NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver was charged in a three-count indictment today for forcibly impeding and interfering with federal officers, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

According to the allegations in the indictment, McIver forcibly impeded and interfered with federal officers as they attempted to arrest an individual outside the Delaney Hall Federal Immigration Facility in Newark, New Jersey on May 9, 2025.&nbsp; McIver and two other members of Congress were present at the facility that day to conduct a congressional oversight inspection.&nbsp;

The inspection coincided with an immigration protest rally.&nbsp;After the Congressional Delegation entered the secured area of the facility, the Mayor of Newark arrived and was given access to the secured area.&nbsp; A federal officer then informed the Mayor that he was not authorized to be in the facility’s secured area, and issued the Mayor multiple warnings that he would be arrested if he did not leave.&nbsp; McIver and other members of the Congressional Delegation overheard this conversation and challenged the officer, protesting the Mayor’s removal.&nbsp; When officers moved in to arrest the Mayor, McIver and others surrounded the Mayor and prevented the officers from handcuffing him.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

After the Mayor was escorted outside the secured area, law enforcement officers made a second attempt to arrest him.&nbsp; At this time, someone in the crowd yelled “circle the mayor.”&nbsp; McIver then faced the Mayor and placed her arms around him in an effort to prevent HSI from completing the arrest.&nbsp; During her continued attempts to thwart the arrest, McIver slammed her forearm into the body of one law enforcement officer and also reached out and tried to restrain that officer by forcibly grabbing him.&nbsp; McIver also used each of her forearms to forcibly strike a second officer.

If convicted, McIver faces a maximum penalty of 8 years in prison on the forcible impeding and interfering charge set forth in Count One of the indictment. She faces a maximum penalty of 8 years in prison on the forcible impeding and interfering charge set forth in Count Two.&nbsp;She also faces a maximum penalty of 1 year in prison for Count Three.

U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, with the investigation.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark McCarren of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.

An indictment is merely an allegation.&nbsp; All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1747704005330.png" alt="Rep. McIver in the red blazer as shown on police body camera video" />
 <figcaption>Rep. McIver in the red blazer as shown on police body camera video</figcaption>
 </figure>NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver was charged in a three-count indictment today for forcibly impeding and interfering with federal officers, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today a federal grand jury seated in Newark, New Jersey returned a three-count indictment charging U.S. Representative LaMonica McIver with forcibly impeding and interfering with federal law enforcement officers. This indictment has a maximum penalty of 8 years for Count One, an…&mdash; US Attorney Habba (@USAttyHabba) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAttyHabba/status/1932572573713514913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨WATCH: US Congresswoman, LaMonica McIver (wearing a red blazer), storms the gate of Delaney Hall Detention Center ASSAULTING an ICE agent. <a href="https://t.co/4Q1deds1tl">pic.twitter.com/4Q1deds1tl</a>&mdash; Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1921271072147546558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>According to the allegations in the indictment, McIver forcibly impeded and interfered with federal officers as they attempted to arrest an individual outside the Delaney Hall Federal Immigration Facility in Newark, New Jersey on May 9, 2025.&nbsp; McIver and two other members of Congress were present at the facility that day to conduct a congressional oversight inspection.&nbsp;The inspection coincided with an immigration protest rally.&nbsp;After the Congressional Delegation entered the secured area of the facility, the Mayor of Newark arrived and was given access to the secured area.&nbsp; A federal officer then informed the Mayor that he was not authorized to be in the facility’s secured area, and issued the Mayor multiple warnings that he would be arrested if he did not leave.&nbsp; McIver and other members of the Congressional Delegation overheard this conversation and challenged the officer, protesting the Mayor’s removal.&nbsp; When officers moved in to arrest the Mayor, McIver and others surrounded the Mayor and prevented the officers from handcuffing him.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;After the Mayor was escorted outside the secured area, law enforcement officers made a second attempt to arrest him.&nbsp; At this time, someone in the crowd yelled “circle the mayor.”&nbsp; McIver then faced the Mayor and placed her arms around him in an effort to prevent HSI from completing the arrest.&nbsp; During her continued attempts to thwart the arrest, McIver slammed her forearm into the body of one law enforcement officer and also reached out and tried to restrain that officer by forcibly grabbing him.&nbsp; McIver also used each of her forearms to forcibly strike a second officer.If convicted, McIver faces a maximum penalty of 8 years in prison on the forcible impeding and interfering charge set forth in Count One of the indictment. She faces a maximum penalty of 8 years in prison on the forcible impeding and interfering charge set forth in Count Two.&nbsp;She also faces a maximum penalty of 1 year in prison for Count Three.U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, with the investigation.The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark McCarren of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.An indictment is merely an allegation.&nbsp; All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Congresswoman indicted on federal charges for skirmish at ICE center

HARVEY COUNTY —On June 6, 2025, Judge Jason Lane of the 9th Judicial District of Kansas sentenced Marcus Perez Jr., 34, of Leonardville, Kansas, to 154 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections for Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in an amount exceeding 100 grams, according to the Harvey County Attorney's office.

The sentence stems from a July 5, 2024, traffic stop conducted by Harvey County Sheriff’s Deputies, during which Perez was found in possession of a significant quantity of methamphetamine. The drugs were hidden in a magnetic box concealed under Perez’s seat.

Further investigation included a search of Perez’s phone, which uncovered multiple conversations indicating ongoing attempts to distribute illegal narcotics. Perez has a history of prior convictions, having been convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in both 2015 and 2018 in Clay County, Kansas.

This sentence reflects the seriousness of Mr. Perez’s continued involvement in drug trafficking and the Harvey County Attorney Office’s commitment to protecting our communities from the dangers of methamphetamine. The case was prosecuted with the assistance of the Harvey County Sheriff Drug Interdiction Unit. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749503296535.png" alt="Perez photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Perez photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>HARVEY COUNTY —On June 6, 2025, Judge Jason Lane of the 9th Judicial District of Kansas sentenced Marcus Perez Jr., 34, of Leonardville, Kansas, to 154 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections for Unlawful Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine in an amount exceeding 100 grams, according to the Harvey County Attorney's office.The sentence stems from a July 5, 2024, traffic stop conducted by Harvey County Sheriff’s Deputies, during which Perez was found in possession of a significant quantity of methamphetamine. The drugs were hidden in a magnetic box concealed under Perez’s seat.Further investigation included a search of Perez’s phone, which uncovered multiple conversations indicating ongoing attempts to distribute illegal narcotics. Perez has a history of prior convictions, having been convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in both 2015 and 2018 in Clay County, Kansas.This sentence reflects the seriousness of Mr. Perez’s continued involvement in drug trafficking and the Harvey County Attorney Office’s commitment to protecting our communities from the dangers of methamphetamine. The case was prosecuted with the assistance of the Harvey County Sheriff Drug Interdiction Unit.

Kansas felon caught hiding meth in metal box under his car seat

KANSAS CITY —Two suspects are facing multiple charges for their alleged involvement in an organized ring responsible for multiple burglaries across the Kansas City metropolitan area, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.&nbsp; Four more are also under investigation.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2639/Gavrilys-Afterhours-Complaint-Packet-FINAL_Redacted">Idonnas J. Gavrilys</a>, 25, identified by investigators as the alleged leader of the burglary operation, faces two counts of 2nd Degree Burglary, four counts of 1st Degree Burglary, and four counts of Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2640/Draper-Afterhours-Complaint-Packet_Redacted">Dante K. Draper</a>, 26,&nbsp; faces 17 counts of 2nd Degree Burglary, two counts of 1st Degree Burglary, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and two counts of Stealing. *

Investigators allege that there are at least six suspects part of the organized burglary group who follow a consistent pattern when burglarizing businesses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749227372766.png" alt="Draper photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Draper photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Two suspects are facing multiple charges for their alleged involvement in an organized ring responsible for multiple burglaries across the Kansas City metropolitan area, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.&nbsp; Four more are also under investigation.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2639/Gavrilys-Afterhours-Complaint-Packet-FINAL_Redacted">Idonnas J. Gavrilys</a>, 25, identified by investigators as the alleged leader of the burglary operation, faces two counts of 2nd Degree Burglary, four counts of 1st Degree Burglary, and four counts of Armed Criminal Action.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749227316238.png" alt="Gavrilys photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Gavrilys photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2640/Draper-Afterhours-Complaint-Packet_Redacted">Dante K. Draper</a>, 26,&nbsp; faces 17 counts of 2nd Degree Burglary, two counts of 1st Degree Burglary, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and two counts of Stealing. *Investigators allege that there are at least six suspects part of the organized burglary group who follow a consistent pattern when burglarizing businesses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Police: 6 suspects involved in organized Kansas City burglary ring

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The vice chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents intends to resign from the state higher education board rather than complete the final two years of his second term.

