TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas businessman has pleaded guilty to illegally exporting sensitive aviation technology to Russian companies in violation of U.S. sanctions.

Douglas Edward Robertson, who lives in the Kansas City suburb of Olathe, was the second Kansas business executive to plead guilty to charges after being accused of smuggling, money laundering, violating U.S. export regulations, submitting false or misleading information to export regulators and conspiring to commit crimes against the U.S., all for profit.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-technology-crime-kansas-fa4fa00c9178f57783ffcf32e373867e">Their arrests</a>&nbsp;and the arrest of a Latvian associate in March 2023 came as the U.S. ramped up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-us-department-of-the-treasury-government-janet-yellen-business-f85483ad976990a056c9bfc6b504a07d">sanctions and financial penalties on Russia</a>&nbsp;over its February 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">invasion of Ukraine</a>.

Robertson, 56, entered his plea Tuesday before U.S. District Judge Daniel Crabtree in Kansas City. The judge set his sentencing for Oct. 3. Robertson pleaded guilty to four of the 26 counts against him and could face up to 20 years in prison for either the money laundering or export violations convictions.

According to prosecutors, starting in October 2020, the defendants sought to sell electronics that included threat detection systems and flight, navigation and communications controls, to two Russian aircraft parts distributors, a Russian aircraft repair firm and a Russian aircraft services company. They sought to hide their unlicensed activities by going through companies and using bank accounts elsewhere, including Armenia, Cyprus, Germany, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and the United Arab Emirates.

“Those who seek to profit by illegally selling sophisticated U.S. technology to our adversaries are putting the national security of our country at risk," Robert Wells, the executive assistant director of the FBI's National Security Branch, said in a statement.

One of Robertson's attorneys, Branden Bell, declined to comment when reached Wednesday.

U.S. export controls were meant to limit Russia’s access to computer chips and other products needed to equip a modern military. The indictment against Robertson said the electronics he and the other two men sought to export “could make a significant contribution” to another nation's military.

Robertson, a commercial pilot, and Cyril Gregory Buyanovsky, an aviation engineer from Lawrence, operated the KanRus Trading Co. together and worked with Oleg Chistyakov, a Latvian citizen who frequently traveled to the UAE, according to prosecutors.

Buyanovsky&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-technology-crime-kansas-cf1dfe01f8aad778f1629048d52c00ed">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;in December to one count of conspiring to launder money and one count of conspiring to commit crimes against the U.S., and his sentencing is set for Nov. 14.

In a court filing last month, prosecutors said Chistyakov was arrested in Latvia in March and that a court approved his extradition to the U.S., though he has appealed the decision to Latvia's Supreme Court.

Chistyakov also sent a letter to the court last month, and the English translation describes him as having been under “house arrest” for more than a year. The letter also said he suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure and other medical conditions that could lead to a stroke or heart attack during a long flight. Crabtree noted in a filing Tuesday that he had received a letter from someone saying he is Chistyakov's Latvian attorney, seeking medical accommodations for him.

The indictment charging the three men lists nine exports of aviation electronics to Russian companies from February 2021 through December 2022 and attempts to export electronics once in February 2022 and twice in March 2023.

Prosecutors have said the U.S. government seized $450,000 in electronics blocked from export the day before Buyanovsky and Robertson were arrested.

“Robertson’s guilty plea is reflective of the strong evidence gathered against him by federal investigators and the solid case presented by federal prosecutors,” Kate E. Brubacher, the chief federal prosecutor in Kansas, said in a statement.

By JOHN HANNA&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas businessman has pleaded guilty to illegally exporting sensitive aviation technology to Russian companies in violation of U.S. sanctions.Douglas Edward Robertson, who lives in the Kansas City suburb of Olathe, was the second Kansas business executive to plead guilty to charges after being accused of smuggling, money laundering, violating U.S. export regulations, submitting false or misleading information to export regulators and conspiring to commit crimes against the U.S., all for profit.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-technology-crime-kansas-fa4fa00c9178f57783ffcf32e373867e">Their arrests</a>&nbsp;and the arrest of a Latvian associate in March 2023 came as the U.S. ramped up&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-us-department-of-the-treasury-government-janet-yellen-business-f85483ad976990a056c9bfc6b504a07d">sanctions and financial penalties on Russia</a>&nbsp;over its February 2022&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">invasion of Ukraine</a>.Robertson, 56, entered his plea Tuesday before U.S. District Judge Daniel Crabtree in Kansas City. The judge set his sentencing for Oct. 3. Robertson pleaded guilty to four of the 26 counts against him and could face up to 20 years in prison for either the money laundering or export violations convictions.According to prosecutors, starting in October 2020, the defendants sought to sell electronics that included threat detection systems and flight, navigation and communications controls, to two Russian aircraft parts distributors, a Russian aircraft repair firm and a Russian aircraft services company. They sought to hide their unlicensed activities by going through companies and using bank accounts elsewhere, including Armenia, Cyprus, Germany, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and the United Arab Emirates.“Those who seek to profit by illegally selling sophisticated U.S. technology to our adversaries are putting the national security of our country at risk," Robert Wells, the executive assistant director of the FBI's National Security Branch, said in a statement.One of Robertson's attorneys, Branden Bell, declined to comment when reached Wednesday.U.S. export controls were meant to limit Russia’s access to computer chips and other products needed to equip a modern military. The indictment against Robertson said the electronics he and the other two men sought to export “could make a significant contribution” to another nation's military.Robertson, a commercial pilot, and Cyril Gregory Buyanovsky, an aviation engineer from Lawrence, operated the KanRus Trading Co. together and worked with Oleg Chistyakov, a Latvian citizen who frequently traveled to the UAE, according to prosecutors.Buyanovsky&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-war-technology-crime-kansas-cf1dfe01f8aad778f1629048d52c00ed">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;in December to one count of conspiring to launder money and one count of conspiring to commit crimes against the U.S., and his sentencing is set for Nov. 14.In a court filing last month, prosecutors said Chistyakov was arrested in Latvia in March and that a court approved his extradition to the U.S., though he has appealed the decision to Latvia's Supreme Court.Chistyakov also sent a letter to the court last month, and the English translation describes him as having been under “house arrest” for more than a year. The letter also said he suffers from diabetes, high blood pressure and other medical conditions that could lead to a stroke or heart attack during a long flight. Crabtree noted in a filing Tuesday that he had received a letter from someone saying he is Chistyakov's Latvian attorney, seeking medical accommodations for him.The indictment charging the three men lists nine exports of aviation electronics to Russian companies from February 2021 through December 2022 and attempts to export electronics once in February 2022 and twice in March 2023.Prosecutors have said the U.S. government seized $450,000 in electronics blocked from export the day before Buyanovsky and Robertson were arrested.“Robertson’s guilty plea is reflective of the strong evidence gathered against him by federal investigators and the solid case presented by federal prosecutors,” Kate E. Brubacher, the chief federal prosecutor in Kansas, said in a statement.

2nd Kan. man admits scheme to illegally sell avionics equipment to Russia

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent crime and have a man in custody.

While sitting in the basement of his residence Tuesday afternoon with a woman, a 32-year-old Salina man heard some glass break upstairs. Soon after, a man entered his basement, allegedly beat him and left, forcefully taking the 22-year-old woman with him.

Just after 4 p.m. July 2, multiple witnesses began reporting to police in Salina that a man was causing a disturbance at a residence in the 100 block of North College Avenue, according to Salina Police Capt. James Feldman.

Officers were advised in route that police had multiple calls and that there was a woman being forced into a vehicle and there was a man at the residence bleeding from his head.

Once officers arrived at the scene, Feldman said they began conversations with the 32-year-old victim, who told them what allegedly happened in his basement just a few minutes before.

The victim reported to officers that a man, later identified as 35-year-old Mark A. Martin, entered the basement, grabbed the victim by the throat and pushed him against a wall, causing the victim to fall into furniture and to the ground.

"He [Martin] was upset," Feldman said. "While on the ground, he [the victim] was punched multiple times in the face. The victim reported that Martin grabbed the woman dragged her upstairs, forced her into a vehicle and drove away.

Feldman said that officers later found that Martin and the 22-year-old victim were related to each other but did not give further details.

Officers then began searching the area for Martin or his vehicle, but reports from Christ Cathedral sent officers to the historic church on Eighth Street. 

"We received a call that the vehicle was possibly at Christ Cathedral," Feldman said. "Officers responded, didn't see the vehicle, but made contact with the 22-year-old woman who was at the church."

