WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has delivered a recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/marijuana-legalization" target="_blank">marijuana policy</a>, and Senate leaders hailed it this week as a first step toward easing federal restrictions on the drug.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said Wednesday on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the agency has responded to President Joe Biden's request “to provide a scheduling recommendation for marijuana to the DEA.”

“We’ve worked to ensure that a scientific evaluation be completed and shared expeditiously,” he added.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement that HHS had recommended that marijuana be moved from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance.

“HHS has done the right thing,” Schumer, D-N.Y., said. “DEA should now follow through on this important step to greatly reduce the harm caused by draconian marijuana laws.”

Rescheduling the drug would reduce or potentially eliminate criminal penalties for possession. Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD.

According to the DEA, Schedule I drugs "have no currently accepted medical use in the United States, a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision, and a high potential for abuse."

Schedule III drugs “have a potential for abuse less than substances in Schedules I or II and abuse may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.” They currently include ketamine and some anabolic steroids.

Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-marijuana-government-and-politics-2d5e3d9e2cfbbbe3ee114536738894a8" target="_blank">requested the review in October 2022</a>&nbsp;as he pardoned thousands of Americans convicted of “simple possession” of marijuana under federal law.

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, D-Ore., issued a statement calling for marijuana to be completely descheduled. “However, the recommendation of HHS to reschedule cannabis as a Schedule III drug is not inconsequential," he added. “If HHS’s recommendation is ultimately implemented, it will be a historic step for a nation whose cannabis policies have been out of touch with reality.”

Bloomberg News first reported on the HHS recommendation.

In reaction to the Bloomberg report, the nonprofit U.S. Cannabis Council said: “We enthusiastically welcome today’s news. ... Rescheduling will have a broad range of benefits, including signaling to the criminal justice system that cannabis is a lower priority and providing a crucial economic lifeline to the cannabis industry.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has delivered a recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/marijuana-legalization" target="_blank">marijuana policy</a>, and Senate leaders hailed it this week as a first step toward easing federal restrictions on the drug.HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra said Wednesday on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, that the agency has responded to President Joe Biden's request “to provide a scheduling recommendation for marijuana to the DEA.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I can now share that, following the data and science, <a href="https://twitter.com/HHSGov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HHSGov</a> has responded to <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>’ directive to me for the Department to provide a scheduling recommendation for marijuana to the DEA. We’ve worked to ensure that a scientific evaluation be completed and shared expeditiously. <a href="https://t.co/p84x8p07sP">pic.twitter.com/p84x8p07sP</a>&mdash; Secretary Xavier Becerra (@SecBecerra) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBecerra/status/1696981120280084617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“We’ve worked to ensure that a scientific evaluation be completed and shared expeditiously,” he added.Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement that HHS had recommended that marijuana be moved from a Schedule I to a Schedule III controlled substance.“HHS has done the right thing,” Schumer, D-N.Y., said. “DEA should now follow through on this important step to greatly reduce the harm caused by draconian marijuana laws.”Rescheduling the drug would reduce or potentially eliminate criminal penalties for possession. Marijuana is currently classified as a Schedule I drug, alongside heroin and LSD.According to the DEA, Schedule I drugs "have no currently accepted medical use in the United States, a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision, and a high potential for abuse."Schedule III drugs “have a potential for abuse less than substances in Schedules I or II and abuse may lead to moderate or low physical dependence or high psychological dependence.” They currently include ketamine and some anabolic steroids.Biden&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-marijuana-government-and-politics-2d5e3d9e2cfbbbe3ee114536738894a8" target="_blank">requested the review in October 2022</a>&nbsp;as he pardoned thousands of Americans convicted of “simple possession” of marijuana under federal law.Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, D-Ore., issued a statement calling for marijuana to be completely descheduled. “However, the recommendation of HHS to reschedule cannabis as a Schedule III drug is not inconsequential," he added. “If HHS’s recommendation is ultimately implemented, it will be a historic step for a nation whose cannabis policies have been out of touch with reality.”Bloomberg News first reported on the HHS recommendation.In reaction to the Bloomberg report, the nonprofit U.S. Cannabis Council said: “We enthusiastically welcome today’s news. ... Rescheduling will have a broad range of benefits, including signaling to the criminal justice system that cannabis is a lower priority and providing a crucial economic lifeline to the cannabis industry.”

Biden Admin. moves to classify marijuana as a lower-risk drug

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating several arson fire in Topeka.

Just before 3a.m. August 25, fire crews responded to a house fire at 1509 NW Logan Street in Topeka, according department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

First arriving crews found smoke and flames coming from a two-story house. Due to the heavy fire involvement, and safety concerns of the stability of the home, crews were forced to battle the fire from the outside. No occupants were inside the house at the time of the fire.

A preliminary investigation determined the cause of the fire as intentionally set. The total estimated loss from this fire was approximately $20,000, associated with structural loss. Content loss is unknown. Police have not reported an arrest in this case but have arrested three others for arson in August.

On August 14, police arrested 28-year-old&nbsp;Shaliqua Hill of Topeka and a 17-year-old girl for allegedly using explosives to start a house fire at 631 SE 35th Street in Topeka.

On August 16, police arrested 62-year-old Rose A. Wilson for alleged aggravated arson for an apartment at 1312 SW Polk Street in Topeka.

On August 1, police arrested 61-year-old&nbsp; Linda Ritchey, 61, for alleged aggravated arson for a fire at a home at 507 SW Taylor Street in Topeka. She remains in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693240273343.png" alt="Four arson fires including the fire that damaged this home in Topeka Aug. 25-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Four arson fires including the fire that damaged this home in Topeka Aug. 25-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating several arson fire in Topeka.Just before 3a.m. August 25, fire crews responded to a house fire at 1509 NW Logan Street in Topeka, according department spokesperson Rosie Nichols.First arriving crews found smoke and flames coming from a two-story house. Due to the heavy fire involvement, and safety concerns of the stability of the home, crews were forced to battle the fire from the outside. No occupants were inside the house at the time of the fire.A preliminary investigation determined the cause of the fire as intentionally set. The total estimated loss from this fire was approximately $20,000, associated with structural loss. Content loss is unknown. Police have not reported an arrest in this case but have arrested three others for arson in August.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692141411419.png" alt="Hill-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hill-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On August 14, police arrested 28-year-old&nbsp;Shaliqua Hill of Topeka and a 17-year-old girl for allegedly using explosives to start a house fire at 631 SE 35th Street in Topeka.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692305589950.png" alt="Wilson-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Wilson-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On August 16, police arrested 62-year-old Rose A. Wilson for alleged aggravated arson for an apartment at 1312 SW Polk Street in Topeka.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690819669630.png" alt="Ritchey-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Ritchey-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>On August 1, police arrested 61-year-old&nbsp; Linda Ritchey, 61, for alleged aggravated arson for a fire at a home at 507 SW Taylor Street in Topeka. She remains in custody, according to online jail records.

Four arson fires at homes in Topeka in August

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A federal judge ruled Thursday that Kansas officials are no longer required to change transgender people’s birth certificates so the documents reflect their gender identities, a loss for those who fought for that ability and leaves questions on how the state will respond.

Since 2019, a federal consent agreement required Kansas officials to change a person's gender identity on their birth certificate when asked. But Republican Attorney General Kris Kobach asked the court to stop enforcing that agreement because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-transgender-birth-certificates-f9723de7460ab5fe71b3e80ba7854046">a new state law</a>&nbsp;that defines male and female as the sex assigned at birth.

Judge Daniel Crabtree granted Kobach’s request and changed the federal agreement to remove the requirement. However, Crabtree said it will ultimately be up to a state court to decide whether the new law is constitutional. The new law, which took effect July 1, is among efforts nationwide to roll back trans rights.

Montana, Oklahoma and Tennessee already bar such birth certificate changes. Kansas is for now among a few states that don’t let trans people change their driver’s licenses to reflect their gender identities. That’s because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-drivers-licenses-kansas-87f3c61cc6286aeffec60b36d99ca962">a separate state-court lawsuit</a>&nbsp;Kobach filed last month.

Luc Bensimon, a Topeka trans man who was one of the original plaintiffs who fought to change their birth certificates, said he was having trouble making sense of Thursday's ruling and wonders whether the state will try to forcefully reverse the gender change on his birth certificate.

“I’m not OK with that,” Bensimon said. “And I don’t really have any words right now. ... It’s just -- I’m not okay with that.”

“I’m pretty upset right now. I’m just trying to figure this out,” Bensimon added.

But his lawyer, Omar Gonzalez-Pagan, said he doesn't think the ruling will have any effect on birth certificates that were already changed — only new ones. And he said it's not clear how Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly will respond and what she will tell state agencies to do.

<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb180_enrolled.pdf">The Kansas law</a>&nbsp;defines male and female based on a person’s “biological reproductive system,” applying those definitions to any other state law or regulation. The Republican-controlled Legislature enacted it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-law-kansas-b3d068afa2bc02bb15314ee04e8e3899">over Kelly’s veto</a>, but she announced shortly before it took effect that birth certificate changes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-law-transgender-birth-certificates-driver-licenses-d5d3631b6e624f24733d0dbdedc9c35e">would continue</a>, citing opinions from attorneys in her administration that they could.