Jon Rolph, president and CEO of a Wichita restaurant company, was appointed to the Board of Regents in 2019 by Gov. Laura Kelly. He is expected to depart by June 30. The governor would appoint a replacement, subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate, to finish a term ending in June 2027.

The nine-person Board of Regents has jurisdiction over public universities, community colleges and technical colleges in Kansas.

“Jon is an enthusiastic supporter of higher education who has prioritized the needs of Kansans and our state during his time on the board,” said Carl Ice, chairman of the Board of Regents.

Ice said Rolph “helped our system implement and move forward many key strategic initiatives. He has been an outstanding colleague.”

In 2021, Rolph endorsed a board policy that made it easier for campus administrators of the six state universities to suspend, dismiss or terminate employees, including tenured faculty members, without formally declaring a financial emergency. The policy was implemented in 2022 by Emporia State University to justify dismissal of 30 faculty. It triggered a state and federal court battle that continued into 2025.

In 2023, Rolph revealed that he had surgery to remove a tumor in his abdomen and was undergoing treatment for cancer.

Rolph was serving as chairman of the Board of Regents when the board voted in 2024 to change its diversity and multiculturalism policy under pressure from members of the Kansas Legislature.

The revised policy declared state universities in Kansas couldn’t require faculty to pledge “allegiance to, support for or opposition to diversity, equity or inclusion” or DEI.

“This is, again, our good-faith effort in trying to listen to the Legislature,” Rolph said at the time.

Rolph’s company, Thrive Restaurant Group, operates or owns more than 170 restaurants. It is the second-largest Applebee’s franchisee with restaurants in 15 states. He was a student body president at Baylor University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749589406815.png" alt=" Jon Rolph, center, a Wichita member of the Kansas Board of Regents, plans to resign from the higher education panel with two years remaining on his second four-year term. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Jon Rolph, center, a Wichita member of the Kansas Board of Regents, plans to resign from the higher education panel with two years remaining on his second four-year term. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The vice chairman of the Kansas Board of Regents intends to resign from the state higher education board rather than complete the final two years of his second term.Jon Rolph, president and CEO of a Wichita restaurant company, was appointed to the Board of Regents in 2019 by Gov. Laura Kelly. He is expected to depart by June 30. The governor would appoint a replacement, subject to confirmation by the Kansas Senate, to finish a term ending in June 2027.The nine-person Board of Regents has jurisdiction over public universities, community colleges and technical colleges in Kansas.“Jon is an enthusiastic supporter of higher education who has prioritized the needs of Kansans and our state during his time on the board,” said Carl Ice, chairman of the Board of Regents.Ice said Rolph “helped our system implement and move forward many key strategic initiatives. He has been an outstanding colleague.”In 2021, Rolph endorsed a board policy that made it easier for campus administrators of the six state universities to suspend, dismiss or terminate employees, including tenured faculty members, without formally declaring a financial emergency. The policy was implemented in 2022 by Emporia State University to justify dismissal of 30 faculty. It triggered a state and federal court battle that continued into 2025.In 2023, Rolph revealed that he had surgery to remove a tumor in his abdomen and was undergoing treatment for cancer.Rolph was serving as chairman of the Board of Regents when the board voted in 2024 to change its diversity and multiculturalism policy under pressure from members of the Kansas Legislature.The revised policy declared state universities in Kansas couldn’t require faculty to pledge “allegiance to, support for or opposition to diversity, equity or inclusion” or DEI.“This is, again, our good-faith effort in trying to listen to the Legislature,” Rolph said at the time.Rolph’s company, Thrive Restaurant Group, operates or owns more than 170 restaurants. It is the second-largest Applebee’s franchisee with restaurants in 15 states. He was a student body president at Baylor University.

Vice chair of Kansas Board of Regents to resign post with two years left on term

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident just after 8p.m. Monday in Kansas City, Missouri.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a Harley Davidson Motorcycle was eastbound on Gardner at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. A Peterbilt truck, tractor, and trailer was making a left turn from northbound Bellefontaine onto westbound Gardner. 

The truck was midway through its turn when the motorcycle struck the trailer. Both the motorcycle and the operator traveled underneath the trailer and the motorcyclist was then run over by the trailers rear tires. 

The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. This is fatality #31 compared to #47 at this time last year in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident just after 8p.m. Monday in Kansas City, Missouri.A preliminary investigation revealed that a Harley Davidson Motorcycle was eastbound on Gardner at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina. A Peterbilt truck, tractor, and trailer was making a left turn from northbound Bellefontaine onto westbound Gardner. The truck was midway through its turn when the motorcycle struck the trailer. Both the motorcycle and the operator traveled underneath the trailer and the motorcyclist was then run over by the trailers rear tires. The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. This is fatality #31 compared to #47 at this time last year in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; Police have not released the name of the victim.

KCPD: Motorcyclist strikes semi trailer and is run over 

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>

Legislation to void non-disclosure agreements in child sexual abuse cases was signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Mike Kehoe.

The bill has been called “Trey’s Law,” referring to the late Trey Carlock, who died by suicide in 2019 after being sexually abused by Pete Newman&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/14/kanakuk-abuse-survivors-urge-missouri-lawmakers-to-extend-statute-of-limitations/">at the Branson-based Kanakuk Kamps</a>.

Trey’s sister, Elizabeth Carlock,<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/22/missouri-bill-to-void-ndas-in-child-sex-abuse-cases-approved-by-house/">&nbsp;said at a hearing on the bill in February&nbsp;</a>that he had to agree to an NDA as a condition of his settlement with the camp.

“Trey told someone just before his death that ‘they’ll always control me and I’ll never be free,’” Carlock said in February. “…A lot of truth dies with people because of NDAs, and that only protects bad actors, which is contrary to public interest.”

Non-disclosure agreements signed after Aug. 28, 2025 will no longer be enforceable for childhood sexual abuse claims under the new law.

<a href="https://www.fox4news.com/news/texas-bans-nondisclosure-agreements-ndas-sex-abuse-cases" target="_blank">Texas also passed</a>&nbsp;a law banning NDAs in child sex abuse cases this session, which awaits the governor’s signature.&nbsp;Tennessee enacted similar legislation in&nbsp;<a href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB2523&amp;ga=110#:~:text=Tort%20Liability%20and%20Reform%20%2D%20As,to%20public%20policy%20of%20state." target="_blank">2018</a>.&nbsp;

Keith Dygert, who was also abused by Newman, reached a settlement with a non-disclosure agreement, he testified at the February hearing. But only after signing it did he learn more from&nbsp;<a href="https://thedispatch.com/newsletter/frenchpress/they-arent-who-you-think-they-are/" target="_blank">news articles</a>&nbsp;about the extent of Newman’s abuse and Kanakuk’s possible knowledge, he said.&nbsp;

Dygert said NDAs have “undeniably prevented proper and timely healing…by silencing victims when sharing their stories in their own time, in their own way.”

He said it was worth his taking the risk of breaking his NDA to speak out.

“When victims are silenced, the truth is also silenced, and the institutions that helped enable child sexual abuse are protected,” Dygert said.&nbsp;

Kanakuk director Pete Newman pleaded guilty in 2010 to seven counts of sexual abuse, and the prosecutor said Newman’s victim count might be in the hundreds. Newman is currently serving two life sentences plus 30 years in prison.&nbsp;

Kanakuk leadership maintains that they had no advanced knowledge of his behavior, and Newman was a “master of deception.”

The legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/22/missouri-bill-to-void-ndas-in-child-sex-abuse-cases-approved-by-house/">received little opposition&nbsp;</a>as a standalone measure in the House and Senate.&nbsp;

Versions of the underlying NDA bill were sponsored by Republican state Rep. Brian Seitz from Branson and Republican state Sen. Brad Hudson from Cape Fair.

The NDA ban passed as part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-signs-sb-81-law" target="_blank">broader public safety package</a>&nbsp;sponsored by Republican state Sen. Kurtis Gregory of Marshall and Republican state Rep. Tim Taylor of Bunceton.

