WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the murder of a Kansas man.

Just before 11:30 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the area of N. 2nd Street and Quindaro Blvd. in Kansas City, Kansas, after reports of a deceased person inside a vehicle, according to a media release from police.

First responders found a man inside a vehicle with an apparent gunshot wound. This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp; Police did not release the name of the victim or possible suspect details.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating the murder of a Kansas man.Just before 11:30 a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the area of N. 2nd Street and Quindaro Blvd. in Kansas City, Kansas, after reports of a deceased person inside a vehicle, according to a media release from police.First responders found a man inside a vehicle with an apparent gunshot wound. This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp; Police did not release the name of the victim or possible suspect details.

Homicide: Kansas man found dead in vehicle

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City area man pleaded guilty in federal court this week to committing two armed robberies and illegally possessing a firearm after fleeing from police officers in a pick-up truck.

Duke A. Yates, 36, Independence pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to two counts of robbery and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.

Yates robbed a Quik Trip and a Walgreen’s, both in Independence, at gunpoint within 10 minutes of each other at about 2:30 a.m. on Dec. 25, 2023. Yates stole a total of between $500 and $700 in cash and a dozen packs of cigarettes from the stores.

A police officer spotted Yates driving a white Ford F350 pickup truck with a missing headlight, matching the description of the vehicle used in the robberies, traveling eastbound on U.S. 40 Highway near Blue Ridge Cutoff. Yates fled at the presence of the officer, with the lights now blacked out on the vehicle. The officer turned on his lights and sirens and initiated a pursuit that reached speeds over 100 miles per hour.

During the pursuit, the truck failed to stop for posted stop signs and drove over medians. The truck slid onto 23rd&nbsp;Street facing eastbound in the westbound lanes, causing another motorist to drive onto the shoulder to avoid a collision. Yates drove into oncoming traffic and veered at a marked police vehicle that was attempting to deploy stop sticks.

Yates failed to negotiate a turn at 24911 E. Truman Road and went off-road, colliding with a power pole and breaking it at the base. Yates fled on foot and resisted arrest while being taken into custody.

Officers searched the stolen truck and found a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun on the driver’s side floorboard.

Under federal statutes, Yates is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Gibson. It was investigated by the Independence, Mo., Police Department.

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City area man pleaded guilty in federal court this week to committing two armed robberies and illegally possessing a firearm after fleeing from police officers in a pick-up truck.Duke A. Yates, 36, Independence pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to two counts of robbery and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.Yates robbed a Quik Trip and a Walgreen’s, both in Independence, at gunpoint within 10 minutes of each other at about 2:30 a.m. on Dec. 25, 2023. Yates stole a total of between $500 and $700 in cash and a dozen packs of cigarettes from the stores.A police officer spotted Yates driving a white Ford F350 pickup truck with a missing headlight, matching the description of the vehicle used in the robberies, traveling eastbound on U.S. 40 Highway near Blue Ridge Cutoff. Yates fled at the presence of the officer, with the lights now blacked out on the vehicle. The officer turned on his lights and sirens and initiated a pursuit that reached speeds over 100 miles per hour.During the pursuit, the truck failed to stop for posted stop signs and drove over medians. The truck slid onto 23rd&nbsp;Street facing eastbound in the westbound lanes, causing another motorist to drive onto the shoulder to avoid a collision. Yates drove into oncoming traffic and veered at a marked police vehicle that was attempting to deploy stop sticks.Yates failed to negotiate a turn at 24911 E. Truman Road and went off-road, colliding with a power pole and breaking it at the base. Yates fled on foot and resisted arrest while being taken into custody.Officers searched the stolen truck and found a Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun on the driver’s side floorboard.Under federal statutes, Yates is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Gibson. It was investigated by the Independence, Mo., Police Department.

 Kansas City man admits to Christmas Day armed robberies

NEMAHA COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before noon Saturday in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ram truck driven by&nbsp; Mark Eugene&nbsp;Ditmars, 37, Washington, Kansas was southbound on W Road at U.S. 35 approximately five miles west of Fairview.

The driver failed to stop at stop sign and struck a westbound 2017 Honda CR-V driven by Taylar Kathryn&nbsp;Deere-Novotny, 33, Lawrence, broadside.&nbsp;

A passenger in the Honda William Joseph&nbsp;Novotny, 35, Lawrence, was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Popkess Funeral Home.

EMS transported Deere-Novotny and a 3-year-old girl in the Honda to the hospital in Sabetha.

EMS transported Ditmars and a passenger in the truck Jonathan Roy&nbsp;Ditmars, 36, Washington, Kansas, to the hospital in Hiawatha. All five were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

NEMAHA COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before noon Saturday in Nemaha County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2017 Ram truck driven by&nbsp; Mark Eugene&nbsp;Ditmars, 37, Washington, Kansas was southbound on W Road at U.S. 35 approximately five miles west of Fairview.The driver failed to stop at stop sign and struck a westbound 2017 Honda CR-V driven by Taylar Kathryn&nbsp;Deere-Novotny, 33, Lawrence, broadside.&nbsp;A passenger in the Honda William Joseph&nbsp;Novotny, 35, Lawrence, was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported Popkess Funeral Home.EMS transported Deere-Novotny and a 3-year-old girl in the Honda to the hospital in Sabetha.EMS transported Ditmars and a passenger in the truck Jonathan Roy&nbsp;Ditmars, 36, Washington, Kansas, to the hospital in Hiawatha. All five were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kan. man dead, 3 adults, 3-year-old injured in crash

WASHINGTON – Cocao and Coca may sound similar, but what Customs and Border Protection officers at Washington Dulles International Airport found inside packages of hot chocolate was a poisonous powder instead of the advertised chocolatey confection.

Last month, Customs and Border Protection officers discovered more than 28 pounds of cocaine that was concealed inside 10 packages of hot chocolate beverage base while examining a food shipment brought to the United States by a Guatemalan courier.

CBP seized the cocaine. Federal authorities initially detained the courier; however, authorities released the courier on Tuesday after prosecutors were unable to directly connect the courier to the cocaine.

CBP officers canceled the courier’s visa and processed him as an expedited removal. The courier departed to Guatemala on Wednesday.

CBP is not releasing the courier’s name since the courier was not criminally charged.

CBP officers initially discovered 10 bricks of a white powdery substance concealed between layers of coffee grounds and under a double layer of chocolate bars in hot chocolate packages. Officers tested the white powdery substance using a handheld elemental isotope analysis tool and identified the substance as cocaine hydrochloride.

The combined weight of the 10 cocaine bricks was 12.88 kilograms, or 28 pounds and six ounces. The cocaine has a street value of about $900,000.

The courier shipment was destined to an address in Northern Virginia.

“Drug trafficking organizations continue trying to smuggle their illicit narcotics into the United States, but vigilant Customs and Border Protection officers are relentless in their efforts to intercept these smuggling attempts and to protect our communities from the scourge of dangerous drugs,” said Marc E. Calixte, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Washington, D.C.

Transnational criminal organizations sometimes attempt to smuggle dangerous drugs in courier shipments. On October 27, CBP officers seized&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/dulles-cbp-officers-discover-heroin-guatemalan-courier-shipment-mwaa">nearly two pounds of heroin concealed inside packages of coffee</a>&nbsp;in a food courier shipment also from Guatemala.

Every day, CBP officers and agents seized an average of 2,339 pounds of dangerous drugs last year at and between our nation’s air, sea, and land ports of entry. See CBP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats">enforcement stats</a>&nbsp;to see what other dangerous drugs CBP is encountering at our nation’s borders.