Kelly’s office didn’t immediately respond to the ruling Thursday.

Gonzalez-Pagan said he believes the state agency could continue changing genders on birth certificates unless Kobach goes back to court and gets a separate order telling officials to stop making those changes.

A state court will ultimately decide if the law defining gender will stand.

“The court has genuine misgivings about inserting itself into the dispute about the meaning of the new Kansas law, SB 180," Crabtree said in his ruling. “Absent some issue arising under federal law, a dispute about the meaning of Kansas law belongs in a Kansas state courthouse.”

Crabtree's ruling removes part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/kansas-to-allow-trans-residents-to-change-birth-certificates-7409799fb2a144bca2fd90cd46b7ea6c">2018 settlement</a>&nbsp;Kelly's administration agreed to with four transgender people who challenged a previous Republican no-changes policy. The settlement came only months after Kelly took office in 2019 and required the state to start changing trans people’s birth certificates.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-identities-attacked-bathroom-laws-kansas-e8fc5f209f03f8d55a7491c071283bfb">More than 900 people</a>&nbsp;have done so since.

“The trans activists in this case attempted to nullify state law,” Kobach said. “The court held that SB 180 means what it says — birth certificates in Kansas must reflect biological sex. As long as I am attorney general, the laws of Kansas will be enforced as written. The Legislature decided that birth certificates must reflect biological reality, and they were quite clear in how they wrote the law."

Transgender Kansas residents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-birth-certificates-kansas-4e096d3e020de4b057f04ef2c72b955c">and Kelly</a>&nbsp;argued that refusing to change birth certificates would violate rights protected by the U.S. Constitution, something Crabtree said in his brief order approving the settlement four years ago. Kobach argued that the settlement represented only the views of the parties and the new state law represents a big enough change to nullify the settlement’s requirements.

In the state-court lawsuit over driver’s licenses,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-drivers-licenses-kansas-3ad43a98dd96a8eb5864f6cdc19beffb">a district judge has blocked ID changes</a>&nbsp;until at least Nov. 1.

The new Kansas law was part of a wave of measures rolling back trans rights emerging from Republican-controlled statehouses across the U.S. this year.

The law also declares the state’s interests in protecting people’s privacy, health and safety justifies separate facilities, such as bathrooms and locker rooms, for men and women. Supporters promised that would keep transgender women and girls from using women’s and girls’ facilities — making the law among the nation’s most sweeping bathroom policies — but there is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-bathroom-laws-enforcement-e96e94b8935eb6bd23a42562cdeeec6c">no formal enforcement mechanism</a>.

As for birth certificates, Kobach argued in a recent filing in the federal lawsuit that keeping the full 2019 settlement in place is “explicitly anti-democratic” because it conflicts directly with the new law.

“To hold otherwise would be to render state governments vassals of the federal courts, forever beholden to unchangeable consent agreements entered into by long-gone public officials,” Kobach said.

In 2018, Kelly defeated Kobach, then the Kansas secretary of state, to win her first term as governor. Kobach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-immigration-kansas-topeka-339a45795e1e479b7754e2fc7a8127ed">staged a political comeback</a>&nbsp;by winning the attorney general’s race last year, when Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-donald-trump-kansas-topeka-39afdff811fd2f30a212036d5ec6e3fa">won her second term</a>. Both prevailed by narrow margins.

The transgender Kansas residents who sued the state in 2018 argued that siding with Kobach would allow the state to return to a policy that violated people’s constitutional rights.

In one scathing passage in a recent court filing, their attorneys asked whether Kobach would argue states could ignore the U.S. Supreme Court’s historic Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka ruling in 1954 outlawing racially segregated schools if their lawmakers simply passed a new law ordering segregation.

“The answer is clearly no,” they wrote.

The plaintiffs' attorney, Gonzalez-Pagan, said he's disappointed in the ruling but believes the law will be found unconstitutional.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687829963398.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A federal judge ruled Thursday that Kansas officials are no longer required to change transgender people’s birth certificates so the documents reflect their gender identities, a loss for those who fought for that ability and leaves questions on how the state will respond.Since 2019, a federal consent agreement required Kansas officials to change a person's gender identity on their birth certificate when asked. But Republican Attorney General Kris Kobach asked the court to stop enforcing that agreement because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-transgender-birth-certificates-f9723de7460ab5fe71b3e80ba7854046">a new state law</a>&nbsp;that defines male and female as the sex assigned at birth.Judge Daniel Crabtree granted Kobach’s request and changed the federal agreement to remove the requirement. However, Crabtree said it will ultimately be up to a state court to decide whether the new law is constitutional. The new law, which took effect July 1, is among efforts nationwide to roll back trans rights.Montana, Oklahoma and Tennessee already bar such birth certificate changes. Kansas is for now among a few states that don’t let trans people change their driver’s licenses to reflect their gender identities. That’s because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-drivers-licenses-kansas-87f3c61cc6286aeffec60b36d99ca962">a separate state-court lawsuit</a>&nbsp;Kobach filed last month.Luc Bensimon, a Topeka trans man who was one of the original plaintiffs who fought to change their birth certificates, said he was having trouble making sense of Thursday's ruling and wonders whether the state will try to forcefully reverse the gender change on his birth certificate.“I’m not OK with that,” Bensimon said. “And I don’t really have any words right now. ... It’s just -- I’m not okay with that.”“I’m pretty upset right now. I’m just trying to figure this out,” Bensimon added.But his lawyer, Omar Gonzalez-Pagan, said he doesn't think the ruling will have any effect on birth certificates that were already changed — only new ones. And he said it's not clear how Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly will respond and what she will tell state agencies to do.<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/sb180_enrolled.pdf">The Kansas law</a>&nbsp;defines male and female based on a person’s “biological reproductive system,” applying those definitions to any other state law or regulation. The Republican-controlled Legislature enacted it&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-rights-bathroom-law-kansas-b3d068afa2bc02bb15314ee04e8e3899">over Kelly’s veto</a>, but she announced shortly before it took effect that birth certificate changes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-law-transgender-birth-certificates-driver-licenses-d5d3631b6e624f24733d0dbdedc9c35e">would continue</a>, citing opinions from attorneys in her administration that they could.Kelly’s office didn’t immediately respond to the ruling Thursday.Gonzalez-Pagan said he believes the state agency could continue changing genders on birth certificates unless Kobach goes back to court and gets a separate order telling officials to stop making those changes.A state court will ultimately decide if the law defining gender will stand.“The court has genuine misgivings about inserting itself into the dispute about the meaning of the new Kansas law, SB 180," Crabtree said in his ruling. “Absent some issue arising under federal law, a dispute about the meaning of Kansas law belongs in a Kansas state courthouse.”Crabtree's ruling removes part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/kansas-to-allow-trans-residents-to-change-birth-certificates-7409799fb2a144bca2fd90cd46b7ea6c">2018 settlement</a>&nbsp;Kelly's administration agreed to with four transgender people who challenged a previous Republican no-changes policy. The settlement came only months after Kelly took office in 2019 and required the state to start changing trans people’s birth certificates.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-identities-attacked-bathroom-laws-kansas-e8fc5f209f03f8d55a7491c071283bfb">More than 900 people</a>&nbsp;have done so since.“The trans activists in this case attempted to nullify state law,” Kobach said. “The court held that SB 180 means what it says — birth certificates in Kansas must reflect biological sex. As long as I am attorney general, the laws of Kansas will be enforced as written. The Legislature decided that birth certificates must reflect biological reality, and they were quite clear in how they wrote the law."Transgender Kansas residents&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-birth-certificates-kansas-4e096d3e020de4b057f04ef2c72b955c">and Kelly</a>&nbsp;argued that refusing to change birth certificates would violate rights protected by the U.S. Constitution, something Crabtree said in his brief order approving the settlement four years ago. Kobach argued that the settlement represented only the views of the parties and the new state law represents a big enough change to nullify the settlement’s requirements.In the state-court lawsuit over driver’s licenses,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-drivers-licenses-kansas-3ad43a98dd96a8eb5864f6cdc19beffb">a district judge has blocked ID changes</a>&nbsp;until at least Nov. 1.The new Kansas law was part of a wave of measures rolling back trans rights emerging from Republican-controlled statehouses across the U.S. this year.The law also declares the state’s interests in protecting people’s privacy, health and safety justifies separate facilities, such as bathrooms and locker rooms, for men and women. Supporters promised that would keep transgender women and girls from using women’s and girls’ facilities — making the law among the nation’s most sweeping bathroom policies — but there is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/transgender-bathroom-laws-enforcement-e96e94b8935eb6bd23a42562cdeeec6c">no formal enforcement mechanism</a>.As for birth certificates, Kobach argued in a recent filing in the federal lawsuit that keeping the full 2019 settlement in place is “explicitly anti-democratic” because it conflicts directly with the new law.“To hold otherwise would be to render state governments vassals of the federal courts, forever beholden to unchangeable consent agreements entered into by long-gone public officials,” Kobach said.In 2018, Kelly defeated Kobach, then the Kansas secretary of state, to win her first term as governor. Kobach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-immigration-kansas-topeka-339a45795e1e479b7754e2fc7a8127ed">staged a political comeback</a>&nbsp;by winning the attorney general’s race last year, when Kelly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-biden-donald-trump-kansas-topeka-39afdff811fd2f30a212036d5ec6e3fa">won her second term</a>. Both prevailed by narrow margins.The transgender Kansas residents who sued the state in 2018 argued that siding with Kobach would allow the state to return to a policy that violated people’s constitutional rights.In one scathing passage in a recent court filing, their attorneys asked whether Kobach would argue states could ignore the U.S. Supreme Court’s historic Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka ruling in 1954 outlawing racially segregated schools if their lawmakers simply passed a new law ordering segregation.“The answer is clearly no,” they wrote.The plaintiffs' attorney, Gonzalez-Pagan, said he's disappointed in the ruling but believes the law will be found unconstitutional.

