BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — He was born as America was recovering from the Great Depression and about to enter World War II — periods of national sacrifice his son would recall decades later in an <a href="https://priceandsons.funeraltechweb.com/tribute/details/2456/Marvin-Farr/obituary.html?fbclid=IwAR2sFpY85b47Te88ZpEqNdq003pL_chx6cQd1F4fIGMGBjkzJ9gsDMJ82-4">obituary lamenting </a>his death from COVID-19 even as many people refused to wear “a piece of cloth on their face to protect one another.”

After Dr. Marvin James Farr of Scott City, Kansas, died Tuesday in isolation at a nursing home, his son penned an&nbsp;<a href="https://priceandsons.funeraltechweb.com/tribute/details/2456/Marvin-Farr/obituary.html?fbclid=IwAR3jTmLpu-HZTT4Hd2voA3ROhkDRdoH11-m64WwMwCOHD4eIAv0RTwFD6o0" target="_blank">obituary</a>&nbsp;in which he noted that his father was preceded in death by more than 260,000 Americans infected with the coronavirus.

The obituary written by Courtney Farr has been widely shared on social media and cited in newspapers. He wrote about how his father died “being cared by people dressed in confusing and frightening ways” and said “his final days were harder, scarier and lonelier than necessary.” He also recounted how his father, a farmer and a veterinarian, filled his life with an understanding of the science of life.

“The science that guided his professional life has been disparaged and abandoned by so many of the same people who depended on his knowledge to care for their animals and to raise their food,” the obituary said.

Courtney Farr&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/courtneyfarr" target="_blank">posted on Facebook&nbsp;</a>that he was in shock at the number of people who have seen the obituary.

“It’s resonated with a lot of people, and that warms my heart,” he wrote. “Often when we experience loss, pain or trauma, we feel so alone. And there’s such incredible power to learning that you are not, that someone else also knows.”

He also hit back against claims that he had made his father’s obituary political.

“Well, his death was political,” he posted. “He died in isolation with an infectious disease that is causing a national crisis. To pretend otherwise or to obfuscate is also a political decision.”

Health officials have reported 391 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and five deaths in rural Scott County, which has a population of fewer than 5,000 people.

Statewide, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has reported 168,295 cases of COVID-19, up 6,234 since Wednesday, and 1,786 deaths, up 107.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607116364855.png" alt="Dr. Marvin James Farr photo courtesy Price and Sons Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Marvin James Farr photo courtesy Price and Sons Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — He was born as America was recovering from the Great Depression and about to enter World War II — periods of national sacrifice his son would recall decades later in an <a href="https://priceandsons.funeraltechweb.com/tribute/details/2456/Marvin-Farr/obituary.html?fbclid=IwAR2sFpY85b47Te88ZpEqNdq003pL_chx6cQd1F4fIGMGBjkzJ9gsDMJ82-4">obituary lamenting </a>his death from COVID-19 even as many people refused to wear “a piece of cloth on their face to protect one another.”After Dr. Marvin James Farr of Scott City, Kansas, died Tuesday in isolation at a nursing home, his son penned an&nbsp;<a href="https://priceandsons.funeraltechweb.com/tribute/details/2456/Marvin-Farr/obituary.html?fbclid=IwAR3jTmLpu-HZTT4Hd2voA3ROhkDRdoH11-m64WwMwCOHD4eIAv0RTwFD6o0" target="_blank">obituary</a>&nbsp;in which he noted that his father was preceded in death by more than 260,000 Americans infected with the coronavirus.The obituary written by Courtney Farr has been widely shared on social media and cited in newspapers. He wrote about how his father died “being cared by people dressed in confusing and frightening ways” and said “his final days were harder, scarier and lonelier than necessary.” He also recounted how his father, a farmer and a veterinarian, filled his life with an understanding of the science of life.“The science that guided his professional life has been disparaged and abandoned by so many of the same people who depended on his knowledge to care for their animals and to raise their food,” the obituary said.Courtney Farr&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/courtneyfarr" target="_blank">posted on Facebook&nbsp;</a>that he was in shock at the number of people who have seen the obituary.“It’s resonated with a lot of people, and that warms my heart,” he wrote. “Often when we experience loss, pain or trauma, we feel so alone. And there’s such incredible power to learning that you are not, that someone else also knows.”He also hit back against claims that he had made his father’s obituary political.“Well, his death was political,” he posted. “He died in isolation with an infectious disease that is causing a national crisis. To pretend otherwise or to obfuscate is also a political decision.”Health officials have reported 391 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and five deaths in rural Scott County, which has a population of fewer than 5,000 people.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607105155093.png" alt="Dec. 4, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Dec. 4, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>Statewide, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment has reported 168,295 cases of COVID-19, up 6,234 since Wednesday, and 1,786 deaths, up 107.

Kansas man's obit criticizes those who won't wear masks

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Democratic-controlled House on Friday approved a bill to decriminalize and tax marijuana at the federal level. The bill would reverse what supporters called a failed policy of criminalization of pot use and take steps to address racial disparities in enforcement of federal drug laws.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?506855-1/us-house-passes-federal-decriminalization-marijuana-228-164&amp;live&amp;vod">Click here to watch </a>a replay of the debate and vote.

Opponents, mostly Republicans, called the bill a hollow political gesture and mocked Democrats for bringing it up at a time when thousands of Americans are dying from the coronavirus pandemic.

Supporters say it would help reverse adverse effects of the decades-long “war on drugs” by removing marijuana, or cannabis, from the list of federally controlled substances while allowing states to set their own rules on pot. The bill also would use money from an excise tax on marijuana to address the needs of groups and communities harmed by the drug war and provide for the expungement of federal marijuana convictions and arrests.

“For far too long, we have treated marijuana as a criminal justice problem instead of as a matter of personal choice and public health,'' said Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and a key sponsor of the bill. "Whatever one’s views are on the use of marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, the policy of arrests, prosecution and incarceration at the federal level has proven unwise and unjust.''

The vote comes at a time when most Americans live in states where marijuana is legal in some form, and lawmakers from both parties agreed that national cannabis policy has lagged woefully behind changes at the state level. That divide has created a host of problems — loans and other banking services, for example, are hard to get for many marijuana companies because pot remains illegal at the federal level.

The bill also would open up more opportunities for marijuana businesses, including access to Small Business Administration loans to help ensure that minorities can take part in an industry dominated by white famers and growers.

The bill, which passed 228-164, now goes to the Republican-controlled Senate, where it is unlikely to advance. A related bill that would give pot businesses access to traditional banking services has languished in the Senate after being approved by the House last year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607109294204.png" alt="Democrat Representatives speaking on behalf of the bill Friday morning in the U.S. House of Representatives-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Democrat Representatives speaking on behalf of the bill Friday morning in the U.S. House of Representatives-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Democratic-controlled House on Friday approved a bill to decriminalize and tax marijuana at the federal level. The bill would reverse what supporters called a failed policy of criminalization of pot use and take steps to address racial disparities in enforcement of federal drug laws.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/video/?506855-1/us-house-passes-federal-decriminalization-marijuana-228-164&amp;live&amp;vod">Click here to watch </a>a replay of the debate and vote.Opponents, mostly Republicans, called the bill a hollow political gesture and mocked Democrats for bringing it up at a time when thousands of Americans are dying from the coronavirus pandemic.Supporters say it would help reverse adverse effects of the decades-long “war on drugs” by removing marijuana, or cannabis, from the list of federally controlled substances while allowing states to set their own rules on pot. The bill also would use money from an excise tax on marijuana to address the needs of groups and communities harmed by the drug war and provide for the expungement of federal marijuana convictions and arrests.“For far too long, we have treated marijuana as a criminal justice problem instead of as a matter of personal choice and public health,'' said Rep. Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., chairman of the House Judiciary Committee and a key sponsor of the bill. "Whatever one’s views are on the use of marijuana for recreational or medicinal use, the policy of arrests, prosecution and incarceration at the federal level has proven unwise and unjust.''The vote comes at a time when most Americans live in states where marijuana is legal in some form, and lawmakers from both parties agreed that national cannabis policy has lagged woefully behind changes at the state level. That divide has created a host of problems — loans and other banking services, for example, are hard to get for many marijuana companies because pot remains illegal at the federal level.The bill also would open up more opportunities for marijuana businesses, including access to Small Business Administration loans to help ensure that minorities can take part in an industry dominated by white famers and growers.The bill, which passed 228-164, now goes to the Republican-controlled Senate, where it is unlikely to advance. A related bill that would give pot businesses access to traditional banking services has languished in the Senate after being approved by the House last year.

