SEWARD COUNTY —&nbsp;One person died in an accident during just after 8:30p.m. Saturday in Seward County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Seward County was in pursuit of a 2006 Jeep Liberty driven by&nbsp; Carlos Garcia-Alamos, 34, Liberal, on&nbsp;County Road 13 seven miles north and three miles east of the Kansas 53 and U.S. 83 Junction.

The driver&nbsp; failed to navigate a right turn on County Road 13 and entered the east ditch. The Jeep overturned once and the driver was ejected.

EMS transported Garcia-Alamos to&nbsp;Southwest Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. 

Authorities have not released details on what prompted the chase. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

SEWARD COUNTY —&nbsp;One person died in an accident during just after 8:30p.m. Saturday in Seward County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Seward County was in pursuit of a 2006 Jeep Liberty driven by&nbsp; Carlos Garcia-Alamos, 34, Liberal, on&nbsp;County Road 13 seven miles north and three miles east of the Kansas 53 and U.S. 83 Junction.The driver&nbsp; failed to navigate a right turn on County Road 13 and entered the east ditch. The Jeep overturned once and the driver was ejected.EMS transported Garcia-Alamos to&nbsp;Southwest Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Authorities have not released details on what prompted the chase. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kan. man dies after being ejected from Jeep during chase, crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after the execution of. search warrant Friday in the 6100 block of SW 27th Street, according to Shawnee County Deputy Shayna Anderson.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Warrant Unit and the US Marshals Task Force apprehended Keegien R. Hamilton, 26, of Topeka on a felony arrest warrant.&nbsp;

This also led to the arrest of Megan H. Cline, 26, of Topeka, on a requested charge of felony interference with law enforcement and multiple drug charges.

Hamilton was booked on a requested charged of felon in possession of a firearm, multiple drug charges and the felony warrant, according to Anderson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592666804651.png" alt="Hamilton" />
 <figcaption>Hamilton</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after the execution of. search warrant Friday in the 6100 block of SW 27th Street, according to Shawnee County Deputy Shayna Anderson.The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Warrant Unit and the US Marshals Task Force apprehended Keegien R. Hamilton, 26, of Topeka on a felony arrest warrant.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592666782036.png" alt="Cline" />
 <figcaption>Cline</figcaption>
 </figure>This also led to the arrest of Megan H. Cline, 26, of Topeka, on a requested charge of felony interference with law enforcement and multiple drug charges.Hamilton was booked on a requested charged of felon in possession of a firearm, multiple drug charges and the felony warrant, according to Anderson.

U.S. Marshals Task force makes arrest of 2 in Kan. drug bust

SHERMAN COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating 2 Florida men on multiple charges after a chase on Interstate 70 in portions of eastern Colorado and northwest Kansas.

Just after 1p.m. Thursday, deputies in Colorado notified Kansas authorities they were in pursuit of a 2007 Dodge Ram and a 2012 Nissan Pickup eastbound on Interstate 0 just west of the Kit Carson County Line, according to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Heilman.&nbsp;

A short time later, the suspects ditched the Nissan and continued eastbound in the Dodge.&nbsp; The pickup struck spike strips placed by deputies in Colorado and the KHP but continued traveling on rims until a KHP trooper forced it off the road near mile post 9 in Sherman County.

The two suspects later identified as 24-year-old Taylor Lee Epperhart and 23-year-old Cody M. Rupert both of Florida ran from the vehicle.&nbsp;

Due to temperatures near 90 degrees, they didn't run far. Both are being held in the Kit Carson County Jail in Burlington, Colorado facing multiple charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592591248054.png" alt="Rupert photo Kit Carson County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Rupert photo Kit Carson County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SHERMAN COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating 2 Florida men on multiple charges after a chase on Interstate 70 in portions of eastern Colorado and northwest Kansas.Just after 1p.m. Thursday, deputies in Colorado notified Kansas authorities they were in pursuit of a 2007 Dodge Ram and a 2012 Nissan Pickup eastbound on Interstate 0 just west of the Kit Carson County Line, according to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Tod Heilman.&nbsp;A short time later, the suspects ditched the Nissan and continued eastbound in the Dodge.&nbsp; The pickup struck spike strips placed by deputies in Colorado and the KHP but continued traveling on rims until a KHP trooper forced it off the road near mile post 9 in Sherman County.The two suspects later identified as 24-year-old Taylor Lee Epperhart and 23-year-old Cody M. Rupert both of Florida ran from the vehicle.&nbsp;Due to temperatures near 90 degrees, they didn't run far. Both are being held in the Kit Carson County Jail in Burlington, Colorado facing multiple charges.

2 suspects in stolen pickup jailed after NW Kan. high speed chase

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting the sent five people to the hospital early Saturday.

Just after 3 a.m., police responded to a shooting call at a motel in the 3700 block of North Rock Road in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;

 Upon arrival, officers contacted a 20-year-old male, an 18-year-old male, and a 65-year-old female who all had sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.&nbsp; They were transported to area hospitals for medical treatment.&nbsp; Officers also located multiple shell casings outside of the motel building and vehicles that had been damaged by gunfire.

A &nbsp;19-year-old male and a 24-year-old male who were at the incident on Rock road later arrived at an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation revealed a party was occurring in a room of the motel, and a disturbance ensued.&nbsp; The disturbance continued outside, leading to multiple shots being fired, striking the five individuals.&nbsp; The 65-year-old was struck while in a room and was not part of the disturbance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592686353125.png" alt="The shooting occurred in the 3700 Block of North Rock Road Wichita -Google image" />
 <figcaption>The shooting occurred in the 3700 Block of North Rock Road Wichita -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting the sent five people to the hospital early Saturday.Just after 3 a.m., police responded to a shooting call at a motel in the 3700 block of North Rock Road in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers contacted a 20-year-old male, an 18-year-old male, and a 65-year-old female who all had sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.&nbsp; They were transported to area hospitals for medical treatment.&nbsp; Officers also located multiple shell casings outside of the motel building and vehicles that had been damaged by gunfire.A &nbsp;19-year-old male and a 24-year-old male who were at the incident on Rock road later arrived at an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.The investigation revealed a party was occurring in a room of the motel, and a disturbance ensued.&nbsp; The disturbance continued outside, leading to multiple shots being fired, striking the five individuals.&nbsp; The 65-year-old was struck while in a room and was not part of the disturbance.

Police: 5 wounded after gunfire during party at Kansas motel

OSAGE COUNTY — Two people died in an accident just after 2p.m. Saturday in Osage County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1993 Yamaha Venture Royale driven by&nbsp; Bryan Thomas Holland, 49, Ottawa,&nbsp;was westbound on K268 and the Kansas 368.

