CAMP CROFT, Hungary—U.S. Military officials are investigating a fatal training accident

On Thursday,&nbsp; 24-year-old Sergeant Aaron Cox from Mabank, Texas, who was serving in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division died after a training exercise near Camp Croft, Hungary, according to a media release from the U.S. Army.

&nbsp;Cox was assigned to the “Strike” 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team and was injured during a vehicle crash while preparing for the upcoming Exercise Saber Guardian 25.

The “U.S. Army Europe and Africa” said it was a rollover crash that took place during regularly scheduled training. Cox was airlifted to a nearby hospital in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries.

A second soldier with potentially serious injuries was also taken to a hospital, where he was kept overnight and determined to be stable. The remaining soldiers involved were evaluated and returned to duty.

“The loss of Sgt. Cox is a tragedy for all of us on the Strike team,” said Col. Duke Reim, a commander, 2MBCT for the 101st Airborne Division. “He was a strong Soldier and leader, who quickly rose through the ranks while serving. We are in direct contact with his family, for care and support that they need during this difficult time. We would like to thank our Hungarian Allies for their prompt response and support to our Soldiers.”

Cox joined the Army in 2021 and arrived at Fort Campbell in 2022, after completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was a graduate of the Army Basic Leader Course and the Combat Lifesaver Course. This was his second deployment; he previously deployed to Poland in 2022.

Cox had earned the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge and Air Assault Badge, according to the release.

The incident is under investigation by Hungarian authorities and the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749479880649.png" alt="Sergeant Aaron Cox courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Sergeant Aaron Cox courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>CAMP CROFT, Hungary—U.S. Military officials are investigating a fatal training accidentOn Thursday,&nbsp; 24-year-old Sergeant Aaron Cox from Mabank, Texas, who was serving in the U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division died after a training exercise near Camp Croft, Hungary, according to a media release from the U.S. Army.&nbsp;Cox was assigned to the “Strike” 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team and was injured during a vehicle crash while preparing for the upcoming Exercise Saber Guardian 25.The “U.S. Army Europe and Africa” said it was a rollover crash that took place during regularly scheduled training. Cox was airlifted to a nearby hospital in critical condition, but he succumbed to his injuries.A second soldier with potentially serious injuries was also taken to a hospital, where he was kept overnight and determined to be stable. The remaining soldiers involved were evaluated and returned to duty.“The loss of Sgt. Cox is a tragedy for all of us on the Strike team,” said Col. Duke Reim, a commander, 2MBCT for the 101st Airborne Division. “He was a strong Soldier and leader, who quickly rose through the ranks while serving. We are in direct contact with his family, for care and support that they need during this difficult time. We would like to thank our Hungarian Allies for their prompt response and support to our Soldiers.”Cox joined the Army in 2021 and arrived at Fort Campbell in 2022, after completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was a graduate of the Army Basic Leader Course and the Combat Lifesaver Course. This was his second deployment; he previously deployed to Poland in 2022.Cox had earned the Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Expert Infantryman Badge and Air Assault Badge, according to the release.The incident is under investigation by Hungarian authorities and the Army Criminal Investigation Division.

U.S. soldier dies during military training accident in Hungary

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump's new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-exceptions-immigrants-visa-4d5a4d07a4430dd1e1cf24511370bc0e">ban on travel</a>&nbsp;to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-protests-national-guard-trump-14c9dda32663d7d2c45f2b1c5a1d219c">rising tension</a>&nbsp;over the president's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-agents-masked-boston-deportations-todd-lyons-4fa874908a64b12f1b1ee0be3825fb39">escalating campaign</a>&nbsp;of immigration enforcement.

The new proclamation, which Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-adeaec442cb0f00f4f8a34d208118445">signed last week</a>, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and don’t hold a valid visa.

The new ban does not revoke visas previously issued to people from countries on the list, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-visas-trump-rubio-797d5eaec642e53f06ef32dc53a8eec1">guidance issued Friday</a>&nbsp;to all U.S. diplomatic missions. However, unless an applicant meets narrow criteria for an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-ban-exceptions-immigrants-visa-2b74891ec8a932c73d63ed2ebc7d125a">exemption to the ban</a>, his or her application will be rejected starting Monday. Travelers with previously issued visas should still be able to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/explainer-trump-travel-ban-world-cup-olympics-d9929b9c6316c17c597fcd67691404e1">enter the U.S.</a>&nbsp;even after the ban takes effect.

During Trump’s first term, a hastily written executive order ordering the denial of entry to citizens of mainly Muslim countries&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/464756bcd7d7441da662d47e97bd44c1">created chaos</a>&nbsp;at numerous airports and other ports of entry, prompting successful legal challenges and major revisions to the policy.

No such disruption was immediately discernible at Los Angeles International Airport in the hours after the new ban took effect.

Haitian-American Elvanise Louis-Juste, who was at the airport earlier Sunday in Newark, New Jersey, awaiting a flight to her home state of Florida, said many Haitians wanting to come to the U.S. are simply seeking to escape&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/haiti-humanitarian-hunger-food-emergency-catastrophic-appeal-3bd37012f9b15c1395fb3ac2806198c4">violence and unrest</a>.

“I have family in Haiti, so it’s pretty upsetting to see and hear,” Louis-Juste, 23, said of the travel ban. “I don’t think it’s a good thing. I think it’s very upsetting.”

Many immigration experts say the new ban is more carefully crafted and appears designed to beat court challenges that hampered the first by focusing on the visa application process.

Trump said this time that some countries had “deficient” screening for passports and other public documents or have historically refused to take back their own citizens. He relied extensively on an annual Homeland Security report of people who remain in the U.S. after their visas expired.

Measuring overstay rates has challenged experts for decades, but the government has made a limited attempt annually since 2016. Trump’s proclamation cites overstay rates for eight of the 12 banned countries.

Trump also tied the new ban to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-terror-attack-colorado-8af1b11734cbbe75c9945820a9b6684c">a terrorist attack in Boulder, Colorado</a>, saying it underscored the dangers posed by some visitors who overstay visas. U.S. officials say the man charged in the attack&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-visas-soliman-colorado-attack-81f44b98365adc01b1ff418a1885a1c6">overstayed a tourist visa.</a>&nbsp;He is from Egypt, a country that is not on Trump’s restricted list.

The ban was quickly denounced by groups that provide aid and resettlement help to refugees.

“This policy is not about national security — it is about sowing division and vilifying communities that are seeking safety and opportunity in the United States,” said Abby Maxman, president of Oxfam America, a nonprofit international relief organization.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pakistan-afghans-appeal-trump-travel-ban-afghanistan-fbb5d1738f5cefa5aae4d2a313f47aee">inclusion of Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;angered some supporters who have worked to resettle its people. The ban does make exceptions for Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas, generally people who worked most closely with the U.S. government during the two-decade-long war there.