Judge: Kan. no longer required to change trans people’s birth certificates

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas City woman&nbsp; after learning she has been living off her missing father's Social Security and VA benefits.

On August 25, investigators with the Nye County, Nevada Sheriff's office&nbsp; served a Search Warrant at 3891 Peggy in Pahrump, Nevada to search the property for human remains buried on the property.

Investigators learned that 95-year-old Bruce Brown had not been contacted or seen since April of 2023.

Detectives traveled to Kansas City and interviewed 53-year-old Gennice Walker.  Investigators had already established probable cause that Walker was living off of Brown's Social Security and VA Benefits and had received information that she had buried Brown, her father, in the desert.

Walker refused to cooperate and was arrested in Kansas City on an Arrest Warrant for Larceny.

When investigators returned from Kansas City, a Search Warrant was served at the address on Peggy Avenue.&nbsp; After excavating a small portion of the back yard, deputies located human remains of a man in a home-made coffin under the ground.&nbsp; Autopsy later identified the remains as Bruce Brown. 

Gennice Walker remains jailed in Kansas City prior to extradition  to Nevada.

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Nye County Sheriff's Office at 775 751-7000.  You can also remain anonymous by calling CRIMESTOPPERS at 702 385-5555.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693304258750.png" alt="Walker-photo&nbsp; Nye Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Walker-photo&nbsp; Nye Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas City woman&nbsp; after learning she has been living off her missing father's Social Security and VA benefits.On August 25, investigators with the Nye County, Nevada Sheriff's office&nbsp; served a Search Warrant at 3891 Peggy in Pahrump, Nevada to search the property for human remains buried on the property.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693304730646.png" alt="3891 Peggy Ave. in Pahrump, Nevada -Google image" />
 <figcaption>3891 Peggy Ave. in Pahrump, Nevada -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators learned that 95-year-old Bruce Brown had not been contacted or seen since April of 2023.Detectives traveled to Kansas City and interviewed 53-year-old Gennice Walker. Investigators had already established probable cause that Walker was living off of Brown's Social Security and VA Benefits and had received information that she had buried Brown, her father, in the desert.Walker refused to cooperate and was arrested in Kansas City on an Arrest Warrant for Larceny.When investigators returned from Kansas City, a Search Warrant was served at the address on Peggy Avenue.&nbsp; After excavating a small portion of the back yard, deputies located human remains of a man in a home-made coffin under the ground.&nbsp; Autopsy later identified the remains as Bruce Brown. Gennice Walker remains jailed in Kansas City prior to extradition to Nevada.Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Nye County Sheriff's Office at 775 751-7000. You can also remain anonymous by calling CRIMESTOPPERS at 702 385-5555.

Sheriff: KC woman buried father in desert, stole his identity

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a fentanyl overdose death in Hutchinson.

On Wednesday, the Hutchinson Police Department Special Operations Division and Reno County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit arrested 32-year-old Cedrick Gardner II of Wichita, on requested charges that include Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute,&nbsp; Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, Possession of fentanyl, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of Adderall, Possession of oxycodone, Possession of dilaudid, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Criminal use of a weapon, according to a media release from Hutchinson Police.

Additionally, Gardner was charged with Distribution of a controlled substance causing death and Arranging the sale of a controlled substance using a communication device. Those charges are related to a recent fentanyl overdose that resulted in death in Hutchinson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693509179796.jpeg" alt="Cedrick Gardner II-photo Hutchinson Police" />
 <figcaption>Cedrick Gardner II-photo Hutchinson Police</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a fentanyl overdose death in Hutchinson.On Wednesday, the Hutchinson Police Department Special Operations Division and Reno County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit arrested 32-year-old Cedrick Gardner II of Wichita, on requested charges that include Possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute,&nbsp; Possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, Possession of fentanyl, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of Adderall, Possession of oxycodone, Possession of dilaudid, Possession of marijuana, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Criminal use of a weapon, according to a media release from Hutchinson Police.Additionally, Gardner was charged with Distribution of a controlled substance causing death and Arranging the sale of a controlled substance using a communication device. Those charges are related to a recent fentanyl overdose that resulted in death in Hutchinson.

Kansas man arrested for role in fentanyl overdose death

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri judge ruled Thursday that the 84-year-old white homeowner who shot a Black teenager after he mistakenly went to the man’s house must stand trial.

Clay County Judge Louis Angles issued the ruling after hearing from several witnesses at a preliminary hearing, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-kansas-city-wrong-door-b27aaabdb132fcb1544c97f7161f0027">Ralph Yarl</a>, the teenager who was shot by Andrew Lester on April 13 when Yarl went to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.

Lester, a retired aircraft mechanic, is charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He previously pleaded&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/The%20case%20shocked%20the%20country%20and%20renewed%20national%20debates%20about%20gun%20policies%20and%20race%20in%20America.">not guilty</a>&nbsp;in the shooting that shocked the country and renewed national debates about gun policies and race in America. His next court date is an arraignment, scheduled for Sept. 20.

Yarl spoke softly as he testified that he was sent to pick up his twin siblings but had no phone — he'd lost it at school. The house he intended to go to was just blocks from his own home, but he had the street wrong.

Yarl said he rang the bell and the wait for someone to answer seemed “longer than normal,” he said.

As the inner door opened, Yarl said he reached out to grab the storm door.

“I assume these are my brother's friends' parents,” he said.

Instead, it was Lester who told Yarl, “Don't come here ever again,” Yarl recalled. He said he was shot in the head, the impact knocking him to the ground and was then shot in the arm.

Lester’s attorney, Steve Salmon, said in closing arguments that Lester was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-shooting-stand-your-ground-69f91b0a09b25f9758219897f5890278">acting in self-defense,</a>&nbsp;terrified by the stranger who knocked on his door as he settled into bed for the night.

“With his age and physical infirmity, he is unable to defend himself," Salmon said, describing Lester as distraught after the shooting.

“A terrible event occurred, but it is not criminal," Salmon said.

District Attorney Zachary Thompson said that although Missouri law offers protections for people defending themselves, "You do not have the right to shoot an unarmed kid through a door.”

Kansas City Officer Larry Dunaway described Lester as “an elderly guy who was scared” after the shooting. Another officer, James Gale, said Lester was clearly worried.

“He said he hoped he didn’t kill anybody," Gale testified.

A handful of people wearing shirts that said “Justice for Ralph” were in the courtroom. Others wore shirts that read: “Ringing a doorbell is not a crime.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-senior-year-e76c013d3458fbfe2fd7df8122119c65">Yarl continues to heal</a>&nbsp;from the traumatic brain injury he suffered but was able to complete an engineering internship this summer and just started his senior year in high school. The 17-year-old is planning to major in engineering when he graduates, with several college visits planned for the fall.

Yarl was supposed to pick up his younger brothers but went to the wrong block and mistakenly ended up at Lester's house. Lester told authorities that he shot Yarl through the door without warning because he was “scared to death” he was about to be robbed.

Initially turned away while seeking help at neighboring homes, Yarl stumbled to the street. Neighbor Carol Conrad testified that she was offering words of comfort through her window — a dispatcher had warned that neighbors should stay inside. At one point, he yelled, “I’ve been shot.”

When Yarl crumpled to the ground, three neighbors rushed to help. Jodi Dovel testified that there was a trail of blood, which pooled under his head. But Yarl was able to talk, telling her he went to ring the doorbell and was shot.

“I thought. ‘Oh no, he went to the wrong house,’” Dovel said.

Lester also called 911. On the recoding played in court he could be heard telling a dispatcher, “I shot him. He was at my door trying to get in and I shot him.”

Missouri is one of about 30 states with “stand your ground” laws that allow people to respond with physical force when they are threatened.

Salmon has said that Lester’s home was egged and spray-painted after the shooting. He said Lester has sought law enforcement assistance when traveling, and his wife had to be moved from her nursing home.

Yarl’s father, Paul Yarl, said after the hearing that he was moved hearing the neighbors testify. Some of the details were new to him. He said his son has mainly recovered physically but still struggles psychologically. He relives the night and has bad dreams.