The motorcycle rear-ended a 1995 Ford F150 driven by Arthur C. Hogelin, 72, Vasser, that&nbsp;was stopped at the intersection on K268 westbound waiting to turn south on K368.

Holland was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a passenger&nbsp; on the motorcycle Stacy L. Holland, 48, Ottawa, to a Topeka hospital where she died.

Hogelin was not injured. The occupants of the motorcycle were wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

OSAGE COUNTY — Two people died in an accident just after 2p.m. Saturday in Osage County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 1993 Yamaha Venture Royale driven by&nbsp; Bryan Thomas Holland, 49, Ottawa,&nbsp;was westbound on K268 and the Kansas 368.The motorcycle rear-ended a 1995 Ford F150 driven by Arthur C. Hogelin, 72, Vasser, that&nbsp;was stopped at the intersection on K268 westbound waiting to turn south on K368.Holland was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a passenger&nbsp; on the motorcycle Stacy L. Holland, 48, Ottawa, to a Topeka hospital where she died.Hogelin was not injured. The occupants of the motorcycle were wearing helmets, according to the KHP.

Kansas man, woman die after motorcycle rear-ends pickup

HAMILTON COUNTY–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a homicide that occurred Friday in Syracuse, Kansas

At 11:57 a.m., a 911 call was received reporting a shooting in Syracuse, according to a media release from the KBI.

 When deputies from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the Country Café apartments at 503 E. Ave. A, Apt. 9, they discovered a man inside the apartment who had died from gunshot wounds. The coroner pronounced the man dead at the scene.

He was later identified as 21-year-old Kevin A. Palma-Rodriguez of Syracuse.

A search warrant was conducted by the KBI High Risk Warrant Team at a residence at&nbsp;310 W. Hwy 50, Apt. 9, in&nbsp;Syracuse. Then, an arrest warrant was issued for first-degree murder for 25-year-old Amner Y. Tejada-Vigil, also known as Jeovany Vijil. He lives at the Syracuse residence where the search warrant was conducted. Tejada-Vigil has not yet been located, or arrested.

Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office at 620-384-5616. A tip can also be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar" target="_blank">https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592684694156.png" alt="Amner Y. Tejada-Vigil&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Amner Y. Tejada-Vigil&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>HAMILTON COUNTY–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a homicide that occurred Friday in Syracuse, KansasAt 11:57 a.m., a 911 call was received reporting a shooting in Syracuse, according to a media release from the KBI. When deputies from the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the Country Café apartments at 503 E. Ave. A, Apt. 9, they discovered a man inside the apartment who had died from gunshot wounds. The coroner pronounced the man dead at the scene.He was later identified as 21-year-old Kevin A. Palma-Rodriguez of Syracuse.A search warrant was conducted by the KBI High Risk Warrant Team at a residence at&nbsp;310 W. Hwy 50, Apt. 9, in&nbsp;Syracuse. Then, an arrest warrant was issued for first-degree murder for 25-year-old Amner Y. Tejada-Vigil, also known as Jeovany Vijil. He lives at the Syracuse residence where the search warrant was conducted. Tejada-Vigil has not yet been located, or arrested.Anyone with information about this homicide is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office at 620-384-5616. A tip can also be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar" target="_blank">https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.

KBI issues arrest warrant for alleged SW Kan. murder suspect

BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — More than a century after the arrival of the railroads to the Flint Hills of Kansas, a large-scale track expansion is tearing up a scenic stretch in some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie left in the nation.

The multiyear project by BNSF Railway to build a second main line of track in Kansas got little public attention until construction this year on a nearly 42-mile stretch of track that the railroad is laying from Ellinor to El Dorado. Located south of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, the new line will run alongside much of Highway 177, a national scenic byway through the Flint Hills.

The work is occurring along the railroad’s right-of-way and 19 parcels of land it is acquiring, BNSF spokeswoman Amy Casas said in an email.

The project involves eight minor wetland fills, realignment of streams at three locations, seven new bridges and 36 culvert extensions, according to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers documents.

When Wichita resident Clayton Jamison and his wife traveled to Cottonwood Falls in late May, he was shocked as they came over a rise in the road a few miles north of Cassoday and saw the size of the excavation.

“It looked like a bomb went off,” Jamison said.

At one time, 150 million acres of tallgrass prairie stretched from Texas to Canada. Today only 4% of that ecosystem survives, with the largest piece in the Flint Hills, according to the Flint Hills Learning Center.

The Flint Hills, once an ancient inland seaway, has very shallow soil and hard limestone rocks that kept settlers from plowing it. Tallgrass prairie grasses grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall, with roots that extend up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) deep. Its ecosystem supports threatened species like prairie chickens.

“Up there that is a special place,” Jamison said of the Flint Hills. “It is just one of those things that have been that way for millennium times. It hasn’t changed a lot.”

BNSF said its earth moving is only temporary and that it will restore the area and plant native grass as required by its state construction stormwater permit and in “voluntary consultation” with The Nature Conservancy.

“We are also a big supporter of the ongoing efforts to preserve the tall grass prairie of the Flint Hills,” Casas wrote, noting donations the railroad has made to such efforts.

The Nature Conservancy said in an email that its land protection director is scheduled to look at the rail expansion project with BNSF next week.

“It’s always unfortunate to lose more native prairie, especially in the Flint Hills, which is the last uninterrupted expanse of tallgrass prairie in North America,” said Laura Rose Clawson, spokeswoman for The Nature Conservancy. “We understand the necessity of BNSF’s expansion project, but we hope they take steps to mitigate this loss of prairie.”

No environmental impact statement or public notice was required because the work is allowed under an existing nationwide permit, said Mark Frazier, regulatory branch chief for the Corps of Engineers’ Kansas City district.

The Corps, which has jurisdiction over U.S. waters, considered the impacts of each of the project’s 42 water crossings separately, Frazier said.

But even if federal regulators had considered the Flint Hills rail expansion as a single project, Frazier does not believe an environmental impact statement would have been required.

“When you consider them as separate projects the way we did for these permits, most of the impacts were temporary to allow for construction. Then they will be restored once they are done working,” said Sarah Reznicek, the Corps’ regulatory project manager who handled its review.

The expansion is being done to help with the transportation of consumer goods. BNSF said the project supports its customers’ growth. It noted that the railroad has invested about $815 million in Kansas during the last five years to maintain the railroad and expand it where needed.

Officials in the area say most of the complaints they have heard are from visitors, not locals.

“It’s not bothering us,” Chase County Register of Deeds Kathy Swift said.

BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — More than a century after the arrival of the railroads to the Flint Hills of Kansas, a large-scale track expansion is tearing up a scenic stretch in some of the last remaining tallgrass prairie left in the nation.The multiyear project by BNSF Railway to build a second main line of track in Kansas got little public attention until construction this year on a nearly 42-mile stretch of track that the railroad is laying from Ellinor to El Dorado. Located south of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, the new line will run alongside much of Highway 177, a national scenic byway through the Flint Hills.The work is occurring along the railroad’s right-of-way and 19 parcels of land it is acquiring, BNSF spokeswoman Amy Casas said in an email.The project involves eight minor wetland fills, realignment of streams at three locations, seven new bridges and 36 culvert extensions, according to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers documents.When Wichita resident Clayton Jamison and his wife traveled to Cottonwood Falls in late May, he was shocked as they came over a rise in the road a few miles north of Cassoday and saw the size of the excavation.“It looked like a bomb went off,” Jamison said.At one time, 150 million acres of tallgrass prairie stretched from Texas to Canada. Today only 4% of that ecosystem survives, with the largest piece in the Flint Hills, according to the Flint Hills Learning Center.The Flint Hills, once an ancient inland seaway, has very shallow soil and hard limestone rocks that kept settlers from plowing it. Tallgrass prairie grasses grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall, with roots that extend up to 15 feet (4.5 meters) deep. Its ecosystem supports threatened species like prairie chickens.“Up there that is a special place,” Jamison said of the Flint Hills. “It is just one of those things that have been that way for millennium times. It hasn’t changed a lot.”BNSF said its earth moving is only temporary and that it will restore the area and plant native grass as required by its state construction stormwater permit and in “voluntary consultation” with The Nature Conservancy.“We are also a big supporter of the ongoing efforts to preserve the tall grass prairie of the Flint Hills,” Casas wrote, noting donations the railroad has made to such efforts.The Nature Conservancy said in an email that its land protection director is scheduled to look at the rail expansion project with BNSF next week.“It’s always unfortunate to lose more native prairie, especially in the Flint Hills, which is the last uninterrupted expanse of tallgrass prairie in North America,” said Laura Rose Clawson, spokeswoman for The Nature Conservancy. “We understand the necessity of BNSF’s expansion project, but we hope they take steps to mitigate this loss of prairie.”No environmental impact statement or public notice was required because the work is allowed under an existing nationwide permit, said Mark Frazier, regulatory branch chief for the Corps of Engineers’ Kansas City district.The Corps, which has jurisdiction over U.S. waters, considered the impacts of each of the project’s 42 water crossings separately, Frazier said.But even if federal regulators had considered the Flint Hills rail expansion as a single project, Frazier does not believe an environmental impact statement would have been required.“When you consider them as separate projects the way we did for these permits, most of the impacts were temporary to allow for construction. Then they will be restored once they are done working,” said Sarah Reznicek, the Corps’ regulatory project manager who handled its review.The expansion is being done to help with the transportation of consumer goods. BNSF said the project supports its customers’ growth. It noted that the railroad has invested about $815 million in Kansas during the last five years to maintain the railroad and expand it where needed.Officials in the area say most of the complaints they have heard are from visitors, not locals.“It’s not bothering us,” Chase County Register of Deeds Kathy Swift said.

Major railroad expansion tearing up Flint Hills in Kansas

BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. (AP) — A suburban Kansas City couple left their 12-year-old boy with cerebral palsy behind for weeks after they moved, returning only periodically to bring him food, according to court records.

Janine Allen, 30, and Brendon Luke, 29, were each being held on $250,000 bond on charges of felony abuse or neglect of a child.

Police learned the boy was left by himself in a Blue Springs home while they monitored him with an in-home video system from their new home a couple of miles away, according to&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/hhollingsworth/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/QORMGK04/AllenLuke_Redacted.pdf">court records</a>.

The mother allegedly told witnesses she did not want him to damage the walls of the families’ new home. In a home-surveillance video later obtained by police, the boy says, “I want out. I don’t like this, mommy.”

A Children’s Division worker involved with the family since October the child was “increasingly violent” toward the family and believed he needed residential placement, but his mother hadn’t completed the required paperwork, according to court documents. The worker was unaware the child had been abandoned, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/nation-world/national/article243646527.html">reports</a>.

Allen’s attorney P.J. O’Connor told McClatchy News there is more to the case than what is in the arrest affidavit.

“I’ve just entered my appearance on the case and there is a lot more to the story than what’s been presented in the probable cause statement,” O’Connor said in an email. “Until I’ve viewed all the evidence I don’t want to comment any further.”

Luke does not have an attorney listed in court records.

In early June, concerned residents told Blue Springs police the wheelchair-bound child had been left in the home for weeks, prompting the investigation.

When a police officer went to the home, Allen told him through a doorbell camera that the boy was OK and she could see him on camera, according to court records. Later, Allen explained to investigators that she and her husband monitored the boy with a two-way radio and camera that provides alerts of movements and noises inside the house, police said.

She told the officers her son knew how to call 911 and her phone number in an emergency.

A Children’s Mercy clinic told investigators the boy is “medically complex” and shouldn’t be left unsupervised, police said. In September, the boy was at the clinic for a “suspicious” broken arm following an altercation with his mother, according to court documents. A school resource officer said the boy needs help using the bathroom and eating and also with mobility.

Inside the home, investigators reported finding feces and it smelled of urine. There was a telephone with no dial tone.

The family’s new home was “extremely large in size” with a basement large enough for the boy and other children to have their own rooms, police said.

According to police, video shows the child attempting for more than 20 minutes to get out of his locked room with a small piece of wire. Another video shows Luke “throwing food on the floor” in the boy’s room before leaving the house within six minutes, police say.

On June 11, Allen told investigators the boy was left in the home since Mother’s Day, which was May 10, according to court documents. She said leaving her son in the house was the best option to protect her family from violence, police say.

