BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

ESU administrators remain as defendants; state Board of Regents dismissed

TOPEKA — A U.S. District Court judge rejected a motion to dismiss the entirety of a federal lawsuit filed by former Emporia State University faculty challenging their dismissal under an expedited process that allegedly undermined their constitutional rights.

Judge Julie Robinson said in a memorandum Thursday the suit against ESU administrators could continue, but she dismissed current and former members of the Kansas Board of Regents named as defendants. The judge dropped three conspiracy claims made by plaintiffs, but left intact the plaintiffs’ claims of constitutional violation of due process, liberty interests, equal protection, freedom of association and a conspiracy to deprive employees of tenure rights.

The judge affirmed one of the plaintiffs’ central claims that tenure was viewed as a property right held by faculty in the state and the 10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals had previously affirmed property interests of tenured professors in Kansas.

The determination bolstered the argument by plaintiffs — 11 former ESU tenured professors — that they were terminated in violation of the U.S. Constitution.

“The court agrees with plaintiffs that it is clearly established under 10th Circuit law that tenured university faculty have a property interest deserving of the procedural and substantive protections of the 14th Amendment,” Robinson said in the order.

Topeka attorney Phillip Grayson, who represents the 11 plaintiffs, said in a Friday interview the decision by Robinson was welcomed by his clients.

“I consider that a very favorable ruling,” Grayson said. “It’s about academic freedom. The primary purpose of tenure is the preservation of academic freedom.”

A spokeswoman for Emporia State wasn’t available to comment on the judge’s rulings in the lawsuit. It is possible ESU could appeal portions of Robinson’s decision to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals.

ESU and Board of Regents attorneys had asked the federal district court to dismiss the lawsuit based, in part, on a claim of qualified immunity. They argued there was no proof ESU professors were fired for unionizing efforts, political beliefs or advocacy work. Instead, the defendants said the terminations were reasonable because they were triggered by budget issues and enrollment declines accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Robinson said the separate legal action involving ESU and seven fired professors in state district court was insufficient to address constitutional issues raised by plaintiffs in the federal case.

“Defendants fail to demonstrate that the state courts are an adequate vehicle for the complete resolution of the issues presented by this case. The state court appeals are not parallel to this action,” Robinson said.

In 2021, the state Board of Regents formulated a policy allowing state universities to take extraordinary means to suspend, dismiss or terminate employees amid a financial emergency.

KBOR general counsel Julene Miller said the policy was in response to “extreme financial pressures that the state universities are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, decreased program and university enrollments, and the state’s declining fiscal support.”

Only ESU made use of the Framework for Workforce Management policy allowing for expedited firing of campus employees. In 2022, ESU administrators informed 33 employees, including 23 tenured professors, they would lose their jobs in 2023.

Faculty appeals were filed through the Kansas Office of Administrative Hearings, and some prevailed, but the 11 tenured professors who were dismissed pursued the lawsuit in federal court.

The American Association of University Professors denounced the employment decisions by ESU President Ken Hush as damaging to academic freedom and to due process rights of tenured faculty.

In wake of the faculty and staff dismissals, ESU administrators awarded more than $137,000 in bonuses to 68 faculty members remaining at the university.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733600732643.png" alt=" A U.S. District Court judge said in a ruling that Emporia State University Ken Hush, second from right, would remain a defendant in a lawsuit filed by 11 former tenured professors at ESU challenging their dismissal under a unique program authorized by the Kansas Board fo Regents to help universities deal with enrollment and budget problems tied to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> A U.S. District Court judge said in a ruling that Emporia State University Ken Hush, second from right, would remain a defendant in a lawsuit filed by 11 former tenured professors at ESU challenging their dismissal under a unique program authorized by the Kansas Board fo Regents to help universities deal with enrollment and budget problems tied to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/tim-carpenter/">TIM CARPENTER</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a><h2>ESU administrators remain as defendants; state Board of Regents dismissed</h2>TOPEKA — A U.S. District Court judge rejected a motion to dismiss the entirety of a federal lawsuit filed by former Emporia State University faculty challenging their dismissal under an expedited process that allegedly undermined their constitutional rights.Judge Julie Robinson said in a memorandum Thursday the suit against ESU administrators could continue, but she dismissed current and former members of the Kansas Board of Regents named as defendants. The judge dropped three conspiracy claims made by plaintiffs, but left intact the plaintiffs’ claims of constitutional violation of due process, liberty interests, equal protection, freedom of association and a conspiracy to deprive employees of tenure rights.The judge affirmed one of the plaintiffs’ central claims that tenure was viewed as a property right held by faculty in the state and the 10th Circuit of the U.S. Court of Appeals had previously affirmed property interests of tenured professors in Kansas.The determination bolstered the argument by plaintiffs — 11 former ESU tenured professors — that they were terminated in violation of the U.S. Constitution.“The court agrees with plaintiffs that it is clearly established under 10th Circuit law that tenured university faculty have a property interest deserving of the procedural and substantive protections of the 14th Amendment,” Robinson said in the order.Topeka attorney Phillip Grayson, who represents the 11 plaintiffs, said in a Friday interview the decision by Robinson was welcomed by his clients.“I consider that a very favorable ruling,” Grayson said. “It’s about academic freedom. The primary purpose of tenure is the preservation of academic freedom.”A spokeswoman for Emporia State wasn’t available to comment on the judge’s rulings in the lawsuit. It is possible ESU could appeal portions of Robinson’s decision to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals.ESU and Board of Regents attorneys had asked the federal district court to dismiss the lawsuit based, in part, on a claim of qualified immunity. They argued there was no proof ESU professors were fired for unionizing efforts, political beliefs or advocacy work. Instead, the defendants said the terminations were reasonable because they were triggered by budget issues and enrollment declines accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic.Robinson said the separate legal action involving ESU and seven fired professors in state district court was insufficient to address constitutional issues raised by plaintiffs in the federal case.“Defendants fail to demonstrate that the state courts are an adequate vehicle for the complete resolution of the issues presented by this case. The state court appeals are not parallel to this action,” Robinson said.In 2021, the state Board of Regents formulated a policy allowing state universities to take extraordinary means to suspend, dismiss or terminate employees amid a financial emergency.KBOR general counsel Julene Miller said the policy was in response to “extreme financial pressures that the state universities are facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, decreased program and university enrollments, and the state’s declining fiscal support.”Only ESU made use of the Framework for Workforce Management policy allowing for expedited firing of campus employees. In 2022, ESU administrators informed 33 employees, including 23 tenured professors, they would lose their jobs in 2023.Faculty appeals were filed through the Kansas Office of Administrative Hearings, and some prevailed, but the 11 tenured professors who were dismissed pursued the lawsuit in federal court.The American Association of University Professors denounced the employment decisions by ESU President Ken Hush as damaging to academic freedom and to due process rights of tenured faculty.In wake of the faculty and staff dismissals, ESU administrators awarded more than $137,000 in bonuses to 68 faculty members remaining at the university.