“It was horrible. Blood. Shooting. Nobody wanted to come until police arrived,” he said.

He said he was not frustrated with the bystanders.

“I’m more frustrated with the shooter," Paul Yarl said. "He started it. He didn’t want to talk to the boy. He just shot the boy. And now he tries to play the fear card and he’s afraid. He should be afraid he is going to kill somebody. Come on, now.”

Support for Yarl and his family poured in over the past few months. A GoFundMe set up on the family’s behalf raised nearly $3.5 million.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681726215314.png" alt="Ralph Yarl photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Ralph Yarl photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri judge ruled Thursday that the 84-year-old white homeowner who shot a Black teenager after he mistakenly went to the man’s house must stand trial.Clay County Judge Louis Angles issued the ruling after hearing from several witnesses at a preliminary hearing, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-kansas-city-wrong-door-b27aaabdb132fcb1544c97f7161f0027">Ralph Yarl</a>, the teenager who was shot by Andrew Lester on April 13 when Yarl went to the wrong house to pick up his younger brothers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681844207619.png" alt="Lester photo Clay Co." />
 <figcaption>Lester photo Clay Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Lester, a retired aircraft mechanic, is charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action. He previously pleaded&nbsp;<a href="https://pronto.associatedpress.com/The%20case%20shocked%20the%20country%20and%20renewed%20national%20debates%20about%20gun%20policies%20and%20race%20in%20America.">not guilty</a>&nbsp;in the shooting that shocked the country and renewed national debates about gun policies and race in America. His next court date is an arraignment, scheduled for Sept. 20.Yarl spoke softly as he testified that he was sent to pick up his twin siblings but had no phone — he'd lost it at school. The house he intended to go to was just blocks from his own home, but he had the street wrong.Yarl said he rang the bell and the wait for someone to answer seemed “longer than normal,” he said.As the inner door opened, Yarl said he reached out to grab the storm door.“I assume these are my brother's friends' parents,” he said.Instead, it was Lester who told Yarl, “Don't come here ever again,” Yarl recalled. He said he was shot in the head, the impact knocking him to the ground and was then shot in the arm.Lester’s attorney, Steve Salmon, said in closing arguments that Lester was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-shooting-stand-your-ground-69f91b0a09b25f9758219897f5890278">acting in self-defense,</a>&nbsp;terrified by the stranger who knocked on his door as he settled into bed for the night.“With his age and physical infirmity, he is unable to defend himself," Salmon said, describing Lester as distraught after the shooting.“A terrible event occurred, but it is not criminal," Salmon said.District Attorney Zachary Thompson said that although Missouri law offers protections for people defending themselves, "You do not have the right to shoot an unarmed kid through a door.”Kansas City Officer Larry Dunaway described Lester as “an elderly guy who was scared” after the shooting. Another officer, James Gale, said Lester was clearly worried.“He said he hoped he didn’t kill anybody," Gale testified.A handful of people wearing shirts that said “Justice for Ralph” were in the courtroom. Others wore shirts that read: “Ringing a doorbell is not a crime.”<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ralph-yarl-senior-year-e76c013d3458fbfe2fd7df8122119c65">Yarl continues to heal</a>&nbsp;from the traumatic brain injury he suffered but was able to complete an engineering internship this summer and just started his senior year in high school. The 17-year-old is planning to major in engineering when he graduates, with several college visits planned for the fall.Yarl was supposed to pick up his younger brothers but went to the wrong block and mistakenly ended up at Lester's house. Lester told authorities that he shot Yarl through the door without warning because he was “scared to death” he was about to be robbed.Initially turned away while seeking help at neighboring homes, Yarl stumbled to the street. Neighbor Carol Conrad testified that she was offering words of comfort through her window — a dispatcher had warned that neighbors should stay inside. At one point, he yelled, “I’ve been shot.”When Yarl crumpled to the ground, three neighbors rushed to help. Jodi Dovel testified that there was a trail of blood, which pooled under his head. But Yarl was able to talk, telling her he went to ring the doorbell and was shot.“I thought. ‘Oh no, he went to the wrong house,’” Dovel said.Lester also called 911. On the recoding played in court he could be heard telling a dispatcher, “I shot him. He was at my door trying to get in and I shot him.”Missouri is one of about 30 states with “stand your ground” laws that allow people to respond with physical force when they are threatened.Salmon has said that Lester’s home was egged and spray-painted after the shooting. He said Lester has sought law enforcement assistance when traveling, and his wife had to be moved from her nursing home.Yarl’s father, Paul Yarl, said after the hearing that he was moved hearing the neighbors testify. Some of the details were new to him. He said his son has mainly recovered physically but still struggles psychologically. He relives the night and has bad dreams.“It was horrible. Blood. Shooting. Nobody wanted to come until police arrived,” he said.He said he was not frustrated with the bystanders.“I’m more frustrated with the shooter," Paul Yarl said. "He started it. He didn’t want to talk to the boy. He just shot the boy. And now he tries to play the fear card and he’s afraid. He should be afraid he is going to kill somebody. Come on, now.”Support for Yarl and his family poured in over the past few months. A GoFundMe set up on the family’s behalf raised nearly $3.5 million.___

Judge: 84-year-old homeowner will go to trial for shooting KC teen

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a murder have a suspect in custody.

Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 2000 block of S. Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.&nbsp;

First responders&nbsp; located&nbsp;69-year-old James Gibson of Wichita with gunshot wounds inside an apartment. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Police reported they arrested 36-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=22921">Jeremy Miles on</a> requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated robbery, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, assault and a parole violation, according to online jail records.&nbsp; Police have not reported the details on the arrest and are asking the public to contact them if any has more information on the crime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693488696173.png" alt="Miles-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Miles-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a murder have a suspect in custody.Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting at an apartment complex in the 2000 block of S. Seneca in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.&nbsp;First responders&nbsp; located&nbsp;69-year-old James Gibson of Wichita with gunshot wounds inside an apartment. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Police reported they arrested 36-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=22921">Jeremy Miles on</a> requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated robbery, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, assault and a parole violation, according to online jail records.&nbsp; Police have not reported the details on the arrest and are asking the public to contact them if any has more information on the crime.

Suspect arrested for murder, robbery at Kansas apartment

Mayor Quinton Lucas is alleged to have violated the Missouri Sunshine Law, which allows the public to request government records

By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>

A Kansas City activist has filed a lawsuit alleging&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/tag/quinton-lucas/">Mayor Quinton Lucas</a>&nbsp;attempted to intimidate her into withdrawing a request for public records from his office.

Lora McDonald, executive director of the Metro Organization for Racial and Economic Equity, or MORE2, sued the city earlier this month over alleged violations of the Missouri Sunshine Law. She alleges in her lawsuit that the mayor called her “speaking with a raised, angry voice, asserting his discontent” with a request she filed a week earlier.

“Plaintiff felt Mayor Lucas’s call was an attempt to intimidate, harass and/or coerce because of the tone and demeanor of his voice and because he was suggesting she withdraw the request,” the lawsuit says.

Jazzlyn Johnson, a spokesperson for Lucas, said in an email that the mayor’s office disagreed with the characterization.

“In a decade of public life featuring challenging airport negotiations, protestors at his home, multiple recall efforts, hate mail during the COVID-19 crisis, and a public uprising on the Plaza, the mayor has never been characterized as an ‘angry man,’” Johnson said.

McDonald’s alleged exchange with Lucas —&nbsp;and, later, a city staffer —&nbsp;paints a picture of a city government that resists releasing public information and takes requests for records as an affront. The lawsuit also outlines four instances where City Hall has failed to promptly release records or even respond when McDonald sought an estimate as to when she could expect the request to be fulfilled.

“If you didn’t do anything wrong, why are we having this phone call?” McDonald said in an interview about her conversation with Lucas.

McDonald’s request sought communications between the mayor and attorneys —&nbsp;both employed by the city and outside counsel —&nbsp;concerning litigation attempting to overturn a state&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/gov-parson-signs-bill-requiring-kansas-city-to-put-more-money-toward-police/">law that requires Kansas City to increase funding to the police department</a>.

Kansas City is the only major U.S. city that does not control its police. The Kansas City Police Department is governed by a board appointed by the Missouri governor. But the city funds the department.

Last fall, Missouri voters passed a constitutional amendment requiring Kansas City to dedicate 25% of its general revenue to the police department. The Missouri General Assembly passed legislation to force the increase in the spring of 2022, but it required a statewide vote to go into effect.

In August of 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/08/17/kansas-city-mayor-sues-to-block-missouri-law-requiring-higher-police-spending/">Lucas filed a lawsuit against the state</a>&nbsp;alleging that it’s unconstitutional for the state to force Kansas City to spend more on its police unless it appropriates money to the city.

He filed the lawsuit as an individual rather than in his official capacity and is represented by a city-employed attorney and private counsel. His case was later combined with a similar, though broader, lawsuit filed by Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City.