Jackson County Family Court obtained emergency custody of the boy. Luke took him to a residential facility in southern Missouri a day later, despite the custody order, police say.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592654135623.png" alt="Brendon Luke, 29, photos Blue Springs Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Brendon Luke, 29, photos Blue Springs Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. (AP) — A suburban Kansas City couple left their 12-year-old boy with cerebral palsy behind for weeks after they moved, returning only periodically to bring him food, according to court records.Janine Allen, 30, and Brendon Luke, 29, were each being held on $250,000 bond on charges of felony abuse or neglect of a child.Police learned the boy was left by himself in a Blue Springs home while they monitored him with an in-home video system from their new home a couple of miles away, according to&nbsp;<a href="file:///C:/Users/hhollingsworth/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/QORMGK04/AllenLuke_Redacted.pdf">court records</a>.The mother allegedly told witnesses she did not want him to damage the walls of the families’ new home. In a home-surveillance video later obtained by police, the boy says, “I want out. I don’t like this, mommy.”A Children’s Division worker involved with the family since October the child was “increasingly violent” toward the family and believed he needed residential placement, but his mother hadn’t completed the required paperwork, according to court documents. The worker was unaware the child had been abandoned, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/nation-world/national/article243646527.html">reports</a>.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592654115976.png" alt="Janine Allen&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Janine Allen&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Allen’s attorney P.J. O’Connor told McClatchy News there is more to the case than what is in the arrest affidavit.“I’ve just entered my appearance on the case and there is a lot more to the story than what’s been presented in the probable cause statement,” O’Connor said in an email. “Until I’ve viewed all the evidence I don’t want to comment any further.”Luke does not have an attorney listed in court records.In early June, concerned residents told Blue Springs police the wheelchair-bound child had been left in the home for weeks, prompting the investigation.When a police officer went to the home, Allen told him through a doorbell camera that the boy was OK and she could see him on camera, according to court records. Later, Allen explained to investigators that she and her husband monitored the boy with a two-way radio and camera that provides alerts of movements and noises inside the house, police said.She told the officers her son knew how to call 911 and her phone number in an emergency.A Children’s Mercy clinic told investigators the boy is “medically complex” and shouldn’t be left unsupervised, police said. In September, the boy was at the clinic for a “suspicious” broken arm following an altercation with his mother, according to court documents. A school resource officer said the boy needs help using the bathroom and eating and also with mobility.Inside the home, investigators reported finding feces and it smelled of urine. There was a telephone with no dial tone.The family’s new home was “extremely large in size” with a basement large enough for the boy and other children to have their own rooms, police said.According to police, video shows the child attempting for more than 20 minutes to get out of his locked room with a small piece of wire. Another video shows Luke “throwing food on the floor” in the boy’s room before leaving the house within six minutes, police say.On June 11, Allen told investigators the boy was left in the home since Mother’s Day, which was May 10, according to court documents. She said leaving her son in the house was the best option to protect her family from violence, police say.Jackson County Family Court obtained emergency custody of the boy. Luke took him to a residential facility in southern Missouri a day later, despite the custody order, police say.

Kansas City couple accused of abandoning boy, 12, with palsy

PHOENIX (AP) — When the coronavirus flared in China’s capital this week, Beijing canceled flights, suspended reopenings and described the situation as “extremely grave.” But with cases rising in some U.S. states, local officials have balked at even requiring people to wear masks.

In the United States, which has the most confirmed cases and deaths in the world, authorities wrestled Wednesday with balancing demands for constitutional rights and personal freedom with warnings from health officials that being lax will have deadly consequences.

China responded to a new outbreak in Beijing by scrapping more than 60% of its flights to the capital, canceling classes and strengthening requirements for social distancing. It was a sharp retreat for the nation that declared victory over COVID-19 in March.

China’s actions follow about 137 new cases, a fraction of the number some U.S. states see each day. In Arizona, more than 1,100 people visited emergency rooms on Tuesday alone with positive or suspected cases. Alabama also is running out of hospital space, stirring impassioned debate over a mask requirement. Other states that haven’t mandated face coverings, like Texas and Florida, are seeing infections soar.

With masks becoming a political symbol, Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has taken aim at President Donald Trump’s approach to the pandemic.

“Donald Trump wants to style himself as a wartime president. Unlike any other wartime leader, he takes no responsibility, he exercises no leadership, now he has just flat surrendered the fight,” Biden said Wednesday.

Biden has worn a mask repeatedly at public events, while Trump hasn’t, even on occasions such as touring auto factory floors when they are required. Aides say Trump believes they’re unflattering and that wearing one projects weakness.

The mask debate is playing out nationwide, notably in hard-hit states where face coverings have become a political and cultural debate.

Hundreds of medical professionals signed a letter urging Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey to require them. Facing mounting pressure to act as cases surge, the Republican said cities were free to mandate masks.

Ducey, who removed his mask before speaking to reporters, said there were vastly different rates of infection across the state.

“For some things, a statewide directive or executive order works very well,” he said. “If you have 12 or 13 counties that say ‘pound sand’ on an executive order ... it’s a self-defeating executive order.”

Ducey has attributed Arizona’s soaring cases to increased testing. The state has been doing more tests, which can yield more cases, but health experts say a better way to see if more people are getting sick is to look at the percentage of positive tests. When that percentage rises, it means the outbreak is worsening — not just that more people are getting tested.

Arizona has the nation’s highest seven-day average positive test rate: 17.7%, or about double the national average and well above the 10% threshold that health officials find worrisome. It also has the most new cases per capita in the U.S. in the past 14 days. The state’s leading hospital system says it’s almost running out of beds.

Ducey said roughly 300 National Guardsmen would help with contact tracing. Several restaurants and other businesses have closed because staff tested positive in the last week.

The same thing is happening in parts of Florida, where people under 35 are testing positive at a higher rate since the pandemic began, contributing to a surge in cases, officials said Wednesday.

The coastal city of St. Petersburg had three popular bars close after employees tested positive, and it’s now requiring workers who have contact with the public to wear masks — which some hard-hit cities in southern Florida have been doing for weeks.

Mayor Rick Kriseman said he also plans to require people to cover their faces in businesses and other public spaces.

“We can wear a mask, protect others and ourselves, or we can contribute to someone’s death. Maybe even our own,” Kriseman said.

The Democrat said Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis has encouraged people to use masks but not mandated them.

DeSantis said he has no intention of closing Florida’s economy again despite the statewide spike in new cases, which topped 1,000 Wednesday for the 15th consecutive day. He said many of those getting sick are young and unlikely to suffer serious illness or death.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

Fears about growing numbers of infections in younger people pushed officials in the San Antonio area to order masks in public as infections keep rising in Texas.

“What we are doing here is to protect the life and safety of the San Antonio community,” Mayor Ron Nirenberg said, adding that most infections in the area are in people younger than 40.

Later Wednesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, said local governments could force businesses to require customers and workers to wear masks but that he wouldn’t issue a statewide order. The second-most-populated state set daily records for new COVID-19 cases, with 3,129, and hospitalizations. The 2,793 hospitalizations mark a daily high for the 10th time in 11 days.

In Montgomery, Alabama, where cases are spiking, the issue of masks erupted during a City Council meeting, where members rejected a proposal to mandate them at public gatherings of 25 or more.

Dr. Bill Saliski, a lung specialist at Jackson Hospital in Montgomery, called on the city to pass a mask requirement and declared: “If this continues the way we’re going, we’re going to be overrun.”

Some city leaders voiced concern about trampling on people’s rights.

“I think to make somebody do something or require somebody to wear something is an overreach,” councilman Brantley Lyons said.

Since the virus emerged in China late last year and spread worldwide, there have been more than 8.3 million confirmed cases and over 447,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University. Experts say the true toll is much higher. The U.S. death toll has exceeded 117,000.

European nations, which embarked on a wide-scale reopening this week, watched Asia and the Americas with trepidation.