Judge allows lawsuit by fired Emporia State tenured faculty to proceed

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of motel fire in Kansas City.

Just before 11:30a.m. Friday, crews responded to a reported fire in a motel located at 6300 Blue Parkway, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported smoke and fire showing from a single unit on arrival.&nbsp; Searches of the structure came back all clear. The fire was quickly brought under control limiting the damage to a few units. No injuries were reported at this incident. Authorities did not release a damage estimate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733521109045.png" alt="Photo KCFD" />
 <figcaption>Photo KCFD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of motel fire in Kansas City.Just before 11:30a.m. Friday, crews responded to a reported fire in a motel located at 6300 Blue Parkway, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Crews reported smoke and fire showing from a single unit on arrival.&nbsp; Searches of the structure came back all clear. The fire was quickly brought under control limiting the damage to a few units. No injuries were reported at this incident. Authorities did not release a damage estimate.

Cause of Kansas City motel fire under investigation

DOUGLAS COUNTY — Two people died after an incident that began Thursday night at a residence south of Eudora and involved a standoff with law enforcement for several hours. 

According to preliminary information, the 52-year-old male suspect shot and killed a&nbsp; 44-year-old woman at the residence in the 900 block of E 2300 Road, according to sheriff's department spokesman George Diepenbrock.

The incident involved two people in a domestic relationship, and law enforcement later found the man dead inside the residence.

Just before 9p.m. Thursday, Sheriff's office dispatchers were called about a woman in distress. Dispatchers reported the woman caller was difficult to hear. 

A Eudora Police Department officer responded initially and heard a gunshot when he reached the front door. Law enforcement officers were able to establish phone contact with the man inside who was overtly hostile and threatening to shoot law enforcement officers, as he barricaded himself into the home.

The Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Lawrence Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol utilized drones and other technology to gain access into the residence. 

The tools did allow officers to determine the woman was deceased. After several hours of phone communication, law enforcement lost contact with the suspect, and they continued to use technological tools to try to re-establish contact with him or identify his status inside the house to take him into custody on an arrest warrant. 

Sheriff Armbrister said as part of the investigation there were concerns about a possible threat of explosives inside the residence, which was part of the reason why officers acted methodically over several hours

.Just before 4:30 p.m. Friday the Kansas Highway Patrol made entry into the residence and found the suspect deceased.

Detectives and investigators processed the scene Friday evening. Names of the suspect and victim have not been released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733843022887.png" alt="View of the standoff location in Douglas County-photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>View of the standoff location in Douglas County-photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY — Two people died after an incident that began Thursday night at a residence south of Eudora and involved a standoff with law enforcement for several hours. According to preliminary information, the 52-year-old male suspect shot and killed a&nbsp; 44-year-old woman at the residence in the 900 block of E 2300 Road, according to sheriff's department spokesman George Diepenbrock.The incident involved two people in a domestic relationship, and law enforcement later found the man dead inside the residence.Just before 9p.m. Thursday, Sheriff's office dispatchers were called about a woman in distress. Dispatchers reported the woman caller was difficult to hear. A Eudora Police Department officer responded initially and heard a gunshot when he reached the front door. Law enforcement officers were able to establish phone contact with the man inside who was overtly hostile and threatening to shoot law enforcement officers, as he barricaded himself into the home.The Sheriff’s Office with the assistance of the Lawrence Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol utilized drones and other technology to gain access into the residence. The tools did allow officers to determine the woman was deceased. After several hours of phone communication, law enforcement lost contact with the suspect, and they continued to use technological tools to try to re-establish contact with him or identify his status inside the house to take him into custody on an arrest warrant. Sheriff Armbrister said as part of the investigation there were concerns about a possible threat of explosives inside the residence, which was part of the reason why officers acted methodically over several hours.Just before 4:30 p.m. Friday the Kansas Highway Patrol made entry into the residence and found the suspect deceased.Detectives and investigators processed the scene Friday evening. Names of the suspect and victim have not been released.

Sheriff: 2 dead after 20-hour standoff at rural Kansas home

COWLEY COUNTY —Police arrested a driver after an early morning crash in Cowley County.

Just before 3:30a.m.&nbsp; Friday,&nbsp;Arkansas City Police Department officers were dispatched to a crash in the 1400 block of North Summit Street in Arkansas City, according to a media release.

Officers located a pickup truck that had left the roadway and struck a utility pole. The vehicle towed a small boat and sustained significant damage, as did the utility pole.

The driver, identified as Jeffrey Scott Brown, 65, of Moberly, Missouri., was walking near the scene when officers arrived.

The Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department responded to assist with securing the area due to safety concerns from the damaged utility pole and vehicle.

Following an investigation, police arrested Brown on requested charges of Driving Under the Influence and Transporting an Open Container. He was transported to the Cowley County Jail, where he is being held on a $750 bond.

Evergy was notified of the damage, and crews have temporarily secured the pole.&nbsp; It will be replaced on Monday, according to the police department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733513704610.png" alt="Brown photo Cowley Co." />
 <figcaption>Brown photo Cowley Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Police arrested a driver after an early morning crash in Cowley County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733505325772.png" alt="-Photos Arkansas City Police" />
 <figcaption>-Photos Arkansas City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 3:30a.m.&nbsp; Friday,&nbsp;Arkansas City Police Department officers were dispatched to a crash in the 1400 block of North Summit Street in Arkansas City, according to a media release.Officers located a pickup truck that had left the roadway and struck a utility pole. The vehicle towed a small boat and sustained significant damage, as did the utility pole.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733505293855.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, identified as Jeffrey Scott Brown, 65, of Moberly, Missouri., was walking near the scene when officers arrived.The Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department responded to assist with securing the area due to safety concerns from the damaged utility pole and vehicle.Following an investigation, police arrested Brown on requested charges of Driving Under the Influence and Transporting an Open Container. He was transported to the Cowley County Jail, where he is being held on a $750 bond.Evergy was notified of the damage, and crews have temporarily secured the pole.&nbsp; It will be replaced on Monday, according to the police department.

Mo. driver towing a boat accused of DUI after crash in Kansas

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.

Just before 4a.m. Friday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire near 110th and N. Lewis, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported heavy fire on arrival and initiated interior operations using two handlines. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to evacuate prior to KCFD arrival. No injuries were reported at this incident. 