Afghanistan had been one of the largest sources of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-afghanistan-d8221314a74a83a80cec37dd1bf101bd">resettled refugees,</a>&nbsp;with about 14,000 arrivals in a 12-month period through September 2024. Trump suspended refugee resettlement his first day in office.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump's new&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-exceptions-immigrants-visa-4d5a4d07a4430dd1e1cf24511370bc0e">ban on travel</a>&nbsp;to the U.S. by citizens from 12 mainly African and Middle Eastern countries took effect Monday amid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-protests-national-guard-trump-14c9dda32663d7d2c45f2b1c5a1d219c">rising tension</a>&nbsp;over the president's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-agents-masked-boston-deportations-todd-lyons-4fa874908a64b12f1b1ee0be3825fb39">escalating campaign</a>&nbsp;of immigration enforcement.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen... That is why today I am signing a new executive order placing travel restrictions on countries including Yemen, Somalia, Haiti, Libya, and numerous others.&quot; –President Trump <a href="https://t.co/ER7nGM4TO2">pic.twitter.com/ER7nGM4TO2</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1930412786271547485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The new proclamation, which Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-adeaec442cb0f00f4f8a34d208118445">signed last week</a>, applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also imposes heightened restrictions on people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela who are outside the U.S. and don’t hold a valid visa.The new ban does not revoke visas previously issued to people from countries on the list, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-visas-trump-rubio-797d5eaec642e53f06ef32dc53a8eec1">guidance issued Friday</a>&nbsp;to all U.S. diplomatic missions. However, unless an applicant meets narrow criteria for an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/travel-ban-exceptions-immigrants-visa-2b74891ec8a932c73d63ed2ebc7d125a">exemption to the ban</a>, his or her application will be rejected starting Monday. Travelers with previously issued visas should still be able to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/explainer-trump-travel-ban-world-cup-olympics-d9929b9c6316c17c597fcd67691404e1">enter the U.S.</a>&nbsp;even after the ban takes effect.During Trump’s first term, a hastily written executive order ordering the denial of entry to citizens of mainly Muslim countries&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/464756bcd7d7441da662d47e97bd44c1">created chaos</a>&nbsp;at numerous airports and other ports of entry, prompting successful legal challenges and major revisions to the policy.No such disruption was immediately discernible at Los Angeles International Airport in the hours after the new ban took effect.Haitian-American Elvanise Louis-Juste, who was at the airport earlier Sunday in Newark, New Jersey, awaiting a flight to her home state of Florida, said many Haitians wanting to come to the U.S. are simply seeking to escape&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/haiti-humanitarian-hunger-food-emergency-catastrophic-appeal-3bd37012f9b15c1395fb3ac2806198c4">violence and unrest</a>.“I have family in Haiti, so it’s pretty upsetting to see and hear,” Louis-Juste, 23, said of the travel ban. “I don’t think it’s a good thing. I think it’s very upsetting.”Many immigration experts say the new ban is more carefully crafted and appears designed to beat court challenges that hampered the first by focusing on the visa application process.Trump said this time that some countries had “deficient” screening for passports and other public documents or have historically refused to take back their own citizens. He relied extensively on an annual Homeland Security report of people who remain in the U.S. after their visas expired.Measuring overstay rates has challenged experts for decades, but the government has made a limited attempt annually since 2016. Trump’s proclamation cites overstay rates for eight of the 12 banned countries.Trump also tied the new ban to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/boulder-terror-attack-colorado-8af1b11734cbbe75c9945820a9b6684c">a terrorist attack in Boulder, Colorado</a>, saying it underscored the dangers posed by some visitors who overstay visas. U.S. officials say the man charged in the attack&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-visas-soliman-colorado-attack-81f44b98365adc01b1ff418a1885a1c6">overstayed a tourist visa.</a>&nbsp;He is from Egypt, a country that is not on Trump’s restricted list.The ban was quickly denounced by groups that provide aid and resettlement help to refugees.“This policy is not about national security — it is about sowing division and vilifying communities that are seeking safety and opportunity in the United States,” said Abby Maxman, president of Oxfam America, a nonprofit international relief organization.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pakistan-afghans-appeal-trump-travel-ban-afghanistan-fbb5d1738f5cefa5aae4d2a313f47aee">inclusion of Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;angered some supporters who have worked to resettle its people. The ban does make exceptions for Afghans on Special Immigrant Visas, generally people who worked most closely with the U.S. government during the two-decade-long war there.Afghanistan had been one of the largest sources of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-afghanistan-d8221314a74a83a80cec37dd1bf101bd">resettled refugees,</a>&nbsp;with about 14,000 arrivals in a 12-month period through September 2024. Trump suspended refugee resettlement his first day in office.

Trump's new travel ban begins amid escalating tension over immigration enforcement

STONE COUNTY, Mo. —Fire officials are investigating a boat explosion that critically injured a woman at Table Rock Lake.

Just after 9:30a.m. Saturday, a 74-year-old Springfield, Missouri woman had finished filling a&nbsp;1989 Carver Santego 38 foot boat at the Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake, according to the Missouri State Patrol.&nbsp; When the woman started the boat it exploded.

The woman was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. A private vehicle transported an 18-year-old girl on the vessel to a local urgent care center.

The Missouri Fire Marshall’s Office is in charge of the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749472216143.png" alt="Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake" />
 <figcaption>Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake</figcaption>
 </figure>STONE COUNTY, Mo. —Fire officials are investigating a boat explosion that critically injured a woman at Table Rock Lake.Just after 9:30a.m. Saturday, a 74-year-old Springfield, Missouri woman had finished filling a&nbsp;1989 Carver Santego 38 foot boat at the Indian Point Marina at Table Rock Lake, according to the Missouri State Patrol.&nbsp; When the woman started the boat it exploded.The woman was airlifted to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. A private vehicle transported an 18-year-old girl on the vessel to a local urgent care center.The Missouri Fire Marshall’s Office is in charge of the investigation.

Woman critically injured after boat explosion at Table Rock Lake

Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling all lots within expiry of Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs to the consumer level, according to a statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The products are being recalled due to potential microbial contamination identified as fungi in cotton swab components. Swabs found to contain microbial contamination can potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections in users whose nasal mucosa may be compromised due to inflammation and mechanical injuries. 

The risk is highest (potentially severe or life-threatening) among children and individuals with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. To date, no serious adverse events associated with the affected product have been reported.&nbsp;

The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico.

Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should stop using the product immediately. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.churchdwightrecall.com/">www.churchdwightrecall.com</a><a href="http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer">External Link Disclaimer</a>&nbsp;or call its Consumer Relations team at (800) 981-4710 for a full refund. Any additional questions can also be directed to its Consumer Relations team Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm ET.

Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.&nbsp;

Complete and submit the report&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program/reporting-serious-problems-fda">Online</a>

Regular Mail or Fax:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reporting">Download form</a>&nbsp;or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.

This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

This recall is limited exclusively to Zicam and Orajel swab products. All other Zicam and Orajel products, including Zicam RapidMelts, are not affected by this recall.&nbsp;

Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of consumer household and personal care products. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.churchdwight.com/">www.churchdwight.com</a><a href="http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer">External Link Disclaimer</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749464678607.png" alt="USDA image" />
 <figcaption>USDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is voluntarily recalling all lots within expiry of Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, and Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs to the consumer level, according to a statement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.The products are being recalled due to potential microbial contamination identified as fungi in cotton swab components. Swabs found to contain microbial contamination can potentially present a significant risk to the health and safety of consumers including serious and life-threatening blood infections in users whose nasal mucosa may be compromised due to inflammation and mechanical injuries. The risk is highest (potentially severe or life-threatening) among children and individuals with compromised immune systems or other underlying medical conditions. To date, no serious adverse events associated with the affected product have been reported.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749464659892.png" alt="USDA image" />
 <figcaption>USDA image</figcaption>
 </figure>The recalled products were distributed nationwide in the United States and in Puerto Rico.Recalled Product Information<ul>
 <li>Zicam® Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs, with UPC 732216301205, all lots:&nbsp;A zinc-free, homeopathic cold remedy swab designed to shorten the duration of the common cold.</li><li>Zicam® Nasal AllClear Swabs, with UPC 732216301656, all lots:&nbsp;A nasal cleansing swab product (discontinued in December 2024).</li><li>Orajel™ Baby Teething Swabs, with UPC 310310400002, all lots:&nbsp;Pre-moistened swabs designed to soothe teething discomfort in infants and toddlers.</li>
 </ul>What Consumers Should DoConsumers who have purchased any of the recalled products should stop using the product immediately. Please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.churchdwightrecall.com/">www.churchdwightrecall.com</a><a href="http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer">External Link Disclaimer</a>&nbsp;or call its Consumer Relations team at (800) 981-4710 for a full refund. Any additional questions can also be directed to its Consumer Relations team Monday through Friday, 9am – 5pm ET.Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.&nbsp;Complete and submit the report&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program/reporting-serious-problems-fda">Online</a>Regular Mail or Fax:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reporting">Download form</a>&nbsp;or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.This recall is limited exclusively to Zicam and Orajel swab products. All other Zicam and Orajel products, including Zicam RapidMelts, are not affected by this recall.&nbsp;About Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc.Church &amp; Dwight Co., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of consumer household and personal care products. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.churchdwight.com/">www.churchdwight.com</a><a href="http://www.fda.gov/about-fda/website-policies/website-disclaimer">External Link Disclaimer</a>.