CBP's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry">border security mission</a>&nbsp;is led at our nation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry">Ports of Entry</a>&nbsp;by CBP officers and agriculture specialists from the Office of Field Operations. CBP screens&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/travel">international travelers</a>&nbsp;and cargo and searches for illicit narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, counterfeit consumer goods, prohibited agriculture, invasive weeds and pests, and other illicit products that could potentially harm the American public, U.S. businesses, and our nation’s safety and economic vitality.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1731772139217.png" alt="Photo CBP" />
 <figcaption>Photo CBP</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – Cocao and Coca may sound similar, but what Customs and Border Protection officers at Washington Dulles International Airport found inside packages of hot chocolate was a poisonous powder instead of the advertised chocolatey confection.Last month, Customs and Border Protection officers discovered more than 28 pounds of cocaine that was concealed inside 10 packages of hot chocolate beverage base while examining a food shipment brought to the United States by a Guatemalan courier.CBP seized the cocaine. Federal authorities initially detained the courier; however, authorities released the courier on Tuesday after prosecutors were unable to directly connect the courier to the cocaine.CBP officers canceled the courier’s visa and processed him as an expedited removal. The courier departed to Guatemala on Wednesday.CBP is not releasing the courier’s name since the courier was not criminally charged.CBP officers initially discovered 10 bricks of a white powdery substance concealed between layers of coffee grounds and under a double layer of chocolate bars in hot chocolate packages. Officers tested the white powdery substance using a handheld elemental isotope analysis tool and identified the substance as cocaine hydrochloride.The combined weight of the 10 cocaine bricks was 12.88 kilograms, or 28 pounds and six ounces. The cocaine has a street value of about $900,000.The courier shipment was destined to an address in Northern Virginia.“Drug trafficking organizations continue trying to smuggle their illicit narcotics into the United States, but vigilant Customs and Border Protection officers are relentless in their efforts to intercept these smuggling attempts and to protect our communities from the scourge of dangerous drugs,” said Marc E. Calixte, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Washington, D.C.Transnational criminal organizations sometimes attempt to smuggle dangerous drugs in courier shipments. On October 27, CBP officers seized&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/local-media-release/dulles-cbp-officers-discover-heroin-guatemalan-courier-shipment-mwaa">nearly two pounds of heroin concealed inside packages of coffee</a>&nbsp;in a food courier shipment also from Guatemala.Every day, CBP officers and agents seized an average of 2,339 pounds of dangerous drugs last year at and between our nation’s air, sea, and land ports of entry. See CBP’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/stats">enforcement stats</a>&nbsp;to see what other dangerous drugs CBP is encountering at our nation’s borders.CBP's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry">border security mission</a>&nbsp;is led at our nation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/border-security/ports-entry">Ports of Entry</a>&nbsp;by CBP officers and agriculture specialists from the Office of Field Operations. CBP screens&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbp.gov/travel">international travelers</a>&nbsp;and cargo and searches for illicit narcotics, unreported currency, weapons, counterfeit consumer goods, prohibited agriculture, invasive weeds and pests, and other illicit products that could potentially harm the American public, U.S. businesses, and our nation’s safety and economic vitality.

Police found cocaine concealed inside packages of hot chocolate 

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) this week introduced the “Returning Education to Our States Act” which would eliminate the U.S. Department of Education and redistribute all critical federal programs under other departments, according to a statement from his office.

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rounds.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/returning_education_to_our_states_act.pdf">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read the full bill text

The Department was created in 1979 with the goal of collecting data and advising schools across the U.S. on best practices. In the 45 years since then, it has grown into an oversized bureaucracy with a budget that’s 449% larger than it was at its founding. Despite the Department spending $16,000 per student per year, standardized test scores have been dropping over the past ten years, further displaying the Department’s ineffectiveness on the quality of education for American students. Any grants or funding from the Department are only given to states and educational institutions in exchange for adopting the one-size-fits-all standards put forth by the Department.

“The federal Department of Education has never educated a single student, and it’s long past time to end this bureaucratic Department that causes more harm than good,” said Rounds. “We all know local control is best when it comes to education. Everyone raised in South Dakota can think of a teacher who played a big part in their educational journey. Local school boards and state Departments of Education know best what their students need, not unelected bureaucrats in Washington, D.C.

“For years, I’ve worked toward removing the federal Department of Education. I’m pleased that President-elect Trump shares this vision, and I’m excited to work with him and Republican majorities in the Senate and House to make this a reality. This legislation is a roadmap to eliminating the federal Department of Education by practically rehoming these federal programs in the departments where they belong, which will be critical as we move into next year.”

Despite its inefficiencies, there are several important programs housed within the Department. Rounds’ legislation would redirect these to Departments of Interior, Treasury, Health and Human Services, Labor and State:

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) this week introduced the “Returning Education to Our States Act” which would eliminate the U.S. Department of Education and redistribute all critical federal programs under other departments, according to a statement from his office.Click&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rounds.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/returning_education_to_our_states_act.pdf">HERE</a>&nbsp;to read the full bill textThe Department was created in 1979 with the goal of collecting data and advising schools across the U.S. on best practices. In the 45 years since then, it has grown into an oversized bureaucracy with a budget that’s 449% larger than it was at its founding. Despite the Department spending $16,000 per student per year, standardized test scores have been dropping over the past ten years, further displaying the Department’s ineffectiveness on the quality of education for American students. Any grants or funding from the Department are only given to states and educational institutions in exchange for adopting the one-size-fits-all standards put forth by the Department.“The federal Department of Education has never educated a single student, and it’s long past time to end this bureaucratic Department that causes more harm than good,” said Rounds. “We all know local control is best when it comes to education. Everyone raised in South Dakota can think of a teacher who played a big part in their educational journey. Local school boards and state Departments of Education know best what their students need, not unelected bureaucrats in Washington, D.C.“For years, I’ve worked toward removing the federal Department of Education. I’m pleased that President-elect Trump shares this vision, and I’m excited to work with him and Republican majorities in the Senate and House to make this a reality. This legislation is a roadmap to eliminating the federal Department of Education by practically rehoming these federal programs in the departments where they belong, which will be critical as we move into next year.”Despite its inefficiencies, there are several important programs housed within the Department. Rounds’ legislation would redirect these to Departments of Interior, Treasury, Health and Human Services, Labor and State:Department of the Interior<ul>
 <li>Native American-Serving Institutions Programs</li><li>Alaska Native Education Equity Program</li><li>American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services Program</li><li>Indian Education Formula Grants and National Activities</li><li>Native American and Alaska Native Children in School Program</li><li>Native Hawaiian Education</li><li>Special Programs for Indian Children</li><li>Tribally Controlled Postsecondary Career and Technical Education Program</li><li>Impact Aid Programs</li>
 </ul>Department of the Treasury<ul>
 <li>William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program</li><li>Federal Family Education Loan Program</li><li>Federal Perkins Loan Program</li><li>Federal Pell Grant Program</li><li>Health Education Assistance Loan Program</li><li>Education Sciences Reform Act</li>
 </ul>Department of Health and Human Services<ul>
 <li>Individuals with Disabilities Education Act</li><li>American Printing House for the Blind</li><li>Helen Keller Center for Deaf/Blind Youth and Adults</li><li>Federal Real Property Assistance Program</li><li>Special Education Grants</li>
 </ul>Department of Labor<ul>
 <li>All Office of Career, Technical and Adult Education programs</li><li>National Technical Institute for the Deaf</li><li>Randolph Sheppard Vending Facility Program</li><li>Vocational Rehabilitation State Grants</li>
 </ul>Department of State<ul>
 <li>Fulbright-Hays Program</li>
 </ul>=

Senator's bill would eliminate the U.S. Department of Education 

SHAWNEE COUNTY – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Shawnee County.

At approximately 10:30 p.m., on Friday, the Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp; initiated a traffic stop near the 2400 block of SE 45th street on a suspected impaired driver, according to a media release from the KBI.

Preliminary information indicates that during the administration of standardized field sobriety tests, the driver ran from the roadway and a foot chase ensued. A physical altercation occurred between the Trooper and the male subject. During the incident, a Trooper deployed a Taser, pepper spray, and fired his duty weapon, striking the man.

