SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man convicted of a violent attack on a teen, later identified as his girlfriend, was to learn his fate on Friday.

&nbsp;The sentencing hearing for 24-year-old Dominic Thomas was continued until after Christmas, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; He is scheduled to return to court on December 29.&nbsp; A scheduled hearing for Thomas was also delayed in November.

In November of 2024, a jury convicted Thomas, who was 19 at the time of the crime, of attempted first-degree murder.

Just after 10 p.m. on Sept. 21, 2020 police responded to an assault report at a home in the 3900 block of North Litchfield in Wichita, according to officer Charley Davidson

Upon arrival, officers contacted a 17-year-old girl who was visibly shaken and wet. The investigation revealed 19-year-old Dominic Thomas and the victim were talking near a pond at 37th Street North and Sullivan when a disturbance occurred.

During the disturbance, Thomas battered the girl, drug her to a nearby pond and held her head under the water. Thomas then released her and fled. Officers later located Thomas, and he was arrested without further incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765505981091.png" alt="Thomas photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man convicted of a violent attack on a teen, later identified as his girlfriend, was to learn his fate on Friday.&nbsp;The sentencing hearing for 24-year-old Dominic Thomas was continued until after Christmas, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; He is scheduled to return to court on December 29.&nbsp; A scheduled hearing for Thomas was also delayed in November.In November of 2024, a jury convicted Thomas, who was 19 at the time of the crime, of attempted first-degree murder.Just after 10 p.m. on Sept. 21, 2020 police responded to an assault report at a home in the 3900 block of North Litchfield in Wichita, according to officer Charley DavidsonUpon arrival, officers contacted a 17-year-old girl who was visibly shaken and wet. The investigation revealed 19-year-old Dominic Thomas and the victim were talking near a pond at 37th Street North and Sullivan when a disturbance occurred.During the disturbance, Thomas battered the girl, drug her to a nearby pond and held her head under the water. Thomas then released her and fled. Officers later located Thomas, and he was arrested without further incident.

Sentencing delayed again for Kan. man who tried to drown pregnant girlfriend

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Two people have been charged in the death of a 17-year-old Plainville teen on Jan. 12.

Walter V. Lowry II, 40, of Stockton, has been charged with felony aggravated endangerment of a child and interference with a law enforcement officer, according to court records.

According to court documents, Lowry allegedly left the teen, who was allegedly intoxicated, on a county road in the middle of the night. The documents said the temperatures were between 32 and 24 degrees, and the child was wearing minimal clothing.

The child died as a result of hypothermia, according to court records.

The court documents said&nbsp;Lowry also allegedly gave false information to Rooks County Deputy Salvador Ramirez during his investigation of the case.

An arrest warrant was issued for Lowry on Nov. 19.

Lowry is being held on $20,000 bond. He made his first appearance in court on Nov. 25 and was assigned a court-appointed attorney.

A status conference has yet to be set in Lowry's case, according to court records.

Serena Marie Barnhill, 41, Natoma, is being charged with one count of&nbsp;felony aggravated endangerment of a child. She also allegedly was involved in the incident in which the Painville teen was left on a county road in the middle of the night in freezing temperatures.

She was arrested on Nov. 25 and posted a $20,000 bond,&nbsp;according to court records.

Barnhill is set to make a bond appearance before Judge Curtis Brown at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 14.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765486128475.png" alt="Lowry photo Rooks Co." />
 <figcaption>Lowry photo Rooks Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostTwo people have been charged in the death of a 17-year-old Plainville teen on Jan. 12.Walter V. Lowry II, 40, of Stockton, has been charged with felony aggravated endangerment of a child and interference with a law enforcement officer, according to court records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765486019061.png" alt="Barnhill photo Rooks Co." />
 <figcaption>Barnhill photo Rooks Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>According to court documents, Lowry allegedly left the teen, who was allegedly intoxicated, on a county road in the middle of the night. The documents said the temperatures were between 32 and 24 degrees, and the child was wearing minimal clothing.The child died as a result of hypothermia, according to court records.The court documents said&nbsp;Lowry also allegedly gave false information to Rooks County Deputy Salvador Ramirez during his investigation of the case.An arrest warrant was issued for Lowry on Nov. 19.Lowry is being held on $20,000 bond. He made his first appearance in court on Nov. 25 and was assigned a court-appointed attorney.A status conference has yet to be set in Lowry's case, according to court records.Serena Marie Barnhill, 41, Natoma, is being charged with one count of&nbsp;felony aggravated endangerment of a child. She also allegedly was involved in the incident in which the Painville teen was left on a county road in the middle of the night in freezing temperatures.She was arrested on Nov. 25 and posted a $20,000 bond,&nbsp;according to court records.Barnhill is set to make a bond appearance before Judge Curtis Brown at 1:30 p.m. on Jan. 14.

2 arrested in hypothermia death of NW Kansas teen

PROVO, Utah (AP) — The Utah man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-suspect-things-to-know-dcde3f792f4d6636d44fb9f4fa53569c">killing Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;made his first in-person court appearance Thursday as his attorneys pushed to further limit media access in the high-profile criminal case.

Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem, just a few miles north of the Provo courthouse. They plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-court-death-penalty-f541df08a936e06497ee2342296bc398">seek the death penalty</a>.