The bill also includes provisions to:&nbsp;

“Public safety remains one of our top priorities, and with this bill, we are reinforcing that with real action,” Kehoe said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-signs-sb-81-law" target="_blank">press release</a>&nbsp;Tuesday. “From improving oversight and licensing to supporting law enforcement and victims of childhood abuse, this legislation gives the state the tools it needs to strengthen public safety measures.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749578017883.png" alt=" Gov. Mike Kehoe signs a bill banning non-disclosure agreements in child sex abuse cases alongside the bill’s sponsors, state Rep. Tim Taylor, R-Bunceton, left, and state Sen. Kurtis Gregory, R-Marshall, right. (Missouri Governor’s Office photo)" />
 <figcaption> Gov. Mike Kehoe signs a bill banning non-disclosure agreements in child sex abuse cases alongside the bill’s sponsors, state Rep. Tim Taylor, R-Bunceton, left, and state Sen. Kurtis Gregory, R-Marshall, right. (Missouri Governor’s Office photo)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/cbates/">CLARA BATES</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/09/21/missouri-judge-once-again-delays-decision-on-closing-agape-boarding-school/">Missouri Independent</a>Legislation to void non-disclosure agreements in child sexual abuse cases was signed into law Tuesday by Gov. Mike Kehoe.The bill has been called “Trey’s Law,” referring to the late Trey Carlock, who died by suicide in 2019 after being sexually abused by Pete Newman&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/14/kanakuk-abuse-survivors-urge-missouri-lawmakers-to-extend-statute-of-limitations/">at the Branson-based Kanakuk Kamps</a>.Trey’s sister, Elizabeth Carlock,<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/22/missouri-bill-to-void-ndas-in-child-sex-abuse-cases-approved-by-house/">&nbsp;said at a hearing on the bill in February&nbsp;</a>that he had to agree to an NDA as a condition of his settlement with the camp.“Trey told someone just before his death that ‘they’ll always control me and I’ll never be free,’” Carlock said in February. “…A lot of truth dies with people because of NDAs, and that only protects bad actors, which is contrary to public interest.”Non-disclosure agreements signed after Aug. 28, 2025 will no longer be enforceable for childhood sexual abuse claims under the new law.<a href="https://www.fox4news.com/news/texas-bans-nondisclosure-agreements-ndas-sex-abuse-cases" target="_blank">Texas also passed</a>&nbsp;a law banning NDAs in child sex abuse cases this session, which awaits the governor’s signature.&nbsp;Tennessee enacted similar legislation in&nbsp;<a href="https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB2523&amp;ga=110#:~:text=Tort%20Liability%20and%20Reform%20%2D%20As,to%20public%20policy%20of%20state." target="_blank">2018</a>.&nbsp;Keith Dygert, who was also abused by Newman, reached a settlement with a non-disclosure agreement, he testified at the February hearing. But only after signing it did he learn more from&nbsp;<a href="https://thedispatch.com/newsletter/frenchpress/they-arent-who-you-think-they-are/" target="_blank">news articles</a>&nbsp;about the extent of Newman’s abuse and Kanakuk’s possible knowledge, he said.&nbsp;Dygert said NDAs have “undeniably prevented proper and timely healing…by silencing victims when sharing their stories in their own time, in their own way.”He said it was worth his taking the risk of breaking his NDA to speak out.“When victims are silenced, the truth is also silenced, and the institutions that helped enable child sexual abuse are protected,” Dygert said.&nbsp;Kanakuk director Pete Newman pleaded guilty in 2010 to seven counts of sexual abuse, and the prosecutor said Newman’s victim count might be in the hundreds. Newman is currently serving two life sentences plus 30 years in prison.&nbsp;Kanakuk leadership maintains that they had no advanced knowledge of his behavior, and Newman was a “master of deception.”The legislation&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/04/22/missouri-bill-to-void-ndas-in-child-sex-abuse-cases-approved-by-house/">received little opposition&nbsp;</a>as a standalone measure in the House and Senate.&nbsp;Versions of the underlying NDA bill were sponsored by Republican state Rep. Brian Seitz from Branson and Republican state Sen. Brad Hudson from Cape Fair.The NDA ban passed as part of a&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-signs-sb-81-law" target="_blank">broader public safety package</a>&nbsp;sponsored by Republican state Sen. Kurtis Gregory of Marshall and Republican state Rep. Tim Taylor of Bunceton.The bill also includes provisions to:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Allow spouses of law enforcement officers to obtain professional licenses more quickly;</li><li>Extend the sunset date for line of duty compensation for families of public safety officers who die on duty;&nbsp;</li><li>Expand the authority for state agencies to require fingerprint-based criminal background checks,&nbsp;</li><li>Reauthorize the fee for the emergency response commission;&nbsp;</li><li>And modernize firework laws.</li>
 </ul>“Public safety remains one of our top priorities, and with this bill, we are reinforcing that with real action,” Kehoe said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://governor.mo.gov/press-releases/archive/governor-kehoe-signs-sb-81-law" target="_blank">press release</a>&nbsp;Tuesday. “From improving oversight and licensing to supporting law enforcement and victims of childhood abuse, this legislation gives the state the tools it needs to strengthen public safety measures.”

Kehoe signs into law Missouri bill voiding NDAs in child sex abuse cases

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the report of a Shiatsu&nbsp;which a family reported was missing from a home in the 1600 Block of Beverly in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The reporting party told police they had a delivery of food through Door Dash on June 7, and a surveillance camera shows the delivery person picking up the dog, but it does not show the person taking the dog.

 Officers have contacted Door Dash and are waiting for a response on the identity of the driver so police can interview them.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749564300658.png" alt="Security camera image courtesy Jesus Montoya via KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image courtesy Jesus Montoya via KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the report of a Shiatsu&nbsp;which a family reported was missing from a home in the 1600 Block of Beverly in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.&nbsp;&nbsp;The reporting party told police they had a delivery of food through Door Dash on June 7, and a surveillance camera shows the delivery person picking up the dog, but it does not show the person taking the dog. Officers have contacted Door Dash and are waiting for a response on the identity of the driver so police can interview them.&nbsp;

Police investigate if delivery driver took dog from Kan. home

Washington&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall helped introduce the&nbsp;Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE) in Spending Act, which would&nbsp;codify some of the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE)&nbsp;cost-saving&nbsp;actions, according to a media release from his office.

To date, DOGE has eliminated more than $180 billion in federal spending. That means more than $1,118 in savings for each Kansas taxpayer.

Specifically, it would require&nbsp;the Department of the Treasury to have a description&nbsp;of the payment,&nbsp;link it to a budget account, and cross-check the payment against government databases to ensure accuracy and eligibility. In addition, every expenditure will be made public on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://usaspending.gov/">USAspending.gov</a>&nbsp;website, with annual updates for ongoing transactions.

“Kansans expect their government to be accountable and responsible when it comes to spending Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“The&nbsp;DOGE in Spending Act&nbsp;will help bring discipline to Washington by making sure federal payments are verified and traceable before going out the door. I’m proud to support this effort to fight waste, fraud, and abuse.”

“Requiring the government to answer basic questions before spending tax dollars will save billions over the next decade,”&nbsp;said Senator Ernst.&nbsp;“Enacting safeguards to spending have been one of the Trump administration’s and DOGE’s greatest triumphs,&nbsp;and I am determined to codify it and make it permanent. At $36 trillion in debt, the cost of inaction is too high, and I will continue to lead the fight in Washington to root out waste, fraud, and abuse.”&nbsp;

“For too long, improper and fraudulent payments have drained resources and undermined trust in government spending,”&nbsp;said Congressman Bean.&nbsp;“The American people deserve responsible stewardship of their tax dollars, and this bill delivers exactly that. By ensuring federal payments are accurate, transparent, and verifiable, we are eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government. This legislation takes the first critical step toward codifying DOGE efforts into law – bringing real oversight and integrity to the way taxpayer dollars are managed.”&nbsp;

The bill is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Steve Daines (R-Montana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).

“With America $36 trillion in debt, we cannot afford a system with no accountability over where billions in taxpayer dollars are going,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Lummis.&nbsp;“We are buried in red ink, but thanks to President Trump’s historic push to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, we now have a path forward. I am proud to join Senator Ernst in making critical cost-saving reforms permanent.”

“For decades, Washington bureaucrats have burned through hard-earned taxpayer dollars without a concern or care for how those dollars are spent,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Mullin.&nbsp;“Oklahomans elected President Trump to&nbsp;streamline government efficiency, and we’re working with the administration to secure major savings for the American people. As one of the first steps in codifying the DOGE cuts, this bill will ensure accountability and restore sanity to how we do things in Washington. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this effort.”

