable child tax credit payments.

What's in the $79 billion tax cut bill that passed the US House

By MIKE COURSON&nbsp;Great Bend Post

A Pratt County man was arrested late Tuesday evening after a high-speed motorcycle pursuit that began approximately nine miles north of St. John on US-281 Highway just before 7:30 p.m.

According to Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch, a trooper attempted to pull over the driver of a motorcycle, later identified as 33-year-old Tyler Lingle of Cullison, for going 82 miles an hour in a 65-mile-an-hour zone on US-281 near Northwest 120th Street. The driver fled and the motorcycle reached speeds up to 130 miles an hour before crashing just across the Barton-Stafford County line near Northeast 70 Road.

The driver then fled on foot. Law enforcement used K-9s and a KHP aircraft to help locate Lingle, who was transported to the Barton County Jail at 9:13 p.m.

Lingle was arrested on Stafford County requested charges for flee and elude, felony interference with law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a license, circumvention of an interlock device, expired registration, and speeding. He was released after posting a $10,000 surety bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706728216094.jpeg" alt="Lingle-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Lingle-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON&nbsp;Great Bend PostA Pratt County man was arrested late Tuesday evening after a high-speed motorcycle pursuit that began approximately nine miles north of St. John on US-281 Highway just before 7:30 p.m.According to Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch, a trooper attempted to pull over the driver of a motorcycle, later identified as 33-year-old Tyler Lingle of Cullison, for going 82 miles an hour in a 65-mile-an-hour zone on US-281 near Northwest 120th Street. The driver fled and the motorcycle reached speeds up to 130 miles an hour before crashing just across the Barton-Stafford County line near Northeast 70 Road.The driver then fled on foot. Law enforcement used K-9s and a KHP aircraft to help locate Lingle, who was transported to the Barton County Jail at 9:13 p.m.Lingle was arrested on Stafford County requested charges for flee and elude, felony interference with law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving without a license, circumvention of an interlock device, expired registration, and speeding. He was released after posting a $10,000 surety bond.

KHP: Kansas man was traveling 130mph on his motorcycle

JERUSALEM —Attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels continue and U.S. forces continue to attempt to prevent them.

At 1:30 a.m., (Sanaa time) Thursday, U.S. Central Command forces conducted strikes against an Iranian-backed Houthi UAV ground control station and 10 Houthi one-way UAVs, according to a statement from the CENTCOM.

U.S. forces identified the UAV ground control station and one-way attack 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 UAV ground control station and 10 one-way attack UAVs in self-defense. This action will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels.

At 8:30p.m. Wednesday, Iranian backed Houthi rebels fired one anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-0controlled territory in Yemen toward the Gulf of Aden, according to the U.S. Central Command. The U.S. Carney successfully shot down the missile.&nbsp;

At 9:10p.m. Wednesday, the Carney shot down three Iranian UAVs in the vicinity. There were no injuries reported.

Earlier in the day Wednesday,&nbsp;USCENTCOM forces struck and destroyed a Houthi surface-to-air missile prepared to launch. U.S. forces identified the missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined that it presented an imminent threat to U.S. aircraft.

Meanwhile, the United States on Wednesday attributed the drone attack that killed three U.S. service members in Jordan to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias, as President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-retaliation-iran-militia-drone-attack-1dda7fdb416f843b3a5cc84ea7b5f01c">weighs his options</a>&nbsp;to respond to the strike.

Iran threatened to “decisively respond” to any U.S. attack on the Islamic Republic after the U.S. said it held&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-jordan-dignified-transfer-dover-140000aa392fee8175616d8af813c0eb">Tehran responsible</a>. The U.S. has signaled it is preparing for retaliatory strikes in the Mideast in the wake of the Sunday drone attack that also wounded more than 40 troops at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-jordan-drone-attack-iran-tower-22-israel-hamas-war-0265beed527e3009a966c0531c08838e">Tower 22</a>, a secretive base in northeastern Jordan that’s been crucial to the American presence in neighboring Syria.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday the U.S. believes the attack was planned, resourced and facilitated by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group that includes the militant group Kataib Hezbollah. He said Biden “believes that it is important to respond in an appropriate way.”