Robinson, 22, arrived amid heavy security, shackled at the waist, wrists and ankles and wearing a dress shirt, tie and slacks.

He smiled at family members sitting in the front row of the courtroom, where his mother teared up after he entered the court. Next to her were Robinson’s brother and father, who took notes throughout the hearing.

Early in the proceedings, state District Court Judge Tony Graf briefly stopped livestreaming of the hearing via a media pool and required the camera be moved, after Robinson's attorneys said the stream showed the defendant's shackles in violation of a courtroom order.

Graf said he would terminate future broadcasts if there were further violations of the order issued in October, which bars media from showing images of Robinson in restraints or anywhere in the courtroom except sitting at the defense table.

“This court takes this very seriously. While the court believes in openness and transparency, it needs to be balanced with the constitutional rights of all parties in this case,” Graf said.

Graf is weighing the public’s right to know details about Robinson's case against his attorneys’ concerns that the swarm of media attention could interfere with a fair trial.

Robinson’s legal team and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office have asked Judge Tony Graf to ban cameras in the courtroom, but he has not yet ruled on the request.

The defendant had previously appeared before the court via video or audio feed from jail.

A coalition of national and local news organizations, including The Associated Press, is fighting to preserve media access in the case.

Graf held a closed hearing on Oct. 24 in which attorneys discussed Robinson's courtroom attire and security protocols. Under a subsequent ruling by the judge, Robinson is allowed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-tyler-robinson-court-hearing-489ee127c80553ff8e0ed35ef951f11a">wear street clothes</a>&nbsp;during pretrial hearings but must be physically restrained due to security concerns.

Graf also prohibited media from filming or photographing Robinson's restraints after his attorneys argued widespread images of him shackled and in jail clothing could prejudice future jurors.

Several university students who witnessed Kirk’s assassination attended Thursday's hearing.

Zack Reese, a Utah Valley University student and “big Charlie Kirk fan,” said he had skepticism about Robinson’s arrest and came to the hearing seeking answers. Reese has family in southwestern Utah, where the Robinsons are from, and said he believes they're a good family.

Brigham Young University student William Brown, who said he was about 10 feet from Kirk when he was shot, said he felt overwhelmed seeing Robinson walk into the courtroom Thursday.

“I witnessed a huge event, and my brain is still trying to make sense of it,” Brown said. “I feel like being here helps it feel more real than surreal.”

Michael Judd, an attorney for the media coalition, has urged Graf to let the news organizations weigh in on any future requests for closed hearings or other limitations.

The media presence at Utah hearings is already limited, with judges often designating one photographer and one videographer to document a hearing and share their images with other news organizations. Additional journalists can typically attend to listen and take notes, as can members of the public.

Judd wrote in recent filings that an open court “safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process” while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which he argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters as they work to keep the public informed.

Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, has called for full transparency, saying, “We deserve to have cameras in there.” Her husband was an ally of President Donald Trump who worked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-turning-point-trump-cf2a68e4303c5628299ffe383d09c1e9">steer young voters toward conservatism</a>.

Robinson's legal team says his pretrial publicity reaches as far as the White House, with Trump announcing soon after Robinson’s arrest, “With a high degree of certainty, we have him,” and “I hope he gets the death penalty.”