The 22-year-old woman told officers that Martin had dropped her off at the church to meet with another relative, where she then took refuge away from Martin and church staff called police.

Another officer in the 800 block of West South Street located Martin's car and found Martin at a residence about 30 minutes after the initial call at the residence on College Avenue.

Officers then arrested Martin without incident and, with further investigation, found that Martin also had his 2-year-old child with him during the entire incident.

Feldman said officers booked Martin into the Saline County Jail on requested charges for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, kidnapping, domestic battery, driving while suspended and endangering a child.

The burglary charge stems from Martin entering an occupied home with the intent to cause violence, constituting a burglary charge under the crime's definition. Martin did not steal anything from the residence.

The 32-year-old male victim had multiple injuries, including a swollen and bleeding right eye, a laceration to the backside of the head and a broken cheekbone. The 22-year-old woman had no injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720009069671.png" alt="Martin photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Martin photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged violent crime and have a man in custody.While sitting in the basement of his residence Tuesday afternoon with a woman, a 32-year-old Salina man heard some glass break upstairs. Soon after, a man entered his basement, allegedly beat him and left, forcefully taking the 22-year-old woman with him.Just after 4 p.m. July 2, multiple witnesses began reporting to police in Salina that a man was causing a disturbance at a residence in the 100 block of North College Avenue, according to Salina Police Capt. James Feldman.Officers were advised in route that police had multiple calls and that there was a woman being forced into a vehicle and there was a man at the residence bleeding from his head.Once officers arrived at the scene, Feldman said they began conversations with the 32-year-old victim, who told them what allegedly happened in his basement just a few minutes before.The victim reported to officers that a man, later identified as 35-year-old Mark A. Martin, entered the basement, grabbed the victim by the throat and pushed him against a wall, causing the victim to fall into furniture and to the ground."He [Martin] was upset," Feldman said. "While on the ground, he [the victim] was punched multiple times in the face. The victim reported that Martin grabbed the woman dragged her upstairs, forced her into a vehicle and drove away.Feldman said that officers later found that Martin and the 22-year-old victim were related to each other but did not give further details.Officers then began searching the area for Martin or his vehicle, but reports from Christ Cathedral sent officers to the historic church on Eighth Street. "We received a call that the vehicle was possibly at Christ Cathedral," Feldman said. "Officers responded, didn't see the vehicle, but made contact with the 22-year-old woman who was at the church."The 22-year-old woman told officers that Martin had dropped her off at the church to meet with another relative, where she then took refuge away from Martin and church staff called police.Another officer in the 800 block of West South Street located Martin's car and found Martin at a residence about 30 minutes after the initial call at the residence on College Avenue.Officers then arrested Martin without incident and, with further investigation, found that Martin also had his 2-year-old child with him during the entire incident.Feldman said officers booked Martin into the Saline County Jail on requested charges for aggravated battery, aggravated burglary, kidnapping, domestic battery, driving while suspended and endangering a child.The burglary charge stems from Martin entering an occupied home with the intent to cause violence, constituting a burglary charge under the crime's definition. Martin did not steal anything from the residence.The 32-year-old male victim had multiple injuries, including a swollen and bleeding right eye, a laceration to the backside of the head and a broken cheekbone. The 22-year-old woman had no injuries.

Police: Kan. suspect battered man, kidnapped woman and endangered child

KANSAS CITY —A female Masai giraffe was born to mom Makali on Sunday, the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium announced on their social media page Wednesday. 

The calf weighs in at 125 pounds and already stands 5 feet 6 inches tall. It will be a while before this adorable girl makes her public debut, but the zoo will keep fans updated on the Zoo’s social media pages.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720043510469.png" alt="Photo Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium" />
 <figcaption>Photo Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A female Masai giraffe was born to mom Makali on Sunday, the Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium announced on their social media page Wednesday. The calf weighs in at 125 pounds and already stands 5 feet 6 inches tall. It will be a while before this adorable girl makes her public debut, but the zoo will keep fans updated on the Zoo’s social media pages.

KC Zoo announces birth of Masai giraffe

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism at a park in Derby.

The restroom at Hand Park, 633, South Lakeview Drive in Derby is&nbsp; "victim to some overzealous Fourth of July celebrations." the city parks department shared on social media." 

"It seems someone mistook our facilities for a fireworks launchpad, and while we appreciate the spirit, the bathroom didn't quite survive the festivities."

All park restrooms in Derby will be closed from July 3 at 3 p.m. until Friday morning, July 5th. This will not include High Park restrooms which will be open for the City of Derby Fireworks in the Park. "Please remember to practice firework safety."

In addition to Derby, the city of Haysville reported last week 600 feet of wire was stolen from the underground conduit that powered the antique lights along Meridian, and fixtures were removed from the restroom at Plagens Carpenter Park,&nbsp;6545 Mabel Street.

"This continues a string of senseless vandalism and theft we have seen in our parks, the city reported on social media. "Numerous park restrooms have had sinks and plumbing fixtures damaged and stolen. Sometimes the very next day after the repairs were made."

"When damages are incurred facilities are being temporarily closed until repairs are made and are not available for public use.  The City of Haysville is pleading with the public to help stop the vandalism happening in our community."

"If you see something happening call 911 to report it. If you have information on something or saw something happen you can call the police department, or Crime Stoppers. Crime Stoppers tips are anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you could receive a cash reward! You can call Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111 or submit tips at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fstopcrime316.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2BOohvzoZg4YzoEEmcd6g86JhpyN9z7Ws4bN5C_7I1aC76AEVQFw4Etko_aem_zOzuvVzVWZ8Uz6SWg2-3iQ&amp;h=AT2JJvOXBrQtOESSiMM18Frmw1h4ptQ7tfiPSqGL61TDZlA9zjGyMbQnpwAzf4IW5xqPgM_T8V5SJGb5WcIHC-Druhn9DUxTO3eDlpzoeJNZODlqcGCg9NcvD7BgsUCiNeETGVk&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1Umxs6r3vzc4YfCoVdPpqr6ZO8NtGgVOGkgYfqAGLdqyvukYvLXuiOtd2147uNyI_cT5vAY3rNOHTsuN98cmII1en-w5WVo6NO7lpUmBjSnKoE_j0dNctaDGIq9uQzcJTIyBPEsd021QqZgNh6Fhy3NzpdbVxJ1zOFN_BXhj7oHyTPqOxGmrtJSWMRBY6Ro0PfXb9kwA" target="_blank">stopcrime316.com.</a> If you see something, say something."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720010060246.png" alt="Photo city of Derby" />
 <figcaption>Photo city of Derby</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism at a park in Derby.The restroom at Hand Park, 633, South Lakeview Drive in Derby is&nbsp; "victim to some overzealous Fourth of July celebrations." the city parks department shared on social media." "It seems someone mistook our facilities for a fireworks launchpad, and while we appreciate the spirit, the bathroom didn't quite survive the festivities."All park restrooms in Derby will be closed from July 3 at 3 p.m. until Friday morning, July 5th. This will not include High Park restrooms which will be open for the City of Derby Fireworks in the Park. "Please remember to practice firework safety."In addition to Derby, the city of Haysville reported last week 600 feet of wire was stolen from the underground conduit that powered the antique lights along Meridian, and fixtures were removed from the restroom at Plagens Carpenter Park,&nbsp;6545 Mabel Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720010224987.png" alt="Photo city of Haysville" />
 <figcaption>Photo city of Haysville</figcaption>
 </figure>"This continues a string of senseless vandalism and theft we have seen in our parks, the city reported on social media. "Numerous park restrooms have had sinks and plumbing fixtures damaged and stolen. Sometimes the very next day after the repairs were made.""When damages are incurred facilities are being temporarily closed until repairs are made and are not available for public use. The City of Haysville is pleading with the public to help stop the vandalism happening in our community.""If you see something happening call 911 to report it. If you have information on something or saw something happen you can call the police department, or Crime Stoppers. Crime Stoppers tips are anonymous, and if your tip leads to an arrest, you could receive a cash reward! You can call Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111 or submit tips at <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fstopcrime316.com%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2BOohvzoZg4YzoEEmcd6g86JhpyN9z7Ws4bN5C_7I1aC76AEVQFw4Etko_aem_zOzuvVzVWZ8Uz6SWg2-3iQ&amp;h=AT2JJvOXBrQtOESSiMM18Frmw1h4ptQ7tfiPSqGL61TDZlA9zjGyMbQnpwAzf4IW5xqPgM_T8V5SJGb5WcIHC-Druhn9DUxTO3eDlpzoeJNZODlqcGCg9NcvD7BgsUCiNeETGVk&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AT1Umxs6r3vzc4YfCoVdPpqr6ZO8NtGgVOGkgYfqAGLdqyvukYvLXuiOtd2147uNyI_cT5vAY3rNOHTsuN98cmII1en-w5WVo6NO7lpUmBjSnKoE_j0dNctaDGIq9uQzcJTIyBPEsd021QqZgNh6Fhy3NzpdbVxJ1zOFN_BXhj7oHyTPqOxGmrtJSWMRBY6Ro0PfXb9kwA" target="_blank">stopcrime316.com.</a> If you see something, say something."