After lockdown restrictions were relaxed in Iran, Health Minister Saeed Namaki said he realized the extent of the challenge when he took a domestic flight.

“Many people have become careless, frustrated with wearing masks,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590784947764.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>PHOENIX (AP) — When the coronavirus flared in China’s capital this week, Beijing canceled flights, suspended reopenings and described the situation as “extremely grave.” But with cases rising in some U.S. states, local officials have balked at even requiring people to wear masks.In the United States, which has the most confirmed cases and deaths in the world, authorities wrestled Wednesday with balancing demands for constitutional rights and personal freedom with warnings from health officials that being lax will have deadly consequences.China responded to a new outbreak in Beijing by scrapping more than 60% of its flights to the capital, canceling classes and strengthening requirements for social distancing. It was a sharp retreat for the nation that declared victory over COVID-19 in March.China’s actions follow about 137 new cases, a fraction of the number some U.S. states see each day. In Arizona, more than 1,100 people visited emergency rooms on Tuesday alone with positive or suspected cases. Alabama also is running out of hospital space, stirring impassioned debate over a mask requirement. Other states that haven’t mandated face coverings, like Texas and Florida, are seeing infections soar.With masks becoming a political symbol, Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden has taken aim at President Donald Trump’s approach to the pandemic.“Donald Trump wants to style himself as a wartime president. Unlike any other wartime leader, he takes no responsibility, he exercises no leadership, now he has just flat surrendered the fight,” Biden said Wednesday.Biden has worn a mask repeatedly at public events, while Trump hasn’t, even on occasions such as touring auto factory floors when they are required. Aides say Trump believes they’re unflattering and that wearing one projects weakness.The mask debate is playing out nationwide, notably in hard-hit states where face coverings have become a political and cultural debate.Hundreds of medical professionals signed a letter urging Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey to require them. Facing mounting pressure to act as cases surge, the Republican said cities were free to mandate masks.Ducey, who removed his mask before speaking to reporters, said there were vastly different rates of infection across the state.“For some things, a statewide directive or executive order works very well,” he said. “If you have 12 or 13 counties that say ‘pound sand’ on an executive order ... it’s a self-defeating executive order.”Ducey has attributed Arizona’s soaring cases to increased testing. The state has been doing more tests, which can yield more cases, but health experts say a better way to see if more people are getting sick is to look at the percentage of positive tests. When that percentage rises, it means the outbreak is worsening — not just that more people are getting tested.Arizona has the nation’s highest seven-day average positive test rate: 17.7%, or about double the national average and well above the 10% threshold that health officials find worrisome. It also has the most new cases per capita in the U.S. in the past 14 days. The state’s leading hospital system says it’s almost running out of beds.Ducey said roughly 300 National Guardsmen would help with contact tracing. Several restaurants and other businesses have closed because staff tested positive in the last week.The same thing is happening in parts of Florida, where people under 35 are testing positive at a higher rate since the pandemic began, contributing to a surge in cases, officials said Wednesday.The coastal city of St. Petersburg had three popular bars close after employees tested positive, and it’s now requiring workers who have contact with the public to wear masks — which some hard-hit cities in southern Florida have been doing for weeks.Mayor Rick Kriseman said he also plans to require people to cover their faces in businesses and other public spaces.“We can wear a mask, protect others and ourselves, or we can contribute to someone’s death. Maybe even our own,” Kriseman said.The Democrat said Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis has encouraged people to use masks but not mandated them.DeSantis said he has no intention of closing Florida’s economy again despite the statewide spike in new cases, which topped 1,000 Wednesday for the 15th consecutive day. He said many of those getting sick are young and unlikely to suffer serious illness or death.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.Fears about growing numbers of infections in younger people pushed officials in the San Antonio area to order masks in public as infections keep rising in Texas.“What we are doing here is to protect the life and safety of the San Antonio community,” Mayor Ron Nirenberg said, adding that most infections in the area are in people younger than 40.Later Wednesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, said local governments could force businesses to require customers and workers to wear masks but that he wouldn’t issue a statewide order. The second-most-populated state set daily records for new COVID-19 cases, with 3,129, and hospitalizations. The 2,793 hospitalizations mark a daily high for the 10th time in 11 days.In Montgomery, Alabama, where cases are spiking, the issue of masks erupted during a City Council meeting, where members rejected a proposal to mandate them at public gatherings of 25 or more.Dr. Bill Saliski, a lung specialist at Jackson Hospital in Montgomery, called on the city to pass a mask requirement and declared: “If this continues the way we’re going, we’re going to be overrun.”Some city leaders voiced concern about trampling on people’s rights.“I think to make somebody do something or require somebody to wear something is an overreach,” councilman Brantley Lyons said.Since the virus emerged in China late last year and spread worldwide, there have been more than 8.3 million confirmed cases and over 447,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University. Experts say the true toll is much higher. The U.S. death toll has exceeded 117,000.European nations, which embarked on a wide-scale reopening this week, watched Asia and the Americas with trepidation.After lockdown restrictions were relaxed in Iran, Health Minister Saeed Namaki said he realized the extent of the challenge when he took a domestic flight.“Many people have become careless, frustrated with wearing masks,” he said.

US virus outbreaks stir clash over masks, personal freedom

RIO RANCHO, N.M. (AP) — Clergy and religious leaders are preparing to hold a virtual march Saturday to highlight the plight of Americans struggling with poverty — people like Madelyn “Maddie” Brace and her boyfriend, Luciano Benavidez.

For weeks, Brace and her 4-month-old daughter have stretched Benavidez's shrinking paychecks, as his hours declined to 22 a week. In their small Albuquerque apartment, they've eaten smaller dinners and wrestled the bureaucracy at the state’s unemployment office.

The global pandemic keeps the 21-year-old Brace inside. The lack of money forces 20-year-old Benavidez out, searching for employment that’s not there.

“COVID-19 hits, and our country is quite negligent,” said the Rev. William Barber II, an organizer of Saturday's march and president of the Repairers of the Breach, a nonprofit group that fights poverty and discrimination. “Global pandemics, by their very nature, exploit the fissures of society and America has fissures in terms of poverty and systemic racism.”

Modeled after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s last organizing effort, the new campaign seeks to bring the issue of poverty to the American consciousness amid anxiety, uncertainty and growing inequality.

The Mass Poor People’s Assembly &amp; Moral March on Washington aims to build upon the nation’s principles to pursue solutions to poverty — something advocates say is getting especially severe in rural areas.

But instead of assembling in camps near the National Mall — as protesters did in the wake of King's death in 1968, as part of the Poor People's Campaign — this week's gathering will offer poor people a chance to describe their lives, live-streamed to a national audience.

The plan for the digital gathering grew out of an outline for a march in front of the White House this summer. That idea was scrapped due to the pandemic.