🎥 House passes landmark bill decriminalizing marijuana 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City Episcopal church has joined other civil rights organizations in seeking changes in the city's police department, including the firing or resignation of Police Chief Rick Smith.

St. Mary's Episcopal Church said in a statement sent to to city leaders and police officials that the department needed to make changes to “eliminate the systemic racism" in the department, which it said causes crime and racial discrimination in the city.

Civil rights advocates and some churches have pushed for months to have Smith terminated, citing shootings or beatings of Black residents by officers. The effort grew after racial injustice protests this summer.

John Simpson, chairman of the church’s social justice ministry, said Thursday that he hoped other churches and predominantly white organizations would join the effort.

The Kansas City Police Department said Smith “understands that some people are pleased with his performance and some are not.”

"He looks forward to leading us through these challenging times,” said police spokesman Sgt. Jacob Becchina. “We remain committed to serving the citizens of Kansas City, included in that service is protecting all citizens fundamental rights- to include first amendment rights to free speech.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591275596951.png" alt="Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith spoke to reporters during June protests-photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith spoke to reporters during June protests-photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City Episcopal church has joined other civil rights organizations in seeking changes in the city's police department, including the firing or resignation of Police Chief Rick Smith.St. Mary's Episcopal Church said in a statement sent to to city leaders and police officials that the department needed to make changes to “eliminate the systemic racism" in the department, which it said causes crime and racial discrimination in the city.Civil rights advocates and some churches have pushed for months to have Smith terminated, citing shootings or beatings of Black residents by officers. The effort grew after racial injustice protests this summer.John Simpson, chairman of the church’s social justice ministry, said Thursday that he hoped other churches and predominantly white organizations would join the effort.The Kansas City Police Department said Smith “understands that some people are pleased with his performance and some are not.”"He looks forward to leading us through these challenging times,” said police spokesman Sgt. Jacob Becchina. “We remain committed to serving the citizens of Kansas City, included in that service is protecting all citizens fundamental rights- to include first amendment rights to free speech.”

Episcopal Church pushes for KC Police Chief's termination

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/04/bipartisan-group-of-60-plus-kansas-legislators-issue-call-to-action-against-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — A group of more 
than 60 Kansas legislators signed a joint letter declaring the state at a
 tipping point in the battle against COVID-19 and urging people to 
intensify their response to the pandemic.

Members of the House and 
Senate, representing the Republican and Democratic parties, added their 
names to the letter making a case that widespread community transmission
 of coronavirus was jeopardizing the ability of hospitals across the 
state to care for the sick.

“It
 has been a long and hard 2020 and COVID-19 has affected all of us,” the
 letter says. “As we approach the New Year there is great hope. But we 
are still months away from turning the corner on this pandemic. We&nbsp; all 
need to find the will and discipline to finish this fight.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We
 the undersigned commit to promoting and practicing the pillars of 
infection control and doing our&nbsp; part to slow and eventually stop the 
spread of the virus. We respectfully request you to join us in this 
fight.”

The letter issued Thursday
 included a photograph of more than three dozen legislators wearing 
masks and wrapped around text of the core message: “It’s not a COVID 
crisis … it’s a health crisis.”

The Kansas Department of 
Health and Environment reported Wednesday testing confirmed 162,446 
cases of COVID-19 in Kansas as well as 1,679 fatalities linked to the 
pandemic since March. The state had hospitalized 5,290 people with the 
coronavirus, which has infected Kansans ranging in age from newborn to 
107 years. In Kansas, at least 83,000 women and 76,000 men have 
contracted the virus. New statistics are to be released Friday.

Rep. Kathy Wolfe Moore, a 
Democrat from Kansas City, Kansas, and Rep. Susan Concannon, a 
Republican from Beloit, were among instigators of the campaign to 
convince Kansans to collectively change their behavior and act quickly 
to curb spread of the virus “because our status quo is not working and 
the implications are dire.”

The legislators’ pleaded 
for people to follow basic tenets of public safety in a pandemic: wear a
 face covering, wash hands frequently, stay home if possible, avoid 
large gatherings, try to be socially distanced from others. It 
identified masking as a “critical step forward,” a reference to reality 
that many Kansans defy county or state recommendations on face 
coverings.

The letter raised the 
prospect of vaccines giving people legitimate hope about turning the 
COVID-19 corner in 2021, but warned steps had to be taken now to bend 
the infection curve to limit community spread and keep hospitals from 
being overwhelmed.

“It
 is critical we reignite a sense of duty and ownership to do all we can 
to slow the spread of this virus&nbsp; to protect the health and safety of 
individuals and their loved ones,” the letter says. “While we cannot 
change the&nbsp; hearts and minds of everyone, we each can take personal 
responsibility to make changes that will&nbsp; ultimately be lifesaving.”

Meanwhile, Gov. Laura 
Kelly said a public awareness campaign, “Stop the Spread. It’s Up to US,
 Kansas,” was initiated to spread information about the importance of 
COVID-19 testing, wearing masks and taking other health precautions 
through the holiday season. The state’s campaign is financed with 
federal CARES Act funding and led to a partnership with the Kansas 
Hospital Association, Kansas Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Farm Bureau, 
the Kansas Leadership Center and other stakeholders.

“This campaign aims to 
reach every corner of our state with critical public health messages 
infused with some humor and holiday spirit to bring a smile and rally 
our strength,” Kelly said.

It’s part of a strategy to
 rapidly increase the state’s ability to provide COVID-19 diagnostic and
 screening tests to Kansans free of charge, she said. The overall goal 
is to double the amount of testing in Kansas by the end of the year. To 
date, about 812,000 COVID-19 tests have been conducted in Kansas.

Testing numbers have grown
 dramatically since early in the pandemic when only those with symptoms 
or at risk of exposure were tested. The message evolved to the point 
that Kansas officials say everyone ought to get tested so public health 
officials can better track the virus.

There’s also a new Kansas 
website — GoGetTested.com/Kansas — that identifies free testing 
locations in the state. Seven sites are listed and the state expects to 
add more locations to mirror community needs.

Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607095387036.png" alt="More than 60 members of the Kansas Legislature , both Republicans and Democrats, signed a letter urging more Kansans to respond to the COVID-19 health crisis by wearing a mask and adhering to other public safety recommendations. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector) " />
 <figcaption>More than 60 members of the Kansas Legislature , both Republicans and Democrats, signed a letter urging more Kansans to respond to the COVID-19 health crisis by wearing a mask and adhering to other public safety recommendations. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector) </figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/04/bipartisan-group-of-60-plus-kansas-legislators-issue-call-to-action-against-covid-19/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — A group of more 
than 60 Kansas legislators signed a joint letter declaring the state at a
 tipping point in the battle against COVID-19 and urging people to 
intensify their response to the pandemic.Members of the House and 
Senate, representing the Republican and Democratic parties, added their 
names to the letter making a case that widespread community transmission
 of coronavirus was jeopardizing the ability of hospitals across the 
state to care for the sick.“It
 has been a long and hard 2020 and COVID-19 has affected all of us,” the
 letter says. “As we approach the New Year there is great hope. But we 
are still months away from turning the corner on this pandemic. We&nbsp; all 
need to find the will and discipline to finish this fight.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“We
 the undersigned commit to promoting and practicing the pillars of 
infection control and doing our&nbsp; part to slow and eventually stop the 
spread of the virus. We respectfully request you to join us in this 
fight.”The letter issued Thursday
 included a photograph of more than three dozen legislators wearing 
masks and wrapped around text of the core message: “It’s not a COVID 
crisis … it’s a health crisis.”The Kansas Department of 
Health and Environment reported Wednesday testing confirmed 162,446 
cases of COVID-19 in Kansas as well as 1,679 fatalities linked to the 
pandemic since March. The state had hospitalized 5,290 people with the 
coronavirus, which has infected Kansans ranging in age from newborn to 
107 years. In Kansas, at least 83,000 women and 76,000 men have 
contracted the virus. New statistics are to be released Friday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607095442657.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly says a new statewide campaign developed through a public-private partnership is underway to convince more Kansans to take basic steps to deter spread of COVID-19 and to take advantage of opportunities to be tested for the virus. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly says a new statewide campaign developed through a public-private partnership is underway to convince more Kansans to take basic steps to deter spread of COVID-19 and to take advantage of opportunities to be tested for the virus. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Rep. Kathy Wolfe Moore, a 
Democrat from Kansas City, Kansas, and Rep. Susan Concannon, a 
Republican from Beloit, were among instigators of the campaign to 
convince Kansans to collectively change their behavior and act quickly 
to curb spread of the virus “because our status quo is not working and 
the implications are dire.”The legislators’ pleaded 
for people to follow basic tenets of public safety in a pandemic: wear a
 face covering, wash hands frequently, stay home if possible, avoid 
large gatherings, try to be socially distanced from others. It 
identified masking as a “critical step forward,” a reference to reality 
that many Kansans defy county or state recommendations on face 
coverings.The letter raised the 
prospect of vaccines giving people legitimate hope about turning the 
COVID-19 corner in 2021, but warned steps had to be taken now to bend 
the infection curve to limit community spread and keep hospitals from 
being overwhelmed.“It
 is critical we reignite a sense of duty and ownership to do all we can 
to slow the spread of this virus&nbsp; to protect the health and safety of 
individuals and their loved ones,” the letter says. “While we cannot 
change the&nbsp; hearts and minds of everyone, we each can take personal 
responsibility to make changes that will&nbsp; ultimately be lifesaving.”Meanwhile, Gov. Laura 
Kelly said a public awareness campaign, “Stop the Spread. It’s Up to US,
 Kansas,” was initiated to spread information about the importance of 
COVID-19 testing, wearing masks and taking other health precautions 
through the holiday season. The state’s campaign is financed with 
federal CARES Act funding and led to a partnership with the Kansas 
Hospital Association, Kansas Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Farm Bureau, 
the Kansas Leadership Center and other stakeholders.“This campaign aims to 
reach every corner of our state with critical public health messages 
infused with some humor and holiday spirit to bring a smile and rally 
our strength,” Kelly said.It’s part of a strategy to
 rapidly increase the state’s ability to provide COVID-19 diagnostic and
 screening tests to Kansans free of charge, she said. The overall goal 
is to double the amount of testing in Kansas by the end of the year. To 
date, about 812,000 COVID-19 tests have been conducted in Kansas.Testing numbers have grown
 dramatically since early in the pandemic when only those with symptoms 
or at risk of exposure were tested. The message evolved to the point 
that Kansas officials say everyone ought to get tested so public health 
officials can better track the virus.There’s also a new Kansas 
website — GoGetTested.com/Kansas — that identifies free testing 
locations in the state. Seven sites are listed and the state expects to 
add more locations to mirror community needs.Tim Carpenter has reported on Kansas for 35 years. He covered the Capitol for 16 years at the Topeka Capital-Journal and previously worked for the Lawrence Journal-World and United Press International.&nbsp;

Kan. legislators issue ‘call to action’ against COVID-19

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 6,234 to a total of 168,295 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,786 an increase of 107.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 6,234 to a total of 168,295 the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 1,786 an increase of 107.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607105155093.png" alt="Friday Dec. 4, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday Dec. 4, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

HUTCHINSON — The Kansas Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of a Kansas man who burned down the family home killing his mother and sister when he was 14-years-old, according to a media release.

Samuel Vonachen, of Hutchinson, who is now 21 years old, was tried as an adult and convicted of two counts of first-degree murder. Vonachen was convicted&nbsp; of setting fire to the family home in September of 2013. While his father got out of the home, his mother and sister were trapped upstairs.&nbsp;

Police found Vonachen walking toward the house, smelling of gasoline. After interrogation, he admitted to burning down the house. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, and one count of aggravated arson.

The defense motion before the Supreme Court stated that Vonachen's rights were violated due to the state's abolishment of the insanity defense. The motion also states that Vonachen's admission to police should have been suppressed and that admission of the defendant's private writings in the trial should not have been allowed.&nbsp;

The court said it reviewed the videotape of the interrogation and that Vonachen was advised of his rights and signed a written waiver. While the interrogation occurred in the evening of the same day of the early morning fire, defendant did not appear to be groggy or ill. Defendant's father was present at the interrogation until defendant asked him to leave. The defendant was 14-years-old and was able to communicate fluently. The interrogation did not exceed a reasonable length of time. The officers did not employ unfair or coercive tactics in conducting the interview.

A large part of the trial centered around Vonachen’s &nbsp;mental &nbsp;state. The defendant went through numerous mental evaluations and the defense continuously brought up the defendant’s mental state during the trial and on appeal. The jury rejected numerous claims of mental disease or defect and convicted him on all counts.

He is not eligible for parole until 2039.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603572045433.png" alt="The Vonahen home at 4 E. 19th Avenue in Hutchinson following the deadly fire" />
 <figcaption>The Vonahen home at 4 E. 19th Avenue in Hutchinson following the deadly fire</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON — The Kansas Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of a Kansas man who burned down the family home killing his mother and sister when he was 14-years-old, according to a media release.Samuel Vonachen, of Hutchinson, who is now 21 years old, was tried as an adult and convicted of two counts of first-degree murder. Vonachen was convicted&nbsp; of setting fire to the family home in September of 2013. While his father got out of the home, his mother and sister were trapped upstairs.&nbsp;Police found Vonachen walking toward the house, smelling of gasoline. After interrogation, he admitted to burning down the house. He was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, and one count of aggravated arson.The defense motion before the Supreme Court stated that Vonachen's rights were violated due to the state's abolishment of the insanity defense. The motion also states that Vonachen's admission to police should have been suppressed and that admission of the defendant's private writings in the trial should not have been allowed.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607101736463.jpeg" alt="Vonachen is being held at the Lansing Correctional Facility, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Vonachen is being held at the Lansing Correctional Facility, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>The court said it reviewed the videotape of the interrogation and that Vonachen was advised of his rights and signed a written waiver. While the interrogation occurred in the evening of the same day of the early morning fire, defendant did not appear to be groggy or ill. Defendant's father was present at the interrogation until defendant asked him to leave. The defendant was 14-years-old and was able to communicate fluently. The interrogation did not exceed a reasonable length of time. The officers did not employ unfair or coercive tactics in conducting the interview.A large part of the trial centered around Vonachen’s &nbsp;mental &nbsp;state. The defendant went through numerous mental evaluations and the defense continuously brought up the defendant’s mental state during the trial and on appeal. The jury rejected numerous claims of mental disease or defect and convicted him on all counts.He is not eligible for parole until 2039.

Kan. court upholds conviction for setting deadly fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Thursday ordered a lower federal court to reexamine restrictions on indoor religious services in areas hard hit by the coronavirus in light of the justices’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ruth-bader-ginsburg-amy-coney-barrett-coronavirus-pandemic-us-supreme-court-john-roberts-d0de27dbb3e16f49d1e73718bd56448d">recent ruling in favor of churches and synagogues in New York</a>.

The high court’s unsigned order, with no noted dissent, leaves the California restrictions in place for now. But it throws out a federal district court ruling that rejected a challenge to the limits from Pasadena-based Harvest Rock Church and Harvest International Ministry, which has more than 160 churches across the state.

Last week, the Supreme Court split 5-4 in holding that New York could not enforce certain limits on attendance at churches and synagogues.

With a sharp increase in coronavirus cases in recent weeks, California Gov. Gavin Newsom has put most of the state under heightened restrictions, which include a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7c11840c31de504a939c926f63006102">ban on indoor singing and chanting</a>.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Thursday ordered a lower federal court to reexamine restrictions on indoor religious services in areas hard hit by the coronavirus in light of the justices’&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ruth-bader-ginsburg-amy-coney-barrett-coronavirus-pandemic-us-supreme-court-john-roberts-d0de27dbb3e16f49d1e73718bd56448d">recent ruling in favor of churches and synagogues in New York</a>.The high court’s unsigned order, with no noted dissent, leaves the California restrictions in place for now. But it throws out a federal district court ruling that rejected a challenge to the limits from Pasadena-based Harvest Rock Church and Harvest International Ministry, which has more than 160 churches across the state.Last week, the Supreme Court split 5-4 in holding that New York could not enforce certain limits on attendance at churches and synagogues.With a sharp increase in coronavirus cases in recent weeks, California Gov. Gavin Newsom has put most of the state under heightened restrictions, which include a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/7c11840c31de504a939c926f63006102">ban on indoor singing and chanting</a>.