Defense attorney Kathy Nester has raised concern that digitally altered versions of Robinson's initial court photo have spread widely, creating misinformation about the case. Some altered images show Robinson crying or having an outburst in court, which did not happen.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765490146270.jpeg" alt="Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (Rick Egan/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Robinson, accused of the murder of Charlie Kirk, appears during a hearing in Fourth District Court in Provo, Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025. (Rick Egan/The Salt Lake Tribune via AP, Pool)</figcaption>
 </figure>PROVO, Utah (AP) — The Utah man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-suspect-things-to-know-dcde3f792f4d6636d44fb9f4fa53569c">killing Charlie Kirk</a>&nbsp;made his first in-person court appearance Thursday as his attorneys pushed to further limit media access in the high-profile criminal case.Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-conservative-activist-shot-546165a8151104e0938a5e085be1e8bd">Sept. 10 shooting</a>&nbsp;of the conservative activist on the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/utah-valley-university-police-charlie-kirk-d7d464c949ec9d4abad0eb3910d6a96b">Utah Valley University</a>&nbsp;campus in Orem, just a few miles north of the Provo courthouse. They plan to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-tyler-robinson-court-death-penalty-f541df08a936e06497ee2342296bc398">seek the death penalty</a>.Robinson, 22, arrived amid heavy security, shackled at the waist, wrists and ankles and wearing a dress shirt, tie and slacks.He smiled at family members sitting in the front row of the courtroom, where his mother teared up after he entered the court. Next to her were Robinson’s brother and father, who took notes throughout the hearing.Early in the proceedings, state District Court Judge Tony Graf briefly stopped livestreaming of the hearing via a media pool and required the camera be moved, after Robinson's attorneys said the stream showed the defendant's shackles in violation of a courtroom order.Graf said he would terminate future broadcasts if there were further violations of the order issued in October, which bars media from showing images of Robinson in restraints or anywhere in the courtroom except sitting at the defense table.“This court takes this very seriously. While the court believes in openness and transparency, it needs to be balanced with the constitutional rights of all parties in this case,” Graf said.Graf is weighing the public’s right to know details about Robinson's case against his attorneys’ concerns that the swarm of media attention could interfere with a fair trial.Robinson’s legal team and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office have asked Judge Tony Graf to ban cameras in the courtroom, but he has not yet ruled on the request.The defendant had previously appeared before the court via video or audio feed from jail.A coalition of national and local news organizations, including The Associated Press, is fighting to preserve media access in the case.Graf held a closed hearing on Oct. 24 in which attorneys discussed Robinson's courtroom attire and security protocols. Under a subsequent ruling by the judge, Robinson is allowed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-shooting-tyler-robinson-court-hearing-489ee127c80553ff8e0ed35ef951f11a">wear street clothes</a>&nbsp;during pretrial hearings but must be physically restrained due to security concerns.Graf also prohibited media from filming or photographing Robinson's restraints after his attorneys argued widespread images of him shackled and in jail clothing could prejudice future jurors.Several university students who witnessed Kirk’s assassination attended Thursday's hearing.Zack Reese, a Utah Valley University student and “big Charlie Kirk fan,” said he had skepticism about Robinson’s arrest and came to the hearing seeking answers. Reese has family in southwestern Utah, where the Robinsons are from, and said he believes they're a good family.Brigham Young University student William Brown, who said he was about 10 feet from Kirk when he was shot, said he felt overwhelmed seeing Robinson walk into the courtroom Thursday.“I witnessed a huge event, and my brain is still trying to make sense of it,” Brown said. “I feel like being here helps it feel more real than surreal.”Michael Judd, an attorney for the media coalition, has urged Graf to let the news organizations weigh in on any future requests for closed hearings or other limitations.The media presence at Utah hearings is already limited, with judges often designating one photographer and one videographer to document a hearing and share their images with other news organizations. Additional journalists can typically attend to listen and take notes, as can members of the public.Judd wrote in recent filings that an open court “safeguards the integrity of the fact-finding process” while fostering public confidence in judicial proceedings. Criminal cases in the U.S. have long been open to the public, which he argued is proof that trials can be conducted fairly without restricting reporters as they work to keep the public informed.Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, has called for full transparency, saying, “We deserve to have cameras in there.” Her husband was an ally of President Donald Trump who worked to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charlie-kirk-turning-point-trump-cf2a68e4303c5628299ffe383d09c1e9">steer young voters toward conservatism</a>.Robinson's legal team says his pretrial publicity reaches as far as the White House, with Trump announcing soon after Robinson’s arrest, “With a high degree of certainty, we have him,” and “I hope he gets the death penalty.”Defense attorney Kathy Nester has raised concern that digitally altered versions of Robinson's initial court photo have spread widely, creating misinformation about the case. Some altered images show Robinson crying or having an outburst in court, which did not happen.

 Man accused of killing Charlie Kirk appears in court for 1st time

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Mildred McNeill, Arrest by LEO; Warrant arrest, arrested 12/10

Thomas Carter, Outside warrant, arrested 12/10

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765475505738.jpeg" alt="Joshua Mcculloch, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 12/10" />
 <figcaption>Joshua Mcculloch, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption, arrested 12/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765475547509.jpeg" alt="Makael Brown, Battery, arrested 12/10" />
 <figcaption>Makael Brown, Battery, arrested 12/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765475574582.jpeg" alt="Ricky Smith, Probation violation, arrested 12/10" />
 <figcaption>Ricky Smith, Probation violation, arrested 12/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765475602096.jpeg" alt="Ladarrius Williams, Disorderly conduct, arrested 12/10" />
 <figcaption>Ladarrius Williams, Disorderly conduct, arrested 12/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765475629569.jpeg" alt="Cervantis Hunter, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 12/10" />
 <figcaption>Cervantis Hunter, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 12/10</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765475675269.jpeg" alt="Darius Lewis, Failure to appear, arrested 12/11" />
 <figcaption>Darius Lewis, Failure to appear, arrested 12/11</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Mildred McNeill, Arrest by LEO; Warrant arrest, arrested 12/10Thomas Carter, Outside warrant, arrested 12/10Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Dec. 11

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a multi-state theft from Walmart stores and have made an arrest.

Just after 4p.m. Dec. 8, police were notified by another law enforcement agency about two suspects possibly heading towards the Walmart in Harrisonville, Missouri, approximately 39 miles south of Kansas City, according to a media release from the police department.

The suspects had reportedly been involved with an ongoing shoplifting scam from various Walmarts across the United States. The suspects were located by officers and placed under arrest for receiving stolen property. 

The suspects have allegedly stolen over $58,000 worth of merchandise in the last 6 months from Walmarts in at least four different states. 

Both suspects, who are not residents of the state of Missouri, were charged with Receiving Stolen Property (D Felony) and are currently being held at the Cass County jail.

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement are investigating a multi-state theft from Walmart stores and have made an arrest.Just after 4p.m. Dec. 8, police were notified by another law enforcement agency about two suspects possibly heading towards the Walmart in Harrisonville, Missouri, approximately 39 miles south of Kansas City, according to a media release from the police department.The suspects had reportedly been involved with an ongoing shoplifting scam from various Walmarts across the United States. The suspects were located by officers and placed under arrest for receiving stolen property. The suspects have allegedly stolen over $58,000 worth of merchandise in the last 6 months from Walmarts in at least four different states. Both suspects, who are not residents of the state of Missouri, were charged with Receiving Stolen Property (D Felony) and are currently being held at the Cass County jail.