Red Cross was ordered for 2 adults and 2 pets. Authorities have not released a damage estimate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733505932292.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a house fire in Kansas City.Just before 4a.m. Friday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported house fire near 110th and N. Lewis, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Crews reported heavy fire on arrival and initiated interior operations using two handlines. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to evacuate prior to KCFD arrival. No injuries were reported at this incident. Red Cross was ordered for 2 adults and 2 pets. Authorities have not released a damage estimate.

2 adults, 2 pets escape house fire in Kansas City

Missouri’s Amendment 3 legalizing abortion went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday. But Planned Parenthood officials said they will not restart abortions until after a judge rules on their lawsuit hoping to strike down the state’s restrictive laws

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

It’s been more than twelve hours since Amendment 3 went into effect in Missouri. No abortions have begun again at the state’s Planned Parenthood clinics.

That’s because officials with Planned Parenthood, which operates health centers across the state, said they are still&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/05/abortion-lawsuit-planned-parenthood-amendment-3-missouri-jackson-county/">waiting on a judge’s decision</a>&nbsp;on whether to grant an injunction that would allow abortions without decades’ worth of restrictive targeted regulations on abortion providers, or TRAP, laws.&nbsp;

The day after voters narrowly decided to overturn the state’s near-total abortion ban and protect the right to an abortion in the state constitution, the ACLU of Missouri, Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">sued the state to strike down those statutes.</a>

Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang on Wednesday heard arguments in the lawsuit. As of 2 p.m. Friday, she had not issued a decision.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood officials on Wednesday said they intended to start taking walk-in medication abortion appointments at their clinics in Kansas City, Columbia and St. Louis as early as Friday if the judge ruled in their favor. Surgical abortion appointments would become available later.&nbsp;

Spokespeople with the local Planned Parenthood clinics told the Missouri Independent midday Friday that the clinics had not started walk-in abortion medication appointments nor had they started scheduling surgical abortions as they await a ruling.

While the lawsuit asks for a preliminary injunction, issuing one is up to Zhang’s discretion. Court challenges can take months, if not years. In Ohio, where citizens voted to protect abortion rights last year, it wasn’t until nearly a year later that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-abortion-ban-ruling-e83ad0f1af11ded06d73d900bb240a04" target="_blank">a county judge struck down that state’s “heartbeat” law.</a>

“The court is no doubt carefully analyzing years of anti-abortion laws and multiple outright bans on abortion. We know that review takes time,” Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said in a statement Friday. “Complicating the process, however, is an Attorney General’s office that has made clear it will fight tooth and nail to prevent Missourians from accessing their new constitutional right to reproductive freedom.&nbsp;

Amendment 3 states&nbsp;“the right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, interfered with, delayed, or otherwise restricted unless the government demonstrates that such action is justifiable by a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”&nbsp;

Wednesday’s hearing in-part centered around whether the state’s TRAP laws helped or harmed women seeking abortions.

These laws include a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and an abortion; requiring doctors providing abortions to have hospital admitting privileges; and a&nbsp;requirement that the same physician who initially saw the patient also perform the abortion.&nbsp;

Attorneys with Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office maintain the regulations protect women and said the office plans to enforce the current TRAP laws until a judge rules otherwise.

“It’s sick that Planned Parenthood doesn’t acknowledge the difference between a miscarriage and an abortion, a slap in the face to the millions who have lost beloved babies prematurely,” Madeline Sieren, the spokeswoman for Bailey, said in a statement Friday, adding that the office will “continue to thwart Planned Parenthood at every opportunity.”

On Thursday, members of 40 Days For Life gathered outside five Planned Parenthood clinics across the state to pray that the judge deny the injunction “for&nbsp;the health&nbsp;and&nbsp;safety&nbsp;of&nbsp;women seeking abortions.”

“I am just happy the judge is taking time to consider this and not just rushing into a judgement,” Kathy Forck, with 40 Days for Life in Columbia, said Friday afternoon.

If Zhang rules in Planned Parenthood’s favor, the Columbia clinic would begin offering abortions again for the first time in six years.

“Now that the possibility is there that it could happen again, we are trusting in God,” Forck said. “We have continued to receive advanced training for sidewalk counseling through these six years, and we are ready to offer that same message of hope and health that we’ve always offered to the women.”

A decade ago, more than 5,000 abortions were performed in Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. By 2020, when abortions were still legal, that number fell to 167, a drop that abortion providers attributed to the state’s growing list of regulations.

“As of today, Missourians have an unrealized constitutional right,” Wales said. “They are entitled to access abortion under the state’s constitution, and every day they cannot get that care here at home, their rights are being violated.”

Zhang on Wednesday denied&nbsp;the state’s request to remove Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker as a defendant and move the case to Cole County, where, earlier this year, a judge&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/20/missouri-supreme-court-opinions-amendment-3-abortion/">struck Amendment 3 from the ballot</a>. That decision swas soon overridden by the Missouri Court of Appeals.

The attorney general’s office said they plan to appeal this decision, arguing that Peters Baker does not appropriately represent all statewide prosecutors because of her previous statements in support of abortion rights.