Justices order review of more virus rules for churches

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and asking for help to locate a suspect.

Just before 4:00 p.m., Sunday, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. 

Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Rickey Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a suspect identified as Marco Carrillo Fuentes, 31, Wichita over property. During the disturbance the Carrillo-Fuentes produced a knife and stabbed Mason.

The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has charged Carrillo-Fuentes with 2nd Degree murder in the stabbing death.

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Carrillo-Fuentes is asked to call 911. They

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and have identified the victim as 32-year-old Rickey Mason of Wichita.

Upon arrival, officers located Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a known suspect over property. During the disturbance the suspect produced a knife and stabbed Mason.

This was not a random incident, according to Cruz.&nbsp;

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the stabbing death of a man inside a Wichita home on Sunday afternoon.

Just after 4p.m., a witness to the stabbing flagged down firefighters in the 1000 block of south Richmond. Firefighters then called police, who found a 32-year-old man fatally wounded inside the home.

Witnesses told police the stabbing followed a fight involving the victim and another person over property.

Police have not released the victim’s name and had not reported an arrests early Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607031582921.png" alt="Carrillo-Fuentes has previous convictions for burglary and&nbsp; criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Carrillo-Fuentes has previous convictions for burglary and&nbsp; criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and asking for help to locate a suspect.Just before 4:00 p.m., Sunday, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Rickey Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a suspect identified as Marco Carrillo Fuentes, 31, Wichita over property. During the disturbance the Carrillo-Fuentes produced a knife and stabbed Mason.The Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office has charged Carrillo-Fuentes with 2nd Degree murder in the stabbing death.Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Carrillo-Fuentes is asked to call 911. They---------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and have identified the victim as 32-year-old Rickey Mason of Wichita.Just before 4:00 p.m., Sunday, police responded to a stabbing at a residence in the 1000 block of South Richmond in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arrival, officers located Mason, who had been stabbed in the chest and later died of his injuries.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between Mason and a known suspect over property. During the disturbance the suspect produced a knife and stabbed Mason.This was not a random incident, according to Cruz.&nbsp;-----------SEDGWICK COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating the stabbing death of a man inside a Wichita home on Sunday afternoon.Just after 4p.m., a witness to the stabbing flagged down firefighters in the 1000 block of south Richmond. Firefighters then called police, who found a 32-year-old man fatally wounded inside the home.Witnesses told police the stabbing followed a fight involving the victim and another person over property.Police have not released the victim’s name and had not reported an arrests early Monday.

Search continues for suspect in fatal Kan. stabbing

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two northeast Kansas counties on Thursday rejected at least part of the new federal and state guidelines for shortening the time people are quarantined after they’re possibly exposed to COVID-19.

New guidance Wednesday from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said people who’ve been exposed to coronavirus and show no symptoms but don’t get tested can end their quarantines after 10 days, instead of 14. The new guidance also says a person without symptoms who tests negative can end a quarantine after seven days. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment adopted that guidance, though its top administrator, Dr. Lee Norman, said it is still urging people to remain quarantined for 14 days.

Public health officials in Wyandotte County announced that the Kansas City-area county is sticking with 14-day quarantines for people who’ve been potentially exposed to coronavirus.

“It can take up to 14 days after exposure to the virus for someone to develop COVID-19. That has not changed,” Elizabeth Groenweghe, the county health department’s chief epidemiologist said in a statement. “Reducing the quarantine timeline could increase the risk for further COVID-19 spread in our community.”

Shawnee County will allow people without COVID-19 symptoms who’ve not been tested to shorten their quarantines to 10 days, Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, said Thursday. But he said it will not allow people who’ve tested negative to leave quarantine after seven days.

Pezzino said the testing system is stressed in Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, and the the county does not want to overload it. Also, he said, the spread of COVID-19 remains “uncontrolled” locally.

Shawnee and Wyandotte counties are the state’s third- and fourth-most populous counties, with about 340,000 residents between them, or 12% of the state’s population. Together, they have reported 326 COVID-19 deaths and more than 20,000 confirmed or probable coronavirus cases during the pandemic, or one case for every 17 residents.

Shawnee County had nearly 4,100 cases in November alone — more than it did during the previous eight months of the pandemic, according to state health department data.

“We are still at a very high level,” Pezzino said. “It is still an enormous amount of cases.”

Two of Shawnee County’s three county commissioners went into quarantine within the past week, something that will force the commission to meet virtually. Commissioner Kevin Cook, a Democrat, is in quarantine because his wife tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms. The wife of Commissioner Aaron Mays also tested positive; he tested negative but will remain quarantined.

The state health department has reported more than 162,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases and 1,679 deaths in Kansas since the pandemic began.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration this month will consider authorizing emergency use of two-dose vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna, though the first doses will be rationed and it will likely be months before vaccines are available to everybody.

The state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version12-1142020?bidId=" target="_blank">coronavirus vaccine plan</a>&nbsp;calls for providing the vaccine first to health care workers at high risk of exposure to COVID-19.

In south-central Kansas, Reno County commissioners said the state should consider public and private school employees high-risk workers and give them priority for vaccinations right after health care workers. The three commissioners agreed to send a letter to the state health department,

Meanwhile, a majority of the inmates Kansas is housing in a privately run Arizona prison have coronavirus.

The Kansas Department of Corrections said Thursday there were 77 active coronavirus cases among the inmates housed out-of-state as of Monday. The department said it is housing 118 offenders at the Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, Arizona. It has moved inmates there to prevent crowding in Kansas state prisons.

The Saguaro prison is operated by CoreCivic, a large private corrections company based in the Nashville area. The company also designed and built a new prison for the state in Lansing to replace an aging facility there that had first opened in the 1860s.

Department spokeswoman Carol Pitts said the numbers of cases among Kansas inmates at the Arizona prison appear consistent with numbers for outbreaks in Kansas prisons. Since the pandemic reached Kansas in early March, the department has reported more than 4,800 cases and 11 deaths among inmates and nearly 800 cases and three deaths among staff at its prisons for adult offenders.

CoreCivic spokesman Steve Owen said in an email that the company “rigorously followed” local, state and federal health guidelines before the first case in one of its facilities was confirmed.

“We’re continuing to work closely our government partners to enhance procedures as needed,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591922740376.png" alt="KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Two northeast Kansas counties on Thursday rejected at least part of the new federal and state guidelines for shortening the time people are quarantined after they’re possibly exposed to COVID-19.New guidance Wednesday from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said people who’ve been exposed to coronavirus and show no symptoms but don’t get tested can end their quarantines after 10 days, instead of 14. The new guidance also says a person without symptoms who tests negative can end a quarantine after seven days. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment adopted that guidance, though its top administrator, Dr. Lee Norman, said it is still urging people to remain quarantined for 14 days.Public health officials in Wyandotte County announced that the Kansas City-area county is sticking with 14-day quarantines for people who’ve been potentially exposed to coronavirus.“It can take up to 14 days after exposure to the virus for someone to develop COVID-19. That has not changed,” Elizabeth Groenweghe, the county health department’s chief epidemiologist said in a statement. “Reducing the quarantine timeline could increase the risk for further COVID-19 spread in our community.”Shawnee County will allow people without COVID-19 symptoms who’ve not been tested to shorten their quarantines to 10 days, Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, said Thursday. But he said it will not allow people who’ve tested negative to leave quarantine after seven days.Pezzino said the testing system is stressed in Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, and the the county does not want to overload it. Also, he said, the spread of COVID-19 remains “uncontrolled” locally.Shawnee and Wyandotte counties are the state’s third- and fourth-most populous counties, with about 340,000 residents between them, or 12% of the state’s population. Together, they have reported 326 COVID-19 deaths and more than 20,000 confirmed or probable coronavirus cases during the pandemic, or one case for every 17 residents.Shawnee County had nearly 4,100 cases in November alone — more than it did during the previous eight months of the pandemic, according to state health department data.“We are still at a very high level,” Pezzino said. “It is still an enormous amount of cases.”Two of Shawnee County’s three county commissioners went into quarantine within the past week, something that will force the commission to meet virtually. Commissioner Kevin Cook, a Democrat, is in quarantine because his wife tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms. The wife of Commissioner Aaron Mays also tested positive; he tested negative but will remain quarantined.The state health department has reported more than 162,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases and 1,679 deaths in Kansas since the pandemic began.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration this month will consider authorizing emergency use of two-dose vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna, though the first doses will be rationed and it will likely be months before vaccines are available to everybody.The state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version12-1142020?bidId=" target="_blank">coronavirus vaccine plan</a>&nbsp;calls for providing the vaccine first to health care workers at high risk of exposure to COVID-19.In south-central Kansas, Reno County commissioners said the state should consider public and private school employees high-risk workers and give them priority for vaccinations right after health care workers. The three commissioners agreed to send a letter to the state health department,Meanwhile, a majority of the inmates Kansas is housing in a privately run Arizona prison have coronavirus.The Kansas Department of Corrections said Thursday there were 77 active coronavirus cases among the inmates housed out-of-state as of Monday. The department said it is housing 118 offenders at the Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, Arizona. It has moved inmates there to prevent crowding in Kansas state prisons.The Saguaro prison is operated by CoreCivic, a large private corrections company based in the Nashville area. The company also designed and built a new prison for the state in Lansing to replace an aging facility there that had first opened in the 1860s.Department spokeswoman Carol Pitts said the numbers of cases among Kansas inmates at the Arizona prison appear consistent with numbers for outbreaks in Kansas prisons. Since the pandemic reached Kansas in early March, the department has reported more than 4,800 cases and 11 deaths among inmates and nearly 800 cases and three deaths among staff at its prisons for adult offenders.CoreCivic spokesman Steve Owen said in an email that the company “rigorously followed” local, state and federal health guidelines before the first case in one of its facilities was confirmed.“We’re continuing to work closely our government partners to enhance procedures as needed,” he said.