Suspects arrested in $58,000 multi-state Walmart theft

JOHNSON COUNTY, Mo. —A suspect is in custody following an investigation into the online possession of child sexual abuse material.

In October, the Western Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children (WMICAC) Task Force received a cyber tip that prompted a joint investigation involving police, according to a media release from the Warrensburg Police Department.

 Detectives went to a residence in the corporate city limits of Warrensburg to contact their suspect identified as 20-year-old Noah Mclean Rogers.

Police took Rogers into custody on a warrant on requested charged of Possession of Child Pornography and Promotion of Child Pornography.

The court has set a bond at $75,000 cash only. Rogers is currently being held in the Johnson County Jail pending further legal proceedings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765330158669.png" alt="Rogers photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Rogers photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY, Mo. —A suspect is in custody following an investigation into the online possession of child sexual abuse material.In October, the Western Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children (WMICAC) Task Force received a cyber tip that prompted a joint investigation involving police, according to a media release from the Warrensburg Police Department. Detectives went to a residence in the corporate city limits of Warrensburg to contact their suspect identified as 20-year-old Noah Mclean Rogers.Police took Rogers into custody on a warrant on requested charged of Possession of Child Pornography and Promotion of Child Pornography.The court has set a bond at $75,000 cash only. Rogers is currently being held in the Johnson County Jail pending further legal proceedings.

Tip led to arrest for online possession of child sexual abuse material

NEW YORK (AP) — Secret grand jury transcripts from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein’s 2019 sex trafficking case</a>&nbsp;can be made public, a judge ruled Wednesday, joining two other judges in granting the Justice Department’s requests to unseal material from investigations into the late financier’s sexual abuse.

U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman reversed his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justice-department-epstein-c148333f2618c92c0b9a87784c45a416">earlier decision to keep the material under wraps</a>, citing a new law that requires the government to open its files on Epstein and his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-ghislaine-maxwell-fa2c504a6dfe30ce1686b857a4123b7b">longtime confidant Ghislaine Maxwell</a>. The judge previously cautioned that the 70 or so pages of grand jury materials slated for release are hardly revelatory.

On Tuesday, a different Manhattan federal judge ordered the release of records from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-maxwell-sex-trafficking-case-records-8e3985dd977cb94ef41b9581115ef61b">Maxwell’s 2021 sex trafficking case</a>. Last week, a judge in Florida approved the unsealing of transcripts from an abandoned&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-florida-bd036cbe2fa4e98d27aa473fd6daa3bd">Epstein federal grand jury investigation in the 2000s</a>.

The Justice Department asked the judges to lift secrecy orders after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-files-release-justice-department-32cbc21a6ae8189dccd00455dc83d2be">Epstein Files Transparency Act</a>, passed by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump last month, created a narrow exception to rules that normally keep grand jury proceedings confidential.

The law requires that the Justice Department disclose Epstein-related records to the public by Dec. 19.

Questions about the government’s Epstein files have dominated the first year of Trump’s second term, with pressure on the Republican intensifying after he reneged on a campaign&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-epstein-conspiracies-97200cfab77572a36bc9ab25841a8833">promise to release the files</a>. His administration released some material, most of it already public, disappointing critics and some allies.

Epstein, a millionaire money manager known for socializing with celebrities, politicians, billionaires and the academic elite,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-suicide-department-of-justice-investigation-50c229b7953096f0301bfa1e7f0b7703">killed himself in jail</a>&nbsp;a month after his 2019 arrest. Maxwell was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ghislaine-maxwell-convicted-jeffrey-epstein-trial-verdict-63a71a2825eab41184a79e37bb967e90">convicted in 2021</a>&nbsp;by a federal jury of sex trafficking for helping recruit some of Epstein’s underage victims and participating in some of the abuse. She is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-sentencing-aeac127f9cc3811d975ce8e10d171260">serving a 20-year prison sentence</a>.

In court filings, the Justice Department informed Berman that the only witness to testify before the Epstein grand jury was an FBI agent who, the judge noted, “had no direct knowledge of the facts of the case and whose testimony was mostly hearsay.”