Fireworks destroyed Kansas park restroom

BARBER COUNTY —The Kansas Department of Transportation opened Kansas Highway 2 on Wednesday afternoon, according to Barber County Emergency Management.

The road was closed for cleanup from a large oil spill.

BARBER COUNTY —&nbsp;Environmental services started the clean up on Kansas 2 after a large oil spill in Barber County.&nbsp; 

Kansas Highway 2 west of Kiowa from Northstar to Highway 281 is shut down due to the oil well blowing out across the highway, according to the Barber County Sheriff.

BARBER COUNTY —Early Tuesday, crews restored power to customers impacted by the outage as a result of the oil spill, according to Southern Pioneer Electric.

Crews constructed a temporary bypass line that will provide power until the company is able to make permanent repairs. 

Southern Pioneer thanked consumers for their patience while crews worked through the night to restore power to the affected area.

Kansas Highway 2 west of Kiowa from Northstar to Highway 281 is shut down due to the oil well blowing out across the highway, according to the Barber County Sheriff.&nbsp;

BARBER COUNTY —An oil spill is causing power outages and closing a portion of a highway in Barber County, Kansas.

The power is also out in the community of Hardtner and outside Kiowa until officials can get the spill under control, according to Southern Pioneer Electric.&nbsp;Oil from the well near Pioneer infrastructure coated&nbsp; lines and caused them to trip and open.

Overnight, the utility reported "We have a better understanding of the situation but unfortunately do not have a restoration time for those impacted by the outage impacting areas near Hardtner."

"This situation has provided many difficulties, mostly centered around safety risks. The primary concern is the impact of salt water on our infrastructure. Renergizing the line at this time could pose increased risks of arcing or shorts. Additionally, gas fumes are restricting access to the area." 

"We are looking into constructing a temporary line to bypass the impacted area. However, it has its own set of difficulties that we must consider." 

" Ultimately, this is a situation in which we have to weigh various risks and ensure that we are keeping the safety of our consumers and crews in mind. Again, we will work to provide updates to consumers as they become available."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719970852235.png" alt="Photo Barber Co. Emergency Management" />
 <figcaption>Photo Barber Co. Emergency Management</figcaption>
 </figure>BARBER COUNTY —The Kansas Department of Transportation opened Kansas Highway 2 on Wednesday afternoon, according to Barber County Emergency Management.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FBarberCountyEM%2Fvideos%2F849198383746061%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=1" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>The road was closed for cleanup from a large oil spill.-----------------------------BARBER COUNTY —&nbsp;Environmental services started the clean up on Kansas 2 after a large oil spill in Barber County.&nbsp; <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719915283583.png" alt="Image from the video of the oil spill" />
 <figcaption>Image from the video of the oil spill</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Highway 2 west of Kiowa from Northstar to Highway 281 is shut down due to the oil well blowing out across the highway, according to the Barber County Sheriff.-----------BARBER COUNTY —Early Tuesday, crews restored power to customers impacted by the outage as a result of the oil spill, according to Southern Pioneer Electric.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FBarberCountyEM%2Fvideos%2F849198383746061%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=1" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Crews constructed a temporary bypass line that will provide power until the company is able to make permanent repairs. Southern Pioneer thanked consumers for their patience while crews worked through the night to restore power to the affected area.Kansas Highway 2 west of Kiowa from Northstar to Highway 281 is shut down due to the oil well blowing out across the highway, according to the Barber County Sheriff.&nbsp;----------BARBER COUNTY —An oil spill is causing power outages and closing a portion of a highway in Barber County, Kansas.Kansas Highway 2 west of Kiowa from Northstar to Highway 281 is shut down due to the oil well blowing out across the highway, according to the Barber County Sheriff.&nbsp;The power is also out in the community of Hardtner and outside Kiowa until officials can get the spill under control, according to Southern Pioneer Electric.&nbsp;Oil from the well near Pioneer infrastructure coated&nbsp; lines and caused them to trip and open.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FBarberCountyEM%2Fvideos%2F849198383746061%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=1" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Overnight, the utility reported "We have a better understanding of the situation but unfortunately do not have a restoration time for those impacted by the outage impacting areas near Hardtner.""This situation has provided many difficulties, mostly centered around safety risks. The primary concern is the impact of salt water on our infrastructure. Renergizing the line at this time could pose increased risks of arcing or shorts. Additionally, gas fumes are restricting access to the area." "We are looking into constructing a temporary line to bypass the impacted area. However, it has its own set of difficulties that we must consider." " Ultimately, this is a situation in which we have to weigh various risks and ensure that we are keeping the safety of our consumers and crews in mind. Again, we will work to provide updates to consumers as they become available."

🎥Road reopened after cleanup of Kansas oil spill

JOHNSON COUNTY —The Overland Park Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying man in a breach of privacy incident.

The incident occurred March 25 at Nieman and W. 95th Street in Overland Park, according to a statement from police.

Police believe the person of interest may reside in the Chicago, Illinois area.

If you have any information regarding this incident you are asked to contact the Overland Park Police Department at 913-344-8742 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720034942600.png" alt="Photos Overland Park Police" />
 <figcaption>Photos Overland Park Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —The Overland Park Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying man in a breach of privacy incident.The incident occurred March 25 at Nieman and W. 95th Street in Overland Park, according to a statement from police.Police believe the person of interest may reside in the Chicago, Illinois area.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720034855892.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have any information regarding this incident you are asked to contact the Overland Park Police Department at 913-344-8742 or the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Police ask for help to ID man in Kan. "breach of privacy" incident

The Kansas Turnpike is now cashless and tolls are no longer being collected on the roadway. To complete the conversion process, account information is being migrated into the new system, DriveKS. During this time, KTA’s customer service centers are closed and self-service platforms are unavailable. We’ll be ready to help again, beginning July 8.&nbsp;

The PlanThe Kansas Turnpike will convert to cashless tolling on July 1. Here’s what you need to know:

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719937245239.png" alt="View of a digital sign Monday on the Turnpike in Douglas County" />
 <figcaption>View of a digital sign Monday on the Turnpike in Douglas County</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Turnpike is now cashless and tolls are no longer being collected on the roadway. To complete the conversion process, account information is being migrated into the new system, DriveKS. During this time, KTA’s customer service centers are closed and self-service platforms are unavailable. We’ll be ready to help again, beginning July 8.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>We’re busy getting DriveKS, the new toll payment system, ready for cashless tolling. Account information will be unavailable June 29-July 7 as information from myKTAG.com and PayKTA.com is moved to DriveKS.com.</li><li>Any toll statements due during the conversion window can be paid during the month of July without issue.</li><li>Customers who have received a new KTAG can&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-lUxMVZ5rc&amp;t=6s">watch the KTAG installation video here</a>.</li><li>Customer service centers will reopen July 8, ready to help again. When the conversion is complete,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://driveks.com/">DriveKS.com</a>&nbsp;will be the site for all Kansas toll payments or to manage your account.</li><li>At that time, customers will need to delete the old myKTAG app and download the new DriveKS app from the App Store or Google Play.</li>
 </ul>The PlanThe Kansas Turnpike will convert to cashless tolling on July 1. Here’s what you need to know:<ul>
 <li>Beginning June 29, self-service platforms, including paykta.com and myktag website and mobile app will be disabled to prepare for the conversion to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://driveks.com/">DriveKS.com</a>.</li><li>Cash customers traveling on the turnpike overnight on June 30/July 1 should follow the instructions of on-road personnel and signage when exiting.</li><li>While the conversion of the roadway will occur quickly in the early morning hours of July 1, the back-office system, which includes toll payments and account management, will take approximately one week.</li><li>KTA’s three customer service centers will be closed and self-service platforms, including the web sites and mobile app, will be unavailable June 29-July 7. During this week, teams will work to migrate all account information into the new system and there will be no account access – for customers or customer service representatives.</li><li>Customers will be unable to pay for violation or video tolls between June 29-July 7. Any tolls due during this time can be paid during the month of July without issue.</li>
 </ul>

Successful start to cashless tolls on the Kansas Turnpike

KANSAS CITY —A man wounded in a weekend shooting in Kansas City has died.