He was transported from the scene to a Topeka hospital. The subject is currently stable, according to the KBI.

At approximately 11 p.m., the KBI was notified of the officer-involved shooting and responded to investigate.

Findings of this investigation will be presented to the Shawnee County District Attorney for review.

SHAWNEE COUNTY – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Shawnee County.At approximately 10:30 p.m., on Friday, the Kansas Highway Patrol&nbsp; initiated a traffic stop near the 2400 block of SE 45th street on a suspected impaired driver, according to a media release from the KBI.Preliminary information indicates that during the administration of standardized field sobriety tests, the driver ran from the roadway and a foot chase ensued. A physical altercation occurred between the Trooper and the male subject. During the incident, a Trooper deployed a Taser, pepper spray, and fired his duty weapon, striking the man.He was transported from the scene to a Topeka hospital. The subject is currently stable, according to the KBI.At approximately 11 p.m., the KBI was notified of the officer-involved shooting and responded to investigate.Findings of this investigation will be presented to the Shawnee County District Attorney for review.

Man hospitalized after altercation with KHP Trooper during traffic stop

DOUGLAS COUNTY —A 17-year-old&nbsp; from Topeka was arrested early Friday following a high speed pursuit with a stolen pickup truck. 

Just after 3 a.m., officers on patrol observed a stolen Ford F-150 near 6th Street and Congressional Drive in Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.

 When officers tried to stop the vehicle, the truck fled, leading officers north on Folks Road, circling around a couple of county roads north of the city, then back south to 6th Street on Folks.

 The stolen truck then went westbound on 6th Street at speeds in excess of 100 mph. Due to the excessive speeds involved, officers chose to discontinue the pursuit as the vehicle continued out of the city on 40 Highway. 

Douglas County Sheriff's Office deputies located the vehicle parked near E 700 Rd and N 1750 Road a short time later, but the suspect wasn't in the vehicle. 

A little before 6 a.m., a resident in the area called to report a young man on his property. A deputy found the 17-year-old suspect a short time later, and he was arrested on multiple charges and taken to the juvenile detention facility.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —A 17-year-old&nbsp; from Topeka was arrested early Friday following a high speed pursuit with a stolen pickup truck. Just after 3 a.m., officers on patrol observed a stolen Ford F-150 near 6th Street and Congressional Drive in Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence Police. When officers tried to stop the vehicle, the truck fled, leading officers north on Folks Road, circling around a couple of county roads north of the city, then back south to 6th Street on Folks. The stolen truck then went westbound on 6th Street at speeds in excess of 100 mph. Due to the excessive speeds involved, officers chose to discontinue the pursuit as the vehicle continued out of the city on 40 Highway. Douglas County Sheriff's Office deputies located the vehicle parked near E 700 Rd and N 1750 Road a short time later, but the suspect wasn't in the vehicle. A little before 6 a.m., a resident in the area called to report a young man on his property. A deputy found the 17-year-old suspect a short time later, and he was arrested on multiple charges and taken to the juvenile detention facility.

17-year-old captured after 100-mph Kansas chase

KANSAS CITY —One firefighter was injured while battling a fire on Friday in Kansas City.

Just after 9a.m. Friday, crews&nbsp;responded to a fire in a three-story vacant building in the 2100 block of Tracy in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

 Crews reported smoke from the third floor on arrival. The incident command ordered a second alarm at approximately 9:15.m.

A total of five handlines were used on an interior attack to get the fire under control. One KCFD firefighter was transported to a local hospital for treatment for injuries sustained when he fell through a set of stairs. 

The firefighter was reported stable and in good condition. No other injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD

KANSAS CITY —One firefighter was injured while battling a fire on Friday in Kansas City.Just after 9a.m. Friday, crews&nbsp;responded to a fire in a three-story vacant building in the 2100 block of Tracy in Kansas City, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. Crews reported smoke from the third floor on arrival. The incident command ordered a second alarm at approximately 9:15.m.A total of five handlines were used on an interior attack to get the fire under control. One KCFD firefighter was transported to a local hospital for treatment for injuries sustained when he fell through a set of stairs. The firefighter was reported stable and in good condition. No other injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD

KC Firefighter hospitalized after fall while fighting building blaze

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Topeka identified the victim as&nbsp;Jessie L. Grahnert, 32, of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

Just after 8:30 p.m. Nov. 24, police responded to a reported shooting in the 2000 BLK of N Kansas Avenue in Topeka.

First responders located Grahnert suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

This is the 19th homicide in Topeka this year, according to Nichols.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or possible suspect information.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Topeka identified the victim as&nbsp;Jessie L. Grahnert, 32, of Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.Just after 8:30 p.m. Nov. 24, police responded to a reported shooting in the 2000 BLK of N Kansas Avenue in Topeka.First responders located Grahnert suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.This is the 19th homicide in Topeka this year, according to Nichols.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or possible suspect information.

32-year-old Kansas man identified as homicide victim

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A house fire early Friday caused approximately $3,500 in damage.

Just after 7:30a.m., crews responded&nbsp;to a reported house fire at 1535 SW Van Buren in Topeka, according to Battalion Chief Ty Forshee. 

First arriving crews found smoke coming from the attic of a two story home and quickly extinguished the fire. The occupants of the home were alerted to the fire by Topeka Fire Department personnel when they arrived.

Investigators determine the cause of the fire as&nbsp; failure of electrical wiring in the attic. The fire originated in the attic of the home. The loss associated with the fire is approximately $2500 to the structure and $1000 in content loss.

The home did not have working smoke detectors, according to Forshee.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A house fire early Friday caused approximately $3,500 in damage.Just after 7:30a.m., crews responded&nbsp;to a reported house fire at 1535 SW Van Buren in Topeka, according to Battalion Chief Ty Forshee. First arriving crews found smoke coming from the attic of a two story home and quickly extinguished the fire. The occupants of the home were alerted to the fire by Topeka Fire Department personnel when they arrived.Investigators determine the cause of the fire as&nbsp; failure of electrical wiring in the attic. The fire originated in the attic of the home. The loss associated with the fire is approximately $2500 to the structure and $1000 in content loss.The home did not have working smoke detectors, according to Forshee.

Fire crews alerted residents to fire in attic of Kan. home

JOHNSON COUNTY — One person was injured in a fire on Thanksgiving Day in Overland Park.

The fire occurred at the at Georgetown Apartments, 72nd and Frontage Road in Merriam, according to a social media report from the Overland Park Fire Department.&nbsp;

EMS transported one person to the hospital with smoke inhalation from the fire.&nbsp; One dog was also missing. The fire was contained to the unit where it started.&nbsp; Residents of 9 units were displaced.&nbsp; Authorities did not release details on the cause of the fire.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732902672848.png" alt="Imaged from video by Overland Park Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Imaged from video by Overland Park Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY — One person was injured in a fire on Thanksgiving Day in Overland Park.The fire occurred at the at Georgetown Apartments, 72nd and Frontage Road in Merriam, according to a social media report from the Overland Park Fire Department.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732902648201.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>EMS transported one person to the hospital with smoke inhalation from the fire.&nbsp; One dog was also missing. The fire was contained to the unit where it started.&nbsp; Residents of 9 units were displaced.&nbsp; Authorities did not release details on the cause of the fire.

1 hospitalized, dog missing after Kan. apartment building fire

TOPEKA —"Slow down, speeding doesn't just endanger you, it endangers everyone else on the road as well," the Kansas Highway Patrol wrote on social media this week.

Master Trooper Ben Elsass recently stopped a motorist going 104 mph in a 40 mph zone.&nbsp; The driver received a ticked with a $813 fine, according to the KHP.

"Remember, no matter where you're headed it's more important to get there safely than on time. Slow down and help us keep everyone on the roads safe."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732846392504.png" alt="Image KHP" />
 <figcaption>Image KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —"Slow down, speeding doesn't just endanger you, it endangers everyone else on the road as well," the Kansas Highway Patrol wrote on social media this week.Master Trooper Ben Elsass recently stopped a motorist going 104 mph in a 40 mph zone.&nbsp; The driver received a ticked with a $813 fine, according to the KHP."Remember, no matter where you're headed it's more important to get there safely than on time. Slow down and help us keep everyone on the roads safe."