The agent testified over two days, on June 18, 2019, and July 2, 2019. The rest of the grand jury presentation consisted of a PowerPoint slideshow and a call log. The July 2 session, which ended with grand jurors voting to indict Epstein. Both of those will also remain sealed, Berman ruled.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1704330351229.png" alt="Jeffrey Epstein- New York Sex Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Jeffrey Epstein- New York Sex Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Secret grand jury transcripts from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein’s 2019 sex trafficking case</a>&nbsp;can be made public, a judge ruled Wednesday, joining two other judges in granting the Justice Department’s requests to unseal material from investigations into the late financier’s sexual abuse.U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman reversed his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justice-department-epstein-c148333f2618c92c0b9a87784c45a416">earlier decision to keep the material under wraps</a>, citing a new law that requires the government to open its files on Epstein and his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/who-is-ghislaine-maxwell-fa2c504a6dfe30ce1686b857a4123b7b">longtime confidant Ghislaine Maxwell</a>. The judge previously cautioned that the 70 or so pages of grand jury materials slated for release are hardly revelatory.On Tuesday, a different Manhattan federal judge ordered the release of records from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/epstein-maxwell-sex-trafficking-case-records-8e3985dd977cb94ef41b9581115ef61b">Maxwell’s 2021 sex trafficking case</a>. Last week, a judge in Florida approved the unsealing of transcripts from an abandoned&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-florida-bd036cbe2fa4e98d27aa473fd6daa3bd">Epstein federal grand jury investigation in the 2000s</a>.The Justice Department asked the judges to lift secrecy orders after the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-files-release-justice-department-32cbc21a6ae8189dccd00455dc83d2be">Epstein Files Transparency Act</a>, passed by Congress and signed into law by President Donald Trump last month, created a narrow exception to rules that normally keep grand jury proceedings confidential.The law requires that the Justice Department disclose Epstein-related records to the public by Dec. 19.Questions about the government’s Epstein files have dominated the first year of Trump’s second term, with pressure on the Republican intensifying after he reneged on a campaign&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-epstein-conspiracies-97200cfab77572a36bc9ab25841a8833">promise to release the files</a>. His administration released some material, most of it already public, disappointing critics and some allies.Epstein, a millionaire money manager known for socializing with celebrities, politicians, billionaires and the academic elite,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-suicide-department-of-justice-investigation-50c229b7953096f0301bfa1e7f0b7703">killed himself in jail</a>&nbsp;a month after his 2019 arrest. Maxwell was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ghislaine-maxwell-convicted-jeffrey-epstein-trial-verdict-63a71a2825eab41184a79e37bb967e90">convicted in 2021</a>&nbsp;by a federal jury of sex trafficking for helping recruit some of Epstein’s underage victims and participating in some of the abuse. She is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epstein-sentencing-aeac127f9cc3811d975ce8e10d171260">serving a 20-year prison sentence</a>.In court filings, the Justice Department informed Berman that the only witness to testify before the Epstein grand jury was an FBI agent who, the judge noted, “had no direct knowledge of the facts of the case and whose testimony was mostly hearsay.”The agent testified over two days, on June 18, 2019, and July 2, 2019. The rest of the grand jury presentation consisted of a PowerPoint slideshow and a call log. The July 2 session, which ended with grand jurors voting to indict Epstein. Both of those will also remain sealed, Berman ruled.

Judge: DOJ can make public secret Epstein grand jury transcripts

Joceline Magoum Takougang, Fleeing and eluding, arrested 11/26

Shavonnie Broughton, Outside warrant, arrested 11/26

Derek Watson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; Possession of marijuana; Criminal restraint; Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking; Burglary, vehicle to commit felony, Theft, Domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, arrested 11/27

Malik Abdul, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27

Deshawn Brown, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/28

Ella Garcia, Aggravated battery, Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner with weapon, arrested 11/28

Jacob Holloway, Arrest by LEO, warrant arrest, arrested 11/28

Yerko Mendoza Vidal, Driver's license without valid DL, arrested 11/28

Preston McLemore, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/29

Lamont Ray, Identity theft, Defraud to receive benefits , $100,000; Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000 pocket picking; Criminal use of financial card without consent of owner ($1,000 to $25,000) (Three counts), arrested 11/29

Ashley Demercurio, Transporting an open container; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; Flee or attempt to elude (Five or more moving violations), arrested 11/29

Jacob Langham, Failure to appear, arrested 11/30

Jacob Potter, Possession of controlled substance; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 12/01

Isaac Johnson, Possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 12/01

Ignacio Rendon,&nbsp; Failure to appear, arrested 12/02

Omarion Mccrary, Failure to appear, arrested 12/02

Gabriel Latham,&nbsp; Failure to appear, arrested 12/03

Christopher Welling, Stalking, reckless conduct causing fear to person or family, arrested 12/04

Griselle Justiano Baez, Domestic battery, arrested 12/04

Alyssa Clark, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 12/05

Rafael Garcia, Failure to appear, arrested 12/05

Mylah Mitchell, Failure to appear, arrested 12/05

Gerald Cherry, Transporting an open container; Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/06

Tracy Haden, Domestic battery, arrested 12/06

Derek Helton, Failure to appear; Theft-all other, arrested 12/06

Hyok Thomas, Domestic battery, arrested 12/07

Marjorie Harjani, Domestic battery, arrested 12/07

Brian Lipscomb, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 12/07

Johnny Rines, Failure to appear, arrested 12/08

Javon Bailey, Probation violation (Two counts); Failure to appear, arrested 12/09