On Saturday, police responded to a shooting in the 700 block of SW Boulevard in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Sheriff Daryl Forte'. 

 

Officers located a 20-year-old man inside a vehicle suffering from gunshot trauma. On Tuesday, detectives were notified the he died as a result of his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police have not released the victim's name or reported suspect details.

KANSAS CITY —A man wounded in a weekend shooting in Kansas City has died.On Saturday, police responded to a shooting in the 700 block of SW Boulevard in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Sheriff Daryl Forte'. 

Officers located a 20-year-old man inside a vehicle suffering from gunshot trauma. On Tuesday, detectives were notified the he died as a result of his injuries.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police have not released the victim's name or reported suspect details.

Sheriff: Man dies 3 days after Kansas City shooting  

LAKE CHARLES, La. (AP) — The Biden administration can’t delay consideration of projects aimed at exporting liquefied natural gas while a legal challenge by Kansas and 15 other Republican-led states plays out in federal court, a Louisiana judge said Monday.

U.S. District Judge James Cain, Jr. sided with the states, granting a preliminary injunction that puts the Biden administration’s delay on hold.

It was unlikely, however, that any of the projects would be on a fast track for consideration as the U.S. Department of Energy said late Monday that it disagreed with the court's ruling and was evaluating its next steps. The White House also voiced disappointment.

“We remain committed to informing our decisions with the best available economic and environmental analysis, underpinned by sound science,” White House spokesperson Angelo Fernández Hernández said in an email to The Associated Press.

President Joe Biden in January decided&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lng-exports-biden-europe-climate-russia-3c2bfd853c0d53531a677b142b009dbc">his administration would delay consideration</a>&nbsp;of new natural gas export terminals in the United States, even as gas shipments to Europe and Asia soared following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The move aligned the Democrat with environmentalists who fear an increase in exports — in the form of liquefied natural gas, or LNG — is locking in potentially catastrophic planet-warming emissions.

A coalition of states including Louisiana, Alaska, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming sued in March, claiming that the administration was violating the U.S. Constitution and other federal laws by banning exportation of LNG to countries without a free trade agreement.

In temporarily blocking the Biden ban on new approvals, Cain said the states will likely succeed in their case. He cited evidence submitted by the plaintiffs that showed loss of revenues and deferred investments in LNG projects due to the Biden administration's actions.

The ruling comes just days after a federal commission approved what would be the nation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/natural-gas-lng-louisiana-19ed2d5f546280b19599fba03269fa32">largest export terminal for liquefied natural gas</a>. Venture Global’s Calcasieu Pass 2 southwestern Louisiana project, often referred to as CP2, was approved last week with little discussion by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

That project still needs DOE approval. The agency has said the project’s application was pending.

Republican members of Congress from Louisiana to Alaska have derided the administration's pause as shortsighted and a boon to foreign adversaries that produce energy, including Iran and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-eu-sanctions-ukraine-war-lng-gas-c56cf96fd7930a12044f36a36984607b">Russia</a>. Other supporters have argued that projects such as CP2 will be critical to global energy security.

The environmental group Evergreen Action was among those to criticize Cain's ruling, alleging that the judge was “bending the law to hand the oil industry a win.”

“Pause or no pause, the science is clear: No sound analysis that accounts for the climate and environmental hard inflicted by LNG exports could possibly determine that these deadly facilities are in the public interest,” Craig Segall, the group's vice president, said.

According to the DOE, current authorizations for exports of LNG to non-free trade agreement countries stand at over 48 billion cubic feet per day, or more than 45% of our current domestic production of natural gas. The agency also said the U.S. will continue to be the largest exporter of LNG by a substantial margin for at least the next six years based on the current export capacity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719927364316.png" alt="Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach joined the lawsuit in March-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach joined the lawsuit in March-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>LAKE CHARLES, La. (AP) — The Biden administration can’t delay consideration of projects aimed at exporting liquefied natural gas while a legal challenge by Kansas and 15 other Republican-led states plays out in federal court, a Louisiana judge said Monday.U.S. District Judge James Cain, Jr. sided with the states, granting a preliminary injunction that puts the Biden administration’s delay on hold.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Yesterday&#39;s court ruling on our pause on Liquified Natural Gas exports is incredibly disappointing. I&#39;ll continue doing everything I can to protect our environment and our communities, while ensuring America’s energy security.&mdash; President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1808264984075350067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>It was unlikely, however, that any of the projects would be on a fast track for consideration as the U.S. Department of Energy said late Monday that it disagreed with the court's ruling and was evaluating its next steps. The White House also voiced disappointment.“We remain committed to informing our decisions with the best available economic and environmental analysis, underpinned by sound science,” White House spokesperson Angelo Fernández Hernández said in an email to The Associated Press.President Joe Biden in January decided&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lng-exports-biden-europe-climate-russia-3c2bfd853c0d53531a677b142b009dbc">his administration would delay consideration</a>&nbsp;of new natural gas export terminals in the United States, even as gas shipments to Europe and Asia soared following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The move aligned the Democrat with environmentalists who fear an increase in exports — in the form of liquefied natural gas, or LNG — is locking in potentially catastrophic planet-warming emissions.A coalition of states including Louisiana, Alaska, Texas, West Virginia and Wyoming sued in March, claiming that the administration was violating the U.S. Constitution and other federal laws by banning exportation of LNG to countries without a free trade agreement.In temporarily blocking the Biden ban on new approvals, Cain said the states will likely succeed in their case. He cited evidence submitted by the plaintiffs that showed loss of revenues and deferred investments in LNG projects due to the Biden administration's actions.The ruling comes just days after a federal commission approved what would be the nation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/natural-gas-lng-louisiana-19ed2d5f546280b19599fba03269fa32">largest export terminal for liquefied natural gas</a>. Venture Global’s Calcasieu Pass 2 southwestern Louisiana project, often referred to as CP2, was approved last week with little discussion by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.That project still needs DOE approval. The agency has said the project’s application was pending.Republican members of Congress from Louisiana to Alaska have derided the administration's pause as shortsighted and a boon to foreign adversaries that produce energy, including Iran and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-eu-sanctions-ukraine-war-lng-gas-c56cf96fd7930a12044f36a36984607b">Russia</a>. Other supporters have argued that projects such as CP2 will be critical to global energy security.The environmental group Evergreen Action was among those to criticize Cain's ruling, alleging that the judge was “bending the law to hand the oil industry a win.”“Pause or no pause, the science is clear: No sound analysis that accounts for the climate and environmental hard inflicted by LNG exports could possibly determine that these deadly facilities are in the public interest,” Craig Segall, the group's vice president, said.According to the DOE, current authorizations for exports of LNG to non-free trade agreement countries stand at over 48 billion cubic feet per day, or more than 45% of our current domestic production of natural gas. The agency also said the U.S. will continue to be the largest exporter of LNG by a substantial margin for at least the next six years based on the current export capacity.

Judge sides with Kan., stops Biden's delay of consideration of gas export projects

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration told emergency room doctors they must perform emergency abortions when necessary to save a pregnant woman’s health, following last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-mifepristone-fda-4073b9a7b1cbb1c3641025290c22be2a">Supreme Court ruling</a>&nbsp;that failed to settle a legal dispute over whether state abortion bans override a federal law requiring hospitals to provide stabilizing treatment.

<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2024/07/02/biden-harris-administration-reaffirms-commitment-emtala-enforcement.html">Click here to read the letter</a>

In a letter sent Tuesday to doctor and hospital associations, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Director Chiquita Brooks-LaSure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-idaho-emergency-room-hospitals-7fd5f3026778b9e65ca2afe2f399a877">reminded hospitals of their legal duty to offer stabilizing treatment, which could include abortions</a>. A copy of the letter was obtained by The Associated Press.

“No pregnant woman or her family should have to even begin to worry that she could be denied the treatment she needs to stabilize her emergency medical condition in the emergency room,” the letter said.

It continued, “And yet, we have heard story after story describing the experiences of pregnant women presenting to hospital emergency departments with emergency medical conditions and being turned away because medical providers were uncertain about what treatment they were permitted to provide.”

CMS will also resume investigations into complaints against emergency rooms in Idaho, after the Supreme Court ruled last week that hospitals there must be allowed to perform emergency abortions for now, despite the state’s abortion ban.

But enforcement in Texas, the country’s most populous state with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/map-of-abortion-access-us">strict six-week abortion ban</a>, will still be on hold because of a lower court ruling.

