By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a>

WASHINGTON — States must now provide “justification” that federal child care funds they receive are spent on “legitimate” providers in order to get those dollars, President Donald Trump’s administration announced.&nbsp;

The Tuesday shift in policy came following<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/12/31/minnesota-child-care-providers-say-trumps-funding-freeze-will-shut-down-their-businesses/" target="_blank">&nbsp;allegations of fraud in Minnesota’s child care programs,&nbsp;</a>which prompted the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to freeze all child care payments to the state.&nbsp;

HHS could not offer many specifics on how the review process will play out for other states, but clarified that the money in question is provided through the multibillion-dollar federal Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF.&nbsp;

“States will be required to provide documentation, such as written justification, receipts, or photographic evidence, demonstrating that funds are supporting legitimate child care providers,” Emily Hilliard, a spokesperson for HHS, said in a statement to States Newsroom on Wednesday.&nbsp;

CCDF provides federal funding to states, territories and tribes to help low-income families obtain child care.&nbsp;

The program, administered within the Office of Child Care under HHS’ Administration for Children and Families, combines funding from the Child Care and Development Block Grant, or CCDBG, and the Child Care Entitlement to States, or CCES.&nbsp;

Funding for CCDF in&nbsp;<a href="https://acf.gov/occ/data/gy-2025-ccdf-allocations-based-appropriations" target="_blank">fiscal year 2025</a>&nbsp;stood at roughly $12.3 billion — comprising $8.75 billion from CCDBG and $3.55 billion from CCES.&nbsp;

Head Start — a separate program that provides early childhood education, nutritious meals, health screenings and other support services to low-income families — does not appear to be affected.&nbsp;

In a Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HHS_Jim/status/2006136004294664464" target="_blank">social media post</a>&nbsp;announcing the move, Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill said he had “activated our defend the spend system for all ACF payments” and “starting today, all ACF payments across America will require a justification and a receipt or photo evidence before we send money to a state.”&nbsp;

He clarified in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HHS_Jim/status/2006152183863972241" target="_blank">separate post</a>&nbsp;shortly after that “funds will be released only when states prove they are being spent legitimately.”&nbsp;

“Federal funding enables millions of parents in every state and Congressional district to access and afford quality child care,” Sarah Rittling, executive director of First Five Years Fund, a federal advocacy group, said in a Wednesday statement.&nbsp;

Rittling added that “these funds are essential to the nation’s well-being, allowing parents to work while ensuring their children are cared for and safe.”   

She also described the reports of potential fraud as “deeply concerning” and pointed out that “state oversight through regular audits is required by law to ensure that every dollar intended to protect and support young children is used properly and effectively.”&nbsp;

“At the same time, we must ensure that nothing takes away from making sure funds for child care continue to reach the children and families who depend on them,” she said.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767093694484.png" alt="DHS agents going door to door investigating fraud in Minnesota -image from Homeland Security video" />
                        <figcaption>DHS agents going door to door investigating fraud in Minnesota -image from Homeland Security video</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">Shauneen Miranda</a></p><p>WASHINGTON — States must now provide “justification” that federal child care funds they receive are spent on “legitimate” providers in order to get those dollars, President Donald Trump’s administration announced.&nbsp;</p><p>The Tuesday shift in policy came following<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2025/12/31/minnesota-child-care-providers-say-trumps-funding-freeze-will-shut-down-their-businesses/" target="_blank">&nbsp;allegations of fraud in Minnesota’s child care programs,&nbsp;</a>which prompted the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to freeze all child care payments to the state.&nbsp;</p><p>HHS could not offer many specifics on how the review process will play out for other states, but clarified that the money in question is provided through the multibillion-dollar federal Child Care and Development Fund, or CCDF.&nbsp;</p><p>“States will be required to provide documentation, such as written justification, receipts, or photographic evidence, demonstrating that funds are supporting legitimate child care providers,” Emily Hilliard, a spokesperson for HHS, said in a statement to States Newsroom on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p><p>CCDF provides federal funding to states, territories and tribes to help low-income families obtain child care.&nbsp;</p><p>The program, administered within the Office of Child Care under HHS’ Administration for Children and Families, combines funding from the Child Care and Development Block Grant, or CCDBG, and the Child Care Entitlement to States, or CCES.&nbsp;</p><p>Funding for CCDF in&nbsp;<a href="https://acf.gov/occ/data/gy-2025-ccdf-allocations-based-appropriations" target="_blank">fiscal year 2025</a>&nbsp;stood at roughly $12.3 billion — comprising $8.75 billion from CCDBG and $3.55 billion from CCES.&nbsp;</p><p>Head Start — a separate program that provides early childhood education, nutritious meals, health screenings and other support services to low-income families — does not appear to be affected.&nbsp;</p><p>In a Tuesday&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HHS_Jim/status/2006136004294664464" target="_blank">social media post</a>&nbsp;announcing the move, Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary Jim O’Neill said he had “activated our defend the spend system for all ACF payments” and “starting today, all ACF payments across America will require a justification and a receipt or photo evidence before we send money to a state.”&nbsp;</p><p>He clarified in a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/HHS_Jim/status/2006152183863972241" target="_blank">separate post</a>&nbsp;shortly after that “funds will be released only when states prove they are being spent legitimately.”&nbsp;</p><h2>Funds undergo ‘regular audits’</h2><p>“Federal funding enables millions of parents in every state and Congressional district to access and afford quality child care,” Sarah Rittling, executive director of First Five Years Fund, a federal advocacy group, said in a Wednesday statement.&nbsp;</p><p>Rittling added that “these funds are essential to the nation’s well-being, allowing parents to work while ensuring their children are cared for and safe.”   </p><p>She also described the reports of potential fraud as “deeply concerning” and pointed out that “state oversight through regular audits is required by law to ensure that every dollar intended to protect and support young children is used properly and effectively.”&nbsp;</p><p>“At the same time, we must ensure that nothing takes away from making sure funds for child care continue to reach the children and families who depend on them,” she said.&nbsp;</p>

After Minnesota fraud allegations, HHS orders states to justify child care spending

The United States successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday. Maduro along with his wife, was captured and flown out of the country, according to the White House. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement."

 Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas used his personal social media account to criticize the action.

&nbsp;Maduro arrived in the New York late Saturday, according to video released by the White House. He is expected to be arraigned in the coming days.

<p>The United States successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday. Maduro along with his wife, was captured and flown out of the country, according to the White House. "This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement."</p><p> Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas used his personal social media account to criticize the action.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A regime change war for oil. <br><br>Simple as that given the President’s own steps, pardoning a narcotrafficker.<br><br>Thousands of women and men from the Kansas City region serve our country in uniform. None should have to serve as world police in Venezuela with no US plans whatsoever.</p>&mdash; Mayor Q (@QuintonLucasKC) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintonLucasKC/status/2007511132064596211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>&nbsp;Maduro arrived in the New York late Saturday, according to video released by the White House. He is expected to be arraigned in the coming days.</p>

Kansas City mayor critical of U.S. action in Venezuela 

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday afternoon in Manhattan, Kansas.

On Jan. 3, at approximately 3:50 p.m., the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office requested KBI assistance. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to investigate, according to a media release from the agency.

Preliminary information indicates that shortly after 3 p.m., two deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a homeowner who indicated their shed and garage had been damaged by gunfire. While taking the report, deputies heard gunshots in the area. As they approached 8655 Josie Lane, they heard additional gunshots which they believed were coming from the residence. They identified themselves as law enforcement and began giving various commands to the shooter.

A man, later identified as Brian J. Lovgren, 38, of Manhattan, came out of a door of the house armed with a handgun. One of the responding deputies fired multiple times, striking Lovgren. Life-saving measures were provided at the scene. EMS then transported Lovgren to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;

Lovgren underwent surgery and is currently in critical condition. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.&nbsp;

POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Manhattan.

Just before 4p.m. Saturday Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents responded to an officer-involved shooting at a home on Josie Lane in Manhattan that is part of Pottawatomie County, according to a statement from the KBI.

 Deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office were responding to a shots fired call when a male subject was shot. The man was transported to an area hospital for treatment. No law enforcement officers were injured.

Check the Post for additional details as they become available.