Fred Morgan Jr., Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 12/09

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765322559965.jpeg" alt="Jacob Wren, Criminal threat; Interference with LEO, obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Resisting arrest; Littering; Unlawful damage to property, arrested 11/30" />
 <figcaption>Jacob Wren, Criminal threat; Interference with LEO, obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Resisting arrest; Littering; Unlawful damage to property, arrested 11/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765322603326.jpeg" alt="James Carwell III, Failure to appear; Probation violation, arrested 11/30" />
 <figcaption>James Carwell III, Failure to appear; Probation violation, arrested 11/30</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765322764640.jpeg" alt="Steel Midgyett, Probation violation, arrested 12/01" />
 <figcaption>Steel Midgyett, Probation violation, arrested 12/01</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765322797688.jpeg" alt="Kieshawn Nolan, Criminal restraint; Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement; Aggravated domestic battery; Impede breath, blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, arrested 12/02" />
 <figcaption>Kieshawn Nolan, Criminal restraint; Aggravated battery; Recklessly cause great bodily harm/disfigurement; Aggravated domestic battery; Impede breath, blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, arrested 12/02</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765323070801.jpeg" alt="Julio Zeledon-Rivera, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 12/02" />
 <figcaption>Julio Zeledon-Rivera, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 12/02</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765323316111.jpeg" alt="Robert Medina Rivera, Domestic battery, arrested 12/04" />
 <figcaption>Robert Medina Rivera, Domestic battery, arrested 12/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765323346695.jpeg" alt="Crystal Franz, Unlawful restraint, arrested 12/04" />
 <figcaption>Crystal Franz, Unlawful restraint, arrested 12/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765323378080.jpeg" alt="Billy Stover, Possession of stimulant; Distribute substance; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of THC; Possess paraphernalia (Taxation, Drugs, No drug tax stamp payment for marijuana or controlled substance, arrested 12/05" />
 <figcaption>Billy Stover, Possession of stimulant; Distribute substance; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of THC; Possess paraphernalia (Taxation, Drugs, No drug tax stamp payment for marijuana or controlled substance, arrested 12/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765323387729.jpeg" alt="Deana Estrada,&nbsp;Possession of stimulant; Distribute substance; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of THC; Possess paraphernalia (Taxation, Drugs, No drug tax stamp payment for marijuana or controlled substance, arrested 12/05" />
 <figcaption>Deana Estrada,&nbsp;Possession of stimulant; Distribute substance; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of THC; Possess paraphernalia (Taxation, Drugs, No drug tax stamp payment for marijuana or controlled substance, arrested 12/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378515431.jpeg" alt="Dwayne Reid, Probation violation, arrested 12/05" />
 <figcaption>Dwayne Reid, Probation violation, arrested 12/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378550088.jpeg" alt="Jimmie King, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 12/05" />
 <figcaption>Jimmie King, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 12/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378629149.jpeg" alt="Christian Rodriguez, Probation violation, arrested 12/05" />
 <figcaption>Christian Rodriguez, Probation violation, arrested 12/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378669342.jpeg" alt="Shawna Bethel, Criminal damage to property; without consent value &lt; $1,000; Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship; Aggravated assault, arrested 12/07" />
 <figcaption>Shawna Bethel, Criminal damage to property; without consent value &lt; $1,000; Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact with family member or dating relationship; Aggravated assault, arrested 12/07</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378871458.jpeg" alt="Jenna Grass, Criminal threat, arrested 12/07" />
 <figcaption>Jenna Grass, Criminal threat, arrested 12/07</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378884131.jpeg" alt="Hezekiah Ocean, Domestic battery, arrested 12/07" />
 <figcaption>Hezekiah Ocean, Domestic battery, arrested 12/07</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378897788.jpeg" alt="Derontray Middlebrooks, Unlawful damage to property; Assault, arrested 12/08" />
 <figcaption>Derontray Middlebrooks, Unlawful damage to property; Assault, arrested 12/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765378909597.jpeg" alt="Laquisha Ouattara, Driving under the influence (Drugs and alcohol), arrested 12/08" />
 <figcaption>Laquisha Ouattara, Driving under the influence (Drugs and alcohol), arrested 12/08</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765379322104.jpeg" alt="Christopher Nicholson, Probation violation, arrested 12/09" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Nicholson, Probation violation, arrested 12/09</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765381259977.jpeg" alt="Frederick Swinson, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 12/09" />
 <figcaption>Frederick Swinson, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 12/09</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Kieran Hall, Failure to appear,&nbsp;Joceline Magoum Takougang, Fleeing and eluding, arrested 11/26Shavonnie Broughton, Outside warrant, arrested 11/26Derek Watson, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; Possession of marijuana; Criminal restraint; Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking; Burglary, vehicle to commit felony, Theft, Domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, arrested 11/27Malik Abdul, Failure to appear, arrested 11/27Deshawn Brown, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 11/28Ella Garcia, Aggravated battery, Knowingly use physical contact in angry/rude manner with weapon, arrested 11/28Jacob Holloway, Arrest by LEO, warrant arrest, arrested 11/28Yerko Mendoza Vidal, Driver's license without valid DL, arrested 11/28Preston McLemore, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 11/29Lamont Ray, Identity theft, Defraud to receive benefits , $100,000; Theft &gt; $1,500 &lt; $25,000 pocket picking; Criminal use of financial card without consent of owner ($1,000 to $25,000) (Three counts), arrested 11/29Ashley Demercurio, Transporting an open container; Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; Flee or attempt to elude (Five or more moving violations), arrested 11/29Jacob Langham, Failure to appear, arrested 11/30Jacob Potter, Possession of controlled substance; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 12/01Isaac Johnson, Possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 12/01Ignacio Rendon,&nbsp; Failure to appear, arrested 12/02Omarion Mccrary, Failure to appear, arrested 12/02Gabriel Latham,&nbsp; Failure to appear, arrested 12/03Christopher Welling, Stalking, reckless conduct causing fear to person or family, arrested 12/04Griselle Justiano Baez, Domestic battery, arrested 12/04Alyssa Clark, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 12/05Rafael Garcia, Failure to appear, arrested 12/05Mylah Mitchell, Failure to appear, arrested 12/05Gerald Cherry, Transporting an open container; Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license; DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 12/06Tracy Haden, Domestic battery, arrested 12/06Derek Helton, Failure to appear; Theft-all other, arrested 12/06Hyok Thomas, Domestic battery, arrested 12/07Marjorie Harjani, Domestic battery, arrested 12/07Brian Lipscomb, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 12/07Johnny Rines, Failure to appear, arrested 12/08Javon Bailey, Probation violation (Two counts); Failure to appear, arrested 12/09Fred Morgan Jr., Driving while license cancelled/suspended/revoked, arrested 12/09Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos Nov. 27-Dec. 10