The letter is the Biden administration’s latest attempt to raise awareness about a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-emergency-treatment-pregnancy-emtala-9795e3cd144f0e6e02278a44fcade7c7">40-year-old federal law</a>&nbsp;that requires almost all emergency rooms — any that receive Medicare dollars — to provide stabilizing treatment for patients in a medical emergency.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pregnancy-emergency-care-abortion-supreme-court-roe-9ce6c87c8fc653c840654de1ae5f7a1c">When hospitals turn away patients or refuse to provide that care,</a>&nbsp;they are subject to federal investigations, hefty fines and loss of Medicare funding.

The emergency room is the last place that the Democratic White House has argued it can federally require rare emergency abortions to be performed, despite strict state abortion bans.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">After Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022</a>, and U.S. women lost the constitutional right to an abortion, HHS quickly sent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/emergency-medical-care-letter-to-health-care-providers.pdf" target="_blank">letters</a>&nbsp;to doctors,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-government-and-politics-4221f9306a596904b9af2e0d1fad23b9">saying</a>&nbsp;that they were required to provide abortions in emergency medical situations when they were needed to keep a woman medically stable.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pregnancy-emergency-care-abortion-supreme-court-roe-9ce6c87c8fc653c840654de1ae5f7a1c">An AP investigation</a>&nbsp;found that complaints about pregnant women being turned away from emergency rooms spiked in 2022 after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe, raising concerns about emergency pregnancy care in states that have enacted strict&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;laws.

In Idaho, enforcement of the federal law in emergency abortion cases had been on hold since January, when the state’s strict abortion ban took effect. Idaho’s state law threatens doctors with prison sentences if they perform an abortion, with an exception only if a pregnant woman’s life, not her health, is at risk.

The Biden administration has argued that this conflicts with a federal law called the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, or EMTALA. Roughly 50,000 women every year develop serious pregnancy complications, like blood loss, sepsis or organ loss. Some of those women may show up in emergency rooms and in the most serious cases where a fetus is unlikely to be viable, doctors may recommend a termination of the pregnancy.

For example, if a woman’s water breaks during the second trimester, a condition known as a preterm premature rupture of membranes, the fetus may not be viable, and continuing the pregnancy means that the patient may risk developing sepsis, an infection that can be deadly.

Texas is also suing the Biden administration over its guidance around the law. The Department of Justice has appealed a lower court ruling that said the law could be enforced to the Supreme Court, which could decide on taking up the case later this year.

HHS has also sought in recent months to make it easier for any patient who is turned away or not appropriately transferred to file complaints against hospitals. Earlier this year, CMS unveiled a new web page that allows anyone to submit a complaint in a straightforward, three-step process.

“We will continue to build on our recent actions to educate the public about their rights to emergency medical care and to help support efforts of hospitals and health care professionals to meet their obligations under EMTALA,” the letter said.

The department said the complaint webpage will also be available in Spanish, starting today.

Lupe Rodriguez, executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, said her team has had conversations for a few months with the HHS secretary to encourage the office to make tools available in Spanish.

Latinas are more likely to be uninsured, lack access to prenatal care and live in states with abortion bans, she said. This is even more of a concern for Latinas with limited English language skills or who are in mixed immigration status families, she said.

“It’s incredibly important to be centering Latinas and people of color because we’re the most impacted by these abortion bans and attempts to restrict emergency care,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644446940182.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration told emergency room doctors they must perform emergency abortions when necessary to save a pregnant woman’s health, following last week’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-mifepristone-fda-4073b9a7b1cbb1c3641025290c22be2a">Supreme Court ruling</a>&nbsp;that failed to settle a legal dispute over whether state abortion bans override a federal law requiring hospitals to provide stabilizing treatment.<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2024/07/02/biden-harris-administration-reaffirms-commitment-emtala-enforcement.html">Click here to read the letter</a>In a letter sent Tuesday to doctor and hospital associations, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Director Chiquita Brooks-LaSure&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-idaho-emergency-room-hospitals-7fd5f3026778b9e65ca2afe2f399a877">reminded hospitals of their legal duty to offer stabilizing treatment, which could include abortions</a>. A copy of the letter was obtained by The Associated Press.“No pregnant woman or her family should have to even begin to worry that she could be denied the treatment she needs to stabilize her emergency medical condition in the emergency room,” the letter said.It continued, “And yet, we have heard story after story describing the experiences of pregnant women presenting to hospital emergency departments with emergency medical conditions and being turned away because medical providers were uncertain about what treatment they were permitted to provide.”CMS will also resume investigations into complaints against emergency rooms in Idaho, after the Supreme Court ruled last week that hospitals there must be allowed to perform emergency abortions for now, despite the state’s abortion ban.But enforcement in Texas, the country’s most populous state with a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/map-of-abortion-access-us">strict six-week abortion ban</a>, will still be on hold because of a lower court ruling.The letter is the Biden administration’s latest attempt to raise awareness about a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-emergency-treatment-pregnancy-emtala-9795e3cd144f0e6e02278a44fcade7c7">40-year-old federal law</a>&nbsp;that requires almost all emergency rooms — any that receive Medicare dollars — to provide stabilizing treatment for patients in a medical emergency.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pregnancy-emergency-care-abortion-supreme-court-roe-9ce6c87c8fc653c840654de1ae5f7a1c">When hospitals turn away patients or refuse to provide that care,</a>&nbsp;they are subject to federal investigations, hefty fines and loss of Medicare funding.The emergency room is the last place that the Democratic White House has argued it can federally require rare emergency abortions to be performed, despite strict state abortion bans.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">After Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022</a>, and U.S. women lost the constitutional right to an abortion, HHS quickly sent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/emergency-medical-care-letter-to-health-care-providers.pdf" target="_blank">letters</a>&nbsp;to doctors,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-health-government-and-politics-4221f9306a596904b9af2e0d1fad23b9">saying</a>&nbsp;that they were required to provide abortions in emergency medical situations when they were needed to keep a woman medically stable.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pregnancy-emergency-care-abortion-supreme-court-roe-9ce6c87c8fc653c840654de1ae5f7a1c">An AP investigation</a>&nbsp;found that complaints about pregnant women being turned away from emergency rooms spiked in 2022 after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe, raising concerns about emergency pregnancy care in states that have enacted strict&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/abortion">abortion</a>&nbsp;laws.In Idaho, enforcement of the federal law in emergency abortion cases had been on hold since January, when the state’s strict abortion ban took effect. Idaho’s state law threatens doctors with prison sentences if they perform an abortion, with an exception only if a pregnant woman’s life, not her health, is at risk.The Biden administration has argued that this conflicts with a federal law called the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, or EMTALA. Roughly 50,000 women every year develop serious pregnancy complications, like blood loss, sepsis or organ loss. Some of those women may show up in emergency rooms and in the most serious cases where a fetus is unlikely to be viable, doctors may recommend a termination of the pregnancy.For example, if a woman’s water breaks during the second trimester, a condition known as a preterm premature rupture of membranes, the fetus may not be viable, and continuing the pregnancy means that the patient may risk developing sepsis, an infection that can be deadly.Texas is also suing the Biden administration over its guidance around the law. The Department of Justice has appealed a lower court ruling that said the law could be enforced to the Supreme Court, which could decide on taking up the case later this year.HHS has also sought in recent months to make it easier for any patient who is turned away or not appropriately transferred to file complaints against hospitals. Earlier this year, CMS unveiled a new web page that allows anyone to submit a complaint in a straightforward, three-step process.“We will continue to build on our recent actions to educate the public about their rights to emergency medical care and to help support efforts of hospitals and health care professionals to meet their obligations under EMTALA,” the letter said.The department said the complaint webpage will also be available in Spanish, starting today.Lupe Rodriguez, executive director of the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, said her team has had conversations for a few months with the HHS secretary to encourage the office to make tools available in Spanish.Latinas are more likely to be uninsured, lack access to prenatal care and live in states with abortion bans, she said. This is even more of a concern for Latinas with limited English language skills or who are in mixed immigration status families, she said.“It’s incredibly important to be centering Latinas and people of color because we’re the most impacted by these abortion bans and attempts to restrict emergency care,” she said.

Biden Admin.: Doctors must now provide emergency abortions

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Educators in Kansas’ largest public school district discriminated against Black and disabled students when disciplining them, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, which announced an agreement Tuesday that will have the district revising its policies.

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt/media/1358976/dl">Click here to read</a> the cover letter sent to Wichita Public Schools

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt/media/1358961/dl">Click here to read </a>the settlement agreement between the Department of Justice and Wichita Public Schools.