<h2>Missouri’s Amendment 3 legalizing abortion went into effect at 12:01 a.m. Friday. But Planned Parenthood officials said they will not restart abortions until after a judge rules on their lawsuit hoping to strike down the state’s restrictive laws</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">ANNA SPOERRE</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>It’s been more than twelve hours since Amendment 3 went into effect in Missouri. No abortions have begun again at the state’s Planned Parenthood clinics.That’s because officials with Planned Parenthood, which operates health centers across the state, said they are still&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/05/abortion-lawsuit-planned-parenthood-amendment-3-missouri-jackson-county/">waiting on a judge’s decision</a>&nbsp;on whether to grant an injunction that would allow abortions without decades’ worth of restrictive targeted regulations on abortion providers, or TRAP, laws.&nbsp;The day after voters narrowly decided to overturn the state’s near-total abortion ban and protect the right to an abortion in the state constitution, the ACLU of Missouri, Planned Parenthood Great Plains and Planned Parenthood Great Rivers&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">sued the state to strike down those statutes.</a>Jackson County Judge Jerri Zhang on Wednesday heard arguments in the lawsuit. As of 2 p.m. Friday, she had not issued a decision.&nbsp;Planned Parenthood officials on Wednesday said they intended to start taking walk-in medication abortion appointments at their clinics in Kansas City, Columbia and St. Louis as early as Friday if the judge ruled in their favor. Surgical abortion appointments would become available later.&nbsp;Spokespeople with the local Planned Parenthood clinics told the Missouri Independent midday Friday that the clinics had not started walk-in abortion medication appointments nor had they started scheduling surgical abortions as they await a ruling.While the lawsuit asks for a preliminary injunction, issuing one is up to Zhang’s discretion. Court challenges can take months, if not years. In Ohio, where citizens voted to protect abortion rights last year, it wasn’t until nearly a year later that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ohio-abortion-ban-ruling-e83ad0f1af11ded06d73d900bb240a04" target="_blank">a county judge struck down that state’s “heartbeat” law.</a>“The court is no doubt carefully analyzing years of anti-abortion laws and multiple outright bans on abortion. We know that review takes time,” Emily Wales, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Great Plains, said in a statement Friday. “Complicating the process, however, is an Attorney General’s office that has made clear it will fight tooth and nail to prevent Missourians from accessing their new constitutional right to reproductive freedom.&nbsp;Amendment 3 states&nbsp;“the right to reproductive freedom shall not be denied, interfered with, delayed, or otherwise restricted unless the government demonstrates that such action is justifiable by a compelling governmental interest achieved by the least restrictive means.”&nbsp;Wednesday’s hearing in-part centered around whether the state’s TRAP laws helped or harmed women seeking abortions.These laws include a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and an abortion; requiring doctors providing abortions to have hospital admitting privileges; and a&nbsp;requirement that the same physician who initially saw the patient also perform the abortion.&nbsp;Attorneys with Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey’s office maintain the regulations protect women and said the office plans to enforce the current TRAP laws until a judge rules otherwise.“It’s sick that Planned Parenthood doesn’t acknowledge the difference between a miscarriage and an abortion, a slap in the face to the millions who have lost beloved babies prematurely,” Madeline Sieren, the spokeswoman for Bailey, said in a statement Friday, adding that the office will “continue to thwart Planned Parenthood at every opportunity.”On Thursday, members of 40 Days For Life gathered outside five Planned Parenthood clinics across the state to pray that the judge deny the injunction “for&nbsp;the health&nbsp;and&nbsp;safety&nbsp;of&nbsp;women seeking abortions.”“I am just happy the judge is taking time to consider this and not just rushing into a judgement,” Kathy Forck, with 40 Days for Life in Columbia, said Friday afternoon.If Zhang rules in Planned Parenthood’s favor, the Columbia clinic would begin offering abortions again for the first time in six years.“Now that the possibility is there that it could happen again, we are trusting in God,” Forck said. “We have continued to receive advanced training for sidewalk counseling through these six years, and we are ready to offer that same message of hope and health that we’ve always offered to the women.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733517737335.png" alt=" Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, anti-abortion activist Kathy Forck and Thomas More Society attorney Mary Catherine Martin stand Sept. 10 on the steps of the Missouri Supreme Court following oral arguments in a case involving Missouri’s abortion-rights amendment (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, anti-abortion activist Kathy Forck and Thomas More Society attorney Mary Catherine Martin stand Sept. 10 on the steps of the Missouri Supreme Court following oral arguments in a case involving Missouri’s abortion-rights amendment (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>A decade ago, more than 5,000 abortions were performed in Missouri, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. By 2020, when abortions were still legal, that number fell to 167, a drop that abortion providers attributed to the state’s growing list of regulations.“As of today, Missourians have an unrealized constitutional right,” Wales said. “They are entitled to access abortion under the state’s constitution, and every day they cannot get that care here at home, their rights are being violated.”Zhang on Wednesday denied&nbsp;the state’s request to remove Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker as a defendant and move the case to Cole County, where, earlier this year, a judge&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/09/20/missouri-supreme-court-opinions-amendment-3-abortion/">struck Amendment 3 from the ballot</a>. That decision swas soon overridden by the Missouri Court of Appeals.The attorney general’s office said they plan to appeal this decision, arguing that Peters Baker does not appropriately represent all statewide prosecutors because of her previous statements in support of abortion rights.

Mo. Planned Parenthood clinics hold off resuming abortions, await court ruling

RICE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Friday in Rice County.&nbsp;

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Element driven by Gabriel Herron, 26, Kansas City, Kansas was westbound on U.S. 56 near Just east of 28th Road.

The SUV traveled off the road the right and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle returned to the road, traveled back into the ditch and rolled. Herron was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Birzer Funeral home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

RICE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 6:30a.m. Friday in Rice County.&nbsp;The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2005 Honda Element driven by Gabriel Herron, 26, Kansas City, Kansas was westbound on U.S. 56 near Just east of 28th Road.The SUV traveled off the road the right and the driver overcorrected. The vehicle returned to the road, traveled back into the ditch and rolled. Herron was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Birzer Funeral home. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after SUV rollover accident

JOHNSON COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at an apartment complex under construct in Olathe.

Just after 4a.m. fire crews from Olathe, Lenexa and the city of Shawnee responded to the fire at 275 S Parker, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.&nbsp;When the call came in, fire was seen from over four miles away.

The was a partial building collapse.&nbsp;It took around two hours to get the fire under control. Firefighters wore working on the hot spots. There were injuries reported.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733487921624.png" alt="Photos Olathe Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Olathe Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at an apartment complex under construct in Olathe.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733500334457.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 4a.m. fire crews from Olathe, Lenexa and the city of Shawnee responded to the fire at 275 S Parker, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.&nbsp;When the call came in, fire was seen from over four miles away.The was a partial building collapse.&nbsp;It took around two hours to get the fire under control. Firefighters wore working on the hot spots. There were injuries reported.&nbsp;

Kan. apartment building fire observed from miles away

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.

Just after 5p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 8700 block of Blue Ridge Boulevard, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

First responders immediately began to canvas for a victim. There were several people in the area summoning officers to a nearby vehicle, where an adult male victim was reportedly shot. 

Officers located the victim unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS responded shortly after and pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.

Police do not have a person of interest identified or anyone in custody at this time.

Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to collect any evidence and gather witness statements. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shooting. The name of the victim has not been released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733484217063.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating another homicide in Kansas City.Just after 5p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 8700 block of Blue Ridge Boulevard, according to KCPD&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.First responders immediately began to canvas for a victim. There were several people in the area summoning officers to a nearby vehicle, where an adult male victim was reportedly shot. Officers located the victim unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot trauma. EMS responded shortly after and pronounced the victim deceased at the scene.Police do not have a person of interest identified or anyone in custody at this time.Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to collect any evidence and gather witness statements. Detectives are working to determine what led up to the shooting. The name of the victim has not been released.

KCPD: Man found with gunshot wound in vehicle

MIAMI COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County have identified the victim as a 15-year-old from Olathe, according to the Miami County Sheriff's office.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, the Miami County Sheriff's office received a 911 call requesting an ambulance for a death, according to a media release.