Baby swabs and nasal swabs recalled  over risk of life-threatening blood infection

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri.

A southbound SUV struck a pedestrian who was walking on southbound Interstate 29 at NW Barry Road in the number 2 lane, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

&nbsp;The impact knocked the pedestrian into the #3 and #4 lanes, where she was run over by two other vehicles. 

All vehicles stopped and no occupants were injured. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. There were no signs of impairment on any of the drivers. This is fatality #28 in Kansas City, Missouri compared to #46 at this time last year.

KANSAS CITY —One person died in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Sunday in Kansas City, Missouri.A southbound SUV struck a pedestrian who was walking on southbound Interstate 29 at NW Barry Road in the number 2 lane, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.&nbsp;The impact knocked the pedestrian into the #3 and #4 lanes, where she was run over by two other vehicles. All vehicles stopped and no occupants were injured. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene. There were no signs of impairment on any of the drivers. This is fatality #28 in Kansas City, Missouri compared to #46 at this time last year.

KCPD: Pedestrian struck by SUV, run over by two other vehicles

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of a suspect as shown in the wanted poster.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation's Los Angeles Field Office is seeking the public's assistance in identifying the individual responsible for assaulting a federal officer and damaging government property near Alondra Boulevard in the city of Paramount, California.

On June 7, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the suspect threw rocks at law enforcement vehicles on Alondra Boulevard in Paramount, California, injuring a federal officer and damaging government vehicles.

If you have any information concerning this case, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/" target="_blank">local FBI office</a>, the nearest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legat/" target="_blank">American Embassy or Consulate</a>, or <a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/home">click here to submit a tip</a> online.

<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/?fugitive_name=ASSAULT+ON+A+FEDERAL+OFFICER+AND+DAMAGE+TO+GOVERNMENT+PROPERTY&amp;fugitive_type=fbi" target="_blank">&nbsp;Click here to submit an anonymous Tip online</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749433582580.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The FBI is offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of a suspect as shown in the wanted poster.The Federal Bureau of Investigation's Los Angeles Field Office is seeking the public's assistance in identifying the individual responsible for assaulting a federal officer and damaging government property near Alondra Boulevard in the city of Paramount, California.On June 7, 2025, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the suspect threw rocks at law enforcement vehicles on Alondra Boulevard in Paramount, California, injuring a federal officer and damaging government vehicles.If you have any information concerning this case, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field/" target="_blank">local FBI office</a>, the nearest&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/legat/" target="_blank">American Embassy or Consulate</a>, or <a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/home">click here to submit a tip</a> online.<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/?fugitive_name=ASSAULT+ON+A+FEDERAL+OFFICER+AND+DAMAGE+TO+GOVERNMENT+PROPERTY&amp;fugitive_type=fbi" target="_blank">&nbsp;Click here to submit an anonymous Tip online</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749464450327.png" alt="Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>___

ICE riots: Reward for info on suspect who assaulted federal officers

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 23-year-old&nbsp;Alejandro J. Meza Jr., according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

Just after 11a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in the 3000 block of NE 37th Street in Kansas City, Missouri.

While officers were on the way to the scene they were notified of a shooting victim dropped off at a hospital by private vehicle.

Officers located evidence that a shooting likely occurred inside an apartment building at the original dispatched address. Detectives responded to the scene to begin investigation. They canvassed for witnesses and worked to coordinate crime scene processing. A short time later detectives were notified that the victim, later identified as Meza, died at the hospital from his injuries.

According to Becchina, detectives could really use the public’s help with information as there was not anyone that remained at the original scene and the victim was left by himself at the hospital. 

If anyone was in this area around that time and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749324419083.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City have identified the victim as 23-year-old&nbsp;Alejandro J. Meza Jr., according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.Just after 11a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a shooting in the 3000 block of NE 37th Street in Kansas City, Missouri.While officers were on the way to the scene they were notified of a shooting victim dropped off at a hospital by private vehicle.Officers located evidence that a shooting likely occurred inside an apartment building at the original dispatched address. Detectives responded to the scene to begin investigation. They canvassed for witnesses and worked to coordinate crime scene processing. A short time later detectives were notified that the victim, later identified as Meza, died at the hospital from his injuries.According to Becchina, detectives could really use the public’s help with information as there was not anyone that remained at the original scene and the victim was left by himself at the hospital. If anyone was in this area around that time and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.

Homicide: Shooting victim dropped off at KC hospital died

By ERIC THAYER, JASON DEAREN and JAKE OFFENHARTZ Associated Press

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Law enforcement officers fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters in Los Angeles on Sunday as they gathered downtown in response to President Donald Trump's extraordinary deployment of the National Guard over the objections of the governor and mayor.

The clashes came on the third day of demonstrations against Trump's immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.

By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids. Protesters directed chants of "shame" and "go home" at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.

After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.

Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway.

The presence of the Guard was "inflaming tensions" in the city, according to a letter sent to Trump by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday afternoon. He formerly requested Trump remove the guard members, which he called a "serious breach of state sovereignty."

Trump has said the National Guard was necessary because Newsom and other Democrats have failed to stanch recent protests targeting immigration agents.

Their deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a state's national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administration's mass deportation efforts.

The arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.

As federal agents set up a staging area Saturday near a Home Depot in Paramount, demonstrators attempted to block Border Patrol vehicles, with some hurling rocks and chunks of cement. In response, agents in riot gear unleashed tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls.

Tensions were high after a series of sweeps by immigration authorities the previous day, as the weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the city climbed above 100. A prominent union leader was arrested while protesting and accused of impeding law enforcement.

The recent protests remain far smaller than past events that have brought the National Guard to Los Angeles, including the Watts and Rodney King riots, and the 2020 protests against police violence, in which Newsom requested the assistance of federal troops.

The last time the National Guard was activated without a governor's permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Trump says there will be 'very strong law and order'

In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States."

He said he had authorized the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.

Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, Sunday that there were "violent people" in Los Angeles "and they're not gonna get away with it."

Asked if he planned to send U.S. troops to Los Angeles, Trump replied: "We're gonna have troops everywhere. We're not going to let this happen to our country. We're not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden." He didn't elaborate.

Trump also said that California officials who stand in the way of the deportations could face charges. A Wisconsin judge was arrested last month on accusations she helped a man evade immigration authorities.

"If officials stay in the way of law and order, yeah, they will face charges," Trump said.

Newsom called Trump on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governor's office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday.

There was some confusion surrounding the exact timing of the guard's arrival. Shortly before midnight local time, Trump congratulated the National Guard on a "job well done." But less than an hour later, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said troops had yet to arrive in the city.

Defense secretary threatens to deploy active-duty Marines 'if violence continues'

In a statement Sunday, Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin accused California's politicians and protesters of "defending heinous illegal alien criminals at the expense of Americans' safety."

"Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer," McLaughlin added.

The troops included members of the California Army National Guard's 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to a social media post from the Department of Defense.

In a signal of the administration's aggressive approach, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also threatened to deploy active-duty Marines "if violence continues" in the region.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said the order by Trump reflected "a president moving this country rapidly into authoritarianism" and "usurping the powers of the United States Congress."

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, said the immigration arrests and Guard deployment were designed as part of a "cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division."

She said she supports those "standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms."

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a staunch Trump ally, endorsed the president's move, doubling down on Republicans' criticisms of California Democrats.

"Gavin Newsom has shown an inability or an unwillingness to do what is necessary, so the president stepped in," Johnson said.