“The federal government must be held accountable for every tax dollar spent,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Lee.&nbsp;“The&nbsp;DOGE In Spending Act&nbsp;will codify part of President Trump’s fiscal plan by ensuring payments are properly reported and tracked. Increasing transparency, cutting waste, and preventing fraud are what hardworking American families deserve.”

“From the moment he took office, President Trump laid out a clear agenda: eliminate waste, reduce unnecessary spending, and restore fiscal sanity to Washington,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Cramer.&nbsp;“The Department of Government Efficiency has delivered – cutting through layers of bureaucracy. This agency has taken a scalpel to the federal government, slashing misspending, and eliminating fraudulent and improper payments. By codifying DOGE’s best practices, we safeguard the taxpayer dollars of North Dakotans and Americans across the country.”

“With Washington D.C.’s long history of out-of-control spending and a growing national deficit, we need to identify every opportunity to cut waste, fraud, and abuse,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Britt.&nbsp;“This legislation codifies a key element of President Trump’s DOGE agenda by creating a mechanism to ensure every dollar across our government agencies is accounted for. I’m proud to be a cosponsor to help to prevent billions in improper payments and provide transparency to the American taxpayer.”

“The American people sent a clear message by electing President Trump,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Grassley.&nbsp;“They’re fed up with the wasteful spending and bloated bureaucracy. Since my first term in the Senate, I’ve worked to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, and I’m glad to support this legislation to boost transparency, strengthen internal controls, and improve the stewardship of taxpayers’ hard-earned money.”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738614192317.png" alt="Doge Logo" />
 <figcaption>Doge Logo</figcaption>
 </figure>Washington&nbsp;–&nbsp;U.S. Senator Roger Marshall helped introduce the&nbsp;Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE) in Spending Act, which would&nbsp;codify some of the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE)&nbsp;cost-saving&nbsp;actions, according to a media release from his office.To date, DOGE has eliminated more than $180 billion in federal spending. That means more than $1,118 in savings for each Kansas taxpayer.Specifically, it would require&nbsp;the Department of the Treasury to have a description&nbsp;of the payment,&nbsp;link it to a budget account, and cross-check the payment against government databases to ensure accuracy and eligibility. In addition, every expenditure will be made public on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://usaspending.gov/">USAspending.gov</a>&nbsp;website, with annual updates for ongoing transactions.“Kansans expect their government to be accountable and responsible when it comes to spending Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars,”&nbsp;said Senator Marshall.&nbsp;“The&nbsp;DOGE in Spending Act&nbsp;will help bring discipline to Washington by making sure federal payments are verified and traceable before going out the door. I’m proud to support this effort to fight waste, fraud, and abuse.”“Requiring the government to answer basic questions before spending tax dollars will save billions over the next decade,”&nbsp;said Senator Ernst.&nbsp;“Enacting safeguards to spending have been one of the Trump administration’s and DOGE’s greatest triumphs,&nbsp;and I am determined to codify it and make it permanent. At $36 trillion in debt, the cost of inaction is too high, and I will continue to lead the fight in Washington to root out waste, fraud, and abuse.”&nbsp;“For too long, improper and fraudulent payments have drained resources and undermined trust in government spending,”&nbsp;said Congressman Bean.&nbsp;“The American people deserve responsible stewardship of their tax dollars, and this bill delivers exactly that. By ensuring federal payments are accurate, transparent, and verifiable, we are eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government. This legislation takes the first critical step toward codifying DOGE efforts into law – bringing real oversight and integrity to the way taxpayer dollars are managed.”&nbsp;The bill is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-Montana), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Steve Daines (R-Montana), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa).“With America $36 trillion in debt, we cannot afford a system with no accountability over where billions in taxpayer dollars are going,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Lummis.&nbsp;“We are buried in red ink, but thanks to President Trump’s historic push to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, we now have a path forward. I am proud to join Senator Ernst in making critical cost-saving reforms permanent.”“For decades, Washington bureaucrats have burned through hard-earned taxpayer dollars without a concern or care for how those dollars are spent,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Mullin.&nbsp;“Oklahomans elected President Trump to&nbsp;streamline government efficiency, and we’re working with the administration to secure major savings for the American people. As one of the first steps in codifying the DOGE cuts, this bill will ensure accountability and restore sanity to how we do things in Washington. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this effort.”“The federal government must be held accountable for every tax dollar spent,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Lee.&nbsp;“The&nbsp;DOGE In Spending Act&nbsp;will codify part of President Trump’s fiscal plan by ensuring payments are properly reported and tracked. Increasing transparency, cutting waste, and preventing fraud are what hardworking American families deserve.”“From the moment he took office, President Trump laid out a clear agenda: eliminate waste, reduce unnecessary spending, and restore fiscal sanity to Washington,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Cramer.&nbsp;“The Department of Government Efficiency has delivered – cutting through layers of bureaucracy. This agency has taken a scalpel to the federal government, slashing misspending, and eliminating fraudulent and improper payments. By codifying DOGE’s best practices, we safeguard the taxpayer dollars of North Dakotans and Americans across the country.”“With Washington D.C.’s long history of out-of-control spending and a growing national deficit, we need to identify every opportunity to cut waste, fraud, and abuse,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Britt.&nbsp;“This legislation codifies a key element of President Trump’s DOGE agenda by creating a mechanism to ensure every dollar across our government agencies is accounted for. I’m proud to be a cosponsor to help to prevent billions in improper payments and provide transparency to the American taxpayer.”“The American people sent a clear message by electing President Trump,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Senator Grassley.&nbsp;“They’re fed up with the wasteful spending and bloated bureaucracy. Since my first term in the Senate, I’ve worked to root out waste, fraud, and abuse, and I’m glad to support this legislation to boost transparency, strengthen internal controls, and improve the stewardship of taxpayers’ hard-earned money.”&nbsp;

Kan. U.S. Senator helps introduce legislation codifying DOGE cuts 

DETROIT&nbsp;–&nbsp; Chengxuan HAN, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), was arrested and charged in a criminal complaint with smuggling goods into the United States and false statements, according to the United States Attorney's office.

According to the complaint, Han&nbsp;is a citizen of the People's Republic of China who is currently pursuing a Ph.D. from the College of Life Science and Technology in the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) in Wuhan, China.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b41b4141-755c-4cb2-b6ad-bfc1965400c7">2 charged last week</a>&nbsp;over conspiring to smuggle toxic fungus into U.S.

 In 2024 and 2025, Han sent four packages to the United States from the China containing concealed biological material. These packages were addressed to individuals associated with a laboratory at the University of Michigan. On June 8, 2025, Han arrived at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport on a J1 visa. Customs and Border Protection officers conducted an inspection of Han, during which Han made false statements about the packages and the biological materials she had previously shipped to the United States.

 CBP officers also found that the content of Han’s electronic device had been deleted three days prior to her arrival in the United States. At the conclusion of the border inspection, Han was interviewed by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and ICE HSI. During this interview, Han admitted to sending the packages, admitted that the packages contained biological material related to round worms, and admitted to making false statements to the CBP officers during her inspection.

A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Trial cannot be held on felony charges in a complaint. When the investigation is completed, a determination will be made whether to seek a felony indictment.

United States Attorney Gorgon stated: “The alleged smuggling of biological materials by this alien from a science and technology university in Wuhan, China—to be used at a University of Michigan laboratory—is part of an alarming pattern that threatens our security. The American taxpayer should not be underwriting a PRC-based smuggling operation at one of our crucial public institutions.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

“The FBI has zero tolerance for those who violate federal law and remains unwavering in our mission to protect the American people,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The alleged smuggling of biological materials by Chengxuan Han is a direct threat to public safety and national security, and it severely compromises the integrity of our nation’s research institutions. I applaud the relentless efforts of the FBI Detroit Counterintelligence Task Force, working in close coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations and ICE Homeland Security Investigations Detroit. The FBI in Michigan will aggressively pursue anyone who seeks to harm our country and will deploy every available resource to defend the United States and protect our communities.”

“The guidelines for importing biological materials into the U.S. for research purposes are stringent, but clear, and actions like this undermine the legitimate work of other visiting scholars,” said CBP Acting Director of Field Operations John Nowak. “We will not tolerate the smuggling of regulated biological materials through our ports of entry, and this interdiction is another recent example of our commitment—along with that of our law enforcement partners—to preventing potentially dangerous goods from harming the American people.”