Changes the Wichita district has agreed to include restraining unruly students less often and ending the practice of putting misbehaving students alone in rooms by Jan. 1, 2025, the DOJ said.

The district also agreed to offer counseling or tutoring to every student who was confined alone in a room during the past three schools years, with the number of hours matching those for which the student was secluded. The department said the district already is writing a new code of conduct for students and has scheduled crisis-prevention training for staff.

The agreement comes amid an ongoing national debate about classroom discipline and whether punishments for minority and disabled students are disproportionately harsh. The Justice Department has previously reached similar agreements with other school districts in the U.S.

The settlement “sends a powerful message to Kansas schools and schools across the nation to ensure that they must no longer alienate or target Black students or students with disabilities,” said Rocky Nichols, executive director of the Disability Rights Center of Kansas.

The Department of Justice said in a letter to the Wichita district's attorney that it investigated disciplinary practices for the past three school years and visited the district in March 2023. It concluded that the district disciplined Black students more often and more severely than white students.

The DOJ also said that in the more than 3,000 times over three years that the district restrained or secluded students, 98% of those students were disabled. And it noted that hundreds of the cases involved students in kindergarten, first or second grade. More than 40 students were restrained or secluded more than 20 times each, the DOJ said.

“We substantiated allegations that the District discriminated against Black students in its administration of school discipline and referral of student conduct to law enforcement,” the department said in its letter. "We also found evidence that the District denied students with disabilities equal opportunity to participate in or benefit from its education program.”

The Wichita district has more than 46,000 students, nearly 10% of all students in Kansas. About 64% of the students are Black, Hispanic or have multiple ethnicities, according to State Department of Education figures, and the state considers nearly 78% to be at risk of failing academically.

The DOJ said the district cooperated throughout its investigation and had “expressed a desire to make positive improvements.”

“We can and must create a more equitable school district by changing some of our practices and procedures,” Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said in an online statement after the Wichita school board approved the agreement. “Safe learning communities — for students and staff — will always be of the utmost importance.”

Disability rights advocates in numerous states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/815cb0a71de34fd8b395941bf03bada8">for years have criticized</a>&nbsp;restraints and seclusion for disabled students, saying the punishments are overused and dangerous.

In 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-iowa-des-moines-cedar-rapids-us-department-of-justice-e7eee4ff22ad33732539d9969163fa61">Iowa's second-largest school district</a>&nbsp;promised to end the use of seclusion rooms after the Department of Justice concluded that it had violated the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. In 2023,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-government-us-department-of-justice-alaska-anchorage-education-f3caf723c4adc40d605389388e984128">Alaska's largest district</a>&nbsp;agreed to stop secluding students and to use restraints only when there is a real risk of physical harm to the student or others.

Kansas law already dictates that restraint can be used only when there is an imminent risk that students will seriously harm themselves or others, according to Nichols.

"Wichita public schools should have been following that requirement all along," he said.

In other states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/teaching-school-boards-district-of-columbia-newport-news-education-124a978f3f76f53f1cb90ae4da21da4a">pressure to do more</a>&nbsp;about unruly students has led officials to go in a different direction.

Arkansas last year expanded its restraint law so that — in addition to teachers — other school staff can restrain students in some cases. Some states still allow corporal punishment: A southwestern Missouri district&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-school-boards-missouri-springfield-cassville-d3f3e3228be5a2209eb9761885795470">reinstituted student spanking</a>&nbsp;in 2022 as a form of discipline, but only in cases where the parents agree.

In Wichita, the Department of Justice said, the difference in discipline for Black and white girls was “particularly pronounced.” At one middle school, Black girls faced being punished for insubordination 4.5 times as often as white girls and were cited for dress code violations 3.6 times as often, the DOJ letter said. Wichita schools restrained students 1,570 times over three years and put them in seclusion 1,450 times, the letter added.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707789312106.png" alt="Screen image from a USD 259 board meeting in 2023" />
 <figcaption>Screen image from a USD 259 board meeting in 2023</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Educators in Kansas’ largest public school district discriminated against Black and disabled students when disciplining them, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, which announced an agreement Tuesday that will have the district revising its policies.<a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt/media/1358976/dl">Click here to read</a> the cover letter sent to Wichita Public Schools<a href="https://www.justice.gov/crt/media/1358961/dl">Click here to read </a>the settlement agreement between the Department of Justice and Wichita Public Schools.Changes the Wichita district has agreed to include restraining unruly students less often and ending the practice of putting misbehaving students alone in rooms by Jan. 1, 2025, the DOJ said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719962108457.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The district also agreed to offer counseling or tutoring to every student who was confined alone in a room during the past three schools years, with the number of hours matching those for which the student was secluded. The department said the district already is writing a new code of conduct for students and has scheduled crisis-prevention training for staff.The agreement comes amid an ongoing national debate about classroom discipline and whether punishments for minority and disabled students are disproportionately harsh. The Justice Department has previously reached similar agreements with other school districts in the U.S.The settlement “sends a powerful message to Kansas schools and schools across the nation to ensure that they must no longer alienate or target Black students or students with disabilities,” said Rocky Nichols, executive director of the Disability Rights Center of Kansas.The Department of Justice said in a letter to the Wichita district's attorney that it investigated disciplinary practices for the past three school years and visited the district in March 2023. It concluded that the district disciplined Black students more often and more severely than white students.The DOJ also said that in the more than 3,000 times over three years that the district restrained or secluded students, 98% of those students were disabled. And it noted that hundreds of the cases involved students in kindergarten, first or second grade. More than 40 students were restrained or secluded more than 20 times each, the DOJ said.“We substantiated allegations that the District discriminated against Black students in its administration of school discipline and referral of student conduct to law enforcement,” the department said in its letter. "We also found evidence that the District denied students with disabilities equal opportunity to participate in or benefit from its education program.”The Wichita district has more than 46,000 students, nearly 10% of all students in Kansas. About 64% of the students are Black, Hispanic or have multiple ethnicities, according to State Department of Education figures, and the state considers nearly 78% to be at risk of failing academically.The DOJ said the district cooperated throughout its investigation and had “expressed a desire to make positive improvements.”“We can and must create a more equitable school district by changing some of our practices and procedures,” Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld said in an online statement after the Wichita school board approved the agreement. “Safe learning communities — for students and staff — will always be of the utmost importance.”Disability rights advocates in numerous states&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/815cb0a71de34fd8b395941bf03bada8">for years have criticized</a>&nbsp;restraints and seclusion for disabled students, saying the punishments are overused and dangerous.In 2022,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-iowa-des-moines-cedar-rapids-us-department-of-justice-e7eee4ff22ad33732539d9969163fa61">Iowa's second-largest school district</a>&nbsp;promised to end the use of seclusion rooms after the Department of Justice concluded that it had violated the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. In 2023,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/united-states-government-us-department-of-justice-alaska-anchorage-education-f3caf723c4adc40d605389388e984128">Alaska's largest district</a>&nbsp;agreed to stop secluding students and to use restraints only when there is a real risk of physical harm to the student or others.Kansas law already dictates that restraint can be used only when there is an imminent risk that students will seriously harm themselves or others, according to Nichols."Wichita public schools should have been following that requirement all along," he said.In other states,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/teaching-school-boards-district-of-columbia-newport-news-education-124a978f3f76f53f1cb90ae4da21da4a">pressure to do more</a>&nbsp;about unruly students has led officials to go in a different direction.Arkansas last year expanded its restraint law so that — in addition to teachers — other school staff can restrain students in some cases. Some states still allow corporal punishment: A southwestern Missouri district&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/education-school-boards-missouri-springfield-cassville-d3f3e3228be5a2209eb9761885795470">reinstituted student spanking</a>&nbsp;in 2022 as a form of discipline, but only in cases where the parents agree.In Wichita, the Department of Justice said, the difference in discipline for Black and white girls was “particularly pronounced.” At one middle school, Black girls faced being punished for insubordination 4.5 times as often as white girls and were cited for dress code violations 3.6 times as often, the DOJ letter said. Wichita schools restrained students 1,570 times over three years and put them in seclusion 1,450 times, the letter added.

Read the settlement: Kan. largest school district discriminated against Black students

DOUGLAS. COUNTY —Police are investigating a bank robbery and&nbsp; asking neighbors in a certain area to check home cameras as the search continues for the suspect.

Just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday, police responded to&nbsp;the Bank of America at 900 Ohio Street in Lawrence, after a bank robbery was reported, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.