Offenhartz reported from New York. Associated Press writer Michelle Price contributed to this report from Bridgewater, New Jersey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749427066713.png" alt="Photos Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Photos Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>By ERIC THAYER, JASON DEAREN and JAKE OFFENHARTZ Associated Press<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Order will be restored! <a href="https://t.co/2Weukx1mKt">https://t.co/2Weukx1mKt</a>&mdash; Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1931822236446445875?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>LOS ANGELES (AP) — Law enforcement officers fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters in Los Angeles on Sunday as they gathered downtown in response to President Donald Trump's extraordinary deployment of the National Guard over the objections of the governor and mayor.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles has been a chaotic escalation. The City will remain focused on protecting all who call L.A. home. <a href="https://t.co/CCR06PNH1E">pic.twitter.com/CCR06PNH1E</a>&mdash; Mayor Karen Bass (@MayorOfLA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MayorOfLA/status/1931862924618010663?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The clashes came on the third day of demonstrations against Trump's immigration crackdown in the region, as the arrival of around 300 federal troops spurred anger and fear among some residents.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749427019979.png" alt="Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>By midday, hundreds had gathered outside the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where people were detained after earlier immigration raids. Protesters directed chants of "shame" and "go home" at members of the National Guard, who stood shoulder to shoulder, carrying long guns and riot shields.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I have formally requested the Trump Administration rescind their unlawful deployment of troops in Los Angeles county and return them to my command. We didn’t have a problem until Trump got involved. This is a serious breach of state sovereignty — inflaming tensions while… <a href="https://t.co/tOtA5dcfxc">pic.twitter.com/tOtA5dcfxc</a>&mdash; Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) <a href="https://twitter.com/GavinNewsom/status/1931840646773715068?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>After some protesters closely approached the guard members, another set of uniformed officers advanced on the group, shooting smoke-filled canisters into the street.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our law enforcement officers are just doing their jobs. Violence and intimidation against federal law enforcement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The United States is a nation of laws, and lawbreakers will be brought to justice. <a href="https://t.co/0wytuvEO5R">pic.twitter.com/0wytuvEO5R</a>&mdash; Homeland Security (@DHSgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1931862064324366595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Minutes later, the Los Angeles Police Department fired rounds of crowd-control munitions to disperse the protesters, who they said were assembled unlawfully. Much of the group then moved to block traffic on the 101 freeway.The presence of the Guard was "inflaming tensions" in the city, according to a letter sent to Trump by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Sunday afternoon. He formerly requested Trump remove the guard members, which he called a "serious breach of state sovereignty."Trump has said the National Guard was necessary because Newsom and other Democrats have failed to stanch recent protests targeting immigration agents.Their deployment appeared to be the first time in decades that a state's national guard was activated without a request from its governor, a significant escalation against those who have sought to hinder the administration's mass deportation efforts.Deployment follows days of protestThe arrival of the National Guard followed two days of protests that began Friday in downtown Los Angeles before spreading on Saturday to Paramount, a heavily Latino city south of the city, and neighboring Compton.As federal agents set up a staging area Saturday near a Home Depot in Paramount, demonstrators attempted to block Border Patrol vehicles, with some hurling rocks and chunks of cement. In response, agents in riot gear unleashed tear gas, flash-bang explosives and pepper balls.Tensions were high after a series of sweeps by immigration authorities the previous day, as the weeklong tally of immigrant arrests in the city climbed above 100. A prominent union leader was arrested while protesting and accused of impeding law enforcement.The recent protests remain far smaller than past events that have brought the National Guard to Los Angeles, including the Watts and Rodney King riots, and the 2020 protests against police violence, in which Newsom requested the assistance of federal troops.The last time the National Guard was activated without a governor's permission was in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson sent troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.Trump says there will be 'very strong law and order'In a directive Saturday, Trump invoked a legal provision allowing him to deploy federal service members when there is "a rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States."He said he had authorized the deployment of 2,000 members of the National Guard.Trump told reporters as he prepared to board Air Force One in Morristown, New Jersey, Sunday that there were "violent people" in Los Angeles "and they're not gonna get away with it."Asked if he planned to send U.S. troops to Los Angeles, Trump replied: "We're gonna have troops everywhere. We're not going to let this happen to our country. We're not going to let our country be torn apart like it was under Biden." He didn't elaborate.Trump also said that California officials who stand in the way of the deportations could face charges. A Wisconsin judge was arrested last month on accusations she helped a man evade immigration authorities."If officials stay in the way of law and order, yeah, they will face charges," Trump said.Newsom called Trump on Friday night and they spoke for about 40 minutes, according to the governor's office. It was not clear if they spoke Saturday or Sunday.There was some confusion surrounding the exact timing of the guard's arrival. Shortly before midnight local time, Trump congratulated the National Guard on a "job well done." But less than an hour later, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said troops had yet to arrive in the city.Defense secretary threatens to deploy active-duty Marines 'if violence continues'In a statement Sunday, Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin accused California's politicians and protesters of "defending heinous illegal alien criminals at the expense of Americans' safety.""Instead of rioting, they should be thanking ICE officers every single day who wake up and make our communities safer," McLaughlin added.The troops included members of the California Army National Guard's 79th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, according to a social media post from the Department of Defense.In a signal of the administration's aggressive approach, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also threatened to deploy active-duty Marines "if violence continues" in the region.Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders said the order by Trump reflected "a president moving this country rapidly into authoritarianism" and "usurping the powers of the United States Congress."Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who lives in Los Angeles, said the immigration arrests and Guard deployment were designed as part of a "cruel, calculated agenda to spread panic and division."She said she supports those "standing up to protect our most fundamental rights and freedoms."House Speaker Mike Johnson, a staunch Trump ally, endorsed the president's move, doubling down on Republicans' criticisms of California Democrats."Gavin Newsom has shown an inability or an unwillingness to do what is necessary, so the president stepped in," Johnson said.___Offenhartz reported from New York. Associated Press writer Michelle Price contributed to this report from Bridgewater, New Jersey.

🎥Ice protests intensify in LA after Trump deploys National Guard troops

KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City, Mo., man was charged in federal court on charges related to child sexual exploitation.

According to a criminal complaint unsealed last week, Mohammad Maher Chamma, 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged with one count of production of child pornography and one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in illegal sexual activity in May 2023, one count of transportation of child pornography in May 2024, and one count of distribution of child pornography between June 2024 and January 2025, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers learned of multiple CyberTips reporting that Chamma had used various online aliases to distribute and transport images and videos depicting child pornography, also referred to as child sexual exploitation material. Law enforcement officers also received a report that Chamma had transported a minor female from Kansas to Missouri to engage in illegal sexual activity in May 2023.

The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alison Dunning. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749388141627.png" alt="Chamma from an arrest in Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Chamma from an arrest in Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City, Mo., man was charged in federal court on charges related to child sexual exploitation.According to a criminal complaint unsealed last week, Mohammad Maher Chamma, 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged with one count of production of child pornography and one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in illegal sexual activity in May 2023, one count of transportation of child pornography in May 2024, and one count of distribution of child pornography between June 2024 and January 2025, according to the United State's Attorney.According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, law enforcement officers learned of multiple CyberTips reporting that Chamma had used various online aliases to distribute and transport images and videos depicting child pornography, also referred to as child sexual exploitation material. Law enforcement officers also received a report that Chamma had transported a minor female from Kansas to Missouri to engage in illegal sexual activity in May 2023.The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alison Dunning. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department.

Affidavit: KC man used online aliases to distribute child porn

Ten years ago, Floyd Bledsoe walked free after spending more than 16 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. Today, he’s a father of three, an entrepreneur, and the owner of a small farm just outside Hutchinson.

On a chilly November afternoon in 1999, 14-year-old Zetta Camille Arfmann stepped off a school bus in the small town of Oskaloosa and walked into the trailer home she shared with her older sister, brother-in-law, and their two children. She was never seen alive again.

Just days later, Floyd Bledsoe—her sister’s 23-year-old husband—was arrested and charged with Camille’s murder. Despite maintaining his innocence, Bledsoe was convicted in April 2000 of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He was sentenced to life in prison plus 16 years.

In 2004, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld Bledsoe’s conviction. But questions surrounding the handling of the case persisted, particularly over a pretrial agreement signed by the prosecutor, the county sheriff, and a Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agent to not conduct DNA testing on the evidence.

Bledsoe’s legal team secured permission to test the preserved biological evidence. The results were staggering. DNA from a vaginal swab taken from Camille’s body matched Bledsoe’s brother, Tom Bledsoe—not Floyd. Floyd’s DNA was not found on any of the tested evidence. Additional DNA evidence, including samples found on Camille’s socks, implicated Tom and the brothers’ father in the disposal of the body.