“ICE HSI is proud to work with our partners at the FBI and CBP to keep Americans and Michiganders safe from biological threats,” said ICE HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “This case should serve as a reminder that multiple law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to provide for our shared national security from malicious foreign actors.”

The FBI, CBP and ICE HSI are investigating this case.

DETROIT&nbsp;–&nbsp; Chengxuan HAN, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), was arrested and charged in a criminal complaint with smuggling goods into the United States and false statements, according to the United States Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749510967150.png" alt="Photo of Petri Dishes where prosecutors say biological materials were kept&nbsp;from the Criminal Complaint filed against Chengxuan - by FBI Detroit, US Attorney's Office - Eastern District of Michigan" />
 <figcaption>Photo of Petri Dishes where prosecutors say biological materials were kept&nbsp;from the Criminal Complaint filed against Chengxuan - by FBI Detroit, US Attorney's Office - Eastern District of Michigan</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the complaint, Han&nbsp;is a citizen of the People's Republic of China who is currently pursuing a Ph.D. from the College of Life Science and Technology in the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) in Wuhan, China.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yesterday, <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDetroit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBIDetroit</a> arrested a second Chinese national on charges of smuggling biological materials into the U.S. and lying to federal agents. This individual is Chengxuan Han, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China and a Ph.D. student in Wuhan, China. Han is the third… <a href="https://t.co/TE4tJgtJQi">pic.twitter.com/TE4tJgtJQi</a>&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1932214047300079655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/b41b4141-755c-4cb2-b6ad-bfc1965400c7">2 charged last week</a>&nbsp;over conspiring to smuggle toxic fungus into U.S. In 2024 and 2025, Han sent four packages to the United States from the China containing concealed biological material. These packages were addressed to individuals associated with a laboratory at the University of Michigan. On June 8, 2025, Han arrived at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport on a J1 visa. Customs and Border Protection officers conducted an inspection of Han, during which Han made false statements about the packages and the biological materials she had previously shipped to the United States. CBP officers also found that the content of Han’s electronic device had been deleted three days prior to her arrival in the United States. At the conclusion of the border inspection, Han was interviewed by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and ICE HSI. During this interview, Han admitted to sending the packages, admitted that the packages contained biological material related to round worms, and admitted to making false statements to the CBP officers during her inspection.A complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Trial cannot be held on felony charges in a complaint. When the investigation is completed, a determination will be made whether to seek a felony indictment.United States Attorney Gorgon stated: “The alleged smuggling of biological materials by this alien from a science and technology university in Wuhan, China—to be used at a University of Michigan laboratory—is part of an alarming pattern that threatens our security. The American taxpayer should not be underwriting a PRC-based smuggling operation at one of our crucial public institutions.”&nbsp; &nbsp;“The FBI has zero tolerance for those who violate federal law and remains unwavering in our mission to protect the American people,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office. “The alleged smuggling of biological materials by Chengxuan Han is a direct threat to public safety and national security, and it severely compromises the integrity of our nation’s research institutions. I applaud the relentless efforts of the FBI Detroit Counterintelligence Task Force, working in close coordination with U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations and ICE Homeland Security Investigations Detroit. The FBI in Michigan will aggressively pursue anyone who seeks to harm our country and will deploy every available resource to defend the United States and protect our communities.”“The guidelines for importing biological materials into the U.S. for research purposes are stringent, but clear, and actions like this undermine the legitimate work of other visiting scholars,” said CBP Acting Director of Field Operations John Nowak. “We will not tolerate the smuggling of regulated biological materials through our ports of entry, and this interdiction is another recent example of our commitment—along with that of our law enforcement partners—to preventing potentially dangerous goods from harming the American people.”“ICE HSI is proud to work with our partners at the FBI and CBP to keep Americans and Michiganders safe from biological threats,” said ICE HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey. “This case should serve as a reminder that multiple law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to provide for our shared national security from malicious foreign actors.”The FBI, CBP and ICE HSI are investigating this case.

Alien from Wuhan, China charged with smuggling bio materials into U.S. 

GEARY COUNTY - A six-year old girl drowned at Milford State Park on Monday.

Just before 5p.m. Geary County Sheriff's deputies&nbsp;responded to a call of a possible drowning at the park's swim beach by the Splashpad and South Boat Ramp. according to a media release.

EMS transported a six-year old girl to Stormont Vail Flint Hills campus, in Junction City where she was pronounced dead.&nbsp;

The incident is not believed to be criminal in nature.

Investigations Lt. Zachary, is requesting anyone who was present, may have witnessed the incident and/or may have any information to contact him at (785) 238-2261.

GEARY COUNTY - A six-year old girl drowned at Milford State Park on Monday.Just before 5p.m. Geary County Sheriff's deputies&nbsp;responded to a call of a possible drowning at the park's swim beach by the Splashpad and South Boat Ramp. according to a media release.EMS transported a six-year old girl to Stormont Vail Flint Hills campus, in Junction City where she was pronounced dead.&nbsp;The incident is not believed to be criminal in nature.Investigations Lt. Zachary, is requesting anyone who was present, may have witnessed the incident and/or may have any information to contact him at (785) 238-2261.

Six year old girl drowns at Milford State Park

CHASE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged theft.

On June 4, Lyon County Sheriff's deputies arrested&nbsp; 43-year-old Jeremy Cox&nbsp;on a warrant after a reported burglary of a cell tower at 50th and Camp Creek Road in southeast Chase County, according to a social media report from the Chase County Sheriff, 

The theft occurred on May 8. Multiple requested charges were forwarded to the Chase County Attorney's Office, including burglary, criminal trespass to a critical infrastructure facility, criminal damage, and theft.&nbsp; Cox is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

The Sheriff's office advised Cox's accomplice to go ahead and turn themself in because they are keeping an eye out for them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749224646893.png" alt="Cox photo Lyon County" />
 <figcaption>Cox photo Lyon County</figcaption>
 </figure>CHASE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged theft.On June 4, Lyon County Sheriff's deputies arrested&nbsp; 43-year-old Jeremy Cox&nbsp;on a warrant after a reported burglary of a cell tower at 50th and Camp Creek Road in southeast Chase County, according to a social media report from the Chase County Sheriff, The theft occurred on May 8. Multiple requested charges were forwarded to the Chase County Attorney's Office, including burglary, criminal trespass to a critical infrastructure facility, criminal damage, and theft.&nbsp; Cox is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.The Sheriff's office advised Cox's accomplice to go ahead and turn themself in because they are keeping an eye out for them.

Sheriff: Man accused of burglary at rural Kansas cell tower

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, Jeffery Michael Roark, 56, of Fort Scott is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749244428940.png" alt="Roark from a previous arrest in Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Roark from a previous arrest in Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas returned an indictment charging a Kansas man with drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, Jeffery Michael Roark, 56, of Fort Scott is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.Assistant U.S. Attorney David Zabel is prosecuting the case.

Indictment: Kansas man was selling meth

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749506420206.png" alt="Photo Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Photo Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Due to increased threats to federal law enforcement officers and federal buildings, approximately 700 active-duty U.S. Marines from Camp Pendleton are being deployed to Los Angeles to restore order. We have an obligation to defend federal law enforcement officers - even if Gavin…&mdash; Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1932202105361612994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Marines will be deployed to LA to respond to immigration protests

Internal clashes risk tearing apart a group of Republican state lawmakers who for years have held outsize sway in Missouri politics

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

A group of renegade GOP state lawmakers whose quarrels with party leaders defined years of Missouri legislative inaction appears to be ripping apart over a plan to fund stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals.&nbsp;

On Friday, state Sen. Rick Brattin&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MOFreedomCaucus/status/1931125680311238946" target="_blank">stepped down as chairman of the Missouri Freedom Caucus</a>&nbsp;just days after voting in favor of $1.5 billion in tax incentives to finance new or renovated stadiums. He noted the stadium vote in the statement announcing his resignation.&nbsp;

The group had&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/05/missouri-governor-allows-more-spending-property-tax-cap-as-he-pursues-stadium-deal/">vowed to oppose the funding scheme</a>, which it decried as a “handout to billionaire sports team owners.” But Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican, and state Sen. Brad Hudson, a Cape Fair Republican who is also a Freedom Caucus member, voted in support of the plan after a provision was added making changes to local property tax bills.

On Monday morning, state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, was announced as the new chairman.