After Lucas’ call, McDonald says she didn’t hear anything from City Hall for more than a month despite following up with city staff. Her lawsuit goes on to say that it wasn’t until her attorney sent an email saying he would advise McDonald to sue if they didn’t get a response that Kansas City provided an estimated cost and timeframe for when it would release the records.

Just two days before the city had promised it would release records, the lawsuit states that Melesa Johnson, then the mayor’s general counsel and deputy chief of staff, called McDonald’s attorney and texted McDonald, questioning why she filed a request for records given that MORE2, like City Hall, supports local control of the Kansas City police.

“As an avid supporter of you and MORE2 who routinely assists with the mayor’s support of your organization, I am trying to understand why we are pitting our respective offices against each other when we share the overall same goal of seeing state control dismantled,” Melesa Johnson said in a text, according to the lawsuit.

Bernie Rhodes, a First Amendment attorney with Lathrop GPM who has represented The Independent in the past, said he hears complaints about Kansas City ignoring Sunshine Law requests “virtually every week.”

“As long as the city feels that it has other priorities than being responsive to the citizens, these problems will continue,” Rhodes said in an interview.

Rhodes said he also frequently hears about government agencies questioning citizens’ motivations in requesting records in an attempt to intimidate them.

“That’s why the law is crystal clear that your reason doesn’t matter,” Rhodes said. “You’re entitled to the information because you’re the people who are paying the salary of these folks in office.”

Asked about the claim against Lucas, Rhodes said: “I find it troubling anytime anyone in authority attempts to intimidate someone who’s making legitimate Sunshine Law requests.”

Jazzlyn Johnson said the mayor considers McDonald a friend and the two share the view that the police department should be controlled locally “even if he disagrees with Ms. McDonald perhaps on the most efficient path to that outcome.”

“While the mayor suggested to Ms. McDonald and her counsel that collaboration is a better approach, the mayor shared with Ms. McDonald that she has every right to pursue her requests and the city has responded to all of her requests.”

In the case of McDonald’s request for communications about the police funding lawsuits, the city ultimately produced some records but withheld others, citing attorney-client privilege, McDonald said. Her lawsuit challenges that assertion.

Steve Leben, a law professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and former Kansas judge, said it appeared the claim of attorney-client privilege was reasonable.

However, the lag between when McDonald requested the records and when the city deemed them closed because of attorney-client privilege raised “substantial concerns,” Rhodes said.

The Missouri Sunshine Law requires governmental agencies to respond to requests within three business days. If locating or producing the records is expected to take longer than that, the agency is required to explain the delay to the requestor and provide a date at which the agency expects to be able to release the records.

The law, Rhodes said, “allows for extra time to make the production but not to decide whether you’re going to give documents or not.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693490002784.png" alt=" Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas meets with Missouri Gov. Mike Parson in October 2019. Lucas allegedly raised his voice and urged an activist to withdraw a Missouri Sunshine Law request, a lawsuit claims. (Missouri Governor's Office)" />
 <figcaption> Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas meets with Missouri Gov. Mike Parson in October 2019. Lucas allegedly raised his voice and urged an activist to withdraw a Missouri Sunshine Law request, a lawsuit claims. (Missouri Governor's Office)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Mayor Quinton Lucas is alleged to have violated the Missouri Sunshine Law, which allows the public to request government records</h2>By ALLISON KITE,&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>A Kansas City activist has filed a lawsuit alleging&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/tag/quinton-lucas/">Mayor Quinton Lucas</a>&nbsp;attempted to intimidate her into withdrawing a request for public records from his office.Lora McDonald, executive director of the Metro Organization for Racial and Economic Equity, or MORE2, sued the city earlier this month over alleged violations of the Missouri Sunshine Law. She alleges in her lawsuit that the mayor called her “speaking with a raised, angry voice, asserting his discontent” with a request she filed a week earlier.“Plaintiff felt Mayor Lucas’s call was an attempt to intimidate, harass and/or coerce because of the tone and demeanor of his voice and because he was suggesting she withdraw the request,” the lawsuit says.Jazzlyn Johnson, a spokesperson for Lucas, said in an email that the mayor’s office disagreed with the characterization.“In a decade of public life featuring challenging airport negotiations, protestors at his home, multiple recall efforts, hate mail during the COVID-19 crisis, and a public uprising on the Plaza, the mayor has never been characterized as an ‘angry man,’” Johnson said.McDonald’s alleged exchange with Lucas —&nbsp;and, later, a city staffer —&nbsp;paints a picture of a city government that resists releasing public information and takes requests for records as an affront. The lawsuit also outlines four instances where City Hall has failed to promptly release records or even respond when McDonald sought an estimate as to when she could expect the request to be fulfilled.“If you didn’t do anything wrong, why are we having this phone call?” McDonald said in an interview about her conversation with Lucas.McDonald’s request sought communications between the mayor and attorneys —&nbsp;both employed by the city and outside counsel —&nbsp;concerning litigation attempting to overturn a state&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/gov-parson-signs-bill-requiring-kansas-city-to-put-more-money-toward-police/">law that requires Kansas City to increase funding to the police department</a>.Kansas City is the only major U.S. city that does not control its police. The Kansas City Police Department is governed by a board appointed by the Missouri governor. But the city funds the department.Last fall, Missouri voters passed a constitutional amendment requiring Kansas City to dedicate 25% of its general revenue to the police department. The Missouri General Assembly passed legislation to force the increase in the spring of 2022, but it required a statewide vote to go into effect.In August of 2022,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/08/17/kansas-city-mayor-sues-to-block-missouri-law-requiring-higher-police-spending/">Lucas filed a lawsuit against the state</a>&nbsp;alleging that it’s unconstitutional for the state to force Kansas City to spend more on its police unless it appropriates money to the city.He filed the lawsuit as an individual rather than in his official capacity and is represented by a city-employed attorney and private counsel. His case was later combined with a similar, though broader, lawsuit filed by Gwen Grant, president and CEO of the Urban League of Kansas City.After Lucas’ call, McDonald says she didn’t hear anything from City Hall for more than a month despite following up with city staff. Her lawsuit goes on to say that it wasn’t until her attorney sent an email saying he would advise McDonald to sue if they didn’t get a response that Kansas City provided an estimated cost and timeframe for when it would release the records.Just two days before the city had promised it would release records, the lawsuit states that Melesa Johnson, then the mayor’s general counsel and deputy chief of staff, called McDonald’s attorney and texted McDonald, questioning why she filed a request for records given that MORE2, like City Hall, supports local control of the Kansas City police.“As an avid supporter of you and MORE2 who routinely assists with the mayor’s support of your organization, I am trying to understand why we are pitting our respective offices against each other when we share the overall same goal of seeing state control dismantled,” Melesa Johnson said in a text, according to the lawsuit.Bernie Rhodes, a First Amendment attorney with Lathrop GPM who has represented The Independent in the past, said he hears complaints about Kansas City ignoring Sunshine Law requests “virtually every week.”“As long as the city feels that it has other priorities than being responsive to the citizens, these problems will continue,” Rhodes said in an interview.Rhodes said he also frequently hears about government agencies questioning citizens’ motivations in requesting records in an attempt to intimidate them.“That’s why the law is crystal clear that your reason doesn’t matter,” Rhodes said. “You’re entitled to the information because you’re the people who are paying the salary of these folks in office.”Asked about the claim against Lucas, Rhodes said: “I find it troubling anytime anyone in authority attempts to intimidate someone who’s making legitimate Sunshine Law requests.”Jazzlyn Johnson said the mayor considers McDonald a friend and the two share the view that the police department should be controlled locally “even if he disagrees with Ms. McDonald perhaps on the most efficient path to that outcome.”“While the mayor suggested to Ms. McDonald and her counsel that collaboration is a better approach, the mayor shared with Ms. McDonald that she has every right to pursue her requests and the city has responded to all of her requests.”In the case of McDonald’s request for communications about the police funding lawsuits, the city ultimately produced some records but withheld others, citing attorney-client privilege, McDonald said. Her lawsuit challenges that assertion.Steve Leben, a law professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City and former Kansas judge, said it appeared the claim of attorney-client privilege was reasonable.However, the lag between when McDonald requested the records and when the city deemed them closed because of attorney-client privilege raised “substantial concerns,” Rhodes said.The Missouri Sunshine Law requires governmental agencies to respond to requests within three business days. If locating or producing the records is expected to take longer than that, the agency is required to explain the delay to the requestor and provide a date at which the agency expects to be able to release the records.The law, Rhodes said, “allows for extra time to make the production but not to decide whether you’re going to give documents or not.”

Lawsuit alleges KC mayor tried to intimidate activist over request for records

WASHINGTON (AP) — For&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden,</a>&nbsp;strong backing for Ukraine’s effort to repel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia’s invasion</a>&nbsp;has been a rare issue where he’s mustered bipartisan support.

But during the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/first-republican-debate-2024-elections-gop-89812d5aa1ed6a4ebe7373ff36858250">first GOP presidential debate</a>&nbsp;— and recent comments on Ukraine by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">the 2024 GOP polling leader and former president, Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;— show that unusual unity will face a stress test as the 2024 presidential campaign intensifies and the leading Republican contenders show antipathy toward the American backing of Ukraine.