As the case unraveled, Tom Bledsoe died by suicide on November 9, 2015, in Bonner Springs. He left behind handwritten confessions, including a note addressed to his parents in which he admitted to raping and killing Camille and implored them to "please tell Floyd I am sorry."

One month later, on December 8, 2015, Judge Gary Nafziger vacated Floyd Bledsoe’s convictions. Prosecutors dropped all charges, and Bledsoe walked free after spending nearly half his life imprisoned for a crime he did not commit.

Since his 2015 exoneration, Bledsoe has settled in Hutchinson and started four businesses. Among them is F-N-J Construction, a home remodeling and decking company, and Bledsoe Serenity Homestead, a working farm where he sells fresh produce and teaches others how to grow their own food.

The journey from prison to purpose hasn’t been easy.

“It takes a toll — mentally, emotionally. It just drains you,” Bledsoe said of his wrongful incarceration. “But it’s also made me who I am today. I went in at 23 and came out at 39. It taught me what true family really is — and sometimes, that’s not the one you’re born into, but the people who choose to walk alongside you.”

Now a father to three young children, Bledsoe’s focus is on creating meaningful experiences — both for his family and the broader community.

That mission comes to life at the Serenity Homestead, where children can interact with animals, ride horses, and experience hands-on farming.

“One of my goals is to teach people how to become self-sustaining,” he said. “You don’t have to rely on the grocery store if you know how to grow your own food.”

“It’s been a lot of fun,” Bledsoe said. “I’ve learned a lot of stuff, gained a lot of great friends, and built a completely different life.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749356374241.jpeg" alt="Floyd Bledsoe - Hutch Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Floyd Bledsoe - Hutch Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>MARC JACOBS Hutch Post&nbsp;Ten years ago, Floyd Bledsoe walked free after spending more than 16 years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. Today, he’s a father of three, an entrepreneur, and the owner of a small farm just outside Hutchinson.<h2>Looking back</h2>On a chilly November afternoon in 1999, 14-year-old Zetta Camille Arfmann stepped off a school bus in the small town of Oskaloosa and walked into the trailer home she shared with her older sister, brother-in-law, and their two children. She was never seen alive again.Just days later, Floyd Bledsoe—her sister’s 23-year-old husband—was arrested and charged with Camille’s murder. Despite maintaining his innocence, Bledsoe was convicted in April 2000 of first-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. He was sentenced to life in prison plus 16 years.In 2004, the Kansas Supreme Court upheld Bledsoe’s conviction. But questions surrounding the handling of the case persisted, particularly over a pretrial agreement signed by the prosecutor, the county sheriff, and a Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agent to not conduct DNA testing on the evidence.Bledsoe’s legal team secured permission to test the preserved biological evidence. The results were staggering. DNA from a vaginal swab taken from Camille’s body matched Bledsoe’s brother, Tom Bledsoe—not Floyd. Floyd’s DNA was not found on any of the tested evidence. Additional DNA evidence, including samples found on Camille’s socks, implicated Tom and the brothers’ father in the disposal of the body.As the case unraveled, Tom Bledsoe died by suicide on November 9, 2015, in Bonner Springs. He left behind handwritten confessions, including a note addressed to his parents in which he admitted to raping and killing Camille and implored them to "please tell Floyd I am sorry."One month later, on December 8, 2015, Judge Gary Nafziger vacated Floyd Bledsoe’s convictions. Prosecutors dropped all charges, and Bledsoe walked free after spending nearly half his life imprisoned for a crime he did not commit.<h2>Today</h2>Since his 2015 exoneration, Bledsoe has settled in Hutchinson and started four businesses. Among them is F-N-J Construction, a home remodeling and decking company, and Bledsoe Serenity Homestead, a working farm where he sells fresh produce and teaches others how to grow their own food.The journey from prison to purpose hasn’t been easy.“It takes a toll — mentally, emotionally. It just drains you,” Bledsoe said of his wrongful incarceration. “But it’s also made me who I am today. I went in at 23 and came out at 39. It taught me what true family really is — and sometimes, that’s not the one you’re born into, but the people who choose to walk alongside you.”Now a father to three young children, Bledsoe’s focus is on creating meaningful experiences — both for his family and the broader community.That mission comes to life at the Serenity Homestead, where children can interact with animals, ride horses, and experience hands-on farming.“One of my goals is to teach people how to become self-sustaining,” he said. “You don’t have to rely on the grocery store if you know how to grow your own food.”“It’s been a lot of fun,” Bledsoe said. “I’ve learned a lot of stuff, gained a lot of great friends, and built a completely different life.”

Exonerated man builds new life in Kansas

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/graham-dunbar">GRAHAM DUNBAR</a>

GENEVA (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump often says the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are among the events he is most excited about in his second term.

Yet there is significant uncertainty regarding visa policies for foreign visitors planning trips to the U.S. for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-world-cup-olympics-612ae9d95a8bff29c31228396a375d7e">two biggest events in sports</a>.

Trump’s latest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-adeaec442cb0f00f4f8a34d208118445">travel ban on citizens from 12 countries</a>&nbsp;added new questions about the impact on the World Cup and the Summer Olympics, which depend on hosts opening their doors to the world.

Here’s a look at the potential effects of the travel ban on those events.

When Sunday ticks over to Monday, citizens of 12 countries should be banned from entering the U.S.

They are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

Tighter restrictions will apply to visitors from seven more: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

Trump said some countries had “deficient” screening and vetting processes or have historically refused to take back their own citizens.

How does it affect the World Cup and Olympics?

Iran, a soccer power in Asia, is the only targeted country&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-asia-qualifying-fifa-eef5b27a5974c132b5c020f2effcd8a0">to qualify so far</a>&nbsp;for the World Cup being co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico in one year’s time.

Cuba, Haiti and Sudan are in contention. Sierra Leone might stay involved through multiple playoff games. Burundi, Equatorial Guinea and Libya have very outside shots.

But all should be able to send teams to the World Cup if they qualify because the new policy makes exceptions for “any athlete or member of an athletic team, including coaches, persons performing a necessary support role, and immediate relatives, traveling for the World Cup, Olympics, or other major sporting event as determined by the secretary of state.”

About 200 countries could send athletes to the Summer Games, including those targeted by the latest travel restrictions. The exceptions should apply to them as well if the ban is still in place in its current form.

The travel ban doesn’t mention any exceptions for fans from the targeted countries wishing to travel to the U.S. for the World Cup or Olympics.

Even before the travel ban, fans of the Iran soccer team living in that country already had issues about getting a visa for a World Cup visit.

Still, national team supporters often profile differently to fans of club teams who go abroad for games in international competitions like the UEFA Champions League.

For many countries, fans traveling to the World Cup — an expensive travel plan with hiked flight and hotel prices — are often from the diaspora, wealthier, and could have different passport options.

A World Cup visitor is broadly higher-spending and lower-risk for host nation security planning.

Visitors to an Olympics are often even higher-end clients, though tourism for a Summer Games is significantly less than at a World Cup, with fewer still from most of the 19 countries now targeted.

How is the U.S. working with FIFA, Olympic officials?

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly built close ties since 2018 to Trump —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fifa-congress-infantino-trump-945ccead42e75c57c9111c571c4568bd">too close according to some</a>. He has cited the need to ensure FIFA’s smooth operations at a tournament that will earn a big majority of the soccer body’s expected $13 billion revenue from 2023-26.

Infantino sat next to Trump at the White House task force meeting on May 6 which prominently included Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. FIFA’s top delegate on the task force is Infantino ally Carlos Cordeiro, a former Goldman Sachs partner whose two-year run as U.S. Soccer Federation president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soccer-sports-international-soccer-major-league-soccer-world-cup-a4a68b6be7f34adeee12469426cd2216">ended in controversy in 2020</a>.

Any visa and security issues FIFA faces — including at the 32-team Club World Cup that kicks off next week in Miami — can help LA Olympics organizers finesse their plans.