<p>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday afternoon in Manhattan, Kansas.</p><p>On Jan. 3, at approximately 3:50 p.m., the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office requested KBI assistance. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to investigate, according to a media release from the agency.</p><p>Preliminary information indicates that shortly after 3 p.m., two deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call from a homeowner who indicated their shed and garage had been damaged by gunfire. While taking the report, deputies heard gunshots in the area. As they approached 8655 Josie Lane, they heard additional gunshots which they believed were coming from the residence. They identified themselves as law enforcement and began giving various commands to the shooter.</p><p>A man, later identified as Brian J. Lovgren, 38, of Manhattan, came out of a door of the house armed with a handgun. One of the responding deputies fired multiple times, striking Lovgren. Life-saving measures were provided at the scene. EMS then transported Lovgren to a Kansas City hospital.&nbsp;</p><p>Lovgren underwent surgery and is currently in critical condition. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.&nbsp;</p><p>----------</p><p>POTTAWATOMIE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Manhattan.</p><p>Just before 4p.m. Saturday Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents responded to an officer-involved shooting at a home on Josie Lane in Manhattan that is part of Pottawatomie County, according to a statement from the KBI.</p><p> Deputies from the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office were responding to a shots fired call when a male subject was shot. The man was transported to an area hospital for treatment. No law enforcement officers were injured.</p><p>Check the Post for additional details as they become available.</p>

KBI IDs Kansas man hospitalized after officer shooting 

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767463872878.png" alt="Secretary of State Marco Rubio answers questions during the Saturday press conference-image from White House video" />
                        <figcaption>Secretary of State Marco Rubio answers questions during the Saturday press conference-image from White House video</figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump Holds a Press Conference, Jan. 3, 2026 <a href="https://t.co/5ykCqSNuNa">https://t.co/5ykCqSNuNa</a></p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2007491873586250190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="qme" dir="ltr">🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/MLcLIZHRRt">pic.twitter.com/MLcLIZHRRt</a></p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2007514565303755189?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump: &quot;Late last night and early today, at my direction, the United States armed forces conducted an extraordinary military operation in the capital of Venezuela.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/qYHf5VmYOg">pic.twitter.com/qYHf5VmYOg</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007494277178310768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We&#39;re going to make sure it&#39;s run properly. We&#39;re going to rebuild the oil infrastructure... We&#39;re going to make sure the people that were forced out of Venezuela by this thug are also taken care of.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/NB6J9UJdhr">pic.twitter.com/NB6J9UJdhr</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007502600757805259?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="es" dir="ltr">WATCH: <a href="https://twitter.com/thejointstaff?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thejointstaff</a> Chairman Gen. Dan Caine details the historic operation to capture Nicolás Maduro <a href="https://t.co/sbWKHZ3mwK">pic.twitter.com/sbWKHZ3mwK</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007503096478363828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump on Venezuela: &quot;We&#39;re going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper and judicious transition.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/nUS9VSUkE7">pic.twitter.com/nUS9VSUkE7</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007494379141730753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Secretary Hegseth: &quot;Nicolás Maduro had his chance...He f&#39;ed around and he found out.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/YRKlFYR4k4">pic.twitter.com/YRKlFYR4k4</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007499109008069046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Secretary Rubio: &quot;The 47th president of the United States is not a game player. When he tells you that he’s going to do something...he means it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/eQ7EICBsrD">pic.twitter.com/eQ7EICBsrD</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007503347939508291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a>: &quot;We called members of Congress immediately after... at its core, this was an arrest of two indicted fugitives of American justice... it&#39;s just not the kind of mission that you can pre-notify because it endangers the mission.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/OD7lImhrsB">pic.twitter.com/OD7lImhrsB</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007503983401652499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on Colombian President Gustavo Petro: &quot;He&#39;s making cocaine. They&#39;re sending it into the United States — so he does have to watch his ass.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/mRqOsouW8V">https://t.co/mRqOsouW8V</a> <a href="https://t.co/aJeFDbuylk">pic.twitter.com/aJeFDbuylk</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007503466319720708?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Gen. Dan &quot;Razin&quot; Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff: &quot;This operation, known as Operation Absolute Resolve, was discreet, precise, and... the culmination of months of planning and rehearsal — an operation that, frankly, only the United States military could undertake.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/VdcL5kbu7j">pic.twitter.com/VdcL5kbu7j</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007500681394200855?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a>: &quot;Words can barely capture the bravery, and the power, and the precision of this historic operation... What all of us witnessed last night was sheer guts, and grit, gallantry and glory of the American warrior.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/SwUiWl0JNU">pic.twitter.com/SwUiWl0JNU</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007500075602227425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Other Presidents may have lacked the courage — or whatever — to defend America, but I will never allow terrorists or criminals to operate with impunity against the United States.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/CcNi7zAXw4">pic.twitter.com/CcNi7zAXw4</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007499073964966176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Venezuela unilaterally seized and stole American oil, American assets, and American platforms, costing us billions and billions of dollars... This constituted one of the largest thefts of American property in the history of our country.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/jYI7t4FKzs">pic.twitter.com/jYI7t4FKzs</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007497940495986995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;The gangs that they sent raped, tortured, and murdered American women and children... they were sent by Maduro to terrorize our people, and now, Maduro will never again be able to threaten an American citizen or anybody from Venezuela.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/23AxVuM6bj">pic.twitter.com/23AxVuM6bj</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007497186737525019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script</div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: As everyone knows, the oil business in Venezuela has been a bust for a long period of time... We&#39;re going to have our very large United States oil companies go in, spend billions of dollars, fix the badly broken infrastructure, and start making money for the country. <a href="https://t.co/XWgtcZaGLF">pic.twitter.com/XWgtcZaGLF</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007495637596553608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecRubio</a>: &quot;We called members of Congress immediately after... at its core, this was an arrest of two indicted fugitives of American justice... it&#39;s just not the kind of mission that you can pre-notify because it endangers the mission.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/OD7lImhrsB">pic.twitter.com/OD7lImhrsB</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007503983401652499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We&#39;re going to run the country until such time as we can do a safe, proper, and judicious transition.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/VkfaCbg3su">pic.twitter.com/VkfaCbg3su</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007495016751436194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I want to thank the men and women of our military... These highly trained warriors, operating in collaboration with U.S. law enforcement, caught them in a very ready position... They were completely overwhelmed and very quickly incapacitated.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/u8Lcn7UGI9">pic.twitter.com/u8Lcn7UGI9</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007494818692509854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;No nation in the world could achieve what America achieved yesterday... all Venezuelan military capacities were rendered powerless as the men and women of our military, working with U.S. law enforcement, successfully captured Maduro in the dead of night.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/a0NwP4yDQn">pic.twitter.com/a0NwP4yDQn</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007493979034571019?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;At my direction, the United States Armed Forces conducted an extraordinary military operation in the capital of Venezuela... This was one of the most stunning, effective, and powerful displays of American military might and competence in American history.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/iq1KhqF7iU">pic.twitter.com/iq1KhqF7iU</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007493496396230797?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We want to surround ourself with good neighbors. We want to surround ourself with stability. We want to surround ourself with energy... we need that for ourselves, we need that for the world—and we want to make sure we can protect it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/6qlVe6TqJo">pic.twitter.com/6qlVe6TqJo</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007505948517032072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump on Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado: &quot;It would be very tough for her to be the leader. She doesn&#39;t have the support within or the respect within the country, she&#39;s a very nice woman but she doesn&#39;t have the respect.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/zHw44QHNmc">pic.twitter.com/zHw44QHNmc</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007510868158714173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">President Trump: &quot;We&#39;re not afraid of boots on the ground.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/pSyt8sekSp">pic.twitter.com/pSyt8sekSp</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007507536656691441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥 Details on how the US captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro

PHELPS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Saturday in Phelps County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Hyundai Sonata driven by a 21-year-old Allen, Texas man was fleeing law enforcement westbound on Interstate 44 near Sugar Tree Road. The car traveled off the left side of the road, struck a cable barrier, went airborne and struck a bridge support pillar.&nbsp;

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the county coroner's office. The driver was also not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.&nbsp; The MSHP released no additional details and no longer releases names of accident victims.