<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 —Attacks by the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels continue and U.S. forces continue to attempt to prevent them.At 1:30 a.m., (Sanaa time) Thursday, U.S. Central Command forces conducted strikes against an Iranian-backed Houthi UAV ground control station and 10 Houthi one-way UAVs, according to a statement from the CENTCOM.U.S. forces identified the UAV ground control station and one-way attack 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 UAV ground control station and 10 one-way attack UAVs in self-defense. This action will protect freedom of navigation and make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy vessels and merchant vessels.At 8:30p.m. Wednesday, Iranian backed Houthi rebels fired one anti-ship ballistic missile from Houthi-0controlled territory in Yemen toward the Gulf of Aden, according to the U.S. Central Command. The U.S. Carney successfully shot down the missile.&nbsp;At 9:10p.m. Wednesday, the Carney shot down three Iranian UAVs in the vicinity. There were no injuries reported.Earlier in the day Wednesday,&nbsp;USCENTCOM forces struck and destroyed a Houthi surface-to-air missile prepared to launch. U.S. forces identified the missile in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined that it presented an imminent threat to U.S. aircraft.Meanwhile, the United States on Wednesday attributed the drone attack that killed three U.S. service members in Jordan to the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias, as President Joe Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-retaliation-iran-militia-drone-attack-1dda7fdb416f843b3a5cc84ea7b5f01c">weighs his options</a>&nbsp;to respond to the strike.Iran threatened to “decisively respond” to any U.S. attack on the Islamic Republic after the U.S. said it held&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-jordan-dignified-transfer-dover-140000aa392fee8175616d8af813c0eb">Tehran responsible</a>. The U.S. has signaled it is preparing for retaliatory strikes in the Mideast in the wake of the Sunday drone attack that also wounded more than 40 troops at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-jordan-drone-attack-iran-tower-22-israel-hamas-war-0265beed527e3009a966c0531c08838e">Tower 22</a>, a secretive base in northeastern Jordan that’s been crucial to the American presence in neighboring Syria.National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday the U.S. believes the attack was planned, resourced and facilitated by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group that includes the militant group Kataib Hezbollah. He said Biden “believes that it is important to respond in an appropriate way.”He said Biden was continuing to weigh his options, but Kirby said “the first thing you see won’t be the last thing," adding it “won't be a one-off.”Kirby dismissed a statement by Iraqi militia&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-iraq-airstrike-military-iran-d93d861feeef90cfeac3ba85f1f2f36d">Kataib Hezbollah</a>&nbsp;announcing “the suspension of military and security operations against the occupation forces in order to prevent embarrassment to the Iraqi government.” He said the group can't be taken at face value, and he added, “they’re not the only group that has been attacking us.”As of Wednesday, Kataib Hezbollah and other Iran-aligned militias had launched 166 attacks on U.S. military installations since Oct. 18, including 67 in Iraq, 98 in Syria and the one in Jordan, according to the U.S. military.The U.S. has struck back at the militias a few times over the past three months. On Oct. 27,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-airstrikes-iran-revolutionary-guard-af3c7a0f069b8c8b08f6feaa0e165d6a">U.S. fighter jets struck</a>&nbsp;two weapons and ammunition storage sites in eastern Syria near Boukamal that were used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Iranian-backed groups.Also in Syria,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/syria-iran-airstrikes-attack-bases-5be245a2927334ad0d78b8ec35fa55b7">fighter jets dropped bombs</a>&nbsp;on an IRGC weapons storage facility near Maysulun in Deir el-Zour on Nov. 8. And&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-syria-airstrikes-iran-irgc-a84ed69e5b0ef6c9fa18656b72a9fda1">U.S. airstrikes targeted a training facility</a>&nbsp;and a safe house in the Bulbul district of Mayadin on Nov. 12.On Dec. 26,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-kataib-hezbollah-drone-strike-us-military-injured-b4b4480e2cae6e7ad26e88eb625ab397">the U.S. launched strikes on three locations</a>&nbsp;in Iraq used by Kataib Hezbollah and affiliated groups, and on Jan. 23, the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iraq-us-strikes-target-iran-militia-41a0435545bb620d806c1fbbe9bf1519">struck three sites in Iraq,</a>&nbsp;again targeting Kataib Hezbollah.Any&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-retaliation-iran-militia-drone-attack-1dda7fdb416f843b3a5cc84ea7b5f01c">additional American strikes</a>&nbsp;could further inflame a region already roiled by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel’s ongoing war on Hamas</a>&nbsp;in the Gaza Strip. The war began with Hamas&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-rockets-airstrikes-tel-aviv-11fb98655c256d54ecb5329284fc37d2">attacking Israel on Oct. 7</a>, killing some 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostage. Since then, Israeli strikes have killed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-news-01-15-2024-2092ae0d8a4f57aa969e661c4da5ed8a">more than 26,000 Palestinians</a>&nbsp;and displaced nearly 2 million others from their homes, arousing anger throughout the Muslim world.