KHP: Driver ticketed for 104mph in a 40mph zone

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

TOPEKA — The director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation proposed construction of a $114.4 million headquarters to replace administrative buildings that subjected employees to fire-safety dangers and security threats from homeless people and drug addicts.

Tony Mattivi, director of the state law enforcement agency, told the Kansas Legislature’s joint budget committee Monday the headquarters located in a former Topeka junior high school was declared functionally obsolete in 1996. That main structure was built in 1929 a decade before the KBI was created.

Consultants concluded the two adjoining buildings making up the headquarters complex couldn’t continue to accommodate a functioning workplace, Mattivi said.

“Our headquarters isn’t safe,” the KBI director said. “I am failing miserably in my obligation to give our employees a safe place to work.”

Mattivi said the stone structure serving as the central administrative building wasn’t equipped with life-safety systems such as smoke-containment and fire-sprinkler systems. The largely wood-framed building lacked internal barriers to prevent spread of flames.

It isn’t compliant with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. There are numerous code issues due to antiquated infrastructure, he said. Portions of the sewer pipe system, for example, were about 100 years old.

Mattivi said the headquarters didn’t have a command post to coordinate law enforcement emergencies. Nor did it have dedicated classroom space, an indoor firing range, an evidence processing room, kennel facilities for K-9s, an incinerator or agent equipment lockers, he said.

The headquarters didn’t meet external security standards because it lacked fencing and didn’t have enough property for a stand-off perimeter, Mattivi said. An alley runs between the two KBI buildings. Some of the agency’s 250 employees must walk through that alley from building to building.

“I don’t mean to be unkind to anyone, but we’re in a horrible neighborhood,” Mattivi said. “Employees walk between two buildings through an alley and are often confronted by homeless people and drug addicts, because that’s what surrounds the KBI building.”

Mattivi said consultants and state officials considered renovation of the existing buildings, relocating to vacant office space and building a new headquarters. The best option is to build a headquarters with 134,000 square feet on seven to nine acres in Topeka, the KBI director said.

Rep. Will Carpenter, an El Dorado Republican on the legislative budget committee, said the KBI should forward to the 2025 Legislature estimates of what it would cost to renovate the existing administrative facility.

“I think if we’re going to look at that we need to look at the whole picture,” Carpenter said.

The Legislature should explore alternatives such as acquiring empty office space for use by the KBI, said Republican Rep. Kyle Hoffman of Coldwater.

Mattivi said the $114.4 million estimate for construction of a new headquarters reflected an updated plan for square footage and construction costs. An earlier proposal placed the preliminary cost at less than $95 million. Neither estimate included the cost of land acquisition.

The KBI started the process of assessing land in the Topeka area for a new headquarters in anticipation of competitive bidding for land and construction, Mattivi said.

Mattivi also urged the Legislature to approve $1.6 million for cybersecurity upgrades at the KBI.

“The information we have is so sensitive that a data breach would be disastrous,” the director said.

The KBI proposed the state allocate $1.2 million for specialized equipment at the KBI’s main laboratory in Topeka. In addition, the agency recommended an appropriation of $500,000 to address shortcomings in a computer system used to track offenders and $239,000 to improve recruitment and retention of KBI staff, especially information technology professionals.

Meanwhile, the KBI has proceeded with development of planning for a $55 million agency laboratory on the campus of Pittsburg State University. The land was donated by PSU and the Legislature approved $40 million for the project. The remaining funding would come from the federal government.

Ground is expected to be broken on that southeast Kansas laboratory in June 2025 or about six months later than previously anticipated. The laboratory could be occupied by December 2026, Mattivi said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732738766889.png" alt="Tony Mattivi, director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, urged the 2025 Legislature to approve plans for a new $114.4 million headquarters building in Topeka. He said the existing facilities posed fire-safety risks, lacked a suitable perimeter and were otherwise inadequate to complete the agency’s law enforcement mission. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Tony Mattivi, director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, urged the 2025 Legislature to approve plans for a new $114.4 million headquarters building in Topeka. He said the existing facilities posed fire-safety risks, lacked a suitable perimeter and were otherwise inadequate to complete the agency’s law enforcement mission. (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>TOPEKA — The director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation proposed construction of a $114.4 million headquarters to replace administrative buildings that subjected employees to fire-safety dangers and security threats from homeless people and drug addicts.Tony Mattivi, director of the state law enforcement agency, told the Kansas Legislature’s joint budget committee Monday the headquarters located in a former Topeka junior high school was declared functionally obsolete in 1996. That main structure was built in 1929 a decade before the KBI was created.Consultants concluded the two adjoining buildings making up the headquarters complex couldn’t continue to accommodate a functioning workplace, Mattivi said.“Our headquarters isn’t safe,” the KBI director said. “I am failing miserably in my obligation to give our employees a safe place to work.”Mattivi said the stone structure serving as the central administrative building wasn’t equipped with life-safety systems such as smoke-containment and fire-sprinkler systems. The largely wood-framed building lacked internal barriers to prevent spread of flames.It isn’t compliant with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. There are numerous code issues due to antiquated infrastructure, he said. Portions of the sewer pipe system, for example, were about 100 years old.Mattivi said the headquarters didn’t have a command post to coordinate law enforcement emergencies. Nor did it have dedicated classroom space, an indoor firing range, an evidence processing room, kennel facilities for K-9s, an incinerator or agent equipment lockers, he said.The headquarters didn’t meet external security standards because it lacked fencing and didn’t have enough property for a stand-off perimeter, Mattivi said. An alley runs between the two KBI buildings. Some of the agency’s 250 employees must walk through that alley from building to building.“I don’t mean to be unkind to anyone, but we’re in a horrible neighborhood,” Mattivi said. “Employees walk between two buildings through an alley and are often confronted by homeless people and drug addicts, because that’s what surrounds the KBI building.”Mattivi said consultants and state officials considered renovation of the existing buildings, relocating to vacant office space and building a new headquarters. The best option is to build a headquarters with 134,000 square feet on seven to nine acres in Topeka, the KBI director said.Rep. Will Carpenter, an El Dorado Republican on the legislative budget committee, said the KBI should forward to the 2025 Legislature estimates of what it would cost to renovate the existing administrative facility.“I think if we’re going to look at that we need to look at the whole picture,” Carpenter said.The Legislature should explore alternatives such as acquiring empty office space for use by the KBI, said Republican Rep. Kyle Hoffman of Coldwater.Mattivi said the $114.4 million estimate for construction of a new headquarters reflected an updated plan for square footage and construction costs. An earlier proposal placed the preliminary cost at less than $95 million. Neither estimate included the cost of land acquisition.The KBI started the process of assessing land in the Topeka area for a new headquarters in anticipation of competitive bidding for land and construction, Mattivi said.Mattivi also urged the Legislature to approve $1.6 million for cybersecurity upgrades at the KBI.“The information we have is so sensitive that a data breach would be disastrous,” the director said.The KBI proposed the state allocate $1.2 million for specialized equipment at the KBI’s main laboratory in Topeka. In addition, the agency recommended an appropriation of $500,000 to address shortcomings in a computer system used to track offenders and $239,000 to improve recruitment and retention of KBI staff, especially information technology professionals.Meanwhile, the KBI has proceeded with development of planning for a $55 million agency laboratory on the campus of Pittsburg State University. The land was donated by PSU and the Legislature approved $40 million for the project. The remaining funding would come from the federal government.Ground is expected to be broken on that southeast Kansas laboratory in June 2025 or about six months later than previously anticipated. The laboratory could be occupied by December 2026, Mattivi said.