There long has been an isolationist strain in the United States, particularly in the Republican Party, but rarely has it been shared by so many candidates for president.

On the debate stage in Milwaukee, Florida Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ron-desantis">Ron DeSantis</a>&nbsp;said he would make additional U.S. aid “contingent” on European allies increasing contributions. Entrepreneur&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vivek-trump-republican-primary-president-ramaswamy-768b865d113f603a721cb0f7d1e8053a">Vivek Ramaswamy</a>&nbsp;called it “disastrous” that the U.S. government was “protecting against an invasion across somebody else’s border” and argued Ukraine funding would be better spent on the “invasion of our own southern border.”

Meanwhile, Trump, who did not participate in the first debate, has said he will end Russia's invasion in one day if he wins back the White House. Even some of his Republican allies, like Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said that assertion was folly.

Trump also has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-republicans-impeachment-ukraine-pennsylvania-c22cda6a5f6783b5f6a1123b724ebaff">called on Congress</a>&nbsp;to withhold additional Ukraine funding until the FBI, IRS and Justice Department “hand over every scrap of evidence" on the Biden family's business dealings.

Daniel Fried, a former U.S. ambassador to Poland and distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council, said that Republican congressional leadership and Biden remain on the same page on providing Ukraine the assistance it needs.

Still, he said the prominent voices in the Republican field calling for the U.S. to slow or wind down support for Kyiv send a troubling signal to allies about what the U.S. commitment could look like following the 2024 election and harken back to the years when isolationists pressured the U.S. to remain neutral during the first two years of World War II.

“The majority of elected Republicans in the committee chairs and the people with power in Congress are still solid," Fried said. “When they attack the administration, it’s usually for not doing enough. But Trump and the Trump wannabes represent this other tradition in our history. And the last time this isolationist tradition was powerful in America, it led to catastrophic results.”

Biden campaign spokesman Kevin Munoz in a statement criticized “MAGA Republicans” on the debate stage for siding with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukrainian people and alluded to Ramaswamy mocking U.S. politicians who have made the trip to Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people.

At one point during Wednesday's debate, Ramaswamy took a dig at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chris-christie-2024-ukraine-election-zelenskyy-fd0b2c4115885efa3ee50752c115d15b">former Vice President Mike Pence</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chris-christie-2024-ukraine-election-zelenskyy-fd0b2c4115885efa3ee50752c115d15b">New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie</a>, both of whom visited Kyiv this summer, for making a “pilgrimage” to “their Pope Zelenskyy" without doing the same for Americans impacted by Hawaii's wildfires and crime and violence in U.S. cities.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nikki-haley">Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley</a>&nbsp;on the debate stage slammed Ramaswamy, saying he was effectively standing with Putin and was being short-sighted about U.S. interests. “This guy is a murderer. And you are choosing a murderer over a pro-American country,” said Haley, who also previously served as the South Carolina governor.

Publicly, the White House has stressed that key Republican lawmakers, notably the Senate Republican leader, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, are largely in agreement on the need to continue robust assistance to Ukraine.

The Biden administration earlier this month called on Congress to provide more than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-invasion-biden-congress-funding-d392f9b1adbb9c44249dce1cccdc2d1e">$13 billion in emergency defense aid to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and an additional $8 billion for humanitarian support through the end of the year. The aid money was included in a supplemental spending request that also includes money to replenish U.S. federal disaster funds and funds to bolster enforcement at the Southern border with Mexico. Biden in a brief exchange with reporters on Friday said he was not interested in splitting the request.

The United States has committed more than $60 billion in aid to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. That includes more than $43 billion in military aid.

“We believe that the support will be there and will be sustained even if there are some dissident voices on the other side of the aisle,” White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters earlier this week. “We believe that at the core there is still a strong bipartisan foundation of support for our Ukraine policy and for supporting and defending Ukraine.”

Support among the American public for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-politics-military-and-defense-0f550a262fb6178a7d91b8be6e2c601b">providing Ukraine weaponry</a>&nbsp;and direct economic assistance has softened with time.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-politics-poland-33095abf76875b60ebab3ddf4eede188">An AP-NORC poll conducted in January 2023</a>&nbsp;around the one-year mark of the conflict found that 48% favored the U.S. providing weapons to Ukraine, down from the 60% of U.S. adults who were in favor of sending Ukraine weapons in May 2022.

While Democrats have generally been more supportive than Republicans of offering weaponry, their support dropped slightly from 71% to 63% in the same period. Republican support dropped more, from 53% to 39%.

Dozens of Republicans in the House, and some GOP senators, have expressed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/defense-house-ukraine-mccarthy-abortion-diversity-50a7b843afa02fa7aa85819b074244c5">reservations</a>&nbsp;about — and even voted against — spending more federal dollars for the war effort. Many of those Republicans are aligning with Trump’s objections to the U.S. involvement overseas.

“It’s very easy to say ‘I’d rather spend money on a bridge in West Virginia than a bridge on Ukraine.’ That on a superficial level makes sense,” said Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a conservative Washington think tank. “We’re witnessing a struggle for the heart and soul of the Republican Party right now and the Ukraine debate is a proxy of that.”

Christopher Borick, director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion in Pennsylvania, said the handling of the Ukraine war isn't as salient to the electorate as the economy, health care, immigration, abortion and some other issues. But polling suggests that concerns about the costs of the war resonate with working-class Republican primary voters.

On the flip side, Borick said Biden is not likely to win votes solely on his handling of Ukraine. But how the war plays out in the months ahead could help or diminish the president's broader argument about his administration's competency and success at restoring U.S. leadership on the international stage after four years of Trump's "American first" foreign policy approach.

“Right now, Ukraine isn't as prominent an issue for voters, but we're seeing Trump, Ramaswamy and DeSantis setting the table to raise the question later in the campaign of how much U.S. treasure we're spending over there that we could be spending at home,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676893663408.png" alt="President Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a Feb. visit in Ukraine-White House photo" />
 <figcaption>President Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a Feb. visit in Ukraine-White House photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — For&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden,</a>&nbsp;strong backing for Ukraine’s effort to repel&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia’s invasion</a>&nbsp;has been a rare issue where he’s mustered bipartisan support.But during the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/first-republican-debate-2024-elections-gop-89812d5aa1ed6a4ebe7373ff36858250">first GOP presidential debate</a>&nbsp;— and recent comments on Ukraine by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">the 2024 GOP polling leader and former president, Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;— show that unusual unity will face a stress test as the 2024 presidential campaign intensifies and the leading Republican contenders show antipathy toward the American backing of Ukraine.There long has been an isolationist strain in the United States, particularly in the Republican Party, but rarely has it been shared by so many candidates for president.On the debate stage in Milwaukee, Florida Gov.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ron-desantis">Ron DeSantis</a>&nbsp;said he would make additional U.S. aid “contingent” on European allies increasing contributions. Entrepreneur&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vivek-trump-republican-primary-president-ramaswamy-768b865d113f603a721cb0f7d1e8053a">Vivek Ramaswamy</a>&nbsp;called it “disastrous” that the U.S. government was “protecting against an invasion across somebody else’s border” and argued Ukraine funding would be better spent on the “invasion of our own southern border.”Meanwhile, Trump, who did not participate in the first debate, has said he will end Russia's invasion in one day if he wins back the White House. Even some of his Republican allies, like Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, said that assertion was folly.Trump also has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-republicans-impeachment-ukraine-pennsylvania-c22cda6a5f6783b5f6a1123b724ebaff">called on Congress</a>&nbsp;to withhold additional Ukraine funding until the FBI, IRS and Justice Department “hand over every scrap of evidence" on the Biden family's business dealings.Daniel Fried, a former U.S. ambassador to Poland and distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council, said that Republican congressional leadership and Biden remain on the same page on providing Ukraine the assistance it needs.Still, he said the prominent voices in the Republican field calling for the U.S. to slow or wind down support for Kyiv send a troubling signal to allies about what the U.S. commitment could look like following the 2024 election and harken back to the years when isolationists pressured the U.S. to remain neutral during the first two years of World War II.“The majority of elected Republicans in the committee chairs and the people with power in Congress are still solid," Fried said. “When they attack the administration, it’s usually for not doing enough. But Trump and the Trump wannabes represent this other tradition in our history. And the last time this isolationist tradition was powerful in America, it led to catastrophic results.”Biden campaign spokesman Kevin Munoz in a statement criticized “MAGA Republicans” on the debate stage for siding with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Ukrainian people and alluded to Ramaswamy mocking U.S. politicians who have made the trip to Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to show solidarity with the Ukrainian people.At one point during Wednesday's debate, Ramaswamy took a dig at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chris-christie-2024-ukraine-election-zelenskyy-fd0b2c4115885efa3ee50752c115d15b">former Vice President Mike Pence</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/chris-christie-2024-ukraine-election-zelenskyy-fd0b2c4115885efa3ee50752c115d15b">New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie</a>, both of whom visited Kyiv this summer, for making a “pilgrimage” to “their Pope Zelenskyy" without doing the same for Americans impacted by Hawaii's wildfires and crime and violence in U.S. cities.<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nikki-haley">Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley</a>&nbsp;on the debate stage slammed Ramaswamy, saying he was effectively standing with Putin and was being short-sighted about U.S. interests. “This guy is a murderer. And you are choosing a murderer over a pro-American country,” said Haley, who also previously served as the South Carolina governor.Publicly, the White House has stressed that key Republican lawmakers, notably the Senate Republican leader, Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, are largely in agreement on the need to continue robust assistance to Ukraine.The Biden administration earlier this month called on Congress to provide more than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ukraine-russia-invasion-biden-congress-funding-d392f9b1adbb9c44249dce1cccdc2d1e">$13 billion in emergency defense aid to Ukraine</a>&nbsp;and an additional $8 billion for humanitarian support through the end of the year. The aid money was included in a supplemental spending request that also includes money to replenish U.S. federal disaster funds and funds to bolster enforcement at the Southern border with Mexico. Biden in a brief exchange with reporters on Friday said he was not interested in splitting the request.The United States has committed more than $60 billion in aid to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion. That includes more than $43 billion in military aid.“We believe that the support will be there and will be sustained even if there are some dissident voices on the other side of the aisle,” White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters earlier this week. “We believe that at the core there is still a strong bipartisan foundation of support for our Ukraine policy and for supporting and defending Ukraine.”Support among the American public for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-politics-military-and-defense-0f550a262fb6178a7d91b8be6e2c601b">providing Ukraine weaponry</a>&nbsp;and direct economic assistance has softened with time.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-politics-poland-33095abf76875b60ebab3ddf4eede188">An AP-NORC poll conducted in January 2023</a>&nbsp;around the one-year mark of the conflict found that 48% favored the U.S. providing weapons to Ukraine, down from the 60% of U.S. adults who were in favor of sending Ukraine weapons in May 2022.While Democrats have generally been more supportive than Republicans of offering weaponry, their support dropped slightly from 71% to 63% in the same period. Republican support dropped more, from 53% to 39%.Dozens of Republicans in the House, and some GOP senators, have expressed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/defense-house-ukraine-mccarthy-abortion-diversity-50a7b843afa02fa7aa85819b074244c5">reservations</a>&nbsp;about — and even voted against — spending more federal dollars for the war effort. Many of those Republicans are aligning with Trump’s objections to the U.S. involvement overseas.“It’s very easy to say ‘I’d rather spend money on a bridge in West Virginia than a bridge on Ukraine.’ That on a superficial level makes sense,” said Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, a conservative Washington think tank. “We’re witnessing a struggle for the heart and soul of the Republican Party right now and the Ukraine debate is a proxy of that.”Christopher Borick, director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion in Pennsylvania, said the handling of the Ukraine war isn't as salient to the electorate as the economy, health care, immigration, abortion and some other issues. But polling suggests that concerns about the costs of the war resonate with working-class Republican primary voters.On the flip side, Borick said Biden is not likely to win votes solely on his handling of Ukraine. But how the war plays out in the months ahead could help or diminish the president's broader argument about his administration's competency and success at restoring U.S. leadership on the international stage after four years of Trump's "American first" foreign policy approach.“Right now, Ukraine isn't as prominent an issue for voters, but we're seeing Trump, Ramaswamy and DeSantis setting the table to raise the question later in the campaign of how much U.S. treasure we're spending over there that we could be spending at home,” he said.