The response from conservative activists after Brattin’s resignation was swift.&nbsp;

Some accused Brattin of betrayal, while others argued he was duped by the inclusion of language allowing the stadium funding to survive even if a court tosses out the property tax provisions.&nbsp;

“For several years, discussion in (Jefferson City) revolved around conservatives exposing moderate and liberal Republicans by getting them on bad votes that showed who they were,” Bill Eigel, a former Missouri Senate Freedom Caucus leader who is running for St. Charles County executive,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BillEigel/status/1930982954425004524" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>. “Gov. Mike Kehoe changed this dynamic. He is getting conservatives to vote as badly as the moderates.”

Jim Lembke, a former GOP state senator and adviser to the Freedom Caucus, said the group is “void of any leadership and has lost all credibility. They should disband and join the uniparty that runs Jefferson City.”

Tim Jones, state director for the Missouri Freedom Caucus, said&nbsp;<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/newstalk-stl/h1-will-stadium-vote-get-rick-brattin-kicked-out-of-freedom-caucus-06-05-2025" target="_blank">during a radio appearance on Friday</a>&nbsp;that he advised senators to vote against the stadium bill and was surprised when two members of the caucus ended up supporting it.

“In the light of day, there’s some buyer’s remorse. There’s some regret,” Jones said, though he later added: “To his defense, (Sen. Brattin) thought he was doing the right thing to protect the interest of his constituents.”

Brattin defended his vote&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ElectRickBrattin/videos/587509970620072" target="_blank">on social media</a>, posting a video saying that while the deal wasn’t perfect, he was determined that “if we’re going to be giving handouts to millionaires and billionaires, we need broad-based tax relief for people.”

“To me,” he said, “this was a massive win. On the stadium, they were going to get the votes, whatever it took. So I tried to weigh this out and make lemonade from the lemons we were given.”&nbsp;

Brattin’s chief of staff was less diplomatic, accusing Eigel of treating politics like a game.&nbsp;

“He’d rather chase likes on social media than deliver real wins,” Tom Estes, Brattin’s top legislative staffer, wrote in a now-deleted social media post. “It’s pathetic, and just one more reason he’s never been an effective leader.”

The war between the Freedom Caucus and Missouri Senate leadership raged for years, creating so much gridlock that fewer bills passed last year than any session in living memory —&nbsp; despite Republicans holding a legislative super majority.&nbsp;

Tensions cooled this year, with term limits pushing key figures on both sides of the fight out of the Senate. The detente led to a much more productive session, marked more by partisan squabbling than GOP infighting.&nbsp;

But the Freedom Caucus’ history of using procedural hijinks to upend legislative business made its opposition to the stadium bill an existential threat to its success, forcing Republican leaders to take demands for some form of tax cut seriously.&nbsp;

In the statement announcing Schroer’s new leadership role, did not mention the rifts within the group. He vowed to push an alternative agenda.

“We will not bend,” Schroer said. “We will not back down. The Missouri Freedom Caucus is here to fight — and we are just getting started.”

If approved by the House and signed by Kehoe, the legislation passed by the Senate would&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=E1&amp;BillID=18267440" target="_blank">allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman</a>&nbsp;to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.

The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.

Both teams have expressed interest in leaving Missouri when the lease on their current stadiums expire in 2030, and Kansas lawmakers have put a deal on the table that would use state incentives to pay for up to 70% of the costs of new stadiums.

The Kansas deal expires on June 30.&nbsp;

In order to win over Democrats, who were skeptical of the plan and still upset with how the regular legislative session ended last month, Kehoe agreed to increase the size of a disaster relief package for St. Louis from $25 million to $100 million.&nbsp;

To quell any possible Freedom Caucus uprising, Kehoe allowed the inclusion of a provision in the stadium funding bill requiring most counties to put a hard cap on increases in property tax bills.&nbsp;

In 75 counties, tax bills would not increase more than 5% per year from a base amount, or the rate of inflation, whichever is less. In 22 others, including Brattin’s home county of Cass and Hudson’s entire seven-county district of southwest Missouri, no increase in the basic bill would be allowed.

The bill includes exceptions for newly voted levies and the additional value from improvements.&nbsp;

Many of the larger counties of the state, including Boone, Greene, Jackson, St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis, were excluded from the cap provisions. Franklin, Jefferson and St. Charles counties were put under the zero percent cap.

With the concessions, Kehoe stitched together a bipartisan coalition to get the stadium bill out of the Senate. There were 12 Republicans and seven Democrats voting to send it to the House on the 19-13 vote. Three of the chamber’s 10 Democrats joined 10 Republicans in opposition.&nbsp;

Eigel, who fell short to Kehoe in last year’s GOP primary for governor, poured cold water on the deal, arguing residents will never see any tax relief.&nbsp;

He points to language added to the bill after it cleared committee stating it is the “intent of the General Assembly” that if any piece of the legislation is eventually ruled invalid, “that provision shall be severed from the act and all remaining provisions shall be valid.”

“Kehoe’s guys snuck in a clause that will allow the property tax provisions of the bill to be stripped out by courts while the billionaire stadium bailout remains whole,” Eigel said. “When conservatives missed it in the final reading after being assured by the sponsor it wasn’t in there, the disaster was complete.”

A spokeswoman for the governor’s office didn’t respond to a question about the severability clause.&nbsp;

Brattin keeps hearing from people who say he “sold out,” he said, but he still believes the bill that passed the Senate was a win for Missourians.&nbsp;

“I just wanted to give some clarity to this,” Brattin said in his social media video. “Whether you agree or disagree, this is where my heart is on this.”