KBI seeks $114.4 million for new headquarters and exit from ‘horrible’ neighborhood in Topeka

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a card skimming ring in Kansas and asking for help to identify two suspects.

Just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday, two individuals, seen on security camera, reportedly placed card skimmers on card readers at three Dollar General stores in Topeka. The stores are located at 2500 SE California Avenue; 10th and Fairlawn and at 29th and Croco, according to Topeka Police.



If you know these people or have any information about these incidents, please contact investigators at telltpd@topeka.org or report anonymously to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732735692511.png" alt="Security camera image Topeka Police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera image Topeka Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a card skimming ring in Kansas and asking for help to identify two suspects.Just after 3:30p.m. Tuesday, two individuals, seen on security camera, reportedly placed card skimmers on card readers at three Dollar General stores in Topeka. The stores are located at 2500 SE California Avenue; 10th and Fairlawn and at 29th and Croco, according to Topeka Police.

If you know these people or have any information about these incidents, please contact investigators at telltpd@topeka.org or report anonymously to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007.

Police work to ID Kansas card skimming suspects

WASHINGTON —Thanksgiving is about giving thanks for what we have and giving back to our communities, Vice President Kamala Harris wrote Thursday on her social media page.

"Our family was grateful to be back at DC Central Kitchen to volunteer for the holiday."

In addition, Harris wrote, "We are forever grateful for the sacrifice our service members and their families make to keep our nation safe and to&nbsp;defend our nation’s highest ideals. Doug and I were honored to spend time speaking with them this Thanksgiving."

The DC Central Kitchen is a nonprofit and social enterprise that combats hunger and poverty through job training and job creation, according to the organization's web sire. "The organization provides hands-on culinary job training for individuals facing high barriers to employment while creating living wage jobs and bringing nutritious, dignified food where it is most needed."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732844718082.png" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —Thanksgiving is about giving thanks for what we have and giving back to our communities, Vice President Kamala Harris wrote Thursday on her social media page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732844918528.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>"Our family was grateful to be back at DC Central Kitchen to volunteer for the holiday."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732844876596.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In addition, Harris wrote, "We are forever grateful for the sacrifice our service members and their families make to keep our nation safe and to&nbsp;defend our nation’s highest ideals. Doug and I were honored to spend time speaking with them this Thanksgiving."The DC Central Kitchen is a nonprofit and social enterprise that combats hunger and poverty through job training and job creation, according to the organization's web sire. "The organization provides hands-on culinary job training for individuals facing high barriers to employment while creating living wage jobs and bringing nutritious, dignified food where it is most needed."

Kamala Harris volunteered at community kitchen on Thanksgiving

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas teen injured in a motorcycle accident has died.

Just before 3p.m. November 21,&nbsp;Topeka Police Department Officers responded to a motorcycle, SUV accident at the intersection of SW Huntoon and SW Glendale in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

The driver of the motorcycle, later identified as a 17-year-old boy sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the SUV also sustained injuries in the accident and was also transported to a local hospital.

On Wednesday night, police reported the driver of the motorcycle had died. Police did not release his name. The accident remains under investigation.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas teen injured in a motorcycle accident has died.Just before 3p.m. November 21,&nbsp;Topeka Police Department Officers responded to a motorcycle, SUV accident at the intersection of SW Huntoon and SW Glendale in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.The driver of the motorcycle, later identified as a 17-year-old boy sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the SUV also sustained injuries in the accident and was also transported to a local hospital.On Wednesday night, police reported the driver of the motorcycle had died. Police did not release his name. The accident remains under investigation.

Kansas teen injured in motorcycle crash has died

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Thanksgiving Eve is the busiest travel day of the year on U.S. roads. 

"It’s also of the most dangerous - for both man and beast, Kansas City, Kansas police reported on their social media page.

Just after 10a.m. Wednesday, northbound 635 at Interstate 70 was closed for several hours after a semi carrying 95 hogs, crashed and overturned.

The driver was not injured. Four of the hogs died in the crash.

KCKPD officers responded to assist Kansas Highway Patrol with traffic while Kansas City Kansas&nbsp; Animal Services&nbsp;officers and Director, Ashley Scott, coordinated and oversaw the safe transfer of the surviving hogs to a local holding facility.

"It may not be a typical example, but it definitely shows how important it is that KCK Animal Services works together with law enforcement to protect both residents and animals in the community."

WYANDOTTE COUNTY —Thanksgiving Eve is the busiest travel day of the year on U.S. roads. "It’s also of the most dangerous - for both man and beast, Kansas City, Kansas police reported on their social media page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732797378189.png" alt="Photo Kansas City, Kansas police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City, Kansas police</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 10a.m. Wednesday, northbound 635 at Interstate 70 was closed for several hours after a semi carrying 95 hogs, crashed and overturned.The driver was not injured. Four of the hogs died in the crash.KCKPD officers responded to assist Kansas Highway Patrol with traffic while Kansas City Kansas&nbsp; Animal Services&nbsp;officers and Director, Ashley Scott, coordinated and oversaw the safe transfer of the surviving hogs to a local holding facility. "It may not be a typical example, but it definitely shows how important it is that KCK Animal Services works together with law enforcement to protect both residents and animals in the community."

Semi  hauling pigs overturns on Kansas highway

Andrew Bailey’s letter to the governor-elect didn’t discuss TRAP laws that made the procedure virtually impossible to obtain even before Missouri’s ban

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>

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey believes the state can still enforce some abortion restrictions even after voters lifted the state’s ban earlier this month, though he didn’t weigh in on the constitutionality of a host of laws that are currently the focus of a lawsuit.&nbsp;

<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/22-2024.pdf" target="_blank">In a rare official opinion from his office</a>, Bailey argued that while any statutes prohibiting abortion prior to fetal viability will no longer be enforceable in their entirety, the state can still enforce laws on the books related to&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.028#:~:text=No%20abortion%20shall%20be%20performed,the%20life%20of%20the%20minor." target="_blank">parental consent&nbsp;</a>and cases where women or children “have unlawfully been pressured to abort.”

Bailey listed five state statutes that he said will in-part be “unenforceable” under Amendment 3, which enshrined abortion-rights in the Missouri Constitution. But he also included circumstances where he “will vigorously enforce” limitations on abortion.

The unlabeled opinion was posted on Nov. 22 to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/other-resources/ag-opinions/2020-opinions/2024-opinions/" target="_blank">attorney general’s website</a>&nbsp;and was addressed from Bailey to Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe, seemingly at Kehoe’s request.

“Should Amendment 3 be construed more narrowly by courts or be amended or repealed in the future to permit greater protection of unborn life, that will automatically restore authority to the attorney general and other officials to resume broader enforcement,” the opinion concluded.

Bailey is a defendant in an ongoing<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">&nbsp;lawsuit filed Nov. 6 by the state’s Planned Parenthood clinics</a>&nbsp;seeking to strike down several “targeted regulation of abortion providers” laws enacted by the legislature, including a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between the initial appointment and a surgical abortion and mandatory pelvic exams for medication abortions.&nbsp;

The lawsuit does not challenge parental consent laws.

Planned Parenthood leadership has said they hope to have a decision from a judge that would allow them to start performing abortions at three clinics across the state as soon as the new amendment goes into effect Dec. 5. Even before abortion was banned two years ago, most abortions in the state had ceased as a result of the TRAP laws.&nbsp;

A hearing regarding the clinics’ request for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for Dec. 4 in Jackson County. Bailey’s legal team has also filed a motion requesting the case be moved to Cole County.

Bailey’s opinion does not address any of Missouir’s TRAP laws. It instead lists&nbsp;statutes that set restrictions on abortion based on gestational age, including&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.017" target="_blank">state’s trigger law&nbsp;</a>which was passed in 2019 and went into effect in June 2022, when the constitutional right to an abortion was overturned. That law, which remains until Amendment 3 goes into effect after Dec. 5, bans nearly all abortions with exceptions only in cases of medical emergencies.&nbsp;

While<a href="https://moconstitutionalfreedom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Missourians-for-Constitutional-Freedom-Amendment.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;Amendment 3&nbsp;</a>protects the right to all abortions prior to fetal viability, it also allows the legislature to regulate abortion after fetal viability&nbsp;unless “needed to protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant person.”