<p>PHELPS COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Saturday in Phelps County.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Hyundai Sonata driven by a 21-year-old Allen, Texas man was fleeing law enforcement westbound on Interstate 44 near Sugar Tree Road. The car traveled off the left side of the road, struck a cable barrier, went airborne and struck a bridge support pillar.&nbsp;</p><p>The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the county coroner's office. The driver was also not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.&nbsp; The MSHP released no additional details and no longer releases names of accident victims.</p>

Driver killed in crash during police chase on Mo. highway

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/072d2ceeK8">pic.twitter.com/072d2ceeK8</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007381949229478015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;The United States of America has successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela and its leader, President Nicolas Maduro, who has been, along with his wife, captured and flown out of the Country. This operation was done in conjunction with U.S. Law Enforcement.… <a href="https://t.co/sFa5OC4ZrZ">pic.twitter.com/sFa5OC4ZrZ</a></p>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2007396973758816564?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1755651756653.png" alt="<br>" />
                        <figcaption><br></figcaption>
                    </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have been indicted in the Southern District of New York. Nicolas Maduro has been charged with Narco-Terrorism Conspiracy, Cocaine Importation Conspiracy, Possession of Machineguns and Destructive Devices, and Conspiracy to Possess…</p>&mdash; Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) <a href="https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/2007428087143686611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The president offered multiple off ramps, but was very clear throughout this process: the drug trafficking must stop, and the stolen oil must be returned to the United States. Maduro is the newest person to find out that President Trump means what he says. <br><br>Kudos to our brave… <a href="https://t.co/b1fqkdbB4x">pic.twitter.com/b1fqkdbB4x</a></p>&mdash; JD Vance (@JDVance) <a href="https://twitter.com/JDVance/status/2007447083909841398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro: &quot;The team did an incredible job... There&#39;s no other country on Earth that can do such a maneuver.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/sbfEyVDgUf">pic.twitter.com/sbfEyVDgUf</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2007455806631903249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

U.S. launches ‘large scale’ attack on Venezuela, captures Nicolas Maduro 

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a deadly gun fight at a home in Kansas City have identified the victim as 57-year-old&nbsp;Darian L Barnes, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Just before 11:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a shooting at a home in the 4000 Block of Arlington Avenue, according to Becchina.

FIrst responders were led inside a residence where they located 3 total shooting victims, two men and a woman.

One of the victims, later identified as Barnes, was unresponsive, the other two victims had serious injuries but were conscious. Officers ordered EMS who responded to the scene moments later. EMS declared Barnes deceased at the scene. 

EMS&nbsp; transported the surviving man and woman to the hospital for further treatment. Both of their injuries are described as critical, but they were reported to be in stable condition and continuing to recover, Becchina reported on Friday afternoon.

Homicide detectives were on scene and investigating this case as a homicide. 

Preliminary information indicates all three victims were inside the residence when an argument ensued. That interaction escalated to gunfire between one or more of the victims which led to all 3 of them being struck by gunfire.&nbsp;

All parties involved remained at the scene and detectives are not searching for any additional suspects.The exact sequence of events as well as the relationship, if any, between the victims remains under investigation.&nbsp;

Detectives are working with prosecutors to review their investigative findings for determination of applicable charges.&nbsp;

<p>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating a deadly gun fight at a home in Kansas City have identified the victim as 57-year-old&nbsp;Darian L Barnes, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.</p><p>Just before 11:30p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to a shooting at a home in the 4000 Block of Arlington Avenue, according to Becchina.</p><p>FIrst responders were led inside a residence where they located 3 total shooting victims, two men and a woman.</p><p>One of the victims, later identified as Barnes, was unresponsive, the other two victims had serious injuries but were conscious. Officers ordered EMS who responded to the scene moments later. EMS declared Barnes deceased at the scene. </p><p>EMS&nbsp; transported the surviving man and woman to the hospital for further treatment. Both of their injuries are described as critical, but they were reported to be in stable condition and continuing to recover, Becchina reported on Friday afternoon.</p><p>Homicide detectives were on scene and investigating this case as a homicide. </p><p>Preliminary information indicates all three victims were inside the residence when an argument ensued. That interaction escalated to gunfire between one or more of the victims which led to all 3 of them being struck by gunfire.&nbsp;</p><p>All parties involved remained at the scene and detectives are not searching for any additional suspects.The exact sequence of events as well as the relationship, if any, between the victims remains under investigation.&nbsp;</p><p>Detectives are working with prosecutors to review their investigative findings for determination of applicable charges.&nbsp;</p>

Police ID 57-year-old killed in gun fight at KC home

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;The State of Kansas ends December 2025 with total tax collections at $1.07 billion. That is $58.7 million, or 5.2%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 4.8% from December 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2026%2F01%2F02%2Ffile_attachments%2F3509057%2F06_December_Revenue_FY2026_01-02-2026_Final.pdf/1/0101019b8023809d-c4b4f2db-a07f-4e32-b55b-d65a025eb252-000000/R_hEyByWqIDMu86W7AOVfN-fQv60NEnipDi2R3YSuh0=438">here</a>&nbsp;to view the December 2025 revenue numbers.&nbsp;

“The new year begins with missing the December tax collection estimate by nearly $59 million. Individual income tax collections were reported down $37 million while corporate income tax continues to be significantly below 2024 levels, coming in nearly $22 million below estimate,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These numbers underscore that while recent tax returns have been positive, there is no guarantee these trends continue. We must maintain the fiscally responsible, disciplined approach to the budget I have advocated for during my seven years as governor.”&nbsp;

Individual income tax collections were $448.0 million. That is $37.0 million, or 7.6%, below the estimate. Individual income tax collections were down 0.8% from December 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $223.1 million. That is $21.9 million, or 8.9%, below the estimate, and down 19.0% from December 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $286.7 million, which is $1.7 million, or 0.6%, above the estimate, and up 0.5% from December 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;The State of Kansas ends December 2025 with total tax collections at $1.07 billion. That is $58.7 million, or 5.2%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 4.8% from December 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Click&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fcontent.govdelivery.com%2Fattachments%2FKSOG%2F2026%2F01%2F02%2Ffile_attachments%2F3509057%2F06_December_Revenue_FY2026_01-02-2026_Final.pdf/1/0101019b8023809d-c4b4f2db-a07f-4e32-b55b-d65a025eb252-000000/R_hEyByWqIDMu86W7AOVfN-fQv60NEnipDi2R3YSuh0=438">here</a>&nbsp;to view the December 2025 revenue numbers.&nbsp;</p><p>“The new year begins with missing the December tax collection estimate by nearly $59 million. Individual income tax collections were reported down $37 million while corporate income tax continues to be significantly below 2024 levels, coming in nearly $22 million below estimate,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;“These numbers underscore that while recent tax returns have been positive, there is no guarantee these trends continue. We must maintain the fiscally responsible, disciplined approach to the budget I have advocated for during my seven years as governor.”&nbsp;</p><p>Individual income tax collections were $448.0 million. That is $37.0 million, or 7.6%, below the estimate. Individual income tax collections were down 0.8% from December 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $223.1 million. That is $21.9 million, or 8.9%, below the estimate, and down 19.0% from December 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $286.7 million, which is $1.7 million, or 0.6%, above the estimate, and up 0.5% from December 2024. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Kansas December tax collections far below the estimate

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a murder on New Year's Day in Johnson County.

Just before 2a.m. Thursday, police responded to a residence in the 16900 block of Walter Street in Gardner on reports of an armed disturbance.  The caller advised the 911 operator that a man had been stabbed.&nbsp; Upon arrival, the officer contacted the occupants of the home and observed a man on the ground with serious injuries.  The victim succumbed to his injuries at the scene. A preliminary investigation has revealed that a disturbance ensued inside the home, which led to the victim being stabbed.  The victim has been  identified as Jason A. Rosado, a 28-year-old of Overland Park.

A suspect identified as 34-year-old Kavin Moreno was taken into custody on a requested charge of First Degree Murder. He is being held on a $1 million bond and is due in court on Monday, according to online jail records.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767387899429.png" alt="Moreno photo Johnson Co." />
                        <figcaption>Moreno photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a murder on New Year's Day in Johnson County.</p><p>Just before 2a.m. Thursday, police responded to a residence in the 16900 block of Walter Street in Gardner on reports of an armed disturbance.  The caller advised the 911 operator that a man had been stabbed.&nbsp; Upon arrival, the officer contacted the occupants of the home and observed a man on the ground with serious injuries.  The victim succumbed to his injuries at the scene. A preliminary investigation has revealed that a disturbance ensued inside the home, which led to the victim being stabbed.  The victim has been  identified as Jason A. Rosado, a 28-year-old of Overland Park.</p><p>A suspect identified as 34-year-old Kavin Moreno was taken into custody on a requested charge of First Degree Murder. He is being held on a $1 million bond and is due in court on Monday, according to online jail records.</p>

Man accused of fatal New Year's Day knife attack at Kansas home

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a series of burglaries on December 19, in Salina have a suspect in custody.

Police investigators developed&nbsp; information that 43-year-old Matthew Hewitt was a possible suspect, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman. On Christmas Eve officers located Hewitt at the Value Inn on 1640 W. Crawford in Salina. When officers arrived they discovered Hewitt was inside a hotel room with a woman identified as 51-year-old Mindy Burr.

Officers made announcements that Hewitt was under arrest and that all occupants needed to exit the room. However, there was no response and a Salina Police negotiator made contact with Hewitt by phone.

During the phone call, Hewitt stated he was armed and that "officers should not come inside the room if they want to make it Christmas."

Later as Hewitt started to exit the room, he failed to comply with the officer's attempt to make the arrest. A K9 was then released and it bit Hewitt.