The caller indicated a juvenile had been injured inside a residence. First responders discovered the juvenile deceased inside the home.&nbsp; EMS transported a second juvenile, a 16-year-old Spring Hill boy, to the local hospital as a precautionary measure.

As the investigation unfolded, the death was deemed suspicious prompting the involvement of additional recourses. The sheriff's office reviewed the scene and a search warrant was executed at the home. The Johnson County Sheriff's office crime scene unit also assisted.

During the investigation, the 16-year-old at the hospital was taken into custody and later transported to the juvenile detention facility. Both juveniles were students in the Spring Hill USD 230&nbsp; and are not related.

Authorities have not released details on the cause of death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733398221816.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County have identified the victim as a 15-year-old from Olathe, according to the Miami County Sheriff's office.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, the Miami County Sheriff's office received a 911 call requesting an ambulance for a death, according to a media release.The caller indicated a juvenile had been injured inside a residence. First responders discovered the juvenile deceased inside the home.&nbsp; EMS transported a second juvenile, a 16-year-old Spring Hill boy, to the local hospital as a precautionary measure.As the investigation unfolded, the death was deemed suspicious prompting the involvement of additional recourses. The sheriff's office reviewed the scene and a search warrant was executed at the home. The Johnson County Sheriff's office crime scene unit also assisted.During the investigation, the 16-year-old at the hospital was taken into custody and later transported to the juvenile detention facility. Both juveniles were students in the Spring Hill USD 230&nbsp; and are not related.Authorities have not released details on the cause of death.

Rural Kan. homicide: 15-year-old victim, 16-year-old in custody

KANSAS CITY —One person injured in a November 21 three-vehicle crash in Kansas&nbsp; City has&nbsp; died, according to the Jackson County Medical Examiner's office.

Just before 8:30a.m. Nov. 21, a Volkswagen and a Volvo were southbound on Troost Avenue near East 83rd Street, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp;

A Chevrolet Malibu was facing east on East 83rd Street. The driver of the Chevrolet pulled out in front of the Volvo and Volkswagen. Both of those vehicles struck the Chevrolet in the left side.

EMS transported the rear passenger in the Chevrolet to an area hospital with critical injuries. He was pronounced dead just after 1:30p.m. Thursday from injuries&nbsp; in the crash. Police did not know if he was wearing his seatbelt.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY —One person injured in a November 21 three-vehicle crash in Kansas&nbsp; City has&nbsp; died, according to the Jackson County Medical Examiner's office.Just before 8:30a.m. Nov. 21, a Volkswagen and a Volvo were southbound on Troost Avenue near East 83rd Street, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.&nbsp;A Chevrolet Malibu was facing east on East 83rd Street. The driver of the Chevrolet pulled out in front of the Volvo and Volkswagen. Both of those vehicles struck the Chevrolet in the left side.EMS transported the rear passenger in the Chevrolet to an area hospital with critical injuries. He was pronounced dead just after 1:30p.m. Thursday from injuries&nbsp; in the crash. Police did not know if he was wearing his seatbelt.&nbsp;

KCPD: Man dies two weeks after 3-vehicle crash

JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters battled a well-involved garage fire&nbsp;in Olathe on Wednesday. Crews responded just before 6p.m.

The blaze caused extensive damage to the home and two vehicles parked in the driveway. Thankfully, no injuries. A family of four is displaced. Investigators are working on a cause.

Fire officials reminded the public to "check your home smoke alarms by pressing the test button. Replace any alarm that is 10 years of age or older."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733397790498.jpeg" alt="Photos Olathe Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Olathe Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters battled a well-involved garage fire&nbsp;in Olathe on Wednesday. Crews responded just before 6p.m.The blaze caused extensive damage to the home and two vehicles parked in the driveway. Thankfully, no injuries. A family of four is displaced. Investigators are working on a cause.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733397853229.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fire officials reminded the public to "check your home smoke alarms by pressing the test button. Replace any alarm that is 10 years of age or older."

Family displaced after fire at Kansas home

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on drug alegations.

Just after 12:30a.m. December 2, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Hyundai Sonata near 150th&nbsp;and Q. Roads, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 During the traffic stop, the deputy observed inside the vehicle what appeared to be LSD.&nbsp;

The driver, 28-year-old Ryan Michelle Laiku Schommer of Iola allegedly resisted arrest with a brief struggle. Deputies arrested and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, battery on a law enforcement officer and interference with law enforcement and driving while suspended.

The passenger, Jeffrey Scott Wilson, 35, of Grove, Oklahoma, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733179106675.png" alt="Wilson photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on drug alegations.Just after 12:30a.m. December 2, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2010 Hyundai Sonata near 150th&nbsp;and Q. Roads, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733179066160.png" alt="Schommer-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Schommer-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> During the traffic stop, the deputy observed inside the vehicle what appeared to be LSD.&nbsp;The driver, 28-year-old Ryan Michelle Laiku Schommer of Iola allegedly resisted arrest with a brief struggle. Deputies arrested and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, battery on a law enforcement officer and interference with law enforcement and driving while suspended.The passenger, Jeffrey Scott Wilson, 35, of Grove, Oklahoma, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of LSD, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Kansas woman caught with LSD resisted arrest

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause a fire at a home in Kansas City.

Just after 2p.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a reported fire in a single-story duplex located in the 3800 block of NW. 93rd street in Kanas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins

First responders reported heavy fire and smoke coming from the garage of the structure.&nbsp; Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to self-evacuate prior to KCFD arrival.

Crews quickly were able to get the fire under control, and contain the fire to the one unit. No injuries were reported at this incident. Red Cross was ordered for two adults and three children.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733348902226.png" alt="Photo KC Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo KC Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause a fire at a home in Kansas City.Just after 2p.m. Wednesday, crews responded to a reported fire in a single-story duplex located in the 3800 block of NW. 93rd street in Kanas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael HopkinsFirst responders reported heavy fire and smoke coming from the garage of the structure.&nbsp; Searches of the structure came back all clear. The occupants were able to self-evacuate prior to KCFD arrival.Crews quickly were able to get the fire under control, and contain the fire to the one unit. No injuries were reported at this incident. Red Cross was ordered for two adults and three children.

2 adults, 3 children escape duplex fire in Kansas City

KINGMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement are&nbsp;investigating two incidents with missing calves and we are asking for the public's help with any information, according to a social media report from the Kingman County Sheriff.

The first incident in southeast Kingman County involved approximately 13 calves that were reported missing.&nbsp; The second incident, in northwest&nbsp; Kingman County involved approximately 37 calves reported missing. 