“It was very clear in the directive that the Olympics require special consideration and I actually want to thank the federal government for recognizing that,” LA28 chairman and president Casey Wasserman said Thursday in Los Angeles.

“It’s very clear that the federal government understands that that’s an environment that they will be accommodating and provide for,” he said. “We have great confidence that that will only continue. It has been the case to date and it will certainly be the case going forward through the games.”

In March, at an IOC meeting in Greece, Wasserman said he had two discreet meetings with Trump and noted the State Department has a “fully staffed desk” to help prepare for short-notice visa processing in the summer of 2028 — albeit with a focus on teams rather than fans.

IOC member Nicole Hoevertsz, who is chair of the Coordination Commission for LA28, expressed “every confidence” that the U.S. government will cooperate, as it did in hosting previous Olympics.

“That is something that we will be definitely looking at and making sure that it is guaranteed as well,” she said. “We are very confident that this is going to be accomplished. I’m sure this is going to be executed well.”

FIFA didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment about the new Trump travel ban.

The 2018 World Cup host Russia let fans enter the country with a game ticket doubling as their visa. So did Qatar four years later.

Both governments, however, also performed background checks on all visitors coming to the month-long soccer tournaments.

Governments have refused entry to unwelcome visitors. For the 2012 London Olympics, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko — who is still its authoritarian leader today — was denied a visa despite also leading its national Olympic body. The IOC&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ioc-suspends-belarus-president-lukashenko-from-olympic-games-e232d14d99e959297eba9bd5740b5544">also suspended him</a>&nbsp;from the Tokyo Olympics held in 2021.

AP Sports Writer Beth Harris in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741521131212.png" alt="File photo&nbsp;-President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino unveil the official trophy of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup-image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>File photo&nbsp;-President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino unveil the official trophy of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup-image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/graham-dunbar">GRAHAM DUNBAR</a>GENEVA (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump often says the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are among the events he is most excited about in his second term.Yet there is significant uncertainty regarding visa policies for foreign visitors planning trips to the U.S. for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-canada-mexico-world-cup-olympics-612ae9d95a8bff29c31228396a375d7e">two biggest events in sports</a>.Trump’s latest&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-travel-ban-adeaec442cb0f00f4f8a34d208118445">travel ban on citizens from 12 countries</a>&nbsp;added new questions about the impact on the World Cup and the Summer Olympics, which depend on hosts opening their doors to the world.Here’s a look at the potential effects of the travel ban on those events.<h2>What is the travel ban policy?</h2>When Sunday ticks over to Monday, citizens of 12 countries should be banned from entering the U.S.They are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.Tighter restrictions will apply to visitors from seven more: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.Trump said some countries had “deficient” screening and vetting processes or have historically refused to take back their own citizens.<h2>How does it affect the World Cup and Olympics?</h2>Iran, a soccer power in Asia, is the only targeted country&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/world-cup-asia-qualifying-fifa-eef5b27a5974c132b5c020f2effcd8a0">to qualify so far</a>&nbsp;for the World Cup being co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico in one year’s time.Cuba, Haiti and Sudan are in contention. Sierra Leone might stay involved through multiple playoff games. Burundi, Equatorial Guinea and Libya have very outside shots.But all should be able to send teams to the World Cup if they qualify because the new policy makes exceptions for “any athlete or member of an athletic team, including coaches, persons performing a necessary support role, and immediate relatives, traveling for the World Cup, Olympics, or other major sporting event as determined by the secretary of state.”About 200 countries could send athletes to the Summer Games, including those targeted by the latest travel restrictions. The exceptions should apply to them as well if the ban is still in place in its current form.<h2>What about fans?</h2>The travel ban doesn’t mention any exceptions for fans from the targeted countries wishing to travel to the U.S. for the World Cup or Olympics.Even before the travel ban, fans of the Iran soccer team living in that country already had issues about getting a visa for a World Cup visit.Still, national team supporters often profile differently to fans of club teams who go abroad for games in international competitions like the UEFA Champions League.For many countries, fans traveling to the World Cup — an expensive travel plan with hiked flight and hotel prices — are often from the diaspora, wealthier, and could have different passport options.A World Cup visitor is broadly higher-spending and lower-risk for host nation security planning.Visitors to an Olympics are often even higher-end clients, though tourism for a Summer Games is significantly less than at a World Cup, with fewer still from most of the 19 countries now targeted.<h2>How is the U.S. working with FIFA, Olympic officials?</h2>FIFA President Gianni Infantino has publicly built close ties since 2018 to Trump —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fifa-congress-infantino-trump-945ccead42e75c57c9111c571c4568bd">too close according to some</a>. He has cited the need to ensure FIFA’s smooth operations at a tournament that will earn a big majority of the soccer body’s expected $13 billion revenue from 2023-26.Infantino sat next to Trump at the White House task force meeting on May 6 which prominently included Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. FIFA’s top delegate on the task force is Infantino ally Carlos Cordeiro, a former Goldman Sachs partner whose two-year run as U.S. Soccer Federation president&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/soccer-sports-international-soccer-major-league-soccer-world-cup-a4a68b6be7f34adeee12469426cd2216">ended in controversy in 2020</a>.Any visa and security issues FIFA faces — including at the 32-team Club World Cup that kicks off next week in Miami — can help LA Olympics organizers finesse their plans.“It was very clear in the directive that the Olympics require special consideration and I actually want to thank the federal government for recognizing that,” LA28 chairman and president Casey Wasserman said Thursday in Los Angeles.“It’s very clear that the federal government understands that that’s an environment that they will be accommodating and provide for,” he said. “We have great confidence that that will only continue. It has been the case to date and it will certainly be the case going forward through the games.”In March, at an IOC meeting in Greece, Wasserman said he had two discreet meetings with Trump and noted the State Department has a “fully staffed desk” to help prepare for short-notice visa processing in the summer of 2028 — albeit with a focus on teams rather than fans.IOC member Nicole Hoevertsz, who is chair of the Coordination Commission for LA28, expressed “every confidence” that the U.S. government will cooperate, as it did in hosting previous Olympics.“That is something that we will be definitely looking at and making sure that it is guaranteed as well,” she said. “We are very confident that this is going to be accomplished. I’m sure this is going to be executed well.”FIFA didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment about the new Trump travel ban.<h2>What have other host nations done?</h2>The 2018 World Cup host Russia let fans enter the country with a game ticket doubling as their visa. So did Qatar four years later.Both governments, however, also performed background checks on all visitors coming to the month-long soccer tournaments.Governments have refused entry to unwelcome visitors. For the 2012 London Olympics, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko — who is still its authoritarian leader today — was denied a visa despite also leading its national Olympic body. The IOC&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ioc-suspends-belarus-president-lukashenko-from-olympic-games-e232d14d99e959297eba9bd5740b5544">also suspended him</a>&nbsp;from the Tokyo Olympics held in 2021.___AP Sports Writer Beth Harris in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

What the Trump travel ban means for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games

WASHINGTON (AP) — A unanimous&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;made it easier Thursday to bring lawsuits over so-called reverse discrimination, siding with an Ohio woman who claims she didn’t get a job and then was demoted because she is straight.

The justices’&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/23-1039_c0n2.pdf">decision</a>&nbsp;affects lawsuits in 20 states and the District of Columbia where, until now, courts had set a higher bar when members of a majority group, including those who are white and heterosexual, sue for discrimination under federal law.

Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote for the court that federal civil rights law draws no distinction between members of majority and minority groups.

“By establishing the same protections for every ‘individual’ — without regard to that individual’s membership in a minority or majority group — Congress left no room for courts to impose special requirements on majority-group plaintiffs alone,” Jackson wrote.

The court ruled in an appeal from Marlean Ames, who has worked for the Ohio Department of Youth Services for more than 20 years.

Ames contends she was passed over for a promotion and then demoted because she is heterosexual. Both the job she sought and the one she had held were given to LGBTQ people.

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 bars sex discrimination in the workplace. A trial court and the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against Ames.

The 6th circuit is among the courts that had required an additional requirement for people like Ames, showing “background circumstances” that might include that LGBTQ people made the decisions affecting Ames or statistical evidence of a pattern of discrimination against members of the majority group.