A person, who said they were inside the bank when the robbery began, ran out to call police. Several people were in the bank doing business when the robbery occurred.&nbsp; Witnesses told police the suspect demanded money and quickly fled south in the alley between Tennessee and Ohio Streets.&nbsp; 

Police can not confirm reliably whether there was or was not a weapon involved. The suspect was wearing a black beanie cap with distinctive lettering and a mask with a design.&nbsp; The suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of cash and nobody was physically hurt.&nbsp;

Police want anyone with home security cameras from 8th&nbsp;Street to 13th&nbsp;between Louisiana and Vermont to check their recordings for anything they may have captured leading up to the event and following.&nbsp; The FBI Kansas City office responded immediately to assist in the investigation.

If you have any information, please call dispatch at (785) 832-7509 or&nbsp;Douglas County Crime Stoppers (785) 843-TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719968756971.png" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS. COUNTY —Police are investigating a bank robbery and&nbsp; asking neighbors in a certain area to check home cameras as the search continues for the suspect.Just before 9:30a.m. Tuesday, police responded to&nbsp;the Bank of America at 900 Ohio Street in Lawrence, after a bank robbery was reported, according to a media release from Lawrence Police.A person, who said they were inside the bank when the robbery began, ran out to call police. Several people were in the bank doing business when the robbery occurred.&nbsp; Witnesses told police the suspect demanded money and quickly fled south in the alley between Tennessee and Ohio Streets.&nbsp; Police can not confirm reliably whether there was or was not a weapon involved. The suspect was wearing a black beanie cap with distinctive lettering and a mask with a design.&nbsp; The suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of cash and nobody was physically hurt.&nbsp;Police want anyone with home security cameras from 8th&nbsp;Street to 13th&nbsp;between Louisiana and Vermont to check their recordings for anything they may have captured leading up to the event and following.&nbsp; The FBI Kansas City office responded immediately to assist in the investigation.If you have any information, please call dispatch at (785) 832-7509 or&nbsp;Douglas County Crime Stoppers (785) 843-TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

Police ask for home camera video to catch Kan. bank robbery suspect

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Tuesday that June's total tax collections were $1.03 billion. That is $24.1 million, or 2.4%, more than the estimate. Total tax collections are up 3.9% from June 2023, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Revenue.

The state ended May with total tax collections at $658.9 million, 22.7%, below the estimate.&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY29udGVudC5nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeS5jb20vYXR0YWNobWVudHMvS1NPRy8yMDI0LzA3LzAyL2ZpbGVfYXR0YWNobWVudHMvMjkyNjQxNS8xMl9KdW5lX1JldmVudWVfRlkyMDI0XzA3LTAyLTIwMjRfRmluYWwucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDcwMi45NzA5NDY5MSJ9.4RWHnEXs6E9Spkdo0xVnRKNzXj8vWg_ft6SxHxufW-w/s/1303160919/br/245164441867-l">here</a>&nbsp;to view the June 2024 revenue numbers.

“While the tax revenue collected for June is encouraging, we must remain committed to fiscal responsibility,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “By continuing our work to put our state on solid fiscal ground, we can ensure Kansans have the services and quality of life they deserve.”

Individual income tax collections were $452.4 million. That is $82.4 million, or 22.3% more than the estimate, and up 19.4% from June 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $193.1 million. That is $53.9 million, or 21.8% less than the estimate, and down 14.6% from June 2023.

“Individual income tax receipts exceeded the June estimate because of higher-than-expected withholding tax and individual estimated payments and the fact that fewer refunds were paid than in June 2023,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart. “Withholding tax receipts are 17.0% greater than in June 2023, and that source continues to be the State’s most reliable revenue stream.”

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $292.1 million. That is $2.2 million, or 0.7% more than the estimate, but down $11.4 million, or 3.8%, from June 2023.

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced Tuesday that June's total tax collections were $1.03 billion. That is $24.1 million, or 2.4%, more than the estimate. Total tax collections are up 3.9% from June 2023, according to a statement from the Kansas Department of Revenue.The state ended May with total tax collections at $658.9 million, 22.7%, below the estimate.&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY29udGVudC5nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeS5jb20vYXR0YWNobWVudHMvS1NPRy8yMDI0LzA3LzAyL2ZpbGVfYXR0YWNobWVudHMvMjkyNjQxNS8xMl9KdW5lX1JldmVudWVfRlkyMDI0XzA3LTAyLTIwMjRfRmluYWwucGRmIiwiYnVsbGV0aW5faWQiOiIyMDI0MDcwMi45NzA5NDY5MSJ9.4RWHnEXs6E9Spkdo0xVnRKNzXj8vWg_ft6SxHxufW-w/s/1303160919/br/245164441867-l">here</a>&nbsp;to view the June 2024 revenue numbers.“While the tax revenue collected for June is encouraging, we must remain committed to fiscal responsibility,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said. “By continuing our work to put our state on solid fiscal ground, we can ensure Kansans have the services and quality of life they deserve.”Individual income tax collections were $452.4 million. That is $82.4 million, or 22.3% more than the estimate, and up 19.4% from June 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $193.1 million. That is $53.9 million, or 21.8% less than the estimate, and down 14.6% from June 2023.“Individual income tax receipts exceeded the June estimate because of higher-than-expected withholding tax and individual estimated payments and the fact that fewer refunds were paid than in June 2023,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart. “Withholding tax receipts are 17.0% greater than in June 2023, and that source continues to be the State’s most reliable revenue stream.”Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $292.1 million. That is $2.2 million, or 0.7% more than the estimate, but down $11.4 million, or 3.8%, from June 2023.

Kansas total tax collections back up in June

KANSAS CITY—Authorities&nbsp; investigating the drowning death of a two-year old at home near Kansas City have identified the child&nbsp;Carson Bryant-Ferrantell.

Just before noon June 28, deputies were dispatched to a home in the 38600 block of E. Parrent Road, Oak Grove,&nbsp;according to Jackson County Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp; First responders found the toddler had drowned.

The sheriff's office released no additional details.

KANSAS CITY—Authorities&nbsp; investigating the drowning death of a two-year old at home near Kansas City have identified the child&nbsp;Carson Bryant-Ferrantell.Just before noon June 28, deputies were dispatched to a home in the 38600 block of E. Parrent Road, Oak Grove,&nbsp;according to Jackson County Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp; First responders found the toddler had drowned.The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Sheriff's office IDs 2-year-old who drowned at KC area home

SEDGWICK COUNTY—&nbsp;A man with a previous abuse conviction is scheduled for sentencing Wednesday afternoon for the violent beating death of his 8-year-old daughter.

In March,&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740792">Thomas Gatewood, </a>52, Wichita, plead no contest to first-degree murder, kidnapping, aggravated battery, abuse of a child, rape, criminal sodomy, aggravated endangering of a child aggravated indecent liberties with a child and aggravated intimidation of a witness, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On May 8, of 2023 police&nbsp;were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of N. Oliver in Wichita after report of an&nbsp;unresponsive 8-year-old girl, according to Officer&nbsp; Kris Gupilan. The child was pronounced deceased at the scene.

&nbsp;A warrant was issued for Gatewood's arrest for the murder of his 8-year-old daughter

Wichita Police Officers utilized FLOCK technology and Thomas was quickly located and taken into custody within hours of the warrant being issued.&nbsp;

The Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit and Homicide detectives investigated the incident and presented a case to the District Attorney’s office. Prosecutors say Gatewood had repeatedly beaten and even stomped on the 8-year-old and an autopsy revealed that her heart had ruptured. Another child in the house was also abused.

Court documents show he was previously charged with child abuse in Oklahoma in 2009.&nbsp;

Gatewood was scheduled to face a trial in the case March 11.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687976261144.png" alt="Gatewood photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Gatewood photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—&nbsp;A man with a previous abuse conviction is scheduled for sentencing Wednesday afternoon for the violent beating death of his 8-year-old daughter.In March,&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740792">Thomas Gatewood, </a>52, Wichita, plead no contest to first-degree murder, kidnapping, aggravated battery, abuse of a child, rape, criminal sodomy, aggravated endangering of a child aggravated indecent liberties with a child and aggravated intimidation of a witness, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On May 8, of 2023 police&nbsp;were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of N. Oliver in Wichita after report of an&nbsp;unresponsive 8-year-old girl, according to Officer&nbsp; Kris Gupilan. The child was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;A warrant was issued for Gatewood's arrest for the murder of his 8-year-old daughterWichita Police Officers utilized FLOCK technology and Thomas was quickly located and taken into custody within hours of the warrant being issued.&nbsp;The Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit and Homicide detectives investigated the incident and presented a case to the District Attorney’s office. Prosecutors say Gatewood had repeatedly beaten and even stomped on the 8-year-old and an autopsy revealed that her heart had ruptured. Another child in the house was also abused.Court documents show he was previously charged with child abuse in Oklahoma in 2009.&nbsp;Gatewood was scheduled to face a trial in the case March 11.&nbsp;-The AP contributed to this report.