Kansas counties reject new guidance on COVID-19 quarantines

Ocala, Florida – The United States Attorney for the middle district of Florida announced on Thursday the filing of a criminal complaint charging Howard D. Farley, Jr., 72, Weirsdale, with passport fraud. Farley was arrested on December 2, 2020. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, according to U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez.

According to the complaint, in or around February 2020, Farley submitted a passport application using the name, date of birth, and Social Security number of an individual who had died as an infant in 1955. When applying for this passport, Farley failed to disclose his true identity.

In 1985, Farley, along with 73 others, was indicted by a federal grand jury in the District of Nebraska and charged with a narcotics conspiracy. Farley was alleged to be the “drug kingpin” of the Southern Line, a railroad line that was used by the drug dealers to distribute narcotics throughout the United States. Records show that Farley was the only defendant not apprehended in the case, and that he instead assumed the identity of the deceased individual in 1985, and remained a fugitive for more than 35 years.

On December 2, 2020, Farley was arrested at his home on a federal warrant for this complaint under the name “John Doe.” A fingerprint comparison confirmed that he was Howard D. Farley, Jr., the same person wanted in Nebraska since 1985. At the time of his arrest, Farley was attempting to board his private aircraft in the hangar at his home, which he flew using a fraudulent pilot’s license in the name of deceased individual. During the execution of a search warrant, authorities recovered a firearm from inside Farley’s home. Farley was convicted in 1970 of burglary in Nebraska state court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607079653789.png" alt="Howard Farley, Jr.-photo Marion Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Howard Farley, Jr.-photo Marion Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>Ocala, Florida – The United States Attorney for the middle district of Florida announced on Thursday the filing of a criminal complaint charging Howard D. Farley, Jr., 72, Weirsdale, with passport fraud. Farley was arrested on December 2, 2020. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison, according to U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez.According to the complaint, in or around February 2020, Farley submitted a passport application using the name, date of birth, and Social Security number of an individual who had died as an infant in 1955. When applying for this passport, Farley failed to disclose his true identity.In 1985, Farley, along with 73 others, was indicted by a federal grand jury in the District of Nebraska and charged with a narcotics conspiracy. Farley was alleged to be the “drug kingpin” of the Southern Line, a railroad line that was used by the drug dealers to distribute narcotics throughout the United States. Records show that Farley was the only defendant not apprehended in the case, and that he instead assumed the identity of the deceased individual in 1985, and remained a fugitive for more than 35 years.On December 2, 2020, Farley was arrested at his home on a federal warrant for this complaint under the name “John Doe.” A fingerprint comparison confirmed that he was Howard D. Farley, Jr., the same person wanted in Nebraska since 1985. At the time of his arrest, Farley was attempting to board his private aircraft in the hangar at his home, which he flew using a fraudulent pilot’s license in the name of deceased individual. During the execution of a search warrant, authorities recovered a firearm from inside Farley’s home. Farley was convicted in 1970 of burglary in Nebraska state court.

Feds: Nebraska drug suspect hid 35 years using dead baby’s ID

WASHINGTON (AP) —Joe Biden said Thursday that he will ask Americans to commit to 100 days of wearing masks as one of his first acts as president, stopping just short of the nationwide mandate he’s pushed before to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

The move marks a notable shift from President Donald Trump, whose own skepticism of mask-wearing has contributed to a politicization of the issue. That’s made many people reticent to embrace a practice that public health experts say is one of the easiest ways to manage the pandemic, which has killed more than 275,000 Americans.

The president-elect has frequently emphasized mask-wearing as a “patriotic duty” and during the campaign floated the idea of instituting a nationwide mask mandate, which he later acknowledged would be beyond the ability of the president to enforce.

Speaking with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Biden said he would make the request of Americans on Inauguration Day, Jan. 20.

“On the first day I’m inaugurated, I’m going to ask the public for 100 days to mask. Just 100 days to mask — not forever, just 100 days. And I think we’ll see a significant reduction” in the virus, Biden said.

The president-elect reiterated his call for lawmakers on Capitol Hill to pass a coronavirus aid bill and expressed support for a $900 billion compromise bill that a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced this week.

“That would be a good start. It’s not enough,” he said, adding, “I’m going to need to ask for more help.”

Biden has said his transition team is working on its own coronavirus relief package, and his aides have signaled they plan for that to be their first legislative push.

The president-elect also said he asked Dr. Anthony Fauci to stay on in his administration, “in the exact same role he’s had for the past several presidents,” as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the nation’s top infectious-disease expert.

He said he’s asked Fauci to be a “chief medical adviser” as well as part of his COVID-19 advisory team.

Regarding a coronavirus vaccine, Biden offered begrudging credit for the work Trump’s administration has done in expediting the development of a vaccine but said that planning the distribution properly will be “critically important.”

“It’s a really difficult but doable project, but it has to be well planned, ” he said.

Part of the challenge the Biden administration will face in distributing the vaccine will be instilling public confidence in it. Biden said he’d be “happy” to get inoculated in public to assuage any concerns about its efficacy and safety. Three former presidents — Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton — have said they’d also get vaccinated publicly to show that it’s safe.

“People have lost faith in the ability of the vaccine to work,” Biden said, adding that “it matters what a president and the vice president do.”

In the same interview, Biden also weighed in on reports that Trump is considering pardons of himself and his allies.

“It concerns me in terms of what kind of precedent it sets and how the rest of the world looks at us as a nation of laws and justice,” Biden said.

Biden committed that his Justice Department will “operate independently” and that whoever he chooses to lead the department will have the “independent capacity to decide who gets investigated.”

“You’re not going to see in our administration that kind of approach to pardons, nor are you going to see in our administration the approach to making policy by tweets,” he said.

In addition to considering preemptive pardons, Trump has spent much of his time post-election trying to raise questions about an election he lost by millions of votes while his lawyers pursue baseless lawsuits alleging voter fraud in multiple states.

Republicans on Capitol Hill, meanwhile, have largely given the president cover, with many defending the lawsuits and few publicly congratulating Biden on his win.

But Biden said Thursday that he’s received private calls of congratulations from “more than several sitting Republican senators” and that he has confidence in his ability to cut bipartisan deals with Republicans despite the rancor that’s characterized the last four years on Capitol Hill.

Trump aides have expressed skepticism that the president, who continues to falsely claim victory and spread baseless claims of fraud, would attend Biden’s inauguration. Biden said Thursday night that he believes it’s “important” that Trump attend, largely to demonstrate the nation’s commitment to peaceful transfer of power between political rivals.