This article was updated at 7:30 a.m. Monday with state Sen. Nick Schroer’s appointment as chairman and at 8 a.m. to correct the size of the tornado relief package.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1740000708426.png" alt="State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Republican from Harrisonville, listens to reporters’ questions following adjournment of the 2024 legislative session&nbsp;(Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Republican from Harrisonville, listens to reporters’ questions following adjournment of the 2024 legislative session&nbsp;(Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Internal clashes risk tearing apart a group of Republican state lawmakers who for years have held outsize sway in Missouri politics</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A group of renegade GOP state lawmakers whose quarrels with party leaders defined years of Missouri legislative inaction appears to be ripping apart over a plan to fund stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals.&nbsp;On Friday, state Sen. Rick Brattin&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MOFreedomCaucus/status/1931125680311238946" target="_blank">stepped down as chairman of the Missouri Freedom Caucus</a>&nbsp;just days after voting in favor of $1.5 billion in tax incentives to finance new or renovated stadiums. He noted the stadium vote in the statement announcing his resignation.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748263709817.png" alt="GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>The group had&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/05/missouri-governor-allows-more-spending-property-tax-cap-as-he-pursues-stadium-deal/">vowed to oppose the funding scheme</a>, which it decried as a “handout to billionaire sports team owners.” But Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican, and state Sen. Brad Hudson, a Cape Fair Republican who is also a Freedom Caucus member, voted in support of the plan after a provision was added making changes to local property tax bills.On Monday morning, state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance, was announced as the new chairman.The response from conservative activists after Brattin’s resignation was swift.&nbsp;Some accused Brattin of betrayal, while others argued he was duped by the inclusion of language allowing the stadium funding to survive even if a court tosses out the property tax provisions.&nbsp;“For several years, discussion in (Jefferson City) revolved around conservatives exposing moderate and liberal Republicans by getting them on bad votes that showed who they were,” Bill Eigel, a former Missouri Senate Freedom Caucus leader who is running for St. Charles County executive,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/BillEigel/status/1930982954425004524" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>. “Gov. Mike Kehoe changed this dynamic. He is getting conservatives to vote as badly as the moderates.”Jim Lembke, a former GOP state senator and adviser to the Freedom Caucus, said the group is “void of any leadership and has lost all credibility. They should disband and join the uniparty that runs Jefferson City.”Tim Jones, state director for the Missouri Freedom Caucus, said&nbsp;<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/newstalk-stl/h1-will-stadium-vote-get-rick-brattin-kicked-out-of-freedom-caucus-06-05-2025" target="_blank">during a radio appearance on Friday</a>&nbsp;that he advised senators to vote against the stadium bill and was surprised when two members of the caucus ended up supporting it.“In the light of day, there’s some buyer’s remorse. There’s some regret,” Jones said, though he later added: “To his defense, (Sen. Brattin) thought he was doing the right thing to protect the interest of his constituents.”Brattin defended his vote&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ElectRickBrattin/videos/587509970620072" target="_blank">on social media</a>, posting a video saying that while the deal wasn’t perfect, he was determined that “if we’re going to be giving handouts to millionaires and billionaires, we need broad-based tax relief for people.”“To me,” he said, “this was a massive win. On the stadium, they were going to get the votes, whatever it took. So I tried to weigh this out and make lemonade from the lemons we were given.”&nbsp;Brattin’s chief of staff was less diplomatic, accusing Eigel of treating politics like a game.&nbsp;“He’d rather chase likes on social media than deliver real wins,” Tom Estes, Brattin’s top legislative staffer, wrote in a now-deleted social media post. “It’s pathetic, and just one more reason he’s never been an effective leader.”The war between the Freedom Caucus and Missouri Senate leadership raged for years, creating so much gridlock that fewer bills passed last year than any session in living memory —&nbsp; despite Republicans holding a legislative super majority.&nbsp;Tensions cooled this year, with term limits pushing key figures on both sides of the fight out of the Senate. The detente led to a much more productive session, marked more by partisan squabbling than GOP infighting.&nbsp;But the Freedom Caucus’ history of using procedural hijinks to upend legislative business made its opposition to the stadium bill an existential threat to its success, forcing Republican leaders to take demands for some form of tax cut seriously.&nbsp;In the statement announcing Schroer’s new leadership role, did not mention the rifts within the group. He vowed to push an alternative agenda.“We will not bend,” Schroer said. “We will not back down. The Missouri Freedom Caucus is here to fight — and we are just getting started.”If approved by the House and signed by Kehoe, the legislation passed by the Senate would&nbsp;<a href="https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=E1&amp;BillID=18267440" target="_blank">allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman</a>&nbsp;to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.Both teams have expressed interest in leaving Missouri when the lease on their current stadiums expire in 2030, and Kansas lawmakers have put a deal on the table that would use state incentives to pay for up to 70% of the costs of new stadiums.The Kansas deal expires on June 30.&nbsp;In order to win over Democrats, who were skeptical of the plan and still upset with how the regular legislative session ended last month, Kehoe agreed to increase the size of a disaster relief package for St. Louis from $25 million to $100 million.&nbsp;To quell any possible Freedom Caucus uprising, Kehoe allowed the inclusion of a provision in the stadium funding bill requiring most counties to put a hard cap on increases in property tax bills.&nbsp;In 75 counties, tax bills would not increase more than 5% per year from a base amount, or the rate of inflation, whichever is less. In 22 others, including Brattin’s home county of Cass and Hudson’s entire seven-county district of southwest Missouri, no increase in the basic bill would be allowed.The bill includes exceptions for newly voted levies and the additional value from improvements.&nbsp;Many of the larger counties of the state, including Boone, Greene, Jackson, St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis, were excluded from the cap provisions. Franklin, Jefferson and St. Charles counties were put under the zero percent cap.With the concessions, Kehoe stitched together a bipartisan coalition to get the stadium bill out of the Senate. There were 12 Republicans and seven Democrats voting to send it to the House on the 19-13 vote. Three of the chamber’s 10 Democrats joined 10 Republicans in opposition.&nbsp;Eigel, who fell short to Kehoe in last year’s GOP primary for governor, poured cold water on the deal, arguing residents will never see any tax relief.&nbsp;He points to language added to the bill after it cleared committee stating it is the “intent of the General Assembly” that if any piece of the legislation is eventually ruled invalid, “that provision shall be severed from the act and all remaining provisions shall be valid.”“Kehoe’s guys snuck in a clause that will allow the property tax provisions of the bill to be stripped out by courts while the billionaire stadium bailout remains whole,” Eigel said. “When conservatives missed it in the final reading after being assured by the sponsor it wasn’t in there, the disaster was complete.”A spokeswoman for the governor’s office didn’t respond to a question about the severability clause.&nbsp;Brattin keeps hearing from people who say he “sold out,” he said, but he still believes the bill that passed the Senate was a win for Missourians.&nbsp;“I just wanted to give some clarity to this,” Brattin said in his social media video. “Whether you agree or disagree, this is where my heart is on this.”This article was updated at 7:30 a.m. Monday with state Sen. Nick Schroer’s appointment as chairman and at 8 a.m. to correct the size of the tornado relief package.

Deal to pay for Chiefs, Royals stadiums fractures Mo. Freedom Caucus

KANSAS CITY—Police investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 34-year-old Earl Washington, according to KDPC Captain Jake Becchina.

Just before 10a.m. Sunday, police were called to an apartment in the 900 block of E Armour in Kansas City. Officer joined KC Fire crews on a medical cal.

The caller advised they came home and found&nbsp; a man, later identified by police as Washington, unresponsive at their apartment that had unknown injuries and they called for an ambulance.

On arrival officers were led inside an apartment unit at the location and located Washing unresponsive. EMS responded and declared the victim deceased at the scene.

Homicide detectives responded to the scene and started their investigation. Detectives canvassed for witnesses and any additional evidence. This homicide occurred in an apartment building presumably with many potential witnesses so detectives are optimistic that someone heard or saw something that will help give them some information about what led up to the victim being injured, according to Becchina. Police have not released the victim's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749429911593.png" alt="Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photos Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Police investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 34-year-old Earl Washington, according to KDPC Captain Jake Becchina.Just before 10a.m. Sunday, police were called to an apartment in the 900 block of E Armour in Kansas City. Officer joined KC Fire crews on a medical cal.The caller advised they came home and found&nbsp; a man, later identified by police as Washington, unresponsive at their apartment that had unknown injuries and they called for an ambulance.On arrival officers were led inside an apartment unit at the location and located Washing unresponsive. EMS responded and declared the victim deceased at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749429893276.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte</figcaption>
 </figure>Homicide detectives responded to the scene and started their investigation. Detectives canvassed for witnesses and any additional evidence. This homicide occurred in an apartment building presumably with many potential witnesses so detectives are optimistic that someone heard or saw something that will help give them some information about what led up to the victim being injured, according to Becchina. Police have not released the victim's name.

KCPD: Homicide victim found in apartment

KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident just before 1p.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri.

A bicyclist was traveling southbound on Topping Street at St. John Street against the one-way street, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

The bicycle struck the side of an eastbound tractor trailer. The bicyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. This is Fatality #29 compared to #46 in Kansas City, Missouri at this time last year

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749431031964.png" alt="View of the intersection where the accident occurred-Google image" />
 <figcaption>View of the intersection where the accident occurred-Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—One person died in an accident just before 1p.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri.A bicyclist was traveling southbound on Topping Street at St. John Street against the one-way street, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.The bicycle struck the side of an eastbound tractor trailer. The bicyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. This is Fatality #29 compared to #46 in Kansas City, Missouri at this time last year

KCPD: Bicyclist traveling against a one-way street dies in crash

State Finance Council allocates $45,000 to cover costs of search for missing farmer

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly and the Kansas Legislative leadership unanimously voted to release $36.2 million to provide funding necessary to implement pay raises for state employees.

The 2025 Legislature authorized $40 million for compensation adjustments under the state pay plan, but the Kansas Department of Administration said not all of that money would be needed to comply with mandated raises. The State Finance Council, which includes the governor, voted to release enough to implement the salary changes in conjunction with the new fiscal year.

“There will be a little bit of money that will go back during the next budget cycle to the state general fund,” said Adam Proffitt, secretary of the Department of Administration and the state budget director.

Meanwhile, the bipartisan State Finance Council voted Friday without objection to allocate $45,000 to the Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office to compensate emergency responders taking part in the March search for Lynn Gregory, 82, in southeast Kansas.

Gregory had been driving a tractor attached to a trailer through a low-water crossing when the farm equipment was caught in a flash flood. He was swept downstream by the current.

Marshal Mark Engholm said Kansas Search and Rescue task forces were deployed over a 14-day period in the effort to recover Gregory’s body. An Oklahoma agency with cadaver dogs was deployed because search canines weren’t available from Kansas, he said.

“It was a very difficult search because of the water level in the area,” Engholm said. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t find him.”

The state council likewise agreed to dedicate $425,000 to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to update a state database known as KEIMS or Kansas Environmental Information Management System.