The Kansas Department of Agriculture Livestock Brand Program and Special Agent Jim Pinegar is assisting with the investigation. 

The sheriff's office encouraged the public to be on the look out and report any suspicious activity.&nbsp; Contact the Kingman County sheriff's office with any details to help with their investigation.

KINGMAN COUNTY—Law enforcement are&nbsp;investigating two incidents with missing calves and we are asking for the public's help with any information, according to a social media report from the Kingman County Sheriff.The first incident in southeast Kingman County involved approximately 13 calves that were reported missing.&nbsp; The second incident, in northwest&nbsp; Kingman County involved approximately 37 calves reported missing. The Kansas Department of Agriculture Livestock Brand Program and Special Agent Jim Pinegar is assisting with the investigation. The sheriff's office encouraged the public to be on the look out and report any suspicious activity.&nbsp; Contact the Kingman County sheriff's office with any details to help with their investigation.

Sheriff investigating alleged missing calves in Kansas

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long was tapped on Wednesday evening by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Internal Revenue Service.

Trump called Long — who served six terms representing a Southwest Missouri district — a “consummate people person,” adding “taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm.”

The current IRS commissioner’s term doesn’t expire until 2027.

Long was one of the first elected officials to jump on the “Trump train,” a phrase&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/auctnr1/status/1549611376980774913?s=20&amp;t=QhHX4mOsFHJZWKf49JBMww" target="_blank">he claims to have coined</a>. When most considered Trump’s candidacy a joke or publicity stunt, Long said he was all in, touting Trump to foreign leaders and GOP insiders who snickered at the notion that the real estate mogul and reality TV star would be the next president.

“Trump, I saw it early on,” Long told The Independent in 2022, “he has the ‘it’ factor.”

After a long career as an auctioneer, and a few years as a conservative talk radio host, Long decided to jump into the 2010 race for the Congressional seat being vacated when Roy Blunt decided to run for U.S. Senate.

“It was an eight-way race,” Long said, “and I was supposed to come in ninth. I was the Donald Trump of the race.”

He was pegged as a candidate who was only in the race “for publicity,” Long said, “to help my business and blah, blah, blah, the same things they said about Trump.”

His own campaign consultants told him he was “too fat to put on TV,” he said. “And you can put that in the newspaper. They said, ‘You’re too fat. You can’t go on TV. You’ll scare people.’”

In the end, Long won the primary by around 7.5 percentage points. He cruised to victory that fall,&nbsp; joining a massive class of freshmen Republicans who swept into office in the Tea Party wave.

He says the key to his victory was authenticity.

“I may not look the part,” Long said. “But I guaranteed to voters that I would be the part, that I would do the right thing for the right reason every day. And that resonated with people.”

His first year in Congress,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.levernews.com/trump-nominee-pressured-irs-to-crush-the-humane-society/" target="_blank">according to The Lever</a>, Long signed&nbsp;a letter urging the IRS to launch a probe of the tax-exempt status of the Humane Society of the United States, a nonprofit that focuses on animal welfare and opposes animal cruelty. The letter followed the Humane Society’s support of a successful&nbsp;Missouri ballot measure strengthening regulations on dog breeders.

In 2022, Long gave up his congressional seat to run for U.S. Senate, finishing fourth in the GOP primary behind the eventual winner, Eric Schmitt.

According to Trump’s Wednesday announcement, since leaving Congress Long has worked as a business and tax advisor, “helping small businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.”

“I have known Billy since 2011,” Trump said. “He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress… Congratulations Billy!”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648132265420.png" alt="File photo Billy Long (photo by Madeline Carter)." />
 <figcaption>File photo Billy Long (photo by Madeline Carter).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>Former Missouri Congressman Billy Long was tapped on Wednesday evening by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Internal Revenue Service.Trump called Long — who served six terms representing a Southwest Missouri district — a “consummate people person,” adding “taxpayers and the wonderful employees of the IRS will love having Billy at the helm.”The current IRS commissioner’s term doesn’t expire until 2027.Long was one of the first elected officials to jump on the “Trump train,” a phrase&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/auctnr1/status/1549611376980774913?s=20&amp;t=QhHX4mOsFHJZWKf49JBMww" target="_blank">he claims to have coined</a>. When most considered Trump’s candidacy a joke or publicity stunt, Long said he was all in, touting Trump to foreign leaders and GOP insiders who snickered at the notion that the real estate mogul and reality TV star would be the next president.“Trump, I saw it early on,” Long told The Independent in 2022, “he has the ‘it’ factor.”After a long career as an auctioneer, and a few years as a conservative talk radio host, Long decided to jump into the 2010 race for the Congressional seat being vacated when Roy Blunt decided to run for U.S. Senate.Long said no one took him seriously.“It was an eight-way race,” Long said, “and I was supposed to come in ninth. I was the Donald Trump of the race.”He was pegged as a candidate who was only in the race “for publicity,” Long said, “to help my business and blah, blah, blah, the same things they said about Trump.”His own campaign consultants told him he was “too fat to put on TV,” he said. “And you can put that in the newspaper. They said, ‘You’re too fat. You can’t go on TV. You’ll scare people.’”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733407966054.png" alt=" Billy Long shows off his tie that was signed by former President Donald Trump shortly before filing to run for the U.S. Senate on Feb. 22, 2022, in Jefferson City (Madeline Carter/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> Billy Long shows off his tie that was signed by former President Donald Trump shortly before filing to run for the U.S. Senate on Feb. 22, 2022, in Jefferson City (Madeline Carter/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>In the end, Long won the primary by around 7.5 percentage points. He cruised to victory that fall,&nbsp; joining a massive class of freshmen Republicans who swept into office in the Tea Party wave.He says the key to his victory was authenticity.“I may not look the part,” Long said. “But I guaranteed to voters that I would be the part, that I would do the right thing for the right reason every day. And that resonated with people.”His first year in Congress,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.levernews.com/trump-nominee-pressured-irs-to-crush-the-humane-society/" target="_blank">according to The Lever</a>, Long signed&nbsp;a letter urging the IRS to launch a probe of the tax-exempt status of the Humane Society of the United States, a nonprofit that focuses on animal welfare and opposes animal cruelty. The letter followed the Humane Society’s support of a successful&nbsp;Missouri ballot measure strengthening regulations on dog breeders.In 2022, Long gave up his congressional seat to run for U.S. Senate, finishing fourth in the GOP primary behind the eventual winner, Eric Schmitt.According to Trump’s Wednesday announcement, since leaving Congress Long has worked as a business and tax advisor, “helping small businesses navigate the complexities of complying with the IRS Rules and Regulations.”“I have known Billy since 2011,” Trump said. “He is an extremely hard worker, and respected by all, especially by those who know him in Congress… Congratulations Billy!”