Organizers say poor coal miners from Kentucky and Apache tribal members from Arizona will speak about their own experiences in extreme poverty. Residents from Appalachia will discuss their food deserts, while others from the Mississippi Delta will talk about the lack of jobs.

The gathering comes two years after Barber and the Rev. Liz Theoharis of New York City encouraged activists in 40 states to take part in acts of civil disobedience, teach-ins, and demonstrations to force communities to address poverty on the anniversary of King’s event.

Barber said the coalition is operating in 45 states. Organizers have visited colonias along the U.S.-Mexico border and met with poor white farmers in Kansas.

Among those the campaign is pursuing to help are Mariah Kolka, 24, and Casey Britton, 25, of Linden, Tennessee. Both are mothers who live in a isolated county with limited resources and who have toiled in recent years with limited income. They live in an area with few grocery stores and health food options.

“We run of vegetables run quick here,” Britton said. “There's not much left but fast food.”

Childhood malnutrition, graduation rates and early deaths are worst among rural, black-majority counties in the American South and isolated counties where Native Americans live, according to a report released this month by the advocacy group Save the Children.

Using federal data from 2018 and examining more 2,600 counties and their equivalents, the report found that about a third of the 50 poorly ranked counties are majority African American and a quarter are majority Native American.

Barber said statistics like those should inspire the county to take action. He said organizers want both President Donald Trump and presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden to hold at least one debate that focuses on poverty.

“We are going to be a face on it,” Barber said. “Then, we are committed to a mass effort to build voting power.”

RIO RANCHO, N.M. (AP) — Clergy and religious leaders are preparing to hold a virtual march Saturday to highlight the plight of Americans struggling with poverty — people like Madelyn “Maddie” Brace and her boyfriend, Luciano Benavidez.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKansasPPC%2Fposts%2F876598246178197&width=500" width="500" height="522" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>For weeks, Brace and her 4-month-old daughter have stretched Benavidez's shrinking paychecks, as his hours declined to 22 a week. In their small Albuquerque apartment, they've eaten smaller dinners and wrestled the bureaucracy at the state’s unemployment office.The global pandemic keeps the 21-year-old Brace inside. The lack of money forces 20-year-old Benavidez out, searching for employment that’s not there.“COVID-19 hits, and our country is quite negligent,” said the Rev. William Barber II, an organizer of Saturday's march and president of the Repairers of the Breach, a nonprofit group that fights poverty and discrimination. “Global pandemics, by their very nature, exploit the fissures of society and America has fissures in terms of poverty and systemic racism.”Modeled after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s last organizing effort, the new campaign seeks to bring the issue of poverty to the American consciousness amid anxiety, uncertainty and growing inequality.The Mass Poor People’s Assembly &amp; Moral March on Washington aims to build upon the nation’s principles to pursue solutions to poverty — something advocates say is getting especially severe in rural areas.But instead of assembling in camps near the National Mall — as protesters did in the wake of King's death in 1968, as part of the Poor People's Campaign — this week's gathering will offer poor people a chance to describe their lives, live-streamed to a national audience.The plan for the digital gathering grew out of an outline for a march in front of the White House this summer. That idea was scrapped due to the pandemic.Organizers say poor coal miners from Kentucky and Apache tribal members from Arizona will speak about their own experiences in extreme poverty. Residents from Appalachia will discuss their food deserts, while others from the Mississippi Delta will talk about the lack of jobs.The gathering comes two years after Barber and the Rev. Liz Theoharis of New York City encouraged activists in 40 states to take part in acts of civil disobedience, teach-ins, and demonstrations to force communities to address poverty on the anniversary of King’s event.Barber said the coalition is operating in 45 states. Organizers have visited colonias along the U.S.-Mexico border and met with poor white farmers in Kansas.Among those the campaign is pursuing to help are Mariah Kolka, 24, and Casey Britton, 25, of Linden, Tennessee. Both are mothers who live in a isolated county with limited resources and who have toiled in recent years with limited income. They live in an area with few grocery stores and health food options.“We run of vegetables run quick here,” Britton said. “There's not much left but fast food.”Childhood malnutrition, graduation rates and early deaths are worst among rural, black-majority counties in the American South and isolated counties where Native Americans live, according to a report released this month by the advocacy group Save the Children.Using federal data from 2018 and examining more 2,600 counties and their equivalents, the report found that about a third of the 50 poorly ranked counties are majority African American and a quarter are majority Native American.Barber said statistics like those should inspire the county to take action. He said organizers want both President Donald Trump and presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden to hold at least one debate that focuses on poverty.“We are going to be a face on it,” Barber said. “Then, we are committed to a mass effort to build voting power.”

Poor People's Campaign eyes 'virtual march' in poverty fight

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A man who was shot and killed by Kansas law enforcement has also now been tied to a second homicide in Nebraska, police said Friday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/d4f21b974fc1e7f644be1d7d838ce57d">Police identified the man killed Monday&nbsp;</a>in Lawrence, Kansas, as 31-year-old Nicholas Hirsh, who faced a first-degree murder arrest warrant for the shooting death of John Miles, 41, of Council Bluffs, Iowa.

During their homicide investigation, detectives also discovered on Tuesday the body of John Clanton, 68, in the Ponca Hills area of Douglas County in Nebraska. Clanton had been reported missing on June 10.

The Omaha Police Department said in a news release that after witness interviews and investigation, detectives determined Hirsh was also responsible for Clanton’s death. They are not looking for any additional suspects in relation to these homicides.

Authorities have said they believed Hirsh had been in Kansas since June 12 when a car was stolen from Clay Center. The Marshals Service was helping to look for the vehicle when the Kansas Highway Patrol spotted it near Perry Lake in northeast Kansas.

Troopers pursued the vehicle into Lawrence, where gunfire was exchanged gunfire between the suspect and law enforcement officers. Hirsh was killed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592324285312.png" alt="Hirsh photo Omaha Police" />
 <figcaption>Hirsh photo Omaha Police</figcaption>
 </figure>OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — A man who was shot and killed by Kansas law enforcement has also now been tied to a second homicide in Nebraska, police said Friday.<a href="https://apnews.com/d4f21b974fc1e7f644be1d7d838ce57d">Police identified the man killed Monday&nbsp;</a>in Lawrence, Kansas, as 31-year-old Nicholas Hirsh, who faced a first-degree murder arrest warrant for the shooting death of John Miles, 41, of Council Bluffs, Iowa.During their homicide investigation, detectives also discovered on Tuesday the body of John Clanton, 68, in the Ponca Hills area of Douglas County in Nebraska. Clanton had been reported missing on June 10.The Omaha Police Department said in a news release that after witness interviews and investigation, detectives determined Hirsh was also responsible for Clanton’s death. They are not looking for any additional suspects in relation to these homicides.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592304347537.png" alt="Car involved in the chase into Lawrence -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Car involved in the chase into Lawrence -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities have said they believed Hirsh had been in Kansas since June 12 when a car was stolen from Clay Center. The Marshals Service was helping to look for the vehicle when the Kansas Highway Patrol spotted it near Perry Lake in northeast Kansas.Troopers pursued the vehicle into Lawrence, where gunfire was exchanged gunfire between the suspect and law enforcement officers. Hirsh was killed.