The appeals court noted that Ames didn’t provide any such circumstances.

But Jackson wrote that “this additional ‘background circumstances’ requirement is not consistent with Title VII’s text or our case law construing the statute.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — A unanimous&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court">Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;made it easier Thursday to bring lawsuits over so-called reverse discrimination, siding with an Ohio woman who claims she didn’t get a job and then was demoted because she is straight.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749137586260.png" alt="U.S. Supreme Court" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Supreme Court</figcaption>
 </figure>The justices’&nbsp;<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/24pdf/23-1039_c0n2.pdf">decision</a>&nbsp;affects lawsuits in 20 states and the District of Columbia where, until now, courts had set a higher bar when members of a majority group, including those who are white and heterosexual, sue for discrimination under federal law.Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson wrote for the court that federal civil rights law draws no distinction between members of majority and minority groups.“By establishing the same protections for every ‘individual’ — without regard to that individual’s membership in a minority or majority group — Congress left no room for courts to impose special requirements on majority-group plaintiffs alone,” Jackson wrote.The court ruled in an appeal from Marlean Ames, who has worked for the Ohio Department of Youth Services for more than 20 years.Ames contends she was passed over for a promotion and then demoted because she is heterosexual. Both the job she sought and the one she had held were given to LGBTQ people.Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 bars sex discrimination in the workplace. A trial court and the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against Ames.The 6th circuit is among the courts that had required an additional requirement for people like Ames, showing “background circumstances” that might include that LGBTQ people made the decisions affecting Ames or statistical evidence of a pattern of discrimination against members of the majority group.The appeals court noted that Ames didn’t provide any such circumstances.But Jackson wrote that “this additional ‘background circumstances’ requirement is not consistent with Title VII’s text or our case law construing the statute.”

Read the ruling: Supreme Court makes it easier to claim 'reverse discrimination'

SEDGWICK COUNTY —&nbsp;Investigators need help to identify an armed robber, who held a clerk at gunpoint at a business in the 4200 block of S. Seneca in Wichita on May 8, according to a social media report from Wichita&nbsp; Police. The suspect escaped with cash and liquor.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —&nbsp;Investigators need help to identify an armed robber, who held a clerk at gunpoint at a business in the 4200 block of S. Seneca in Wichita on May 8, according to a social media report from Wichita&nbsp; Police. The suspect escaped with cash and liquor.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Tipsters! WPD Investigators need your help to identify this armed robber, who held a clerk at gunpoint at a local business in the 4200 block of S. Seneca on May 8th and escaped with cash and liquor. <a href="https://t.co/UOd1gsOth4">pic.twitter.com/UOd1gsOth4</a>&mdash; Crime Stoppers ICT (@crimestoppers) <a href="https://twitter.com/crimestoppers/status/1924481622235083247?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Police ask for help to ID armed robbery suspect

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/wyatte-grantham-philips">WYATTE GRANTHAM-PHILIPS</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — Stragglers beware: U.S. travelers flying with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newark-airport-flight-delays-cancellations-united-d0f8a2fbc8844a05ab9e7d577922c141">United Airlines</a>&nbsp;will have to check in to domestic flights a little earlier starting next week. That is, if they’re customers only taking carry-on bags.

Effective this week, United’s “check-in cutoff” for most U.S. flights will be 45 minutes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/laguardia-airport-close-call-faa-ntsb-821fcc0a18d5da17b832b2e17af765c0">before departure</a>. That’s the same deadline United has for passengers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-hearing-airlines-fees-seats-bags-3cd4a1fc1b29fc04f9607adea7b5bdf4">checking luggage</a>&nbsp;at the airport but 15 minutes earlier than the current one for people without bags to check.

In an email to The Associated Press, a United spokesperson said the change to a single cut-off minimum “brings greater consistency for our customers” and conforms with the policies of many other airlines.

Checking in for a flight confirms a passenger’s booking and intent to travel ahead of takeoff. Most major U.S. carriers have online check-in systems that can be used at least 24 hours in advance, so the process no longer reflects when many travelers arrive at the airport. But it’s still an important step since boarding passes are issued once check-ins are completed.

Other U.S. and international carriers have tightened their check-in and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-airlines-gate-lice-boarding-technology-907dfe7a751a0b8f19b8b0f6150c0b7b">boarding policies</a>&nbsp;as part of their strategies for maintaining on-time departures, particularly amid the high demand that followed the COVID-19 pandemic.

Generally speaking, checking in allows airports&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/off-charts-airlines-earnings-forecast-8b4274a941439ddc7f6e8f1bd79e6174">and airlines</a>&nbsp;to prepare for upcoming flights — from confirming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/southwest-assigned-seats-earnings-6869dbe31934c87e049c9e428eae7761">seat assignments</a>&nbsp;to making sure passenger names are at the security checkpoint. Check-in cutoffs, or the latest possible time to claim a flight reservation, are typically earlier for international flights to account for the time needed to check passports and clear customs.

Still, requirements may vary by airline and airport. Dubai-based Emirates, for example, closes online check-ins 90 minutes before departure.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ryanair-alcohol-drink-limit-eu-airports-ff197c69dbd738cf221b24e591a1d52e">Ireland’s Ryanair</a>&nbsp;allows online check-in up to two hours before a flight; passengers still may check in at the airport 40 minutes in advance, but for a fee.

Here’s what check-in cutoffs look like for United and some other U.S. carriers.

Again,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fear-of-flying-8e348402efc654a7248fb9fe4e5df852">if you’re flying</a>&nbsp;United within the U.S., you’ll need to check in to your flight at least 45 minutes prior to takeoff as of June 3.

While the new cutoff applies to most of United’s domestic trips, check-in deadlines may vary by location and route. The carrier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/travel/airport/airport-process.html#check-in-time-limits" target="_blank">website notes</a>&nbsp;that St. Thomas’ airport in the U.S. Virgin Islands has a check-in time limit of 90 minutes prior to departure — the same cutoff listed for flights between Guam and Honolulu.

For international flights, United requires checking in at least an hour before departure. But many airports have earlier deadlines — such as 75 minutes for major airports in Paris and Dubai, and 90 minutes for the airports in Toronto and Lagos, Nigeria.

Delta passengers not checking any bags still have a minimum of a half-hour before a domestic flight to check in. Travelers with luggage to check need to get to the airline ticket counter at least 45 minutes prior, Delta’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/check-in-time-requirements/domestic-check-in" target="_blank">website notes</a>, per an update that went into effect last month.

In a statement sent to the AP on Tuesday, Delta said it had made this “minor change” so that “Delta teams can ensure all customers have a great experience.”

For international flights, Delta travelers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/check-in-time-requirements/international-check-in" target="_blank">must be checked in</a>&nbsp;at least 1 hour before departure. But, like other carriers, Delta’s minimum check-in requirements can vary by location for certain airports. Delta customers checking bags at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, for example, are supposed to check in an hour before departure whether their flights are domestic or international.

If you’re flying with American Airlines within the U.S., the deadline for checking in and checking a bag before a flight is 45 minutes ahead of departure, according to the carrier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/check-in-and-arrival.jsp" target="_blank">website</a>.

For trips to or from locations outside the U.S., the cutoff to both check-in for your flight and check a bag is 60 minutes ahead of takeoff. But again, a handful of airports have earlier requirements.

Passengers with more than a carry-on bag should get to the airline counter at least 45 minutes before a scheduled flight&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/southwest-checked-bag-5e1a887d57bf8d690f35ffab43572f3b">on Southwest</a>. The carrier&nbsp;<a href="https://mobile.southwest.com/baggage-restrictions#:~:text=Please%20see%20important%20information%20regarding,in%20or%20board%20the%20flight." target="_blank">warns</a>&nbsp;that baggage destined for a plane’s cargo hold is considered a “late check” and not guaranteed to get on your flight if it’s dropped off less than 45 minutes ahead of departure.

Beyond baggage, if Southwest travelers aren’t checked-in and in the boarding area at least 10 minutes prior to departure, their reservation could be canceled, a Southwest spokesperson told the AP via email.