Ukraine aid stress test: Some GOP candidates balk at continued support

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft in Manhattan.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police filed a report for theft in the 100 block of Bluemont Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

Walmart reported a 21-year-old female suspect had stolen approximately $1,330 cash from registers between August 16 and 19, 2023. Police released no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged theft in Manhattan.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police filed a report for theft in the 100 block of Bluemont Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Walmart reported a 21-year-old female suspect had stolen approximately $1,330 cash from registers between August 16 and 19, 2023. Police released no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

Police: Suspect stole $1,300 cash from registers at Walmart

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an incident reported to Shawnee County Park Police on August 15 at the Warren Nature Trails near Felker Park, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

It was alleged that an individual assaulted another individual, and the victim was transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

As a result of this investigation, on Wednesday police arrested 30-year-old Jose J. Arteaga of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of corrections on requested charges of Rape Aggravated criminal sodomy and Aggravated battery

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693477495822.png" alt="Arteaga-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Arteaga-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an incident reported to Shawnee County Park Police on August 15 at the Warren Nature Trails near Felker Park, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.It was alleged that an individual assaulted another individual, and the victim was transported by American Medical Response (AMR) to a local hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;As a result of this investigation, on Wednesday police arrested 30-year-old Jose J. Arteaga of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of corrections on requested charges of Rape Aggravated criminal sodomy and Aggravated battery

Investigators capture alleged Kansas trail rape suspect 

Half of the initiative petitions submitted Wednesday would legalize abortion in Missouri in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy

<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

Six new initiative petitions were filed with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office Wednesday seeking to add exceptions to the state’s abortion ban for rape, incest, fatal fetal abnormalities and the health and safety of the mother.&nbsp;

Three of the six initiative petitions would also legalize abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Each was filed by Jamie Corley, a veteran GOP political operative from St. Louis who has worked for three members of Congress, including as national press secretary for former U.S. Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee.

To support the proposals, Corley formed a 501c4 non profit in June called&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.missouriwomenandfamilyresearchfund.org/">Missouri Women and Family Research Fund</a>.&nbsp;

“The current abortion law makes it dangerous to be a mom in Missouri, burdens taxpayers with litigation costs, puts law enforcement in a position to punish crime victims rather than protect them, and gives the government —not parents— decision-making power over how to care for their child if she is impregnated because of rape,” Corley said in a statement announcing the initiative petitions. “The abortion law in Missouri is too radical and cannot stand.”

In the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning the constitutional right to the procedure, Missouri’s trigger law went into effect&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/24/abortion-is-now-illegal-in-missouri-in-wake-of-u-s-supreme-court-ruling/">banning virtually all abortions</a>. There are no exemptions for rape or incest, and opaque language around protections medical emergencies have resulted in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article276647471.html">confusion in the state’s medical community</a>.

Doctors who perform an abortion can face felony charges and loss of their medical license.&nbsp;

In March, abortion-rights groups partnered to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/03/09/group-files-ballot-measures-adding-abortion-protections-to-missouri-constitution/">file 11 initiative petitions hoping to place a constitutional amendment on the 2024 ballot&nbsp;</a>overturning Missouri’s abortion ban. The proposed amendments would declare that the “government shall not infringe upon a person’s fundamental right to reproductive freedom,” including “prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, birth control, abortion care, miscarriage care and respectful birthing conditions.”&nbsp;

Penalties for both patients seeking reproductive-related care and medical providers would be outlawed.

Each version of the proposed amendment says there must be a “compelling governmental interest” for abortion restrictions to be put in place. But while some allow the legislature to regulate abortion after “fetal viability,” others draw the line at 24 weeks of gestation. Some versions make it clear the state can enact parental consent laws for minors seeking abortions. Others leave the topic out entirely.

All 11 initiative petitions are tied up in court, with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/03/trial-set-for-sept-11-on-ballot-title-for-missouri-abortion-rights-amendment/">proponents suing over what they’ve deemed is a biased ballot summary</a>&nbsp;written by Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor. Opponents have also sued, demanding&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/07/gop-legislators-file-lawsuit-challenging-cost-estimate-of-missouri-abortion-rights-amendment/">the cost estimate be inflated</a>&nbsp;to indicate lifting Missouri’s abortion ban would cost the state billions.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood, who before the ban was the state’s only abortion provider, opted not to participate in the initiative petition campaign because&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2023/04/04/divisions-threaten-abortion-rights-ballot-campaigns-00090021">the proposals only protect abortion access before the fetus is viable or until 24 weeks of pregnancy</a>. The organization also balked at parental consent requirements.

Corley’s six initiative petitions don’t go nearly as far as the previously filed proposals.&nbsp;

All versions enshrine “exceptions and immunity” clauses into Missouri’s abortion law, and three versions include language prohibiting the government from interfering with a woman’s access to an abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The rape exception would only apply to victims who have reported the rape or sexual assault to a crisis hotline.&nbsp;

Each version also states that the rights guaranteed in the amendment “are subject to strict scrutiny,” meaning any restrictions to abortion enacted by the legislature must&nbsp;further a “compelling governmental interest” and must be narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.

Anyone seeking an abortion outside of Missouri could not be subject to criminal prosecution or civil penalty. The same immunity applies to health professionals or anyone assisting in seeking an abortion.&nbsp;

Some versions also contain provisions prohibiting use of taxpayer funds to be used “in support of the provision of abortion in this state.” However, in those versions legislature would not be permitted to cut off funding for health care providers who perform abortions.&nbsp;

A 12 week abortion ban would line up Missouri with some other Republican-leaning states, such as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-abortion-law-court-order-2b7b20308041753a5f63fed494557982">North Carolina</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2023/05/20/1177304503/nebraska-12-week-abortion-ban-restrictions-gender-affirming-care">Nebraska</a>. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/12/14/upshot/who-gets-abortions-in-america.html">43% of all abortions occur in the first six weeks</a>&nbsp;of pregnancy and 92% in the first 13 weeks.