Man killed by Kansas officers linked to 2 Nebraska deaths

WICHITA, KAN. –&nbsp;A Kansas man was indicted Tuesday in federal court in Wichita on charges of committing robberies at three stores in Topeka, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Deshawn Lorenzo Pittman, 24, Topeka, Kan., is charged with three counts of commercial robbery. The indictment alleges Pittman committed the following robberies:

Sept. 8, 2019, Dollar General, 4500 Southeast California Ave. Topeka, Kan. 

Nov. 15, 2019, Family Dollar, 501 Southeast 21st&nbsp;Street, Topeka, Kan.

Dec. 23, 2019, Loan Max Title Loans, 3601 Southwest Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kan.

If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592339647187.png" alt="Pittman-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Pittman-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. –&nbsp;A Kansas man was indicted Tuesday in federal court in Wichita on charges of committing robberies at three stores in Topeka, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Deshawn Lorenzo Pittman, 24, Topeka, Kan., is charged with three counts of commercial robbery. The indictment alleges Pittman committed the following robberies:Sept. 8, 2019, Dollar General, 4500 Southeast California Ave. Topeka, Kan. Nov. 15, 2019, Family Dollar, 501 Southeast 21st&nbsp;Street, Topeka, Kan.Dec. 23, 2019, Loan Max Title Loans, 3601 Southwest Topeka Boulevard, Topeka, Kan.If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000 on each count.&nbsp;

Kansas man faces 20-years in prison for 3 armed robberies

BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — A judge says a lawsuit can move forward against a Wichita police officer who fatally shot an innocent man in 2017 while responding to a hoax emergency call stemming from a dispute between two online gamers. 

The death of 28-year-old Andrew Finch drew national attention to “swatting.” That's a form of retaliation in which someone reports a false emergency to get authorities to descend on an address. The address the gamers used was old, leading police to Finch, who was not involved in the dispute. U.S. District Judge John W. Broomes on Friday refused to grant Officer Justin Rapp’s request for summary judgment in the federal lawsuit filed by Finch’s family.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592601982960.png" alt="Body camera image of the incident provided by Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Body camera image of the incident provided by Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>BELLE PLAINE, Kan. (AP) — A judge says a lawsuit can move forward against a Wichita police officer who fatally shot an innocent man in 2017 while responding to a hoax emergency call stemming from a dispute between two online gamers. The death of 28-year-old Andrew Finch drew national attention to “swatting.” That's a form of retaliation in which someone reports a false emergency to get authorities to descend on an address. The address the gamers used was old, leading police to Finch, who was not involved in the dispute. U.S. District Judge John W. Broomes on Friday refused to grant Officer Justin Rapp’s request for summary judgment in the federal lawsuit filed by Finch’s family.&nbsp;

Suit moving forward against Kan. officer in fatal hoax call case

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansans struggling to find work amid the coronavirus pandemic can receive unemployment for 13 more weeks.

The Kansas Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state has qualified for a program that provides federal reimbursement for extended benefits during periods of high unemployment.

“With extended benefits triggered, Kansans will have an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits available to them by the end of June,” Secretary García said. “We are grateful for this additional benefit that helps families struggling as a result of this global pandemic.”

Workers must have exhausted regular unemployment insurance benefits to qualify.

The insured unemployment rate in Kansas was 6.67% for the week ending June 6, according to the state’s labor department. That exceeds the 5% threshold and other federal requirements to prompt the extension.

New data released Friday shows Kansas has at least 12,059 coronavirus cases, up 3% or 378 cases from Wednesday. The state health department also said the number of COVID-19 deaths rose by seven to 254

<a href="https://www.getkansasbenefits.gov/Home.aspx">Click here for more</a> information or to apply for unemployment benefits.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587668925586.png" alt="Delia Garcia, Kansas Secretary of Labor" />
 <figcaption>Delia Garcia, Kansas Secretary of Labor</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansans struggling to find work amid the coronavirus pandemic can receive unemployment for 13 more weeks.The Kansas Department of Labor announced Thursday that the state has qualified for a program that provides federal reimbursement for extended benefits during periods of high unemployment.“With extended benefits triggered, Kansans will have an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits available to them by the end of June,” Secretary García said. “We are grateful for this additional benefit that helps families struggling as a result of this global pandemic.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you for your kindness towards our Customer Service Representatives as they assist you with your claims. We are experiencing a high volume of calls &amp;emails to our Contact Center. Response times are longer than anticipated. Our reps are working hard to assist every claimant. <a href="https://t.co/AqcYc8wBKU">pic.twitter.com/AqcYc8wBKU</a>&mdash; Kansas Department of Labor (@KansasDOL) <a href="https://twitter.com/KansasDOL/status/1273663587014381569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Workers must have exhausted regular unemployment insurance benefits to qualify.The insured unemployment rate in Kansas was 6.67% for the week ending June 6, according to the state’s labor department. That exceeds the 5% threshold and other federal requirements to prompt the extension.New data released Friday shows Kansas has at least 12,059 coronavirus cases, up 3% or 378 cases from Wednesday. The state health department also said the number of COVID-19 deaths rose by seven to 254<a href="https://www.getkansasbenefits.gov/Home.aspx">Click here for more</a> information or to apply for unemployment benefits.

Kansans in need can receive extended unemployment benefits

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle accident and have identified the victim as 42-year-old Jason McKay of Wichita.

Just after 9p.m. Thursday, police responded to the crash at 53rd Street North and Porter in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.

A 2005 Chrysler Town and Country driven by an 81-year-old man was eastbound on 53rd Street North and turning north onto Porter Street.

A westbound 2007 Suzuki motorcycle driven by McKay struck the van. EMS transported him to a local hospital where he died.

The van driver was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries and released. An 81-year-old female passenger in the van was not injured.

McKay was not wearing a helmet, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592578331918.png" alt="First responders on the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders on the scene of the fatal crash -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal motorcycle accident and have identified the victim as 42-year-old Jason McKay of Wichita.Just after 9p.m. Thursday, police responded to the crash at 53rd Street North and Porter in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson.A 2005 Chrysler Town and Country driven by an 81-year-old man was eastbound on 53rd Street North and turning north onto Porter Street.A westbound 2007 Suzuki motorcycle driven by McKay struck the van. EMS transported him to a local hospital where he died.The van driver was treated at a local hospital for minor injuries and released. An 81-year-old female passenger in the van was not injured.McKay was not wearing a helmet, according to Davidson.