The carrier did not specify any additional, firm check-in cutoffs for domestic flights. For international trips, Southwest’s&nbsp;<a href="https://mobile.southwest.com/baggage-restrictions#:~:text=Please%20see%20important%20information%20regarding,in%20or%20board%20the%20flight." target="_blank">website notes</a>&nbsp;that all passengers and their luggage must be checked in a minimum of 60 minutes prior to departure. And again, that can vary — with flights departing Aruba, for example, having an earlier deadline of 75 minutes before takeoff for passengers with or without checked bags.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-flights-tokyo-seoul-seattle-honolulu-7550281d0b25672184b0aa44e3151427">Alaska</a>&nbsp;requires a minimum of 50 minutes before takeoff to check in passengers for flights within the U.S., whether or not they have bags to check. The cutoff is 60 minutes for international flights, the carrier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/at-the-airport/airport-boarding-times?srsltid=AfmBOop3VjjPWOXtipMub871jPfM-r9FDZOmn_UDJZFwFGh8YxG-iAja" target="_blank">website notes</a>.

Again, there are exceptions for certain locations and airports. Passengers traveling from Guadalajara, Mexico, for example, have to check their baggage and into their flights at least 90 minutes ahead of time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638546910878.jpeg" alt="United Airlines (Unsplash)" />
 <figcaption>United Airlines (Unsplash)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/wyatte-grantham-philips">WYATTE GRANTHAM-PHILIPS</a>NEW YORK (AP) — Stragglers beware: U.S. travelers flying with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/newark-airport-flight-delays-cancellations-united-d0f8a2fbc8844a05ab9e7d577922c141">United Airlines</a>&nbsp;will have to check in to domestic flights a little earlier starting next week. That is, if they’re customers only taking carry-on bags.Effective this week, United’s “check-in cutoff” for most U.S. flights will be 45 minutes&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/laguardia-airport-close-call-faa-ntsb-821fcc0a18d5da17b832b2e17af765c0">before departure</a>. That’s the same deadline United has for passengers&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/senate-hearing-airlines-fees-seats-bags-3cd4a1fc1b29fc04f9607adea7b5bdf4">checking luggage</a>&nbsp;at the airport but 15 minutes earlier than the current one for people without bags to check.In an email to The Associated Press, a United spokesperson said the change to a single cut-off minimum “brings greater consistency for our customers” and conforms with the policies of many other airlines.Checking in for a flight confirms a passenger’s booking and intent to travel ahead of takeoff. Most major U.S. carriers have online check-in systems that can be used at least 24 hours in advance, so the process no longer reflects when many travelers arrive at the airport. But it’s still an important step since boarding passes are issued once check-ins are completed.Other U.S. and international carriers have tightened their check-in and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-airlines-gate-lice-boarding-technology-907dfe7a751a0b8f19b8b0f6150c0b7b">boarding policies</a>&nbsp;as part of their strategies for maintaining on-time departures, particularly amid the high demand that followed the COVID-19 pandemic.Generally speaking, checking in allows airports&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/off-charts-airlines-earnings-forecast-8b4274a941439ddc7f6e8f1bd79e6174">and airlines</a>&nbsp;to prepare for upcoming flights — from confirming&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/southwest-assigned-seats-earnings-6869dbe31934c87e049c9e428eae7761">seat assignments</a>&nbsp;to making sure passenger names are at the security checkpoint. Check-in cutoffs, or the latest possible time to claim a flight reservation, are typically earlier for international flights to account for the time needed to check passports and clear customs.Still, requirements may vary by airline and airport. Dubai-based Emirates, for example, closes online check-ins 90 minutes before departure.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ryanair-alcohol-drink-limit-eu-airports-ff197c69dbd738cf221b24e591a1d52e">Ireland’s Ryanair</a>&nbsp;allows online check-in up to two hours before a flight; passengers still may check in at the airport 40 minutes in advance, but for a fee.Here’s what check-in cutoffs look like for United and some other U.S. carriers.<h2>United Airlines</h2>Again,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fear-of-flying-8e348402efc654a7248fb9fe4e5df852">if you’re flying</a>&nbsp;United within the U.S., you’ll need to check in to your flight at least 45 minutes prior to takeoff as of June 3.While the new cutoff applies to most of United’s domestic trips, check-in deadlines may vary by location and route. The carrier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/travel/airport/airport-process.html#check-in-time-limits" target="_blank">website notes</a>&nbsp;that St. Thomas’ airport in the U.S. Virgin Islands has a check-in time limit of 90 minutes prior to departure — the same cutoff listed for flights between Guam and Honolulu.For international flights, United requires checking in at least an hour before departure. But many airports have earlier deadlines — such as 75 minutes for major airports in Paris and Dubai, and 90 minutes for the airports in Toronto and Lagos, Nigeria.<h2>Delta Air Lines</h2>Delta passengers not checking any bags still have a minimum of a half-hour before a domestic flight to check in. Travelers with luggage to check need to get to the airline ticket counter at least 45 minutes prior, Delta’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/check-in-time-requirements/domestic-check-in" target="_blank">website notes</a>, per an update that went into effect last month.In a statement sent to the AP on Tuesday, Delta said it had made this “minor change” so that “Delta teams can ensure all customers have a great experience.”For international flights, Delta travelers&nbsp;<a href="https://www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/check-in-time-requirements/international-check-in" target="_blank">must be checked in</a>&nbsp;at least 1 hour before departure. But, like other carriers, Delta’s minimum check-in requirements can vary by location for certain airports. Delta customers checking bags at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, for example, are supposed to check in an hour before departure whether their flights are domestic or international.<h2>American Airlines</h2>If you’re flying with American Airlines within the U.S., the deadline for checking in and checking a bag before a flight is 45 minutes ahead of departure, according to the carrier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aa.com/i18n/travel-info/check-in-and-arrival.jsp" target="_blank">website</a>.For trips to or from locations outside the U.S., the cutoff to both check-in for your flight and check a bag is 60 minutes ahead of takeoff. But again, a handful of airports have earlier requirements.<h2>Southwest Airlines</h2>Passengers with more than a carry-on bag should get to the airline counter at least 45 minutes before a scheduled flight&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/southwest-checked-bag-5e1a887d57bf8d690f35ffab43572f3b">on Southwest</a>. The carrier&nbsp;<a href="https://mobile.southwest.com/baggage-restrictions#:~:text=Please%20see%20important%20information%20regarding,in%20or%20board%20the%20flight." target="_blank">warns</a>&nbsp;that baggage destined for a plane’s cargo hold is considered a “late check” and not guaranteed to get on your flight if it’s dropped off less than 45 minutes ahead of departure.Beyond baggage, if Southwest travelers aren’t checked-in and in the boarding area at least 10 minutes prior to departure, their reservation could be canceled, a Southwest spokesperson told the AP via email.The carrier did not specify any additional, firm check-in cutoffs for domestic flights. For international trips, Southwest’s&nbsp;<a href="https://mobile.southwest.com/baggage-restrictions#:~:text=Please%20see%20important%20information%20regarding,in%20or%20board%20the%20flight." target="_blank">website notes</a>&nbsp;that all passengers and their luggage must be checked in a minimum of 60 minutes prior to departure. And again, that can vary — with flights departing Aruba, for example, having an earlier deadline of 75 minutes before takeoff for passengers with or without checked bags.<h2>Alaska Airlines</h2><a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-airlines-flights-tokyo-seoul-seattle-honolulu-7550281d0b25672184b0aa44e3151427">Alaska</a>&nbsp;requires a minimum of 50 minutes before takeoff to check in passengers for flights within the U.S., whether or not they have bags to check. The cutoff is 60 minutes for international flights, the carrier’s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alaskaair.com/content/travel-info/at-the-airport/airport-boarding-times?srsltid=AfmBOop3VjjPWOXtipMub871jPfM-r9FDZOmn_UDJZFwFGh8YxG-iAja" target="_blank">website notes</a>.Again, there are exceptions for certain locations and airports. Passengers traveling from Guadalajara, Mexico, for example, have to check their baggage and into their flights at least 90 minutes ahead of time.