 Hewitt was then taken into custody and transported to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment of minor injuries.

Burr was also arrested on the scene and booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Felony Interference with Law Enforcement and Harboring a Subject with a warrant.

A search warrant was then conducted inside the hotel room and a AR rifle, items taken in the burglay from the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a431e1b9-e3e6-4322-a431-f2e9e0776864">Boy Scouts of America</a>, along with several other items were recovered.&nbsp;

Hewitt was booked into jail on requested charges of Burglary, Interference with Law Enforcement, Criminal Use of a Firearm and Criminal Threat.

He also had a federal&nbsp;warrant for Probation violation for Firearms Violation that was issued by the US Marshals Service.

Hewitt is expected to face more charges as he is also a suspect connected to the burglaries in downtown Salina at the end of November.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767232524490.png" alt="Burr photo Saline County" />
                        <figcaption>Burr photo Saline County</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a series of burglaries on December 19, in Salina have a suspect in custody.</p><p>Police investigators developed&nbsp; information that 43-year-old Matthew Hewitt was a possible suspect, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman. On Christmas Eve officers located Hewitt at the Value Inn on 1640 W. Crawford in Salina. When officers arrived they discovered Hewitt was inside a hotel room with a woman identified as 51-year-old Mindy Burr.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767231782129.png" alt="Hewitt photo Saline County" />
                        <figcaption>Hewitt photo Saline County</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Officers made announcements that Hewitt was under arrest and that all occupants needed to exit the room. However, there was no response and a Salina Police negotiator made contact with Hewitt by phone.</p><p>During the phone call, Hewitt stated he was armed and that "officers should not come inside the room if they want to make it Christmas."</p><p>Later as Hewitt started to exit the room, he failed to comply with the officer's attempt to make the arrest. A K9 was then released and it bit Hewitt.</p><p> Hewitt was then taken into custody and transported to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment of minor injuries.</p><p>Burr was also arrested on the scene and booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Felony Interference with Law Enforcement and Harboring a Subject with a warrant.</p><p>A search warrant was then conducted inside the hotel room and a AR rifle, items taken in the burglay from the&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/a431e1b9-e3e6-4322-a431-f2e9e0776864">Boy Scouts of America</a>, along with several other items were recovered.&nbsp;</p><p>Hewitt was booked into jail on requested charges of Burglary, Interference with Law Enforcement, Criminal Use of a Firearm and Criminal Threat.</p><p>He also had a federal&nbsp;warrant for Probation violation for Firearms Violation that was issued by the US Marshals Service.</p><p>Hewitt is expected to face more charges as he is also a suspect connected to the burglaries in downtown Salina at the end of November.</p>

Kansas man accused of three burglaries in one day

CHARLOTTE, N.C. –&nbsp;A Mint Hill, North Caroina man that allegedly planned to use knives and hammers to execute a deadly New Year’s Eve attack at a grocery store and a fast food restaurant&nbsp;in support of the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. 

The criminal complaint was filed on December 31, 2025, and was unsealed today after Christian Sturdivant, 18, appeared in federal court in Charlotte.

James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.

“This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice remains vigilant in our pursuit of evil ISIS sympathizers — anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.”

“The accused allegedly wanted to be a soldier for ISIS and made plans to commit a violent attack on New Year’s Eve in support of that terrorist group, but the FBI and our partners put a stop to that,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “It is essential to work closely with our law enforcement partners and to quickly share information about potential threats, as demonstrated in this case. The message from the FBI is clear—anyone who supports ISIS or other terrorist groups cannot hide and will be held accountable in our justice system.”

"As alleged, Sturdivant aspired to become a ‘martyr’ for ISIS and was in the final stages of planning a mass-casualty attack on New Year’s Eve. Notes recovered from his home appear to reflect intent to harm as many people as possible and terrorize the Nation,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “We commend the extraordinary work of our partners in neutralizing this threat.”

“Americans deserve to celebrate New Year’s Eve without worrying about their personal safety,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “That is why we worked non-stop to thwart this alleged violent terrorist attack. I am proud of the work done here and thankful for the time spent by law enforcement away from their families during the holidays to ensure public safety.”

“The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people, and this case demonstrates our dedication to do everything we can to protect the residents of North Carolina. We worked closely with the Department of Justice, NYPD, Mint Hill Police Department, and our FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force partners to investigate and disrupt this serious threat of a violent attack. We will never stop working to hold people accountable who seek to harm and terrorize our community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Barnacle.

“Christian Sturdivant allegedly swore allegiance to an international terrorist organization and plotted deadly attacks in its name,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “But the New York City Police Department has a long reach, and our undercover cybersecurity investigators once again identified threats of extremist behavior and thwarted them before they could be carried out. Public safety knows no borders, and we will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue and hold accountable anyone who seeks to spread fear and violence.”

“Now more than ever, partnerships between law enforcement agencies are paramount,” said Chief Joseph Hatley of the Mint Hill Police Department. “This disruption is a testament to all involved, working as one to thwart an attack and hold accountable anyone planning such a horrific act of violence against our community.”

According to allegations in the arrest affidavit, on December 18, 2025, the FBI in Charlotte received information that an individual later identified as Sturdivant was making multiple social media posts in support of ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization. In early December 2025, Sturdivant posted an image depicting two miniature figurines of Jesus with the on-screen text that read, “May Allah curse the cross worshipers.” The post is allegedly consistent with ISIS’s rhetoric calling for the extermination of all non-believers, including Christians, Jews, and Muslims who do not agree with ISIS’s extreme ideology.

The criminal complaint alleges that on or about December 12, 2025, Sturdivant began communicating with an online covert employee, or “OC,” whom Sturdivant thought was an ISIS member. Sturdivant told the OC, “I will do jihad soon,” and proclaimed he was “a soldier of the state,” meaning ISIS. On December 14, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent an online message to the OC with an image of two hammers and a knife. This is significant because an article in the 2016 issue of ISIS’s propaganda magazine promoted the use of knives to conduct terror attacks in western countries. The same article inspired actual attacks in other countries. Later, Sturdivant told the OC that he planned to attack a specific grocery store in North Carolina. Sturdivant also told the OC about his plans to purchase a firearm to use along with the knives during the attack, according to the arrest affidavit.

In addition, on December 19, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent the OC a voice recording of Sturdivant pledging “Bayat,” a loyalty oath to ISIS.

On December 29, 2025, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Sturdivant’s residence, where they discovered handwritten documents, one of which was titled “New Years Attack 2026.” The document listed items such as a vest, mask, tactical gloves, and two knives allegedly to be used in the attack. It also described a goal of stabbing as many civilians as possible, with the total number of victims to be as high as 20 to 21. The note also included a section labeled as “martyrdom op,” that described a plan to attack police responding to the site of the attack so Sturdivant would die a martyr.

The complaints alleges that Sturdivant lived with a relative, who secured knives and hammers away so Sturdivant could not use them for harm. Yet, law enforcement seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a blue hammer, a wooden handled hammer, and two butcher knives which appeared hidden underneath the defendant’s bed. These items appear to be the same as the ones depicted in the online message Sturdivant previously sent to the OC.

Law enforcement also seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a list of targets, as well as tactical gloves and a vest, acquired as part of the defendant’s planned attack.

Sturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, Sturdivant faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.&nbsp;A federal district court judge will determine the ultimate sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the Matthews Police Department, the Monroe Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Air Marshal Service, the Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, with the assistance of the NYPD, additional FBI Field Offices, the FBI Counterterrorism Division, and the Mint Hill Police Department.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason for the Western District of North Carolina and DOJ Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