Police ID Kansas man who died in motorcycle, van crash

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City officials will not pursue misdemeanor charges against those who took part in peaceful street protests to decry racial injustice following the police-involved killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The City Council voted 9-2 Thursday to bar the city from prosecuting protesters, as long as they didn’t commit a violent crime or damage property, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article243637402.html">reported</a>.

“It’s important because as elected officials, we have a duty and a charge to understand issues, understand the law and preserve democracy,” said Councilman Brandon Ellington, who introduced the legislation.

More than 220 people who took to the streets from May 29 through June 2 were arrested. Supporters of Thursday's decision have said police incited unrest by showing up in riot gear, pepper spraying the crowd and deploying tear gas. The police union had opposed dropping the charges against protesters.

The ordinance would not protect those who may have caused property damage or committed violent acts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591180588986.png" alt="Protesters facing police near the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Protesters facing police near the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Kansas City officials will not pursue misdemeanor charges against those who took part in peaceful street protests to decry racial injustice following the police-involved killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.The City Council voted 9-2 Thursday to bar the city from prosecuting protesters, as long as they didn’t commit a violent crime or damage property, the Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article243637402.html">reported</a>.“It’s important because as elected officials, we have a duty and a charge to understand issues, understand the law and preserve democracy,” said Councilman Brandon Ellington, who introduced the legislation.More than 220 people who took to the streets from May 29 through June 2 were arrested. Supporters of Thursday's decision have said police incited unrest by showing up in riot gear, pepper spraying the crowd and deploying tear gas. The police union had opposed dropping the charges against protesters.The ordinance would not protect those who may have caused property damage or committed violent acts.

Kansas City won't prosecute nonviolent protesters

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 378 to a total of 12,059, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

<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 378 to a total of 12,059, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 254<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/2020/6/1592586451135.png" alt="Friday June 19 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday June 19 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

TOPEKA –&nbsp;In recognition of the celebration of the ending of slavery in our nation, Governor Laura Kelly today was joined by the Topeka Family and Friends Juneteenth Committee to sign a proclamation recognizing June 19, 2020, as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kansas.

“Juneteenth is an opportunity to recognize our nation's conflicting history, reflect on our struggle to reach true freedom for all Americans, and pledge to continue fighting to end systemic racism. As Kansans, we can and must do better.”

The proclamation recognizes that, following the creation of Juneteenth in 1865, African American people continued to fight for equality and fairness while serving in America’s wars and conflicts, exemplifying courage, patriotism and exhibiting patience with grace in the face of violence, segregation, and Jim Crow Laws.

“Today, while we are remembering the importance of Juneteenth in our country's history, I urge all Kansans to join me in making a commitment to end systemic racism in our country,” Governor Kelly said. “My administration is committed to making Kansas a more equitable place for everyone who chooses to call this state their home.”

The proclamation continues: “in the ongoing national dialogue of the meaning of freedom, Kansans remain committed to ensuring the value and dignity of all people; and

“Whereas, the struggle for freedom and justice for all people must be continuously remembered and honored; and

“Now therefore, I, Laura Kelly, Governor of the state of Kansas, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution of the State of Kansas, do hereby proclaim June 19th, 2020 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kansas and I urge all citizens to join in this observation.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592585648578.png" alt="Photo courtesy office of Kansas governor" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy office of Kansas governor</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA –&nbsp;In recognition of the celebration of the ending of slavery in our nation, Governor Laura Kelly today was joined by the Topeka Family and Friends Juneteenth Committee to sign a proclamation recognizing June 19, 2020, as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kansas.“Juneteenth is an opportunity to recognize our nation's conflicting history, reflect on our struggle to reach true freedom for all Americans, and pledge to continue fighting to end systemic racism. As Kansans, we can and must do better.”The proclamation recognizes that, following the creation of Juneteenth in 1865, African American people continued to fight for equality and fairness while serving in America’s wars and conflicts, exemplifying courage, patriotism and exhibiting patience with grace in the face of violence, segregation, and Jim Crow Laws.“Today, while we are remembering the importance of Juneteenth in our country's history, I urge all Kansans to join me in making a commitment to end systemic racism in our country,” Governor Kelly said. “My administration is committed to making Kansas a more equitable place for everyone who chooses to call this state their home.”The proclamation continues: “in the ongoing national dialogue of the meaning of freedom, Kansans remain committed to ensuring the value and dignity of all people; and“Whereas, the struggle for freedom and justice for all people must be continuously remembered and honored; and“Now therefore, I, Laura Kelly, Governor of the state of Kansas, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution of the State of Kansas, do hereby proclaim June 19th, 2020 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Kansas and I urge all citizens to join in this observation.”

Governor Kelly proclaims June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day

By
NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a>


HUTCHINSON — 
Demand continues to increase as the summer solstice approaches, so gas prices have continued to rise in Kansas.

"Since
 mid-May nationwide, gasoline demand has increased 18% to about 7.9 
million barrels per day," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That slow
 but steady demand has pushed the national gas price up by 13% in that 
same time frame. In Kansas, today's average gas price is $1.90, which is
 up from $1.58 a month ago."

Gas will continue to go up in the short term, but not dramatically right away.

"More
 driving is leading to growing gasoline demand," Steward said. "It's 
slow but steady, but we don't anticipate seeing a spike to typical 
summer prices. The demand this summer won't be sufficient to drive down 
the stock levels of gas that we had in the system backed up from during 
the shutdowns during the coronavirus. There's so much oil and gas in the
 system. It's taking a while for us to work through that."

With 
that said, gas will likely get above $2 a gallon at some point, but not 
near $2.50 as it has been during the summer in past years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592583302431.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL <a href="https://hutchpost.com">Hutch
Post</a>
HUTCHINSON — 
Demand continues to increase as the summer solstice approaches, so gas prices have continued to rise in Kansas."Since
 mid-May nationwide, gasoline demand has increased 18% to about 7.9 
million barrels per day," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "That slow
 but steady demand has pushed the national gas price up by 13% in that 
same time frame. In Kansas, today's average gas price is $1.90, which is
 up from $1.58 a month ago."Kansas is 11th cheapest in the nation.Gas will continue to go up in the short term, but not dramatically right away."More
 driving is leading to growing gasoline demand," Steward said. "It's 
slow but steady, but we don't anticipate seeing a spike to typical 
summer prices. The demand this summer won't be sufficient to drive down 
the stock levels of gas that we had in the system backed up from during 
the shutdowns during the coronavirus. There's so much oil and gas in the
 system. It's taking a while for us to work through that."With 
that said, gas will likely get above $2 a gallon at some point, but not 
near $2.50 as it has been during the summer in past years.