“It is totally his decision,” Biden said of Trump, adding, “It is of no personal consequence to me, but I think it is to the country.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607037343523.png" alt="President-elect Joe Biden-&nbsp; courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>President-elect Joe Biden-&nbsp; courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —Joe Biden said Thursday that he will ask Americans to commit to 100 days of wearing masks as one of his first acts as president, stopping just short of the nationwide mandate he’s pushed before to stop the spread of the coronavirus.The move marks a notable shift from President Donald Trump, whose own skepticism of mask-wearing has contributed to a politicization of the issue. That’s made many people reticent to embrace a practice that public health experts say is one of the easiest ways to manage the pandemic, which has killed more than 275,000 Americans.The president-elect has frequently emphasized mask-wearing as a “patriotic duty” and during the campaign floated the idea of instituting a nationwide mask mandate, which he later acknowledged would be beyond the ability of the president to enforce.Speaking with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Biden said he would make the request of Americans on Inauguration Day, Jan. 20.“On the first day I’m inaugurated, I’m going to ask the public for 100 days to mask. Just 100 days to mask — not forever, just 100 days. And I think we’ll see a significant reduction” in the virus, Biden said.The president-elect reiterated his call for lawmakers on Capitol Hill to pass a coronavirus aid bill and expressed support for a $900 billion compromise bill that a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced this week.“That would be a good start. It’s not enough,” he said, adding, “I’m going to need to ask for more help.”Biden has said his transition team is working on its own coronavirus relief package, and his aides have signaled they plan for that to be their first legislative push.The president-elect also said he asked Dr. Anthony Fauci to stay on in his administration, “in the exact same role he’s had for the past several presidents,” as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the nation’s top infectious-disease expert.He said he’s asked Fauci to be a “chief medical adviser” as well as part of his COVID-19 advisory team.Regarding a coronavirus vaccine, Biden offered begrudging credit for the work Trump’s administration has done in expediting the development of a vaccine but said that planning the distribution properly will be “critically important.”“It’s a really difficult but doable project, but it has to be well planned, ” he said.Part of the challenge the Biden administration will face in distributing the vaccine will be instilling public confidence in it. Biden said he’d be “happy” to get inoculated in public to assuage any concerns about its efficacy and safety. Three former presidents — Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton — have said they’d also get vaccinated publicly to show that it’s safe.“People have lost faith in the ability of the vaccine to work,” Biden said, adding that “it matters what a president and the vice president do.”In the same interview, Biden also weighed in on reports that Trump is considering pardons of himself and his allies.“It concerns me in terms of what kind of precedent it sets and how the rest of the world looks at us as a nation of laws and justice,” Biden said.Biden committed that his Justice Department will “operate independently” and that whoever he chooses to lead the department will have the “independent capacity to decide who gets investigated.”“You’re not going to see in our administration that kind of approach to pardons, nor are you going to see in our administration the approach to making policy by tweets,” he said.In addition to considering preemptive pardons, Trump has spent much of his time post-election trying to raise questions about an election he lost by millions of votes while his lawyers pursue baseless lawsuits alleging voter fraud in multiple states.Republicans on Capitol Hill, meanwhile, have largely given the president cover, with many defending the lawsuits and few publicly congratulating Biden on his win.But Biden said Thursday that he’s received private calls of congratulations from “more than several sitting Republican senators” and that he has confidence in his ability to cut bipartisan deals with Republicans despite the rancor that’s characterized the last four years on Capitol Hill.Trump aides have expressed skepticism that the president, who continues to falsely claim victory and spread baseless claims of fraud, would attend Biden’s inauguration. Biden said Thursday night that he believes it’s “important” that Trump attend, largely to demonstrate the nation’s commitment to peaceful transfer of power between political rivals.“It is totally his decision,” Biden said of Trump, adding, “It is of no personal consequence to me, but I think it is to the country.”

Biden to call for 100 days of mask-wearing

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following&nbsp;an aggravated robbery.

Just after 10:30p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to the 2000 block of North Kansas Avenue on a report of an armed robbery, according to&nbsp;LT Shane Hilton.

The suspect reportedly entered the store, brandished a firearm and left with an undisclosed amount of money.

Based on descriptions from witnesses and the assistance of security camera footage, officers were able to develop a description of the suspect. The suspect, later identified as 31-year-old Mason B. Mendoza was located by a Shawnee County Sheriff’s Deputy in the area.

Officers arrested Mendoza and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Conspiracy

As a result of the investigation, officers arrested Tina L. Shotwell, 48, and booked her on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Conspiracy, Interference with LEO- Falsely reporting a felony intending to obstruct, Interference with LEO- Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in a felony case and a Misdemeanor Arrest Warrant, according to Lt. Hiton.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607015729965.png" alt="Mendoza-Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Mendoza-Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects following&nbsp;an aggravated robbery.Just after 10:30p.m. Wednesday, police&nbsp;responded to the 2000 block of North Kansas Avenue on a report of an armed robbery, according to&nbsp;LT Shane Hilton.The suspect reportedly entered the store, brandished a firearm and left with an undisclosed amount of money.Based on descriptions from witnesses and the assistance of security camera footage, officers were able to develop a description of the suspect. The suspect, later identified as 31-year-old Mason B. Mendoza was located by a Shawnee County Sheriff’s Deputy in the area.Officers arrested Mendoza and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Conspiracy<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607015660210.png" alt="Shotwell-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Shotwell-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result of the investigation, officers arrested Tina L. Shotwell, 48, and booked her on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Conspiracy, Interference with LEO- Falsely reporting a felony intending to obstruct, Interference with LEO- Conceal/alter/destroy evidence in a felony case and a Misdemeanor Arrest Warrant, according to Lt. Hiton.

Security camera footage leads to Kan. armed robbery arrest

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A man who was sentenced to death after videotaping the sexual torture of two women before killing them has died in prison, the Missouri Department of Corrections said.

Richard Davis, 56, formerly of Independence, died Tuesday of natural causes. He had been imprisoned at the Potosi Correctional Center and was hospitalized for more than two weeks before his death, a department spokeswoman said.

Davis was sentenced to death following his August 2008 convictions in the death of 41-year-old Marsha Spice. Davis and his then-girlfriend, Dena Riley later&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-archive-independence-michael-brown-b255254b804248be92345fcffc7ee9c3">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;to murder and other charges linked to the killing of 36-year-old Michelle Huff-Ricci.

Prosecutors said the two videotaped themselves assaulting the two women to fulfill Davis' sexual fantasies.

Spicer's nude body was found in a shallow grave in Lafayette County. Authorities said Davis and Riley tortured and raped Huff-Ricci and then set her body on fire in a Clay County field.

In 2016, the Missouri Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6607250bd40445b1b4b583b2395d49ad">rejected Davis' appeal</a>&nbsp;of his conviction and death sentence.

Riley is serving multiple life sentences. She is also serving a federal life sentence in Kansas for kidnapping a 5-year-old girl during the eight days she and Davis were on the run before their capture in southwestern Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607031351146.png" alt="Davis-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Davis-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) — A man who was sentenced to death after videotaping the sexual torture of two women before killing them has died in prison, the Missouri Department of Corrections said.Richard Davis, 56, formerly of Independence, died Tuesday of natural causes. He had been imprisoned at the Potosi Correctional Center and was hospitalized for more than two weeks before his death, a department spokeswoman said.Davis was sentenced to death following his August 2008 convictions in the death of 41-year-old Marsha Spice. Davis and his then-girlfriend, Dena Riley later&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-archive-independence-michael-brown-b255254b804248be92345fcffc7ee9c3">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;to murder and other charges linked to the killing of 36-year-old Michelle Huff-Ricci.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607033075743.png" alt="Riley is also serving a federal life sentence in Kansas for kidnapping a 5-year-old girl -photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Riley is also serving a federal life sentence in Kansas for kidnapping a 5-year-old girl -photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>Prosecutors said the two videotaped themselves assaulting the two women to fulfill Davis' sexual fantasies.Spicer's nude body was found in a shallow grave in Lafayette County. Authorities said Davis and Riley tortured and raped Huff-Ricci and then set her body on fire in a Clay County field.In 2016, the Missouri Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/6607250bd40445b1b4b583b2395d49ad">rejected Davis' appeal</a>&nbsp;of his conviction and death sentence.Riley is serving multiple life sentences. She is also serving a federal life sentence in Kansas for kidnapping a 5-year-old girl during the eight days she and Davis were on the run before their capture in southwestern Missouri.