The charges against the defendant are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767391410084.png" alt="Sturdivant-Gaston County" />
                        <figcaption>Sturdivant-Gaston County</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>CHARLOTTE, N.C. –&nbsp;A Mint Hill, North Caroina man that allegedly planned to use knives and hammers to execute a deadly New Year’s Eve attack at a grocery store and a fast food restaurant&nbsp;in support of the Islamic State in Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) has been arrested and charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. </p><p>The criminal complaint was filed on December 31, 2025, and was unsealed today after Christian Sturdivant, 18, appeared in federal court in Charlotte.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FBI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FBI</a> thwarted a potential terrorist attack on New Year&#39;s Eve in North Carolina. The subject was directly inspired to act by ISIS. A federal criminal complaint alleges 18-year-old Christian Sturdivant planned a violent attack at a grocery store in Mint Hill. SAC Barnacle… <a href="https://t.co/njn7XBQTAC">pic.twitter.com/njn7XBQTAC</a></p>&mdash; FBI Charlotte (@FBICharlotte) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBICharlotte/status/2007145724538921377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Federal officials in Charlotte, NC hold a news conference on an attempted attack in the area that was thwarted by the FBI. The alleged suspect was reportedly inspired by ISIS and planned to carry out an attack on New Year&#39;s Eve in Mint Hill, NC. <a href="https://t.co/YSpplyrVjp">pic.twitter.com/YSpplyrVjp</a></p>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2007171448004063589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>James C. Barnacle, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the FBI, joins U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making the announcement.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767391817051.png" alt="Handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026”" />
                        <figcaption>Handwritten document titled “New Years Attack 2026”</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>“This successful collaboration between federal and local law enforcement saved American lives from a horrific terrorist attack on New Year’s Eve,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice remains vigilant in our pursuit of evil ISIS sympathizers — anyone plotting to commit such depraved attacks will face the full force of the law.”</p><p>“The accused allegedly wanted to be a soldier for ISIS and made plans to commit a violent attack on New Year’s Eve in support of that terrorist group, but the FBI and our partners put a stop to that,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “It is essential to work closely with our law enforcement partners and to quickly share information about potential threats, as demonstrated in this case. The message from the FBI is clear—anyone who supports ISIS or other terrorist groups cannot hide and will be held accountable in our justice system.”</p><p>"As alleged, Sturdivant aspired to become a ‘martyr’ for ISIS and was in the final stages of planning a mass-casualty attack on New Year’s Eve. Notes recovered from his home appear to reflect intent to harm as many people as possible and terrorize the Nation,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for National Security. “We commend the extraordinary work of our partners in neutralizing this threat.”</p><p>“Americans deserve to celebrate New Year’s Eve without worrying about their personal safety,” said U.S. Attorney Ferguson. “That is why we worked non-stop to thwart this alleged violent terrorist attack. I am proud of the work done here and thankful for the time spent by law enforcement away from their families during the holidays to ensure public safety.”</p><p>“The FBI’s mission is to protect the American people, and this case demonstrates our dedication to do everything we can to protect the residents of North Carolina. We worked closely with the Department of Justice, NYPD, Mint Hill Police Department, and our FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force partners to investigate and disrupt this serious threat of a violent attack. We will never stop working to hold people accountable who seek to harm and terrorize our community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Barnacle.</p><p>“Christian Sturdivant allegedly swore allegiance to an international terrorist organization and plotted deadly attacks in its name,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch. “But the New York City Police Department has a long reach, and our undercover cybersecurity investigators once again identified threats of extremist behavior and thwarted them before they could be carried out. Public safety knows no borders, and we will continue to work with all our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue and hold accountable anyone who seeks to spread fear and violence.”</p><p>“Now more than ever, partnerships between law enforcement agencies are paramount,” said Chief Joseph Hatley of the Mint Hill Police Department. “This disruption is a testament to all involved, working as one to thwart an attack and hold accountable anyone planning such a horrific act of violence against our community.”</p><p>According to allegations in the arrest affidavit, on December 18, 2025, the FBI in Charlotte received information that an individual later identified as Sturdivant was making multiple social media posts in support of ISIS, a designated foreign terrorist organization. In early December 2025, Sturdivant posted an image depicting two miniature figurines of Jesus with the on-screen text that read, “May Allah curse the cross worshipers.” The post is allegedly consistent with ISIS’s rhetoric calling for the extermination of all non-believers, including Christians, Jews, and Muslims who do not agree with ISIS’s extreme ideology.</p><p>The criminal complaint alleges that on or about December 12, 2025, Sturdivant began communicating with an online covert employee, or “OC,” whom Sturdivant thought was an ISIS member. Sturdivant told the OC, “I will do jihad soon,” and proclaimed he was “a soldier of the state,” meaning ISIS. On December 14, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent an online message to the OC with an image of two hammers and a knife. This is significant because an article in the 2016 issue of ISIS’s propaganda magazine promoted the use of knives to conduct terror attacks in western countries. The same article inspired actual attacks in other countries. Later, Sturdivant told the OC that he planned to attack a specific grocery store in North Carolina. Sturdivant also told the OC about his plans to purchase a firearm to use along with the knives during the attack, according to the arrest affidavit.</p><p>In addition, on December 19, 2025, Sturdivant allegedly sent the OC a voice recording of Sturdivant pledging “Bayat,” a loyalty oath to ISIS.</p><p>On December 29, 2025, law enforcement conducted a search warrant at Sturdivant’s residence, where they discovered handwritten documents, one of which was titled “New Years Attack 2026.” The document listed items such as a vest, mask, tactical gloves, and two knives allegedly to be used in the attack. It also described a goal of stabbing as many civilians as possible, with the total number of victims to be as high as 20 to 21. The note also included a section labeled as “martyrdom op,” that described a plan to attack police responding to the site of the attack so Sturdivant would die a martyr.</p><p>The complaints alleges that Sturdivant lived with a relative, who secured knives and hammers away so Sturdivant could not use them for harm. Yet, law enforcement seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a blue hammer, a wooden handled hammer, and two butcher knives which appeared hidden underneath the defendant’s bed. These items appear to be the same as the ones depicted in the online message Sturdivant previously sent to the OC.</p><p>Law enforcement also seized from Sturdivant’s bedroom a list of targets, as well as tactical gloves and a vest, acquired as part of the defendant’s planned attack.</p><p>Sturdivant remains in federal custody. If convicted, Sturdivant faces a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.&nbsp;A federal district court judge will determine the ultimate sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.</p><p>The investigation was conducted by the FBI Charlotte Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, the Matthews Police Department, the Monroe Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Air Marshal Service, the Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, with the assistance of the NYPD, additional FBI Field Offices, the FBI Counterterrorism Division, and the Mint Hill Police Department.</p><p>The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Gleason for the Western District of North Carolina and DOJ Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat with the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.</p><p>The charges against the defendant are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.</p>

FBI disrupted a New Year's Eve attack plan inspired by ISIS

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating human remains found in Shawnee County.

On Friday, police reported that just after 5:30p.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers responded to a report of a deceased individual in the area of NE U.S. 24 Highway and NE Calhoun Bluff Road, according to a media release. Upon arrival, officers discovered human remains.

At this time, foul play is not suspected. Police have not released the name of the deceased until official confirmation and the&nbsp;next of kin have been notified.

<p>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating human remains found in Shawnee County.</p><p>On Friday, police reported that just after 5:30p.m. Tuesday,&nbsp;officers responded to a report of a deceased individual in the area of NE U.S. 24 Highway and NE Calhoun Bluff Road, according to a media release. Upon arrival, officers discovered human remains.</p><p>At this time, foul play is not suspected. Police have not released the name of the deceased until official confirmation and the&nbsp;next of kin have been notified.</p>

Police: Human remains found in northeast Kansas

DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp; –A suspect arrested in connection with a decades old Kansas cold case involving child sex assault is now in a Kansas jail.

According to online jail records, 58-year-old David Zimbrick was booked into the Douglas County jail just after 10a.m. Wednesday.

On Tuesday, Lawrence Department in collaboration with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office announced the arrest of the alleged child sex offender whose crimes date back to 2000-2003.

Zimbrick's identification and ultimate arrest are the result of meticulous investigative work and the same science that brought in California’s “Golden State Killer” in 2018.

Monday, December 29, 2025, at the request of the Lawrence Kansas Police Department, U.S. Marshals arrested Zimbrick of Raytown, Missouri. Zimbrick was being held in Jackson County Missouri until his extradidtion to Douglas County.

Between 2000 and 2003, a series of sex crimes occurred in the Naismith Valley Park area, 1400 W. 27th Street. Reports indicate the suspect would lure children into the bushes to perform sexual assaults. The children involved were between 7 and 10 years old.

Despite unknown future technology, detectives thoroughly inspected the scene collecting any potential clues. While a distinct DNA profile was recovered, it yielded no match in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the national database of known offenders. With no further leads, the case eventually sat dormant.

In 2018, when California’s “Golden State Killer” was arrested, Detective Amy Price, who was involved in the original investigations, took note of their use of genetic genealogy. Detective Price submitted a request for funding and ultimately sent the evidence to Parbon Nanolabs. Parabon specializes in forensic genetic genealogy to solve cases where there is DNA evidence, but the offender’s identity remains unknown.

In March of 2020, Parabon notified Price that they had successfully genotyped the newly submitted DNA from one of the cases. The lengthy investigation that followed led to clues throughout the United States until the suspect was ultimately identified then located in Raytown, MO.

U.S. Marshals made the arrest without incident. Zimbrick is charged with one count of Aggravated Criminal Sodomy and one count of Rape in two cases.&nbsp;

“This arrest is a testament to the fact that time does not diminish our commitment to victims and their families,” said Lawrence Police Chief Rich Lockhart. “I am continually impressed with the dedicated professionals who work in this department and am specifically proud of Detective Amy Price, who was assigned to this case and never let time nor dead ends deter her from continuing the search. Crimes against children last a lifetime. It is my hope that this arrest provides some comfort.”