Kate Gleeson, deputy director of environment at KDHE, said the online data system was designed to improve internal accessibility of regulatory records tied as well as broaden public access to the agency.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749479584317.png" alt=" Gov. Laura Kelly and bipartisan leaders of the Kansas Legislature voted to release $36.2 million to implement annual adjustments in the state employee pay plan and to compensate out-of-state agencies for helping in the March search for a man swept away in a flash flood. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from the Legislature’s YouTube channel) " />
 <figcaption> Gov. Laura Kelly and bipartisan leaders of the Kansas Legislature voted to release $36.2 million to implement annual adjustments in the state employee pay plan and to compensate out-of-state agencies for helping in the March search for a man swept away in a flash flood. (Kansas Reflector screen capture from the Legislature’s YouTube channel) </figcaption>
 </figure><h2>State Finance Council allocates $45,000 to cover costs of search for missing farmer</h2>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly and the Kansas Legislative leadership unanimously voted to release $36.2 million to provide funding necessary to implement pay raises for state employees.The 2025 Legislature authorized $40 million for compensation adjustments under the state pay plan, but the Kansas Department of Administration said not all of that money would be needed to comply with mandated raises. The State Finance Council, which includes the governor, voted to release enough to implement the salary changes in conjunction with the new fiscal year.“There will be a little bit of money that will go back during the next budget cycle to the state general fund,” said Adam Proffitt, secretary of the Department of Administration and the state budget director.Meanwhile, the bipartisan State Finance Council voted Friday without objection to allocate $45,000 to the Kansas Fire Marshal’s Office to compensate emergency responders taking part in the March search for Lynn Gregory, 82, in southeast Kansas.Gregory had been driving a tractor attached to a trailer through a low-water crossing when the farm equipment was caught in a flash flood. He was swept downstream by the current.Marshal Mark Engholm said Kansas Search and Rescue task forces were deployed over a 14-day period in the effort to recover Gregory’s body. An Oklahoma agency with cadaver dogs was deployed because search canines weren’t available from Kansas, he said.“It was a very difficult search because of the water level in the area,” Engholm said. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t find him.”The state council likewise agreed to dedicate $425,000 to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to update a state database known as KEIMS or Kansas Environmental Information Management System.Kate Gleeson, deputy director of environment at KDHE, said the online data system was designed to improve internal accessibility of regulatory records tied as well as broaden public access to the agency.

Kansas lawmakers release $36.2 million for state employee salary adjustments

CAMP CROFT, Hungary—U.S. Military officials are investigating a fatal training accident

On Thursday,&nbsp; 24-year-old Sergeant Aaron Cox from Mabank, Texas, who was serving in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division died after a training exercise near Camp Croft, Hungary, according to a media release from the U.S. Army.

&nbsp;Cox was assigned to the “Strike” 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team and was injured during a vehicle crash while preparing for the upcoming Exercise Saber Guardian 25.

The “U.S. Army Europe and Africa” said it was a rollover crash that took place during regularly scheduled training. Cox was airlifted to a nearby hospital in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries.

A second soldier with potentially serious injuries was also taken to a hospital, where he was kept overnight and determined to be stable. The remaining soldiers involved were evaluated and returned to duty.

“The loss of Sgt. Cox is a tragedy for all of us on the Strike team,” said Col. Duke Reim, a commander, 2MBCT for the 101st Airborne Division. “He was a strong Soldier and leader, who quickly rose through the ranks while serving. We are in direct contact with his family, for care and support that they need during this difficult time. We would like to thank our Hungarian Allies for their prompt response and support to our Soldiers.”

Cox joined the Army in 2021 and arrived at Fort Campbell in 2022, after completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was a graduate of the Army Basic Leader Course and the Combat Lifesaver Course. This was his second deployment; he previously deployed to Poland in 2022.

Cox had earned the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge and Air Assault Badge, according to the release.

The incident is under investigation by Hungarian authorities and the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749479880649.png" alt="Sergeant Aaron Cox courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant Aaron Cox courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>CAMP CROFT, Hungary—U.S. Military officials are investigating a fatal training accidentOn Thursday,&nbsp; 24-year-old Sergeant Aaron Cox from Mabank, Texas, who was serving in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division died after a training exercise near Camp Croft, Hungary, according to a media release from the U.S. Army.&nbsp;Cox was assigned to the “Strike” 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team and was injured during a vehicle crash while preparing for the upcoming Exercise Saber Guardian 25.The “U.S. Army Europe and Africa” said it was a rollover crash that took place during regularly scheduled training. Cox was airlifted to a nearby hospital in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries.A second soldier with potentially serious injuries was also taken to a hospital, where he was kept overnight and determined to be stable. The remaining soldiers involved were evaluated and returned to duty.“The loss of Sgt. Cox is a tragedy for all of us on the Strike team,” said Col. Duke Reim, a commander, 2MBCT for the 101st Airborne Division. “He was a strong Soldier and leader, who quickly rose through the ranks while serving. We are in direct contact with his family, for care and support that they need during this difficult time. We would like to thank our Hungarian Allies for their prompt response and support to our Soldiers.”Cox joined the Army in 2021 and arrived at Fort Campbell in 2022, after completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was a graduate of the Army Basic Leader Course and the Combat Lifesaver Course. This was his second deployment; he previously deployed to Poland in 2022.Cox had earned the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge and Air Assault Badge, according to the release.The incident is under investigation by Hungarian authorities and the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

U.S. soldier dies during military training accident in Hungary

STONE COUNTY, Mo. —Fire officials are investigating a boat explosion that critically injured a woman at Table Rock Lake.

Just after 9:30a.m. Saturday, a 74-year-old Springfield, Missouri woman had finished filling a&nbsp;1989 Carver Santego 38 foot boat at the Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake, according to the Missouri State Patrol.&nbsp; When the woman started the boat it exploded.

The woman was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. A private vehicle transported an 18-year-old girl on the vessel to a local urgent care center.

The Missouri Fire Marshall’s Office is in charge of the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749472216143.png" alt="Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake" />
 <figcaption>Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake</figcaption>
 </figure>STONE COUNTY, Mo. —Fire officials are investigating a boat explosion that critically injured a woman at Table Rock Lake.Just after 9:30a.m. Saturday, a 74-year-old Springfield, Missouri woman had finished filling a&nbsp;1989 Carver Santego 38 foot boat at the Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake, according to the Missouri State Patrol.&nbsp; When the woman started the boat it exploded.The woman was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. A private vehicle transported an 18-year-old girl on the vessel to a local urgent care center.The Missouri Fire Marshall’s Office is in charge of the investigation.

Woman critically injured after boat explosion at Table Rock Lake

Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling all lots within expiry of Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs to the consumer level, according to a statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The products are being recalled due to potential microbial contamination identified as fungi in cotton swab components. Swabs found to contain microbial contamination can potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections in users whose nasal mucosa may be compromised due to inflammation and mechanical injuries. 

The risk is highest (potentially severe or life-threatening) among children and individuals with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. To date, no serious adverse events associated with the affected product have been reported.&nbsp;

The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749464678607.png" alt="USDA image" />
 <figcaption>USDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling all lots within expiry of Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs to the consumer level, according to a statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.The products are being recalled due to potential microbial contamination identified as fungi in cotton swab components. Swabs found to contain microbial contamination can potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections in users whose nasal mucosa may be compromised due to inflammation and mechanical injuries. The risk is highest (potentially severe or life-threatening) among children and individuals with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. To date, no serious adverse events associated with the affected product have been reported.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749464659892.png" alt="USDA image" />
 <figcaption>USDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico.Recalled Product Information<ul>
 <li>Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, with UPC 732216301205, all lots:&nbsp;A zinc-free, homeopathic cold remedy swab designed to shorten the duration of the common cold.</li><li>Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, with UPC 732216301656, all lots:&nbsp;A nasal cleansing swab product (discontinued in December 2024).</li><li>Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs, with UPC 310310400002, all lots:&nbsp;Pre-moistened swabs designed to soothe teething discomfort in infants and toddlers.</li>
 </ul>What Consumers Should DoConsumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should stop using the product immediately. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.churchdwightrecall.com/">www.churchdwightrecall.com</a><a href="http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer">External Link Disclaimer</a>&nbsp;or call its Consumer Relations team at (800) 981-4710 for a full refund. Any additional questions can also be directed to its Consumer Relations team Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm ET.Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.&nbsp;Complete and submit the report&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program/reporting-serious-problems-fda">Online</a>Regular Mail or Fax:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reporting">Download form</a>&nbsp;or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.This recall is limited exclusively to Zicam and Orajel swab products. All other Zicam and Orajel products, including Zicam RapidMelts, are not affected by this recall.&nbsp;About Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc.Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of consumer household and personal care products. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.churchdwight.com/">www.churchdwight.com</a><a href="http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer">External Link Disclaimer</a>.