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged criminal damage at a museum in Atchison.

On Monday, police&nbsp;responded to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, 223 North Terrace Street in Atchison, after museum staff had arrived and found that an antique glass window on an exterior door with an estimated $350 had been broken, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. An investigation followed that lead officers to arrest 21-year-old Bernard M. Rempe, 21, Atchison, on requested charges of criminal damage to property. He was issued a notice to appear in court.

Police believe the damage occurred sometime between midnight and 1:00a.m. on Saturday night. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765293134903.png" alt="Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum,-google image" />
 <figcaption>Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum,-google image</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged criminal damage at a museum in Atchison.On Monday, police&nbsp;responded to the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, 223 North Terrace Street in Atchison, after museum staff had arrived and found that an antique glass window on an exterior door with an estimated $350 had been broken, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. An investigation followed that lead officers to arrest 21-year-old Bernard M. Rempe, 21, Atchison, on requested charges of criminal damage to property. He was issued a notice to appear in court.Police believe the damage occurred sometime between midnight and 1:00a.m. on Saturday night. &nbsp;

Man accused of breaking an antique glass window at Kan. museum

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating the death of a 4-year-old have made an arrest.

Just before 3:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp; responded to a medical call regarding an unresponsive 4-year-old child in the 2600 block of South Topeka in Wichita, according to police department spokesman Andrew Ford. The child was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased at 4:07 p.m.

Police booked a suspect, identified as 34-year-old Daniel Martin,&nbsp; into the Sedgwick County Jail on a requested charge of Child Abuse pending the Medical Examiners autopsy report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765296481475.png" alt="Martin photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Martin photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating the death of a 4-year-old have made an arrest.Just before 3:30p.m. Monday, police&nbsp; responded to a medical call regarding an unresponsive 4-year-old child in the 2600 block of South Topeka in Wichita, according to police department spokesman Andrew Ford. The child was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased at 4:07 p.m.Police booked a suspect, identified as 34-year-old Daniel Martin,&nbsp; into the Sedgwick County Jail on a requested charge of Child Abuse pending the Medical Examiners autopsy report.

Kansas man arrested after 4-year-old dies at a hospital

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Joe Ceballos, a Kansas man who made national news after being charged with voting illegally, resigned his position as mayor of Coldwater.

The Coldwater City Council announced Monday that it had accepted Ceballos’ resignation.

“We will continue with the daily work of the city ensuring that all services and operations move forward without interruption,” a statement said. “Our priority is keeping the community informed and maintaining stability during this transition.”

The council swore in Britt Lenertz, president of the city council, as the town’s mayor. She will serve out the rest of Ceballos’ term, Lenertz said.

Ceballos was elected to his second term as mayor one day before Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/11/05/small-town-kansas-mayor-charged-with-alleged-voter-fraud-state-leader-says-hundreds-more-cases-expected/">announced at a November news conference</a>&nbsp;that Ceballos had been arrested for multiple felonies. Ceballos has a green card, which means he is a legal permanent resident of the United States, but he did not apply for citizenship until February,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/11/13/dhs-reveals-new-records-criminal-alien-who-voted-multiple-times-kansas-elections" target="_blank">according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security</a>.

Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said Ceballos will be “placed in removal proceedings” if he is convicted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762377337825.png" alt="-Joe Ceballos resigned Monday as mayor of Coldwater. A legal resident who&nbsp;is not a U.S. citizen, he faces election fraud charges. (City of Coldwater)" />
 <figcaption>-Joe Ceballos resigned Monday as mayor of Coldwater. A legal resident who&nbsp;is not a U.S. citizen, he faces election fraud charges. (City of Coldwater)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Joe Ceballos, a Kansas man who made national news after being charged with voting illegally, resigned his position as mayor of Coldwater.The Coldwater City Council announced Monday that it had accepted Ceballos’ resignation.“We will continue with the daily work of the city ensuring that all services and operations move forward without interruption,” a statement said. “Our priority is keeping the community informed and maintaining stability during this transition.”The council swore in Britt Lenertz, president of the city council, as the town’s mayor. She will serve out the rest of Ceballos’ term, Lenertz said.Ceballos was elected to his second term as mayor one day before Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/11/05/small-town-kansas-mayor-charged-with-alleged-voter-fraud-state-leader-says-hundreds-more-cases-expected/">announced at a November news conference</a>&nbsp;that Ceballos had been arrested for multiple felonies. Ceballos has a green card, which means he is a legal permanent resident of the United States, but he did not apply for citizenship until February,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/11/13/dhs-reveals-new-records-criminal-alien-who-voted-multiple-times-kansas-elections" target="_blank">according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security</a>.Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said Ceballos will be “placed in removal proceedings” if he is convicted.