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767123596759.png" alt="Zimbrick photo Lawrence Police" />
                        <figcaption>Zimbrick photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp; –A suspect arrested in connection with a decades old Kansas cold case involving child sex assault is now in a Kansas jail.</p><p>According to online jail records, 58-year-old David Zimbrick was booked into the Douglas County jail just after 10a.m. Wednesday.</p><p>On Tuesday, Lawrence Department in collaboration with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office announced the arrest of the alleged child sex offender whose crimes date back to 2000-2003.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLawrenceKansasPolice%2Fvideos%2F1507095610346296%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=58" width="560" height="429" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>Zimbrick's identification and ultimate arrest are the result of meticulous investigative work and the same science that brought in California’s “Golden State Killer” in 2018.</p><p>Monday, December 29, 2025, at the request of the Lawrence Kansas Police Department, U.S. Marshals arrested Zimbrick of Raytown, Missouri. Zimbrick was being held in Jackson County Missouri until his extradidtion to Douglas County.</p><p>Between 2000 and 2003, a series of sex crimes occurred in the Naismith Valley Park area, 1400 W. 27th Street. Reports indicate the suspect would lure children into the bushes to perform sexual assaults. The children involved were between 7 and 10 years old.</p><p>Despite unknown future technology, detectives thoroughly inspected the scene collecting any potential clues. While a distinct DNA profile was recovered, it yielded no match in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), the national database of known offenders. With no further leads, the case eventually sat dormant.</p><p>In 2018, when California’s “Golden State Killer” was arrested, Detective Amy Price, who was involved in the original investigations, took note of their use of genetic genealogy. Detective Price submitted a request for funding and ultimately sent the evidence to Parbon Nanolabs. Parabon specializes in forensic genetic genealogy to solve cases where there is DNA evidence, but the offender’s identity remains unknown.</p><p>In March of 2020, Parabon notified Price that they had successfully genotyped the newly submitted DNA from one of the cases. The lengthy investigation that followed led to clues throughout the United States until the suspect was ultimately identified then located in Raytown, MO.</p><p>U.S. Marshals made the arrest without incident. Zimbrick is charged with one count of Aggravated Criminal Sodomy and one count of Rape in two cases.&nbsp;</p><p>“This arrest is a testament to the fact that time does not diminish our commitment to victims and their families,” said Lawrence Police Chief Rich Lockhart. “I am continually impressed with the dedicated professionals who work in this department and am specifically proud of Detective Amy Price, who was assigned to this case and never let time nor dead ends deter her from continuing the search. Crimes against children last a lifetime. It is my hope that this arrest provides some comfort.”</p>

Suspect in cold case child sex assault moved to Kansas jail

JACKSON COUNTY —A teen died in a pedestrian accident just before 9p.m. Thursday in Jackson County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Ford Bronco driven by a 27-year-old Independence, Missouri woman was westbound on Interstate 70 at Woods Chapel Road and struck a pedestrian identified as a 17-year-old Oak Grove, Missouri, boy.

Preliminary investigation reveals the teen was the driver of a vehicle being pursued by police, according to the MSHP.. The driver fled the vehicle, running across the eastbound lanes onto the westbound lanes where he struck and killed.&nbsp; The MSHP released no additional details.

<p>JACKSON COUNTY —A teen died in a pedestrian accident just before 9p.m. Thursday in Jackson County.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Ford Bronco driven by a 27-year-old Independence, Missouri woman was westbound on Interstate 70 at Woods Chapel Road and struck a pedestrian identified as a 17-year-old Oak Grove, Missouri, boy.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The roadway is back open. Next of kin has been notified. Online report is pending.</p>&mdash; MSHP Troop A (@MSHPTrooperA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MSHPTrooperA/status/2006985205698228228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Preliminary investigation reveals the teen was the driver of a vehicle being pursued by police, according to the MSHP.. The driver fled the vehicle, running across the eastbound lanes onto the westbound lanes where he struck and killed.&nbsp; The MSHP released no additional details.</p>

Teen running from Mo. police struck and killed by SUV on I-70

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident during a police chase just before 5a.m. New Year's Day in Kansas City. Missouri.

Independence police officers were pursuing a gray Ford F-250 for multiple alleged traffic violations. While traveling westbound on 9th Street approaching Benton Boulevard in Kansas City, the suspect vehicle failed to stop for a red traffic signal and collided with a blue pickup truck traveling southbound on Benton Boulevard, according to KCPD Captain Jake&nbsp; Becchina.

 The suspect vehicle also struck a silver Nissan Cube that was stopped at the traffic signal facing eastbound. 

Following the collision, the gray Ford F-250 continued and struck a parked RV on private property, becoming immobilized. The driver fled the scene on foot. It was later determined that the Ford F250 was reported stolen. The driver of the blue pickup truck sustained minor injuries. Three occupants of the silver Nissan Cube were transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. On Thursday afternoon, police reported the driver of the Nissan had died.

This incident represents the first traffic fatality this year, compared to none at this time last year.&nbsp;

<p>KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident during a police chase just before 5a.m. New Year's Day in Kansas City. Missouri.</p><p>Independence police officers were pursuing a gray Ford F-250 for multiple alleged traffic violations. While traveling westbound on 9th Street approaching Benton Boulevard in Kansas City, the suspect vehicle failed to stop for a red traffic signal and collided with a blue pickup truck traveling southbound on Benton Boulevard, according to KCPD Captain Jake&nbsp; Becchina.</p><p> The suspect vehicle also struck a silver Nissan Cube that was stopped at the traffic signal facing eastbound. </p><p>Following the collision, the gray Ford F-250 continued and struck a parked RV on private property, becoming immobilized. The driver fled the scene on foot. It was later determined that the Ford F250 was reported stolen. The driver of the blue pickup truck sustained minor injuries. Three occupants of the silver Nissan Cube were transported to a local hospital with critical injuries. On Thursday afternoon, police reported the driver of the Nissan had died.</p><p>This incident represents the first traffic fatality this year, compared to none at this time last year.&nbsp;</p>

KCPD: Driver stopped at traffic signal killed in crash with stolen pickup

KANSAS CITY—One person died in a house fire New Year's Day in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just before 7:30a.m. Thursday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire in the 3200 block of E 52nd Street, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

&nbsp;On arrival crews reported fire from the 2nd story of a 2-story home.&nbsp;Interior operations were initiated along with a search, and a victim, later confirmed as a 90-year-old man was found inside the structure.

KCPD Bomb and Arson responded to the scene and conducted an investigation due to the fatality and as a part of standard procedure.&nbsp;No other injuries were reported at this incident.&nbsp;The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767304370600.png" alt="Photos KC Fire Department" />
                        <figcaption>Photos KC Fire Department</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>KANSAS CITY—One person died in a house fire New Year's Day in Kansas City, Missouri.</p><p>Just before 7:30a.m. Thursday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire in the 3200 block of E 52nd Street, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.</p><figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767304354377.png" alt="" />
                        <figcaption></figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;On arrival crews reported fire from the 2nd story of a 2-story home.&nbsp;Interior operations were initiated along with a search, and a victim, later confirmed as a 90-year-old man was found inside the structure.</p><p>KCPD Bomb and Arson responded to the scene and conducted an investigation due to the fatality and as a part of standard procedure.&nbsp;No other injuries were reported at this incident.&nbsp;The cause of the fire remains under investigation.</p>

Body of  man found in Kansas City house fire

JEFFERSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Thursday in Jefferson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 GMC Sierra driven by Ahijah L&nbsp;Adams, 59, Topeka, was westbound on U.S. 24 just north of 5th and Phillips.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup traveled off the roadway to the left rolled and the driver was ejected.

Adams was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.

<p>JEFFERSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Thursday in Jefferson County.</p><p>The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 GMC Sierra driven by Ahijah L&nbsp;Adams, 59, Topeka, was westbound on U.S. 24 just north of 5th and Phillips.&nbsp; The driver failed to negotiate a curve. The pickup traveled off the roadway to the left rolled and the driver was ejected.</p><p>Adams was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, according to the KHP.</p>

Kansas man dies in pickup rollover accident

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement arrested a wanted burglary suspect after a traffic stop in Jackson County.

Just after 4p.m. December 29, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Chevy S10 pickup truck for an alleged traffic infraction on 150th Road near Q. Road, near Mayetta, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. 

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Jay Rell Kroulik, 46, of Cuba, Kansas. During the course of the traffic stop a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted, which resulted in the discovery of an open container, and illegal drugs.