Inmate who videotaped sexual torture-murders dies

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two women in drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 4p.m. Monday, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a northbound 2007 Dodge Charge for a traffic violation near 262nd and U.S. Highway 75 north of Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

&nbsp;During the investigation of the traffic stop, the deputy located illegal drugs and paraphernalia.  The driver and passenger of the vehicle were subsequently arrested.  A quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and U.S. currency was seized from the vehicle. 

 The driver, Shakeita Tocara Young, 31, of Topeka was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and transporting an open container. 

The passenger, Melissa Reser Young, 49, of Topeka was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and transporting an open container.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607000440621.png" alt="Young photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Young photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two women in drug charges after a traffic stop.Just after 4p.m. Monday, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a northbound 2007 Dodge Charge for a traffic violation near 262nd and U.S. Highway 75 north of Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp;During the investigation of the traffic stop, the deputy located illegal drugs and paraphernalia. The driver and passenger of the vehicle were subsequently arrested. A quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and U.S. currency was seized from the vehicle. The driver, Shakeita Tocara Young, 31, of Topeka was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and transporting an open container. The passenger, Melissa Reser Young, 49, of Topeka was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges that include possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and transporting an open container.

Sheriff: 2 Kan. women accused of drug distribution

By TOM SHINE <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/pizza-hut-co-founder-frank-carney-remembered-entrepreneurial-spirit">Kansas News Service</a>

When Wichita University students Frank and Dan Carney opened their first Pizza Hut, they had simple ambitions.

"In
 1958, we started it to pay our way through college," Frank Carney said 
in an interview from the 1970s, after the company had grown into the 
largest pizza restaurant chain in the world.

Frank Carney, a legendary Wichita entrepreneur, died Wednesday. He was 82.

Kansas
 Gov. Laura Kelly said Carney was "one of Kansas' most notable 
entrepreneurs," and Sedgwick County Commission Chairman Pete Meitzner 
called him "a fantastic person" whose company "created incredible value 
for our community and worldwide."

Pizza Hut was a source of local
 pride for Wichitans for decades, even after it was acquired by PepsiCo 
in 1977. It was mentioned along with other venerable Wichita business 
brands as Beech, Cessna, Coleman, Learjet and Koch.

The Carney brothers borrowed $600 from their mother to open their 
first restaurant in 1958 at Kellogg and Bluff. They named it "Pizza Hut"
 because the sign on the building only had room for eight letters. The 
original restaurant is now a museum on the Wichita State University 
campus, filled with personal memorabilia from the Carneys.

Bill 
Kentling, then a college student, worked alongside Carney in the 
original Pizza Hut in 1959. He later worked with him in the company’s 
towering corporate headquarters in east Wichita.

When Carney and a group of investors bought the Wichita Wings indoor soccer team, Kentling became the team’s general manager.

He said part of Pizza Hut’s success was that the Carney brothers were always looking ahead.

"Frank
 and Dan Carney always knew the next logical step," Kentling said. 
"Whether that was a new product, a decision to put in a salad bar or to 
have different kinds of crusts, they always knew the next logical step.

"I've never known Frank Carney to not do the right thing."

The Carney brothers began franchising the restaurant a year after it 
opened, initially to friends and acquaintances. By 1971, it was the 
largest pizza chain in the world and dominated the industry for decades.

Today, Pizza Hut has more than 19,000 restaurants in 100 countries, though Domino’s has surpassed it in terms of revenue.

Carney later became an owner in some Papa John’s pizza franchises.

Kentling
 said Carney’s legacy will include "helping make Wichita famous, whether
 that was with Pizza Hut or the Wichita Wings or his devotion to Wichita
 State University."

"This is a guy who never moved to Boston or LA or Chicago. He lived out his life in Wichita, Kansas."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607029886365.png" alt="Frank Carney, right, and his brother, Dan, stand outside the first Pizza Hut restaurant. Frank died Dec. 2 at the age of 82. Courtesy" />
 <figcaption>Frank Carney, right, and his brother, Dan, stand outside the first Pizza Hut restaurant. Frank died Dec. 2 at the age of 82. Courtesy</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOM SHINE <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/post/pizza-hut-co-founder-frank-carney-remembered-entrepreneurial-spirit">Kansas News Service</a>When Wichita University students Frank and Dan Carney opened their first Pizza Hut, they had simple ambitions."In
 1958, we started it to pay our way through college," Frank Carney said 
in an interview from the 1970s, after the company had grown into the 
largest pizza restaurant chain in the world.Frank Carney, a legendary Wichita entrepreneur, died Wednesday. He was 82.Kansas
 Gov. Laura Kelly said Carney was "one of Kansas' most notable 
entrepreneurs," and Sedgwick County Commission Chairman Pete Meitzner 
called him "a fantastic person" whose company "created incredible value 
for our community and worldwide."Pizza Hut was a source of local
 pride for Wichitans for decades, even after it was acquired by PepsiCo 
in 1977. It was mentioned along with other venerable Wichita business 
brands as Beech, Cessna, Coleman, Learjet and Koch.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607029944125.png" alt=" Frank Carney, right, and his brother, Dan, founded Pizza Hut in 1958 when they were students at what was then the University of Wichita. Credit Courtesy Dan Carney" />
 <figcaption> Frank Carney, right, and his brother, Dan, founded Pizza Hut in 1958 when they were students at what was then the University of Wichita. Credit Courtesy Dan Carney</figcaption>
 </figure>The Carney brothers borrowed $600 from their mother to open their 
first restaurant in 1958 at Kellogg and Bluff. They named it "Pizza Hut"
 because the sign on the building only had room for eight letters. The 
original restaurant is now a museum on the Wichita State University 
campus, filled with personal memorabilia from the Carneys.Bill 
Kentling, then a college student, worked alongside Carney in the 
original Pizza Hut in 1959. He later worked with him in the company’s 
towering corporate headquarters in east Wichita.When Carney and a group of investors bought the Wichita Wings indoor soccer team, Kentling became the team’s general manager.He said part of Pizza Hut’s success was that the Carney brothers were always looking ahead."Frank
 and Dan Carney always knew the next logical step," Kentling said. 
"Whether that was a new product, a decision to put in a salad bar or to 
have different kinds of crusts, they always knew the next logical step."I've never known Frank Carney to not do the right thing."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607029970068.png" alt="Frank, left, and Dan Carney / courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Frank, left, and Dan Carney / courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Carney brothers began franchising the restaurant a year after it 
opened, initially to friends and acquaintances. By 1971, it was the 
largest pizza chain in the world and dominated the industry for decades.Today, Pizza Hut has more than 19,000 restaurants in 100 countries, though Domino’s has surpassed it in terms of revenue.Carney later became an owner in some Papa John’s pizza franchises.Kentling
 said Carney’s legacy will include "helping make Wichita famous, whether
 that was with Pizza Hut or the Wichita Wings or his devotion to Wichita
 State University.""This is a guy who never moved to Boston or LA or Chicago. He lived out his life in Wichita, Kansas."

Pizza Hut co-founder remembered for entrepreneurial spirit 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A northeast Kansas county on Thursday rejected part of the new federal and state guidelines for shortening the time people are quarantined after they’re possibly exposed to COVID-19.

New guidance Wednesday from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said people who’ve been exposed to coronavirus and show no systems but don’t get tested can end their quarantines after 10 days, instead of 14. The new guidance also says a person without symptoms who tests negative can end a quarantine after seven days. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment adopted that guidance, though its top administrator, Dr. Lee Norman, said it is still urging people to remain quarantined for 14 days.

Pezzino said the testing system is stressed in Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, and the the county does not want to overload it.

Also, he said, the spread of COVID-19 remains “uncontrolled” locally. The state health department said Shawnee County had nearly 4,100 new confirmed or probable coronavirus cases in November, more than during previous eight months of the pandemic. As of Wednesday, the county had almost 8,200 cases total and 139 deaths, according to the state health department.

Two of Shawnee County’s three county commissioners went into quarantine within the past week, something that will force the commission to meet virtually. Commissioner Kevin Cook, a Democrat, is in quarantine because his wife tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20201203/commissioner-cook-enters-quarantine-two-of-three-shawnee-county-commissioners-are-now-quarantining-at-home" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital-Journal reported.</a>&nbsp;The wife of Commissioner Aaron Mays, also tested positive; he tested negative but will remain quarantined.