Fetal viability is the time in pregnancy when a fetus can survive on its own outside the womb without extraordinary medical interventions. While viability is generally considered to be about the mid-point in pregnancy,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acog.org/advocacy/facts-are-important/understanding-and-navigating-viability#:~:text=Later%20in%20pregnancy%2C%20a%20clinician,fully%20develop%20in%20the%20uterus." target="_blank">between 20 and 24 weeks,</a>&nbsp;there is no exact gestational definition. Abortions later than 20 weeks in pregnancy make up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/abortions-later-in-pregnancy-in-a-post-dobbs-era/#:~:text=Abortions%20at%20or%20after%2021,require%20travel%20and%20lost%20wages." target="_blank">fewer than 1% of all abortions in the United States</a>.

The attorney general’s opinion points to a&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.030#:~:text=Except%20in%20the%20case%20of,a%20life%2Dendangering%20physical%20condition" target="_blank">2017 law that regulates abortion after fetal viability</a>&nbsp;except when a woman’s life is in danger due to a physical illness or injury. He does not specify which parts of that law his office would or wouldn’t enforce.

Under this law, if a fetus is past 20 weeks gestation, a physician is required to first determine if the pregnancy was viable. They are then required to get a concurring opinion from a second physician trained in maternal-fetal medicine. Both doctors then have to report their findings to the health care facility they work at.

“Any physician who performs or induces an abortion upon a woman when it has been determined that the unborn child is viable shall utilize the available method or technique of abortion most likely to preserve the life or health of the unborn child,” the statute reads.

Bailey’s letter further sets the stage for debates around abortion that are expected to dominate the legislative session, which begins in January.

Republican lawmakers have said they plan to give Missourians the opportunity to vote on abortion again through&nbsp;a<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">&nbsp;legislature-proposed amendment.</a>

Amendment 3 ultimately passed with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/election-results-2024/missouri/?r=83071" target="_blank">51.6% of the vote</a>. Of the nearly 3 million votes cast, more than 95,000 yes votes edged out those hoping to defeat it.

“In a contest where the ‘yes’ side was able in effect to rewrite the ballot summary language, received<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/10/29/missouri-abortion-amendment-3-fundraising-election/">&nbsp;tens of millions of dollars</a>&nbsp;in funding from out of state, and outspent the ‘no’ side 6 to 0,” Bailey wrote, “This tight margin suggests the result may be very different if a future constitutional amendment is put up for a vote.”

More than a year before the election, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft was ordered by a judge to change the<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/25/judge-rejects-rewrites-summary-for-missouri-abortion-initiative-petition/">&nbsp;ballot summary language&nbsp;</a>he drafted, which would have asked Missourians, in part, if they wanted to “allow for dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted abortions, from conception to live birth.”&nbsp;

Bailey’s opinion was published the day after former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz withdrew from consideration for U.S. Attorney General.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/13/missouris-andrew-bailey-reportedly-a-finalist-to-be-donald-trumps-u-s-attorney-general/">Bailey was a finalist for the position</a>&nbsp;until former President Donald Trump chose former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Rudi Keller of The Independent staff contributed to this report.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732796525522.png" alt=" An opinion issued by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey states that while any statutes prohibiting abortion prior to fetal viability will no longer be enforceable in their entirety, the state can still enforce some laws (photo submitted)." />
 <figcaption> An opinion issued by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey states that while any statutes prohibiting abortion prior to fetal viability will no longer be enforceable in their entirety, the state can still enforce some laws (photo submitted).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Andrew Bailey’s letter to the governor-elect didn’t discuss TRAP laws that made the procedure virtually impossible to obtain even before Missouri’s ban</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>Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey believes the state can still enforce some abortion restrictions even after voters lifted the state’s ban earlier this month, though he didn’t weigh in on the constitutionality of a host of laws that are currently the focus of a lawsuit.&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/wp-content/uploads/22-2024.pdf" target="_blank">In a rare official opinion from his office</a>, Bailey argued that while any statutes prohibiting abortion prior to fetal viability will no longer be enforceable in their entirety, the state can still enforce laws on the books related to&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.028#:~:text=No%20abortion%20shall%20be%20performed,the%20life%20of%20the%20minor." target="_blank">parental consent&nbsp;</a>and cases where women or children “have unlawfully been pressured to abort.”Bailey listed five state statutes that he said will in-part be “unenforceable” under Amendment 3, which enshrined abortion-rights in the Missouri Constitution. But he also included circumstances where he “will vigorously enforce” limitations on abortion.The unlabeled opinion was posted on Nov. 22 to the&nbsp;<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/other-resources/ag-opinions/2020-opinions/2024-opinions/" target="_blank">attorney general’s website</a>&nbsp;and was addressed from Bailey to Gov.-elect Mike Kehoe, seemingly at Kehoe’s request.“Should Amendment 3 be construed more narrowly by courts or be amended or repealed in the future to permit greater protection of unborn life, that will automatically restore authority to the attorney general and other officials to resume broader enforcement,” the opinion concluded.Bailey is a defendant in an ongoing<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">&nbsp;lawsuit filed Nov. 6 by the state’s Planned Parenthood clinics</a>&nbsp;seeking to strike down several “targeted regulation of abortion providers” laws enacted by the legislature, including a mandatory 72-hour waiting period between the initial appointment and a surgical abortion and mandatory pelvic exams for medication abortions.&nbsp;The lawsuit does not challenge parental consent laws.Planned Parenthood leadership has said they hope to have a decision from a judge that would allow them to start performing abortions at three clinics across the state as soon as the new amendment goes into effect Dec. 5. Even before abortion was banned two years ago, most abortions in the state had ceased as a result of the TRAP laws.&nbsp;A hearing regarding the clinics’ request for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for Dec. 4 in Jackson County. Bailey’s legal team has also filed a motion requesting the case be moved to Cole County.Bailey’s opinion does not address any of Missouir’s TRAP laws. It instead lists&nbsp;statutes that set restrictions on abortion based on gestational age, including&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.017" target="_blank">state’s trigger law&nbsp;</a>which was passed in 2019 and went into effect in June 2022, when the constitutional right to an abortion was overturned. That law, which remains until Amendment 3 goes into effect after Dec. 5, bans nearly all abortions with exceptions only in cases of medical emergencies.&nbsp;While<a href="https://moconstitutionalfreedom.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Missourians-for-Constitutional-Freedom-Amendment.pdf" target="_blank">&nbsp;Amendment 3&nbsp;</a>protects the right to all abortions prior to fetal viability, it also allows the legislature to regulate abortion after fetal viability&nbsp;unless “needed to protect the life or physical or mental health of the pregnant person.”Fetal viability is the time in pregnancy when a fetus can survive on its own outside the womb without extraordinary medical interventions. While viability is generally considered to be about the mid-point in pregnancy,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.acog.org/advocacy/facts-are-important/understanding-and-navigating-viability#:~:text=Later%20in%20pregnancy%2C%20a%20clinician,fully%20develop%20in%20the%20uterus." target="_blank">between 20 and 24 weeks,</a>&nbsp;there is no exact gestational definition. Abortions later than 20 weeks in pregnancy make up&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/abortions-later-in-pregnancy-in-a-post-dobbs-era/#:~:text=Abortions%20at%20or%20after%2021,require%20travel%20and%20lost%20wages." target="_blank">fewer than 1% of all abortions in the United States</a>.The attorney general’s opinion points to a&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.030#:~:text=Except%20in%20the%20case%20of,a%20life%2Dendangering%20physical%20condition" target="_blank">2017 law that regulates abortion after fetal viability</a>&nbsp;except when a woman’s life is in danger due to a physical illness or injury. He does not specify which parts of that law his office would or wouldn’t enforce.Under this law, if a fetus is past 20 weeks gestation, a physician is required to first determine if the pregnancy was viable. They are then required to get a concurring opinion from a second physician trained in maternal-fetal medicine. Both doctors then have to report their findings to the health care facility they work at.“Any physician who performs or induces an abortion upon a woman when it has been determined that the unborn child is viable shall utilize the available method or technique of abortion most likely to preserve the life or health of the unborn child,” the statute reads.Bailey’s letter further sets the stage for debates around abortion that are expected to dominate the legislative session, which begins in January.Republican lawmakers have said they plan to give Missourians the opportunity to vote on abortion again through&nbsp;a<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/06/missouri-abortion-access-planned-parenthood-lawsuit-amendment-3/">&nbsp;legislature-proposed amendment.</a>Amendment 3 ultimately passed with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/projects/election-results-2024/missouri/?r=83071" target="_blank">51.6% of the vote</a>. Of the nearly 3 million votes cast, more than 95,000 yes votes edged out those hoping to defeat it.“In a contest where the ‘yes’ side was able in effect to rewrite the ballot summary language, received<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/10/29/missouri-abortion-amendment-3-fundraising-election/">&nbsp;tens of millions of dollars</a>&nbsp;in funding from out of state, and outspent the ‘no’ side 6 to 0,” Bailey wrote, “This tight margin suggests the result may be very different if a future constitutional amendment is put up for a vote.”More than a year before the election, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft was ordered by a judge to change the<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/09/25/judge-rejects-rewrites-summary-for-missouri-abortion-initiative-petition/">&nbsp;ballot summary language&nbsp;</a>he drafted, which would have asked Missourians, in part, if they wanted to “allow for dangerous, unregulated, and unrestricted abortions, from conception to live birth.”&nbsp;Bailey’s opinion was published the day after former Florida congressman Matt Gaetz withdrew from consideration for U.S. Attorney General.&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2024/11/13/missouris-andrew-bailey-reportedly-a-finalist-to-be-donald-trumps-u-s-attorney-general/">Bailey was a finalist for the position</a>&nbsp;until former President Donald Trump chose former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi.Rudi Keller of The Independent staff contributed to this report.&nbsp;