Corley did not offer specifics about who is involved in campaign, saying only that she is “building a broad coalition of Missourians who think the current abortion law is extreme and needs to be changed. Missourians deserve the opportunity to vote on an independent, rational — and passable — plan to restore legal but limited access to abortion in Missouri in 2024.”

But she was assisted in drafting the language by Chuck Haftield, a longtime Jefferson City attorney who worked in the attorney general’s office under Democrat Jay Nixon.

“These initiatives are very straightforward,” Hatfield said in an statement to The Independent. “Voters should easily understand what they are being asked to vote on and the Secretary (of State) should be able to easily summarize the effects without controversy.”

Neither Planned Parenthood nor the Missouri ACLU, which is defending the 11 initiative petitions in court, could be immediately reached for comment on Corley’s proposals.&nbsp;

Missouri law requires petitioners to collect more than 170,000 signatures by May 2024 in order to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot. Republicans lawmakers,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article275456451.html">most notably House Speaker Dan Plocher,</a>&nbsp;have worked to make it harder to amend the constitution through the initiative petition process in an effort to short circuit any abortion-rights proposal from succeeding next year.&nbsp;

“The current abortion law makes Missouri look draconian, punitive and unsafe for families,” Corley said. “The law runs afoul of public opinion and we look forward to building a broad coalition of Missourians who want, need and deserve the opportunity to change it.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1693425446976.png" alt="A 12 week abortion ban would line up Missouri with some other Republican-leaning states, such as North Carolina and NebraskaPhoto Planned Parenthood Action" />
 <figcaption>A 12 week abortion ban would line up Missouri with some other Republican-leaning states, such as North Carolina and NebraskaPhoto Planned Parenthood Action</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Half of the initiative petitions submitted Wednesday would legalize abortion in Missouri in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy</h2>By JASON HANCOCK<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>Six new initiative petitions were filed with the Missouri Secretary of State’s office Wednesday seeking to add exceptions to the state’s abortion ban for rape, incest, fatal fetal abnormalities and the health and safety of the mother.&nbsp;Three of the six initiative petitions would also legalize abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.Each was filed by Jamie Corley, a veteran GOP political operative from St. Louis who has worked for three members of Congress, including as national press secretary for former U.S. Sen. Bob Corker of Tennessee.To support the proposals, Corley formed a 501c4 non profit in June called&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.missouriwomenandfamilyresearchfund.org/">Missouri Women and Family Research Fund</a>.&nbsp;“The current abortion law makes it dangerous to be a mom in Missouri, burdens taxpayers with litigation costs, puts law enforcement in a position to punish crime victims rather than protect them, and gives the government —not parents— decision-making power over how to care for their child if she is impregnated because of rape,” Corley said in a statement announcing the initiative petitions. “The abortion law in Missouri is too radical and cannot stand.”In the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision overturning the constitutional right to the procedure, Missouri’s trigger law went into effect&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/06/24/abortion-is-now-illegal-in-missouri-in-wake-of-u-s-supreme-court-ruling/">banning virtually all abortions</a>. There are no exemptions for rape or incest, and opaque language around protections medical emergencies have resulted in&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article276647471.html">confusion in the state’s medical community</a>.Doctors who perform an abortion can face felony charges and loss of their medical license.&nbsp;In March, abortion-rights groups partnered to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/03/09/group-files-ballot-measures-adding-abortion-protections-to-missouri-constitution/">file 11 initiative petitions hoping to place a constitutional amendment on the 2024 ballot&nbsp;</a>overturning Missouri’s abortion ban. The proposed amendments would declare that the “government shall not infringe upon a person’s fundamental right to reproductive freedom,” including “prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, birth control, abortion care, miscarriage care and respectful birthing conditions.”&nbsp;Penalties for both patients seeking reproductive-related care and medical providers would be outlawed.Each version of the proposed amendment says there must be a “compelling governmental interest” for abortion restrictions to be put in place. But while some allow the legislature to regulate abortion after “fetal viability,” others draw the line at 24 weeks of gestation. Some versions make it clear the state can enact parental consent laws for minors seeking abortions. Others leave the topic out entirely.All 11 initiative petitions are tied up in court, with&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/03/trial-set-for-sept-11-on-ballot-title-for-missouri-abortion-rights-amendment/">proponents suing over what they’ve deemed is a biased ballot summary</a>&nbsp;written by Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor. Opponents have also sued, demanding&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/07/gop-legislators-file-lawsuit-challenging-cost-estimate-of-missouri-abortion-rights-amendment/">the cost estimate be inflated</a>&nbsp;to indicate lifting Missouri’s abortion ban would cost the state billions.&nbsp;Planned Parenthood, who before the ban was the state’s only abortion provider, opted not to participate in the initiative petition campaign because&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2023/04/04/divisions-threaten-abortion-rights-ballot-campaigns-00090021">the proposals only protect abortion access before the fetus is viable or until 24 weeks of pregnancy</a>. The organization also balked at parental consent requirements.Corley’s six initiative petitions don’t go nearly as far as the previously filed proposals.&nbsp;All versions enshrine “exceptions and immunity” clauses into Missouri’s abortion law, and three versions include language prohibiting the government from interfering with a woman’s access to an abortion in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy.&nbsp;&nbsp;The rape exception would only apply to victims who have reported the rape or sexual assault to a crisis hotline.&nbsp;Each version also states that the rights guaranteed in the amendment “are subject to strict scrutiny,” meaning any restrictions to abortion enacted by the legislature must&nbsp;further a “compelling governmental interest” and must be narrowly tailored to achieve that interest.Anyone seeking an abortion outside of Missouri could not be subject to criminal prosecution or civil penalty. The same immunity applies to health professionals or anyone assisting in seeking an abortion.&nbsp;Some versions also contain provisions prohibiting use of taxpayer funds to be used “in support of the provision of abortion in this state.” However, in those versions legislature would not be permitted to cut off funding for health care providers who perform abortions.&nbsp;A 12 week abortion ban would line up Missouri with some other Republican-leaning states, such as&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/north-carolina-abortion-law-court-order-2b7b20308041753a5f63fed494557982">North Carolina</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.npr.org/2023/05/20/1177304503/nebraska-12-week-abortion-ban-restrictions-gender-affirming-care">Nebraska</a>. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2021/12/14/upshot/who-gets-abortions-in-america.html">43% of all abortions occur in the first six weeks</a>&nbsp;of pregnancy and 92% in the first 13 weeks.Corley did not offer specifics about who is involved in campaign, saying only that she is “building a broad coalition of Missourians who think the current abortion law is extreme and needs to be changed. Missourians deserve the opportunity to vote on an independent, rational — and passable — plan to restore legal but limited access to abortion in Missouri in 2024.”But she was assisted in drafting the language by Chuck Haftield, a longtime Jefferson City attorney who worked in the attorney general’s office under Democrat Jay Nixon.“These initiatives are very straightforward,” Hatfield said in an statement to The Independent. “Voters should easily understand what they are being asked to vote on and the Secretary (of State) should be able to easily summarize the effects without controversy.”Neither Planned Parenthood nor the Missouri ACLU, which is defending the 11 initiative petitions in court, could be immediately reached for comment on Corley’s proposals.&nbsp;Missouri law requires petitioners to collect more than 170,000 signatures by May 2024 in order to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot. Republicans lawmakers,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article275456451.html">most notably House Speaker Dan Plocher,</a>&nbsp;have worked to make it harder to amend the constitution through the initiative petition process in an effort to short circuit any abortion-rights proposal from succeeding next year.&nbsp;“The current abortion law makes Missouri look draconian, punitive and unsafe for families,” Corley said. “The law runs afoul of public opinion and we look forward to building a broad coalition of Missourians who want, need and deserve the opportunity to change it.”

New initiative petitions seek to add rape, incest exceptions to Mo. abortion law

DETROIT (AP) — Kia is recalling about 320,000 cars in the U.S. to fix a problem that could prevent the trunk from being opened from the inside.

The recall covers the Optima midsize car from 2016 through 2018, Optima hybrids and plug-ins from 2017 and 2018, and the Rio small car from 2016 and 2017.

Kia says in documents posted Thursday by U.S. safety regulators that&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2023/RCAK-23V594-6002.pdf">the trunk latch base can crack, and may not open from the inside.</a>&nbsp;The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says a person inside the trunk could become trapped.

DETROIT (AP) — Kia is recalling about 320,000 cars in the U.S. to fix a problem that could prevent the trunk from being opened from the inside.The recall covers the Optima midsize car from 2016 through 2018, Optima hybrids and plug-ins from 2017 and 2018, and the Rio small car from 2016 and 2017.Kia says in documents posted Thursday by U.S. safety regulators that&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2023/RCAK-23V594-6002.pdf">the trunk latch base can crack, and may not open from the inside.</a>&nbsp;The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says a person inside the trunk could become trapped.