Donald Trump picks Missouri’s Billy Long to lead the IRS

MIAMI COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County, Kansas.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, emergency personnel responded to a death investigation in the 22800 block of Lewis Drive, located in rural Miami County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

While on scene, additional resources were requested to assist with the investigation. One juvenile was pronounced deceased at the scene, while another juvenile was taken into custody.

The sheriff's office released no additional details.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733398221816.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the investigation on Wednesday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating the death of a juvenile in rural Miami County, Kansas.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, emergency personnel responded to a death investigation in the 22800 block of Lewis Drive, located in rural Miami County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.While on scene, additional resources were requested to assist with the investigation. One juvenile was pronounced deceased at the scene, while another juvenile was taken into custody.The sheriff's office released no additional details.&nbsp; Check the Post for more information as it becomes available.

Juvenile in custody after juvenile found dead in rural Kan.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Topeka have identified the victim as 49-year-old&nbsp;Lavaughn E. Lewis of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Just before 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 2000 Block of SW 12th Street. Upon arrival, first responders found Lewis with life-threatening injuries.

Medical staff&nbsp;pronounced him deceased on scene. This is the city’s 20th homicide investigation of 2024.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733348510836.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Topeka have identified the victim as 49-year-old&nbsp;Lavaughn E. Lewis of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Just before 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, police responded to a shooting in the 2000 Block of SW 12th Street. Upon arrival, first responders found Lewis with life-threatening injuries.Medical staff&nbsp;pronounced him deceased on scene. This is the city’s 20th homicide investigation of 2024.

Police ID Kansas man who died in shooting 

JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters stopped a deck fire from spreading into a home near 154th Terrace and Ridgeview in Olathe, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.

The fire occurred just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday. No injuries. Investigators say discarded smoking&nbsp;materials caused the fire.&nbsp;

If you smoke:
 Smoke on a surface that won't burn like concrete; put cigarettes out, all the way, in an ashtray or non-combustible bucket with sand and douse the ashes and butts with water to make sure they are completely out

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733359545363.jpeg" alt="Photos Olathe Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Olathe Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Firefighters stopped a deck fire from spreading into a home near 154th Terrace and Ridgeview in Olathe, according to a social media report from the Olathe Fire Department.The fire occurred just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday. No injuries. Investigators say discarded smoking&nbsp;materials caused the fire.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733359525944.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you smoke:
 Smoke on a surface that won't burn like concrete; put cigarettes out, all the way, in an ashtray or non-combustible bucket with sand and douse the ashes and butts with water to make sure they are completely out

Discarded smoking materials caused deck fire at Kan. home

KANSAS CITY —A woman has been charged with stealing packages from porches throughout the Kansas City area this past weekend, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.

Kayley Worthington, 24, of Excelsior Springs is charged with one count of felony theft and one count of felony possession of a controlled substance. She is being held in the Clay County Detention Center on a $20,000 bond. If she posts bond, one of the conditions of her bond is that she may not be within 100 feet of anyone’s porch other than her own. Additional charges against additional suspects are possible.

After seeing multiple reports on social media of packages being stolen in Liberty, Smithville, and Kansas City, North, over the weekend, Sheriff’s Office investigators began collaborating with police departments in those cities and working to identify the thieves. Their investigation led them to a home in Excelsior Springs early Monday evening, where they located Worthington and took her into custody. Deputies served a search warrant at the house and recovered 51 stolen items, as well as methamphetamine.

Detectives have so far identified nine victims. Clay County residents who had a package stolen Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 and have not yet filed a police report are encouraged to do so.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733275672983.png" alt="Worthington photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Worthington photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A woman has been charged with stealing packages from porches throughout the Kansas City area this past weekend, according to a statement from the Clay County, Missouri Sheriff.Kayley Worthington, 24, of Excelsior Springs is charged with one count of felony theft and one count of felony possession of a controlled substance. She is being held in the Clay County Detention Center on a $20,000 bond. If she posts bond, one of the conditions of her bond is that she may not be within 100 feet of anyone’s porch other than her own. Additional charges against additional suspects are possible.After seeing multiple reports on social media of packages being stolen in Liberty, Smithville, and Kansas City, North, over the weekend, Sheriff’s Office investigators began collaborating with police departments in those cities and working to identify the thieves. Their investigation led them to a home in Excelsior Springs early Monday evening, where they located Worthington and took her into custody. Deputies served a search warrant at the house and recovered 51 stolen items, as well as methamphetamine.Detectives have so far identified nine victims. Clay County residents who had a package stolen Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 and have not yet filed a police report are encouraged to do so.

Deputies catch Kansas City area porch pirate, recover items

STONE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in Stone County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris Ranger driven by a 65-year-old man from Crane, Missouri, was westbound on a hillside in a field along Billy Joe Road one mile northeast of Crane.

The UTV traveled into a hole and overturned. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the county coroner's office.

STONE COUNTY —One person died in an accident just after 2p.m. Wednesday in Stone County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Polaris Ranger driven by a 65-year-old man from Crane, Missouri, was westbound on a hillside in a field along Billy Joe Road one mile northeast of Crane.The UTV traveled into a hole and overturned. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the county coroner's office.

Missouri man dies after UTV accident

HUTCHINSON, KAN. –&nbsp;Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) resident Chancellor Copenhaver, 33, died Wednesday, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Copenhaver was found unresponsive in his cell Wednesday morning. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued after emergency medical services arrived but were unsuccessful. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

Copenhaver was serving a 121-month sentence for convictions of attempted second-degree murder, attempted kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, and stalking in Riley County, Kansas.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733343953732.png" alt="Copenhaver-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Copenhaver-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, KAN. –&nbsp;Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) resident Chancellor Copenhaver, 33, died Wednesday, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. Copenhaver was found unresponsive in his cell Wednesday morning. Staff began life-saving measures immediately and continued after emergency medical services arrived but were unsuccessful. The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.Copenhaver was serving a 121-month sentence for convictions of attempted second-degree murder, attempted kidnapping, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, and stalking in Riley County, Kansas.Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the KDOC, the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.&nbsp;

Kan. inmate serving time for attempted murder found dead

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/maxnesterak/">MAX NESTERAK</a>

UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was shot and killed Wednesday morning outside the Hilton in midtown Manhattan, where he was set to address investors.