Missouri AG lays out abortion restrictions he argues remain in place despite Amendment 3

BARRY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Wednesday in Barry County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Ranger driven by 44-year-old man from Monnett was northbound on MO 37 just south of Route Be in Purdy.

The pickup crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2014 Chevy Silverado head-on.

The driver of the Ford was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Fohn Funeral Home. EMS transported the 65-year-old male driver of the Chevy to Cox South in Springfield. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

BARRY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 6p.m. Wednesday in Barry County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2002 Ford Ranger driven by 44-year-old man from Monnett was northbound on MO 37 just south of Route Be in Purdy.The pickup crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2014 Chevy Silverado head-on.The driver of the Ford was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Fohn Funeral Home. EMS transported the 65-year-old male driver of the Chevy to Cox South in Springfield. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP.

Missouri man dies after head-on crash

KANSAS CITY —With the busy travel weekend underway, the Transportation Security Administration reminded travelers there is zero tolerance for assaults against any of their employees.

Earlier this year, a Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) TSA officer was carrying passenger Ma ‘Kiah Cherae Coleman’s property to an inspection table for an additional search when Coleman became unruly.

“After being told that it (her bag) had to be checked, the passenger jumped onto the search table and attempted to pull the bin away from the officers,” said Lead Officer Alexander Deutsch.

After an unsuccessful attempt to retrieve her property, Coleman physically assaulted multiple TSA officers before airport police arrested her. Two TSA officers were transported to the hospital with minor injuries, released and reported back to duty the same day.

In June 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a press release announcing Coleman’s federal indictment in the District of Arizona and explained why Deutsch’s first day as lead officer at PHX was memorable for all the wrong reasons.&nbsp;

“The indictment alleges that, at approximately 6:00 a.m. on April 25, 2023, at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Arizona, Coleman interfered with TSA officers who were conducting security screenings at Security Checkpoint D of Terminal 4. The indictment further alleges that during her interference with TSA officers, Coleman inflicted bodily injury on two TSA officers; specifically, she grabbed one officer by the hair, forcing the officer’s head down against a table, and hitting the officer in the head multiple times, and elbowed the other TSA officer in the head. Coleman also is alleged to have bit the hair of a third&nbsp;TSA officer who had come to the aid of the other two officers who were struggling with Coleman during the altercation.”

On April 23, 2024, Coleman pleaded guilty to assault on a federal officer, inflicting bodily injury and was sentenced in September to four months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. She is also banned from traveling by commercial aircraft during her time of supervised release.&nbsp;

“Every assault on an officer is an affront to the hard work they do every single day to protect the traveling public,” said PHX Federal Security Director Jerry Agnew. “Assaults are quickly addressed with the help of our airport law enforcement and attorneys to prosecute these cases.”

TSA takes a zero-tolerance approach to assaults against any TSA employee. Since 2021, 472 total assault cases were reported, with 161 occurring in fiscal 2024. Of those this past year, 44 were tried criminally and eight are closed, with the bulk of the cases at the state or local level. TSA works closely with law enforcement and prosecutors to assist in producing evidence and witnesses in criminal cases.

“During the sentencing hearing, the judge expressed appreciation for Lead Officer Deutsch's victim-impact statement and acknowledged TSA’s vital role in safeguarding the nation’s transportation systems,” said Kalah Polk, TSA Attorney-Advisor, Field Operations. “He noted the frequent mistreatment faced by officers from passengers and recognized the critical function the TSA serves in ensuring the safety of travelers. The judge conveyed the substantial responsibility he holds in balancing the necessity of imposing a penalty on Ms. Coleman for the assault on our officer with the consideration of her mental health.”

“For the purposes of TSA issuing a civil penalty, ‘assault’ refers to an instance of an individual making physical contact&nbsp;with a TSA employee in the course of the TSA employee’s screening duties, and that physical contact is offensive or otherwise without legal justification,” explained TSA Senior Counsel, Field Operations Joanna Han.&nbsp;

“Regardless of whether there is a criminal prosecution, TSA will pursue a civil enforcement action for nearly every case – no matter the level of injury,” said Han. “It is really important that the affected officer report the assault so that transportation security inspectors can conduct an administrative investigation in a timely and thorough manner. From there, TSA attorneys in the field will take the assault case through the civil enforcement process and may pursue monetary penalties.” Han stressed that an intent to injure or cause physical pain is not required, nor is an actual physical injury required to pursue a civil enforcement case.

TSA initiated 433 civil enforcement cases since 2021, with 139 of those this past fiscal year.&nbsp;A total of $738,987 in enforcement fines have been collected since 2021 and sent to the U.S. Treasury.