Kroulik was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, and driving while suspended. Kroulik also had an outstanding felony warrant out of Cloud County, for burglary.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1767009352508.png" alt="Kroulik photo Jackson Co." />
                        <figcaption>Kroulik photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement arrested a wanted burglary suspect after a traffic stop in Jackson County.</p><p>Just after 4p.m. December 29, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Chevy S10 pickup truck for an alleged traffic infraction on 150th Road near Q. Road, near Mayetta, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. </p><p>The driver of the vehicle was identified as Jay Rell Kroulik, 46, of Cuba, Kansas. During the course of the traffic stop a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted, which resulted in the discovery of an open container, and illegal drugs.</p><p>Kroulik was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, and driving while suspended. Kroulik also had an outstanding felony warrant out of Cloud County, for burglary.</p>

Wanted Kan. burglary suspect captured during traffic stop

NEOSHO COUNTY—On Wednesday, the Neosho County Sheriff released additional details and a video of a video of a hit-and-run crash involving a sheriff's deputy.

On December 26,&nbsp;a Neosho County Deputy Sheriff's patrol vehicle was struck. The Deputy was legally parked, off of the roadway on a pasture access, facing east on 160th Road between Kiowa and Jackson Roads.

A west bound vehicle traveled left of center, off the roadway into the ditch. The vehicle launched the culvert and struck the Deputies patrol unit head on. 

Upon being struck, the deputy radioed in the accident and activated the emergency equipment. This causes the in-car camera system to make a recording of approx. 30 seconds before the emergency lights are activated. 

Due to the extensive damage to the patrol unit, the vehicle battery was damaged, and the patrol unit lost enough power to keep the emergency lights going and also failed to upload the video to the cloud storage. 

The video was not able to be retrieved until Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; There were some individuals who reached out and assisted with leads in the case. Investigators were able to get enough information for a search warrant in Wilson County. The vehicle from the accident was located, the suspect was interviewed and subsequently arrested. 

  Jeremy L. Borton, 48, Buffalo, Ks., was arrested on requested charges of Leaving the Scene, Failure to Report, Driving while Suspended, No Ignition Interlock Device when Required, No Liability Insurance, Aggravated Battery (Reckless). He was transported to the Neosho County Jail. Upon completion of the investigation, reports will be forwarded to the Neosho County Attorney's Office for review.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767303995377.png" alt="Photo Neosho Co. Sheriff" />
                        <figcaption>Photo Neosho Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>NEOSHO COUNTY—On Wednesday, the Neosho County Sheriff released additional details and a video of a video of a hit-and-run crash involving a sheriff's deputy.</p><p>On December 26,&nbsp;a Neosho County Deputy Sheriff's patrol vehicle was struck. The Deputy was legally parked, off of the roadway on a pasture access, facing east on 160th Road between Kiowa and Jackson Roads.</p><div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=224&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F26243040445281448%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=5" width="560" height="224" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><p>A west bound vehicle traveled left of center, off the roadway into the ditch. The vehicle launched the culvert and struck the Deputies patrol unit head on. </p><p>Upon being struck, the deputy radioed in the accident and activated the emergency equipment. This causes the in-car camera system to make a recording of approx. 30 seconds before the emergency lights are activated. </p><p>Due to the extensive damage to the patrol unit, the vehicle battery was damaged, and the patrol unit lost enough power to keep the emergency lights going and also failed to upload the video to the cloud storage. </p><p>The video was not able to be retrieved until Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp; There were some individuals who reached out and assisted with leads in the case. Investigators were able to get enough information for a search warrant in Wilson County. The vehicle from the accident was located, the suspect was interviewed and subsequently arrested. </p><p>  Jeremy L. Borton, 48, Buffalo, Ks., was arrested on requested charges of Leaving the Scene, Failure to Report, Driving while Suspended, No Ignition Interlock Device when Required, No Liability Insurance, Aggravated Battery (Reckless). He was transported to the Neosho County Jail. Upon completion of the investigation, reports will be forwarded to the Neosho County Attorney's Office for review.&nbsp;</p>

🎥Driver arrested after hit-and-run crash into Kan. deputy's vehicle

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that has left one person dead.

Just before 11p.m. New Year's Eve, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 1200 block of Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release from police.

First responders discovered a man with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit. Police have not released the name of the victim or possible suspect information.

<p>WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a shooting that has left one person dead.</p><p>Just before 11p.m. New Year's Eve, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 1200 block of Central Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas, according to a media release from police.</p><p>First responders discovered a man with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.</p><p>This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit. Police have not released the name of the victim or possible suspect information.</p>

Homicide: One victim in Kan. shooting on New Year's Eve

Washington, D.C.– On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the next phase in the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program (FBA), the eligible commodity per-acre payment rates. As announced earlier this month by President Trump and Secretary Rollins, $12 billion will be paid to American farmers in 2026. Of that amount, $11 billion consists of one-time FBA program payments. This is in response to four years of disastrous Biden administration policies that created record-high input and production costs, zero new trade deals, and a forgotten rural America.

“President Trump committed to increase certainty in the farm economy, and farmers can count on these payment rate calculations when going to the bank as they plan for the spring planting season. Putting Farmers First means delivering real relief when it matters. Farmers who qualify for the FBA Program can expect payments in their bank accounts by February 28, 2026,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net. &nbsp;USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”

Eligible Row Crop Commodities and Payment Rates:&nbsp;

Below are the payment rates for the FBA eligible commodities that triggered a payment. &nbsp;

• Barley: $20.51• Canola: $23.57• Chickpeas (Large): $26.46• Chickpeas (Small): $33.36• Corn: $44.36• Cotton: $117.35• Flax: $8.05• Lentils: $23.98• Mustard: $23.21• Oats: $81.75• Peanuts: $55.65• Peas: $19.60• Rice: $132.89• Safflower: $24.86• Sesame: $13.68• Sorghum: $48.11• Soybeans: $30.88• Sunflower: $17.32• Wheat: $39.35

Eligibility, Program Applications, and Crop Insurance Linkage&nbsp;

FBA payments are based on 2025 planted acres, Economic Research Service cost of production, and the World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimate Report. Double crop acres, including all initial and subsequently planted crops, are eligible. Prevent plant acres are not eligible.&nbsp;

All intended row crop uses are eligible for FBA except grazing, volunteer stands, experimental, green manure, crops left standing and abandoned or cover crops.&nbsp;

Crop insurance linkage is not required; however, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new risk management tools provided for in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) to best protect against future price risk and volatility. The OBBBA federal crop insurance improvements include expanding benefits for beginning farmers and ranchers, increasing coverage options, and making crop insurance more affordable.&nbsp;

Of the $12 billion being provided by the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, up to $11 billion is being directed to eligible row crop producers and the remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in assistance is reserved for specialty crops and sugar. Timelines for payments to producers of these crops are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs. Producers, including specialty crop producers and stakeholder groups, can submit questions to <a href="mailto:farmerbridge@usda.gov" target="_blank">farmerbridge@usda.gov</a>.&nbsp;

More information FBA is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/fba" target="_blank">https://www.fsa.usda.gov/fba</a>&nbsp;or you can contact your local USDA FSA county office.&nbsp;