A manhunt is now underway for the gunman who police believe targeted Thompson in the shooting, although a motive remains unclear, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/live/2024/12/04/nyregion/brian-thompson-uhc-ceo-shot#shooting-midtown-nyc-united-healthcare-brian-thompson" target="_blank">New York Times.</a>

Thompson, a Minnesota resident, took the helm of UnitedHealth Group’s insurance division,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-identifies-market-leaders-health-insurance" target="_blank">one of the nation’s largest</a>, in 2021.

He was walking into the hotel for UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference when he was shot in the chest by a masked man, who then fled on bicycle,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/04/us/brian-thompson-united-healthcare-death/index.html" target="_blank">CNN reported</a>. Thompson was taken to Mount Sinai hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The investor conference was abruptly canceled after the shooting.

“We’re dealing with a very serious… situation,” UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty said,&nbsp;<a href="https://pix11.com/news/crime/man-critically-injured-in-midtown-shooting-nypd/" target="_blank">according to PIX11</a>. “We’re going to have to bring to a close the event today… I apologize for bringing things to a close but I hope you’ll understand.”

UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest corporations in the country, with $372 billion in revenue last year.

New York police commissioner Jessica Tisch called the killing a “brazen targeted attack.”

“This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/GovTimWalz/status/1864326551661154556" target="_blank">Gov. Tim Walz posted on X</a>.

This story was originally published by the&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/briefs/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-killed-outside-investor-conference-in-new-york-city/" target="_blank">Minnesota Reformer</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733331413907.png" alt="NYPD" />
 <figcaption>NYPD</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/maxnesterak/">MAX NESTERAK</a>UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, 50, was shot and killed Wednesday morning outside the Hilton in midtown Manhattan, where he was set to address investors.A manhunt is now underway for the gunman who police believe targeted Thompson in the shooting, although a motive remains unclear, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/live/2024/12/04/nyregion/brian-thompson-uhc-ceo-shot#shooting-midtown-nyc-united-healthcare-brian-thompson" target="_blank">New York Times.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/12/1733324311684.png" alt="Brian Thompson courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Brian Thompson courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Thompson, a Minnesota resident, took the helm of UnitedHealth Group’s insurance division,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/press-center/press-releases/ama-identifies-market-leaders-health-insurance" target="_blank">one of the nation’s largest</a>, in 2021.He was walking into the hotel for UnitedHealth Group’s annual investor conference when he was shot in the chest by a masked man, who then fled on bicycle,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/04/us/brian-thompson-united-healthcare-death/index.html" target="_blank">CNN reported</a>. Thompson was taken to Mount Sinai hospital, where he was pronounced dead.The investor conference was abruptly canceled after the shooting.“We’re dealing with a very serious… situation,” UnitedHealth Group CEO Andrew Witty said,&nbsp;<a href="https://pix11.com/news/crime/man-critically-injured-in-midtown-shooting-nypd/" target="_blank">according to PIX11</a>. “We’re going to have to bring to a close the event today… I apologize for bringing things to a close but I hope you’ll understand.”UnitedHealth Group is one of the largest corporations in the country, with $372 billion in revenue last year.New York police commissioner Jessica Tisch called the killing a “brazen targeted attack.”“This is horrifying news and a terrible loss for the business and health care community in Minnesota,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/GovTimWalz/status/1864326551661154556" target="_blank">Gov. Tim Walz posted on X</a>.This story was originally published by the&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/briefs/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-killed-outside-investor-conference-in-new-york-city/" target="_blank">Minnesota Reformer</a>, a States Newsroom affiliate.&nbsp;

United Healthcare CEO killed outside investor conference in New York City

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Education Department called on every state, school and district on Tuesday to adopt policies on cellphone use in schools.

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/shauneen-miranda/">SHAUNEEN MIRANDA</a>WASHINGTON — The U.S. Education Department called on every state, school and district on Tuesday to adopt policies on cellphone use in schools.The department asks schools to have well-thought-out policies on the matter, but does not dictate exactly what those policies should be. An accompanying resource for schools notes the risk social media can pose to students’ mental health.“In this digital age, every elementary, middle, and high school should have a clear, consistent, and research-informed policy to guide the use of phones and personal devices in school,” U.S Education Secretary Miguel Cardona said in a written statement.“The evidence makes clear: there is no one-size-fits-all policy,” Cardona added, noting that “different school communities have different needs, and the nuances of this issue demand that local voices — parents, educators, and students — inform local decisions around the use of personal devices in school.”The department acknowledged the role cellphones can play in keeping parents connected to their kids, especially in emergency situations, while also highlighting the increasing evidence on the harms social media can have on youth mental health, such as sleep deprivation and depression.<h2>Increasing state policies</h2>An increasing number of states and school districts have enacted policies either prohibiting or restricting students from using their cellphones in the classrooms.Across the country, schools and districts continue to grapple with how to deal with kids’ cellphone use, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/09/29/cell-phone-schools-bans-states" target="_blank">more than half of all states</a>&nbsp;have sought to ban or restrict cellphone use in classrooms.As of early November, at least eight states have passed statewide policies that either limit or prohibit cellphone use in the classrooms, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/mental-health/issue-brief/a-look-at-state-efforts-to-ban-cellphones-in-schools-and-implications-for-youth-mental-health/" target="_blank">KFF</a>.That includes California, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia. A Minnesota law forces schools to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mprnews.org/episode/2024/08/29/minnesota-now-new-school-cellphone-policy-landscape-across-minnesota-locked-pouches" target="_blank">adopt a policy on cellphone use</a>&nbsp;by March 2025.A handful of other states’&nbsp;<a href="https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/11/01/oregon-department-of-education-offers-schools-guidance-on-limiting-student-cell-phone-use/" target="_blank">education departments</a>&nbsp;have issued&nbsp;<a href="https://alaskabeacon.com/2024/10/24/alaska-joins-growing-number-of-states-considering-crackdown-on-cellphones-in-schools/" target="_blank">policy recommendations</a>&nbsp;or pilot programs, while lawmakers in several more have introduced statewide legislation regarding cellphone use.The guidance from the U.S. Education Department coincides with the release of a&nbsp;<a href="https://tech.ed.gov/device-policy-playbook/" target="_blank">resource</a>&nbsp;for education officials and local communities on adopting cellphone use policies.In the playbook, Cardona points to U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/sg-youth-mental-health-social-media-advisory.pdf" target="_blank">public warning</a>&nbsp;in 2023 on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/prodded-fed-parents-some-congress-try-curb-kids-use-social-media" target="_blank">social media’s effects</a>&nbsp;on youth mental health.Murthy warns: “More research is needed to fully understand the impact of social media; however, the current body of evidence indicates that while social media may have benefits for some children and adolescents, there are ample indicators that social media can also have a profound risk of harm to the mental health and well-being of children and adolescents.”&nbsp;