“I absolutely believe every one of these cases should be quickly and appropriately addressed,” said Agnew.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732540619820.png" alt="Photos TSA" />
 <figcaption>Photos TSA</figcaption>
 </figure>By Karen Robicheaux, TSAKANSAS CITY —With the busy travel weekend underway, the Transportation Security Administration reminded travelers there is zero tolerance for assaults against any of their employees.Earlier this year, a Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) TSA officer was carrying passenger Ma ‘Kiah Cherae Coleman’s property to an inspection table for an additional search when Coleman became unruly.“After being told that it (her bag) had to be checked, the passenger jumped onto the search table and attempted to pull the bin away from the officers,” said Lead Officer Alexander Deutsch.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/11/1732540581509.png" alt="Photo TSA" />
 <figcaption>Photo TSA</figcaption>
 </figure>After an unsuccessful attempt to retrieve her property, Coleman physically assaulted multiple TSA officers before airport police arrested her. Two TSA officers were transported to the hospital with minor injuries, released and reported back to duty the same day.In June 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a press release announcing Coleman’s federal indictment in the District of Arizona and explained why Deutsch’s first day as lead officer at PHX was memorable for all the wrong reasons.&nbsp;“The indictment alleges that, at approximately 6:00 a.m. on April 25, 2023, at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, Arizona, Coleman interfered with TSA officers who were conducting security screenings at Security Checkpoint D of Terminal 4. The indictment further alleges that during her interference with TSA officers, Coleman inflicted bodily injury on two TSA officers; specifically, she grabbed one officer by the hair, forcing the officer’s head down against a table, and hitting the officer in the head multiple times, and elbowed the other TSA officer in the head. Coleman also is alleged to have bit the hair of a third&nbsp;TSA officer who had come to the aid of the other two officers who were struggling with Coleman during the altercation.”On April 23, 2024, Coleman pleaded guilty to assault on a federal officer, inflicting bodily injury and was sentenced in September to four months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. She is also banned from traveling by commercial aircraft during her time of supervised release.&nbsp;“Every assault on an officer is an affront to the hard work they do every single day to protect the traveling public,” said PHX Federal Security Director Jerry Agnew. “Assaults are quickly addressed with the help of our airport law enforcement and attorneys to prosecute these cases.”TSA takes a zero-tolerance approach to assaults against any TSA employee. Since 2021, 472 total assault cases were reported, with 161 occurring in fiscal 2024. Of those this past year, 44 were tried criminally and eight are closed, with the bulk of the cases at the state or local level. TSA works closely with law enforcement and prosecutors to assist in producing evidence and witnesses in criminal cases.“During the sentencing hearing, the judge expressed appreciation for Lead Officer Deutsch's victim-impact statement and acknowledged TSA’s vital role in safeguarding the nation’s transportation systems,” said Kalah Polk, TSA Attorney-Advisor, Field Operations. “He noted the frequent mistreatment faced by officers from passengers and recognized the critical function the TSA serves in ensuring the safety of travelers. The judge conveyed the substantial responsibility he holds in balancing the necessity of imposing a penalty on Ms. Coleman for the assault on our officer with the consideration of her mental health.”“For the purposes of TSA issuing a civil penalty, ‘assault’ refers to an instance of an individual making physical contact&nbsp;with a TSA employee in the course of the TSA employee’s screening duties, and that physical contact is offensive or otherwise without legal justification,” explained TSA Senior Counsel, Field Operations Joanna Han.&nbsp;“Regardless of whether there is a criminal prosecution, TSA will pursue a civil enforcement action for nearly every case – no matter the level of injury,” said Han. “It is really important that the affected officer report the assault so that transportation security inspectors can conduct an administrative investigation in a timely and thorough manner. From there, TSA attorneys in the field will take the assault case through the civil enforcement process and may pursue monetary penalties.” Han stressed that an intent to injure or cause physical pain is not required, nor is an actual physical injury required to pursue a civil enforcement case.TSA initiated 433 civil enforcement cases since 2021, with 139 of those this past fiscal year.&nbsp;A total of $738,987 in enforcement fines have been collected since 2021 and sent to the U.S. Treasury.“I absolutely believe every one of these cases should be quickly and appropriately addressed,” said Agnew.

Travel alert: Zero-tolerance for assaults against any TSA employees

<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/attorneys-debate-whether-former-history-director-was-denied-a-speedy-trial/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN — Opposing attorneys delved deep into the legal weeds Tuesday in debating whether Trevor Jones, the former head of the state’s history agency, had been denied a speedy trial.

The defense attorney for Jones, the former head of History Nebraska, maintained that prosecutors had failed to request a trial date and that his right to a trial within six months, minus exclusions, ran out on Sept. 12.&nbsp;

Because of that, defense lawyer Mallory Hughes asked that the felony theft by deception charge against her 52-year-old client be dismissed.

But prosecutor Sandra Allen of the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office said that her office had failed to receive some notices about the case.&nbsp;

She said the state also still regarded Jones’ former defense attorney, John Ball, as his attorney of record because the court had not ruled on Ball’s formal request to withdraw as defense counsel in March.&nbsp;

Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong took the arguments under advisement after a 15-minute hearing. She gave the attorneys until the end of the year to submit written briefs on the speedy trial issue.

Trevor Jones&nbsp;faces up to 20 years in prison for felony theft by deception, a charge sparked by&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/08/15/former-head-of-history-nebraska-might-have-violated-state-law-state-auditors-probe-says/">a critical state audit</a>&nbsp;in 2022. The audit — first reported by the Nebraska Examiner — discovered that Jones had redirected about $270,000 provided by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation into a private foundation Jones had set up to replace the State Historical Society Foundation. The funds had been sought to cover the agency’s financial losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

By state law, such funds should be deposited with the state treasurer.&nbsp;

Jones resigned the $164,800-a-year job just before the audit was released. He has pleaded not guilty, and through his defense attorneys, made more than one attempt to get the charge dropped.

During Tuesday’s hearing, Jones’ attorney, Hughes, told the judge that it would be “fundamentally unfair” to rule against her motion to dismiss the charges based on a lack of notice or ruling on the exit of the previous defense attorney.

Hughes said that the Attorney General’s Office has been communicating with her office, and that they had realized Ball was no longer handling Jones’ defense.

Allen, who recently took over the case for the AG’s Office, maintained that the speedy trial clock was suspended on March 12, when Ball asked to be dismissed as Jones’ attorney. Because of that, she argued, the felony charge should not be dismissed.

Paul Hammel<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/briefs/attorneys-debate-whether-former-history-director-was-denied-a-speedy-trial/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN — Opposing attorneys delved deep into the legal weeds Tuesday in debating whether Trevor Jones, the former head of the state’s history agency, had been denied a speedy trial.The defense attorney for Jones, the former head of History Nebraska, maintained that prosecutors had failed to request a trial date and that his right to a trial within six months, minus exclusions, ran out on Sept. 12.&nbsp;Because of that, defense lawyer Mallory Hughes asked that the felony theft by deception charge against her 52-year-old client be dismissed.But prosecutor Sandra Allen of the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office said that her office had failed to receive some notices about the case.&nbsp;She said the state also still regarded Jones’ former defense attorney, John Ball, as his attorney of record because the court had not ruled on Ball’s formal request to withdraw as defense counsel in March.&nbsp;Lancaster County District Judge Susan Strong took the arguments under advisement after a 15-minute hearing. She gave the attorneys until the end of the year to submit written briefs on the speedy trial issue.Trevor Jones&nbsp;faces up to 20 years in prison for felony theft by deception, a charge sparked by&nbsp;<a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/08/15/former-head-of-history-nebraska-might-have-violated-state-law-state-auditors-probe-says/">a critical state audit</a>&nbsp;in 2022. The audit — first reported by the Nebraska Examiner — discovered that Jones had redirected about $270,000 provided by the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation into a private foundation Jones had set up to replace the State Historical Society Foundation. The funds had been sought to cover the agency’s financial losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.By state law, such funds should be deposited with the state treasurer.&nbsp;Jones resigned the $164,800-a-year job just before the audit was released. He has pleaded not guilty, and through his defense attorneys, made more than one attempt to get the charge dropped.During Tuesday’s hearing, Jones’ attorney, Hughes, told the judge that it would be “fundamentally unfair” to rule against her motion to dismiss the charges based on a lack of notice or ruling on the exit of the previous defense attorney.Hughes said that the Attorney General’s Office has been communicating with her office, and that they had realized Ball was no longer handling Jones’ defense.Allen, who recently took over the case for the AG’s Office, maintained that the speedy trial clock was suspended on March 12, when Ball asked to be dismissed as Jones’ attorney. Because of that, she argued, the felony charge should not be dismissed.The speedy trial rule requires that a defendant stand trial within six months of being indicted, though time to deal with court motions and discovery of evidence is excluded. Hughes calculated there were 107 “excludable days” so, given that Jones was indicted on&nbsp;Nov. 28, 2023, she contends the deadline was Sept. 12.