In south-central Kansas, Reno County commissioners said the state should consider public and private school employees high-risk workers and give them priority for vaccinations right after health care workers. The three commissioners agreed to send a letter to the state health department,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchnews.com/news/20201203/county-commission-asks-that-school-staff-receive-vaccine-priority" target="_blank">The Hutchinson News reported.</a>

Department spokeswoman Carol Pitts said the numbers of cases among Kansas inmates at the Arizona prison appears consistent with numbers for outbreaks in Kansas prisons. Since the pandemic reached Kansas in early March, the department has reported more than 4,800 cases and 11 deaths among inmates and nearly 800 cases and three deaths among staff at its prisons for adult offenders.

CoreCivic spokesman Steve Owen said in an email that the company “rigorously followed” local, state and federal health guidelines before its the first case in one of its facilities was confirmed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607034633410.png" alt="Central Arizona Detention Center - Google image" />
 <figcaption>Central Arizona Detention Center - Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A northeast Kansas county on Thursday rejected part of the new federal and state guidelines for shortening the time people are quarantined after they’re possibly exposed to COVID-19.New guidance Wednesday from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said people who’ve been exposed to coronavirus and show no systems but don’t get tested can end their quarantines after 10 days, instead of 14. The new guidance also says a person without symptoms who tests negative can end a quarantine after seven days. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment adopted that guidance, though its top administrator, Dr. Lee Norman, said it is still urging people to remain quarantined for 14 days.Shawnee County will allow people without COVID-19 symptoms who’ve not been tested to shorten their quarantines to 10 days, Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, the county’s health officer, said Thursday. But he said it will not allow people who’ve tested negative to leave quarantine after seven days.Pezzino said the testing system is stressed in Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, and the the county does not want to overload it.Also, he said, the spread of COVID-19 remains “uncontrolled” locally. The state health department said Shawnee County had nearly 4,100 new confirmed or probable coronavirus cases in November, more than during previous eight months of the pandemic. As of Wednesday, the county had almost 8,200 cases total and 139 deaths, according to the state health department.“We are still at a very high level,” Pezzino said. “It is still an enormous amount of cases.”Two of Shawnee County’s three county commissioners went into quarantine within the past week, something that will force the commission to meet virtually. Commissioner Kevin Cook, a Democrat, is in quarantine because his wife tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/news/20201203/commissioner-cook-enters-quarantine-two-of-three-shawnee-county-commissioners-are-now-quarantining-at-home" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital-Journal reported.</a>&nbsp;The wife of Commissioner Aaron Mays, also tested positive; he tested negative but will remain quarantined.The state health department has reported more than 162,000 confirmed and probable coronavirus cases and 1,679 deaths in Kansas since the pandemic began.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration this month will consider authorizing emergency use of two-dose vaccines made by Pfizer and Moderna, though the first doses will be rationed and it will likely be months before vaccines are available to everybody.The state’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1533/COVID-19-Vaccination-Plan-for-Kansas-Version12-1142020?bidId=" target="_blank">coronavirus vaccine plan</a>&nbsp;calls for providing the vaccine first to health care workers at high risk of exposure to COVID-19.In south-central Kansas, Reno County commissioners said the state should consider public and private school employees high-risk workers and give them priority for vaccinations right after health care workers. The three commissioners agreed to send a letter to the state health department,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hutchnews.com/news/20201203/county-commission-asks-that-school-staff-receive-vaccine-priority" target="_blank">The Hutchinson News reported.</a>Meanwhile, a majority of the inmates Kansas is housing in a privately run Arizona prison have coronavirus.The Kansas Department of Corrections said Thursday there were 77 active coronavirus cases among the inmates housed out-of-state as of Monday. The department said it is housing 118 offenders at the Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, Arizona. It has moved inmates there to prevent crowding in Kansas state prisons.The Saguaro prison is operated by CoreCivic, a large private corrections company based in the Nashville area. The company also designed and built a new prison for the state in Lansing to replace an aging facility there that had first opened in the 1860s.Department spokeswoman Carol Pitts said the numbers of cases among Kansas inmates at the Arizona prison appears consistent with numbers for outbreaks in Kansas prisons. Since the pandemic reached Kansas in early March, the department has reported more than 4,800 cases and 11 deaths among inmates and nearly 800 cases and three deaths among staff at its prisons for adult offenders.CoreCivic spokesman Steve Owen said in an email that the company “rigorously followed” local, state and federal health guidelines before its the first case in one of its facilities was confirmed.“We’re continuing to work closely our government partners to enhance procedures as needed,” he said.

Majority of Kan. inmates housed in Arizona have COVID-19

LIBERTY, Mo. (AP) — A federal judge has dismissed neglect and misconduct charges against three employees of a tourist boat that sank on a Table Rock Lake in 2018, killing 17 people.

U.S. District Judge Doug Harpool filed an order Wednesday upholding a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1d63520a5bd42de33be53338a2ad893c">recommendation made in September</a>.

Kenneth Scott McKee, of Verona, the captain of the duck boat; Curtis Lanham, of Galena, the general manager of the boat’s operator, Ride the Ducks Branson; and Charles Baltzell, of Kirbyville, the manager on duty that day, were charged with neglect and misconduct after the amphibious vehicle sank during a storm on Table Rock Lake near Branson. McKee also was charged with failure to properly assess the weather before launching the boat and not telling passengers to use flotation devices.

The boat had entered the lake on July, 19, 2018, despite severe weather warnings. Riders from Missouri, Indiana, Illinois and Arkansas were killed; 14 people survived.

U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush ruled in September that the federal government does not have jurisdiction because Table Rock Lake is not considered a navigable waterway, which means it doesn’t support commerce.

“While the events of July 19, 2018 remain an unfortunate accident and tragedy we’re pleased that both Judge Harpool and Magistrate Judge Rush have sustained the admiralty dismissal motion,” McKee's attorneys, J.R. Hobbs and Marilyn Keller, said in a statement.

Federal prosecutors could appeal the dismissal. Don Ledford, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office in Kansas City, said the office would not comment on the judge's decision.

Ripley Entertainment, which owned the former World War II vehicle,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/420785b69c8f264a7f0048e580bee3bf">settled 31 lawsuits related to the sinking</a>. The boats, once a popular draw in the southwest Missouri tourist town, have not returned to the lake since the sinking.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573695624494.png" alt="Photo courtesy National Transportation Safety Board" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy National Transportation Safety Board</figcaption>
 </figure>LIBERTY, Mo. (AP) — A federal judge has dismissed neglect and misconduct charges against three employees of a tourist boat that sank on a Table Rock Lake in 2018, killing 17 people.U.S. District Judge Doug Harpool filed an order Wednesday upholding a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/1d63520a5bd42de33be53338a2ad893c">recommendation made in September</a>.Kenneth Scott McKee, of Verona, the captain of the duck boat; Curtis Lanham, of Galena, the general manager of the boat’s operator, Ride the Ducks Branson; and Charles Baltzell, of Kirbyville, the manager on duty that day, were charged with neglect and misconduct after the amphibious vehicle sank during a storm on Table Rock Lake near Branson. McKee also was charged with failure to properly assess the weather before launching the boat and not telling passengers to use flotation devices.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/7/1563393605763.png" alt="First responders on the scene the night of the tragedy-photo courtesy KYTV" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene the night of the tragedy-photo courtesy KYTV</figcaption>
 </figure>The boat had entered the lake on July, 19, 2018, despite severe weather warnings. Riders from Missouri, Indiana, Illinois and Arkansas were killed; 14 people survived.U.S. Magistrate Judge David P. Rush ruled in September that the federal government does not have jurisdiction because Table Rock Lake is not considered a navigable waterway, which means it doesn’t support commerce.“While the events of July 19, 2018 remain an unfortunate accident and tragedy we’re pleased that both Judge Harpool and Magistrate Judge Rush have sustained the admiralty dismissal motion,” McKee's attorneys, J.R. Hobbs and Marilyn Keller, said in a statement.Federal prosecutors could appeal the dismissal. Don Ledford, a spokesman for the U.S. attorney's office in Kansas City, said the office would not comment on the judge's decision.Ripley Entertainment, which owned the former World War II vehicle,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/420785b69c8f264a7f0048e580bee3bf">settled 31 lawsuits related to the sinking</a>. The boats, once a popular draw in the southwest Missouri tourist town, have not returned to the lake since the sinking.