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767278821674.png" alt="Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins in the Oval Office -image White House" />
                        <figcaption>Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins in the Oval Office -image White House</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>Washington, D.C.– On Wednesday, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced the next phase in the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program (FBA), the eligible commodity per-acre payment rates. As announced earlier this month by President Trump and Secretary Rollins, $12 billion will be paid to American farmers in 2026. Of that amount, $11 billion consists of one-time FBA program payments. This is in response to four years of disastrous Biden administration policies that created record-high input and production costs, zero new trade deals, and a forgotten rural America.</p><p>“President Trump committed to increase certainty in the farm economy, and farmers can count on these payment rate calculations when going to the bank as they plan for the spring planting season. Putting Farmers First means delivering real relief when it matters. Farmers who qualify for the FBA Program can expect payments in their bank accounts by February 28, 2026,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net. &nbsp;USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”</p><p>Eligible Row Crop Commodities and Payment Rates:&nbsp;</p><p>Below are the payment rates for the FBA eligible commodities that triggered a payment. &nbsp;</p><p>Commodity, Per Acre Payment Rates</p><p>• Barley: $20.51• Canola: $23.57• Chickpeas (Large): $26.46• Chickpeas (Small): $33.36• Corn: $44.36• Cotton: $117.35• Flax: $8.05• Lentils: $23.98• Mustard: $23.21• Oats: $81.75• Peanuts: $55.65• Peas: $19.60• Rice: $132.89• Safflower: $24.86• Sesame: $13.68• Sorghum: $48.11• Soybeans: $30.88• Sunflower: $17.32• Wheat: $39.35</p><p>Eligibility, Program Applications, and Crop Insurance Linkage&nbsp;</p><p>FBA payments are based on 2025 planted acres, Economic Research Service cost of production, and the World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimate Report. Double crop acres, including all initial and subsequently planted crops, are eligible. Prevent plant acres are not eligible.&nbsp;</p><p>All intended row crop uses are eligible for FBA except grazing, volunteer stands, experimental, green manure, crops left standing and abandoned or cover crops.&nbsp;</p><p>Crop insurance linkage is not required; however, USDA strongly urges producers to take advantage of the new risk management tools provided for in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) to best protect against future price risk and volatility. The OBBBA federal crop insurance improvements include expanding benefits for beginning farmers and ranchers, increasing coverage options, and making crop insurance more affordable.&nbsp;</p><p>Specialty Crop Assistance&nbsp;</p><p>Of the $12 billion being provided by the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, up to $11 billion is being directed to eligible row crop producers and the remaining $1 billion of the $12 billion in assistance is reserved for specialty crops and sugar. Timelines for payments to producers of these crops are still under development and require additional understanding of market impacts and economic needs. Producers, including specialty crop producers and stakeholder groups, can submit questions to <a href="mailto:farmerbridge@usda.gov" target="_blank">farmerbridge@usda.gov</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>More Information&nbsp;</p><p>More information FBA is available online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fsa.usda.gov/fba" target="_blank">https://www.fsa.usda.gov/fba</a>&nbsp;or you can contact your local USDA FSA county office.&nbsp;</p>

Farmers can now learn how much aid they will get from USDA

RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a drug bust this week.

On December 29, officers with the Hutchinson Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Hutchinson suspected of distributing illegal narcotics, according to a media release.

 During the search, an illegal clandestine lab manufacturing operation was discovered. The Kansas Bureau of Investigations Drug Task Force was requested to assist with the investigation.

As a result of the investigation, Curtis K. Chappel, 42, from Hutchinson, was arrested on requested charges including unlawful manufacturing of a controlled substance, distribution of a hallucinogenic, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of psilocybin, possession of a hallucinogenic, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and distribution of drug paraphernalia. Chappel is currently being held at the Reno County Correctional Facility without bond. 

Additionally, Jeremy W. Fundenberger, 47, Hutchinson, was arrested on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of a depressant, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Jeff A. Kennedy, 46, Hutchinson, was arrested for possession of a stolen firearm.

During the execution of the search warrant, numerous supplies and equipment used in the manufacturing of illegal narcotics were seized, including over 50 pounds of suspected Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 25 grams of methamphetamine, 50 grams of marijuana, as well as cocaine and psilocybin mushrooms.

<figure>
                        <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1767287777297.png" alt="Kennedy photo KDOC" />
                        <figcaption>Kennedy photo KDOC</figcaption>
                    </figure><p>RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a drug bust this week.</p><p>On December 29, officers with the Hutchinson Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Hutchinson suspected of distributing illegal narcotics, according to a media release.</p><p> During the search, an illegal clandestine lab manufacturing operation was discovered. The Kansas Bureau of Investigations Drug Task Force was requested to assist with the investigation.</p><p>As a result of the investigation, Curtis K. Chappel, 42, from Hutchinson, was arrested on requested charges including unlawful manufacturing of a controlled substance, distribution of a hallucinogenic, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of cocaine, possession of methamphetamine, possession of psilocybin, possession of a hallucinogenic, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and distribution of drug paraphernalia. Chappel is currently being held at the Reno County Correctional Facility without bond. </p><p>Additionally, Jeremy W. Fundenberger, 47, Hutchinson, was arrested on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of a depressant, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Jeff A. Kennedy, 46, Hutchinson, was arrested for possession of a stolen firearm.</p><p>During the execution of the search warrant, numerous supplies and equipment used in the manufacturing of illegal narcotics were seized, including over 50 pounds of suspected Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 25 grams of methamphetamine, 50 grams of marijuana, as well as cocaine and psilocybin mushrooms.</p>

Police: 3 jailed after Kansas drug lab bust

The nation’s capital&nbsp; is celebrating the transition to a new year in a historic way.

For the first time ever, the Washington Monument was&nbsp; illuminated on all four sides with a large-scale projection light show that began New Year’s Eve. The display kicked off celebrations for America’s 250th birthday.

<p>The nation’s capital&nbsp; is celebrating the transition to a new year in a historic way.</p><p>For the first time ever, the Washington Monument was&nbsp; illuminated on all four sides with a large-scale projection light show that began New Year’s Eve. The display kicked off celebrations for America’s 250th birthday.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">WATCH IN FULL: <a href="https://twitter.com/250Freedom_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@250Freedom_</a> presents &quot;The Illumination of America&quot; at the Washington Monument, celebrating 250 years of the United States of America — and looking forward to our next incredible chapter.<br><br>GOD BLESS AMERICA! 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/xe5XOzUjmC">pic.twitter.com/xe5XOzUjmC</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2006525083590803664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">NOW on the National Mall: <a href="https://twitter.com/250Freedom_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@250Freedom_</a> presents &quot;The Illumination of America,&quot; kicking off the 250th birthday year of our great country 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/uV1ndQVVgw">pic.twitter.com/uV1ndQVVgw</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2006518231264006370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;The pioneer spirit of the American People brought us across oceans, established a nation in liberty, drew us across a continent, and raised us into the clouds... We&#39;re the United States of America — there is no frontier too far, no dream too bold, no horizon beyond our reach.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/yZpsUvfPIP">pic.twitter.com/yZpsUvfPIP</a></p>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2006523469249630607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥 DC light show kicked off America's 250th birthday 

On Dec. 30, at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted kinetic strikes against three narco-trafficking vessels traveling as a convoy.

These vessels were operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and had transferred narcotics between the three vessels prior to the strikes. Three narco-terrorists aboard the first vessel were killed in the first engagement. The remaining narco-terrorists abandoned the other two vessels, jumping overboard and distancing themselves before follow-on engagements sank their respective vessels. Following the engagements, the U.S. Southern Command immediately notified the Coast Guard to activate the Search and Rescue system.

On Dec. 31, at the direction of&nbsp; Secretary Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations.

Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and engaged in narco-trafficking. A total of five narco-terrorists were killed during these actions - three in the first vessel and two in the second

<p>On Dec. 30, at the direction of Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted kinetic strikes against three narco-trafficking vessels traveling as a convoy.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On Dec. 30, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted kinetic strikes against three narco-trafficking vessels traveling as a convoy. These vessels were operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence… <a href="https://t.co/NHRNIzcrFS">pic.twitter.com/NHRNIzcrFS</a></p>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2006474817076330557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>These vessels were operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations in international waters. Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and had transferred narcotics between the three vessels prior to the strikes. Three narco-terrorists aboard the first vessel were killed in the first engagement. The remaining narco-terrorists abandoned the other two vessels, jumping overboard and distancing themselves before follow-on engagements sank their respective vessels. Following the engagements, the U.S. Southern Command immediately notified the Coast Guard to activate the Search and Rescue system.</p><p>On Dec. 31, at the direction of&nbsp; Secretary Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations.</p><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">On Dec. 31, at the direction of <a href="https://twitter.com/SecWar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecWar</a> Pete Hegseth, Joint Task Force Southern Spear conducted a lethal kinetic strike on two vessels operated by Designated Terrorist Organizations. Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and… <a href="https://t.co/4AE5u4cEff">pic.twitter.com/4AE5u4cEff</a></p>&mdash; U.S. Southern Command (@Southcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/Southcom/status/2006531145844867143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><p>Intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco-trafficking routes and engaged in narco-trafficking. A total of five narco-terrorists were killed during these actions - three in the first vessel and two in the second</p>

🎥US military strikes more drug boats killing 8 'narco-terrorists'

ST. LOUIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Tuesday in St. Louis County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Explorer driven by a 39-year-old St. Louis woman who was westbound on Interstate 70 at MO 115.

The SUV s truck a pedestrian identified as a 40-year-old Topeka, Kansas, man. Fire personnel pronounced the pedestrian deceased just before 11p.m. The SUV driver was not injured and properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

<p>ST. LOUIS COUNTY —A Kansas man died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Tuesday in St. Louis County, Missouri.</p><p>The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Ford Explorer driven by a 39-year-old St. Louis woman who was westbound on Interstate 70 at MO 115.</p><p>The SUV s truck a pedestrian identified as a 40-year-old Topeka, Kansas, man. Fire personnel pronounced the pedestrian deceased just before 11p.m. The SUV driver was not injured and properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.</p>