Kan. man who killed 8-year-old daughter will learn his fate

JOHNSON COUNTY—A man who worked for over two dozen years in a Kansas school district is in jail on child sex crime allegations.

On June 26,&nbsp; police arrested 43-year-old Jason Barrett on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties and furnishing alcohol to a minor for illicit purposes. The victim was under the age of 16 but over than 14, according to court records.

He worked as a paraprofessional in USD 233 Olathe starting in 2009, according to online records. He remains jailed on a&nbsp;$250,000 bond and is due back in court July 10, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719776149678.png" alt="Barrett-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Barrett-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A man who worked for over two dozen years in a Kansas school district is in jail on child sex crime allegations.On June 26,&nbsp; police arrested 43-year-old Jason Barrett on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties and furnishing alcohol to a minor for illicit purposes. The victim was under the age of 16 but over than 14, according to court records.He worked as a paraprofessional in USD 233 Olathe starting in 2009, according to online records. He remains jailed on a&nbsp;$250,000 bond and is due back in court July 10, according to online jail records.

Former Kan. school employee accused of child sex crimes

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting in Wichita have arrested a man and his father.

Just after 11a.m. Monday, Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a call reporting a shooting at the&nbsp;Rockborough apartment complex, 202 N Rock Road in Wichita, according to police spokesman Andrew Ford.

First responders located 25-year-old Sebastian Crawford of Wichita with a single gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Multiple other individuals, including two juveniles, were located inside the apartment. EMS transported a woman to an area hospital to be evaluated for a condition apparently unrelated to the shooting.&nbsp;No other injuries were reported.

Homicide investigators responded to the scene and worked with patrol officers to understand what led up to the shooting. According to Sedgwick County booking records, police arrested 22-year-old Peter McKinney on a requested charge of Second-Degree Reckless Murder and 50-year-old Jeffrey McKinney on a requested charge of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Jeffrey McKinney is Peter's father, according to Ford.

At this time, police believe that Crawford and the suspect knew each other and were involved in an argument before the shooting.

The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charging consideration. This is the 18th criminal homicide in Wichita this year, according to Ford.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719921077048.png" alt="Peter McKinney-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Peter McKinney-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting in Wichita have arrested a man and his father.Just after 11a.m. Monday, Sedgwick County Emergency Communications received a call reporting a shooting at the&nbsp;Rockborough apartment complex, 202 N Rock Road in Wichita, according to police spokesman Andrew Ford.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719885319829.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders located 25-year-old Sebastian Crawford of Wichita with a single gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased on the scene.Multiple other individuals, including two juveniles, were located inside the apartment. EMS transported a woman to an area hospital to be evaluated for a condition apparently unrelated to the shooting.&nbsp;No other injuries were reported.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719921323757.png" alt="Jeffrey McKinney-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey McKinney-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Homicide investigators responded to the scene and worked with patrol officers to understand what led up to the shooting. According to Sedgwick County booking records, police arrested 22-year-old Peter McKinney on a requested charge of Second-Degree Reckless Murder and 50-year-old Jeffrey McKinney on a requested charge of Criminal Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Jeffrey McKinney is Peter's father, according to Ford.At this time, police believe that Crawford and the suspect knew each other and were involved in an argument before the shooting.The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charging consideration. This is the 18th criminal homicide in Wichita this year, according to Ford.&nbsp;

Father and son arrested in Kansas apartment complex killing

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. government will pay the vaccine maker Moderna $176 million to develop a pandemic vaccine that could be used to treat bird flu in people as cases in dairy cows continue to mount across the country, federal officials announced Tuesday.

The funds are targeted for release through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and will pay for continued development of a vaccine that uses the same mRNA technology that allowed rapid development and rollout of vaccines to protect against COVID-19. The award was made through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, or BARDA, a program that focuses on medical treatments for potential pandemics.

Moderna will launch trials to test the safety and effectiveness of a vaccine that could be used to scale up a response to a bird flu pandemic, if needed.

The H5N1 virus was detected earlier this year in dairy cows and has spread to more than 135 herds in 12 states and infected three people to date, all with mild cases. Federal health officials stress that the risk to the wider population remains low.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697809177329.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. government will pay the vaccine maker Moderna $176 million to develop a pandemic vaccine that could be used to treat bird flu in people as cases in dairy cows continue to mount across the country, federal officials announced Tuesday.The funds are targeted for release through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and will pay for continued development of a vaccine that uses the same mRNA technology that allowed rapid development and rollout of vaccines to protect against COVID-19. The award was made through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, or BARDA, a program that focuses on medical treatments for potential pandemics.Moderna will launch trials to test the safety and effectiveness of a vaccine that could be used to scale up a response to a bird flu pandemic, if needed.The H5N1 virus was detected earlier this year in dairy cows and has spread to more than 135 herds in 12 states and infected three people to date, all with mild cases. Federal health officials stress that the risk to the wider population remains low.

US will pay Moderna $176 million for new mRNA pandemic flu vaccine

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 9p.m. June 30,&nbsp;Sac and Fox Police and Brown County Sheriff's deputies investigated a suspicious vehicle which was disabled&nbsp; int he vicinity of 320th and Kestrel Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

 K-9 Carla indicated on the vehicle and spoke with the driver and sole occupant Robert Hendricks, 64, Marysville.

Deputies arrested him on requested charges of Possession of Meth,&nbsp; Felony Distribution of Meth, No Drug Tax Stamp, Possession of&nbsp; Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; Investigators found 20 grams of methamphetamine, scales, pipes, baggies and more was located within the vehicle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719875809214.png" alt="-K-9 SGT Fee with Carla" />
 <figcaption>-K-9 SGT Fee with Carla</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 9p.m. June 30,&nbsp;Sac and Fox Police and Brown County Sheriff's deputies investigated a suspicious vehicle which was disabled&nbsp; int he vicinity of 320th and Kestrel Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719875791068.png" alt="Hendricks photo Brown County" />
 <figcaption>Hendricks photo Brown County</figcaption>
 </figure> K-9 Carla indicated on the vehicle and spoke with the driver and sole occupant Robert Hendricks, 64, Marysville.Deputies arrested him on requested charges of Possession of Meth,&nbsp; Felony Distribution of Meth, No Drug Tax Stamp, Possession of&nbsp; Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; Investigators found 20 grams of methamphetamine, scales, pipes, baggies and more was located within the vehicle.

Kan. sheriff's K9 helped catch man allegedly selling meth

FINNEY COUNTY —Fire officials in Finney County are investigating an arson fire.

Just before 6 a.m. on Monday,&nbsp;the Garden City Fire Department was dispatched to the report of house fire 1027 N. Boots Road, Garden City, Kansas, according to a media release.

Fire personnel identified a single-story home with heavy fire visible from all windows. Personnel established a water supply, completed initial knockdown of the fire, and completed the primary and secondary searches of the structure. The home was confirmed to be vacant.

The fire was called under control at approximately 6:02 a.m.

Fire Marshal Gene Robertson notified the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office of the fire and requested assistance with the investigation. During the investigation, Accelerant Detection Canine Karma alerted multiple areas of the home for possible accelerants. The cause of the fire was determined to be arson.

FINNEY COUNTY —Fire officials in Finney County are investigating an arson fire.Just before 6 a.m. on Monday,&nbsp;the Garden City Fire Department was dispatched to the report of house fire 1027 N. Boots Road, Garden City, Kansas, according to a media release.Fire personnel identified a single-story home with heavy fire visible from all windows. Personnel established a water supply, completed initial knockdown of the fire, and completed the primary and secondary searches of the structure. The home was confirmed to be vacant.The fire was called under control at approximately 6:02 a.m.Fire Marshal Gene Robertson notified the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s office of the fire and requested assistance with the investigation. During the investigation, Accelerant Detection Canine Karma alerted multiple areas of the home for possible accelerants. The cause of the fire was determined to be arson.No injuries were reported, and no damage estimates are known at this time.Any individuals with tips or information are requested to contact Fire Marshal Gene Robertson at (620) 276-1140 or Finney County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Colleen Bascue at (620) 272-3700.#