Kansas man charged with election fraud resigns his position as mayor

The two week report from Nov. 19 through Dec. 2 for the Geary County Sheriff's Department from Sheriff Nate Boeckman was presented on Monday at the Geary County Commission meeting.

There was an average daily inmate population of 88, reflecting a large drop from a few weeks earlier. There were not any burglaries and there were 14 arrests. Total calls were calculated at 526.&nbsp;

Cold weather is believed to be a big factor in the reduced number of calls.

The two week report from Nov. 19 through Dec. 2 for the Geary County Sheriff's Department from Sheriff Nate Boeckman was presented on Monday at the Geary County Commission meeting.There was an average daily inmate population of 88, reflecting a large drop from a few weeks earlier. There were not any burglaries and there were 14 arrests. Total calls were calculated at 526.&nbsp;Cold weather is believed to be a big factor in the reduced number of calls.

Sheriff's Office numbers

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp; Law enforcement investigating a weekend homicide in Manhattan have made an arrest.&nbsp;

Just after 8p.m. Monday,&nbsp; Riley County Police in conjunction with Topeka Police and the KHP&nbsp; arrested 29-year-old Erick Sanches of Manhattan in the 300 Block of Kansas Avenue, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Sanchez is being held on a $1 million dollar bond on requested charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal threat.&nbsp;

Just before 12:30a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp; responded to the 800 block of Colorado for a reported welfare check of an injured man. Upon arrival, officers located 36-year-old Mark Rickenbaker, of Manhattan. During the investigation, officers discovered Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival. Rickenbaker, who was transported to Via Christi Hospital with serious injuries, later died, as a result of those injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765218730118.png" alt="Sanchez photo RCPD" />
 <figcaption>Sanchez photo RCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp; Law enforcement investigating a weekend homicide in Manhattan have made an arrest.&nbsp;Just after 8p.m. Monday,&nbsp; Riley County Police in conjunction with Topeka Police and the KHP&nbsp; arrested 29-year-old Erick Sanches of Manhattan in the 300 Block of Kansas Avenue, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Sanchez is being held on a $1 million dollar bond on requested charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal threat.&nbsp;Just before 12:30a.m. Saturday, police&nbsp; responded to the 800 block of Colorado for a reported welfare check of an injured man. Upon arrival, officers located 36-year-old Mark Rickenbaker, of Manhattan. During the investigation, officers discovered Rickenbaker had been involved in an altercation prior to their arrival. Rickenbaker, who was transported to Via Christi Hospital with serious injuries, later died, as a result of those injuries.

Police capture suspect in weekend murder in Manhattan

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day in Wichita will return to court Tuesday.

&nbsp;Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, 33, will attend a preliminary hearing in Judge&nbsp;Jeffrey Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 8:30p.m. on June 15, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.

While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.

First responders discovered 28-year-old Aron Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.

Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.

The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with Eric Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.

It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.

On June 16, police&nbsp; arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting. He met the requirement for bond and was released from jail with an ankle monitor.&nbsp; On June 21, he cut the ankle monitor and fled to Mexico.

On October 15, the U.S. Marshals Service apprehended Gonzalez-Gutierrez&nbsp; in Mexico, according to Wichita Police Officer Kris Gupilan.

On October 30, deputies booked Gonzalez-Gutierrez back into the Sedgwick County Jail where he remains on bond totaling over $3 million on charges of first degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon and violation of the offender registration act, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730371257170.png" alt="Gonzalez-Gutierrez photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Gonzalez-Gutierrez photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man accused in a deadly gunfight on Father's Day in Wichita will return to court Tuesday.&nbsp;Eric Gonzalez-Gutierrez, 33, will attend a preliminary hearing in Judge&nbsp;Jeffrey Goering's courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 8:30p.m. on June 15, police responded to a shooting incident in the 1900 block of N. Jackson Street in Wichita, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.While working to gather further information, the 911 dispatcher could hear gunfire in the background, prompting an immediate upgraded dispatch of officers to the scene.First responders discovered 28-year-old Aron Lara suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Sedgwick County EMS provided initial critical care at the scene before transporting him to a nearby hospital where he died.Another victim, a 22-year-old Hispanic man, sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot to the arm and was privately transported to St. Francis Hospital.The incident occurred during a neighborhood barbecue in observance of Father's Day. According to preliminary reports, Lara, was involved in a verbal altercation with Eric Gonzales-Gutierrez earlier in the evening.&nbsp; Gonzales-Gutierrez allegedly returned home, retrieved a rifle, and fired upon the victim, who was unarmed at the time of the shooting.It is believed that two men accompanying Lara returned fire, resulting in injuries to the second victim.On June 16, police&nbsp; arrested Gonzalez-Gutierrez on requested charges including first-degree murder and felon in possession of a firearm in connection with the fatal shooting. He met the requirement for bond and was released from jail with an ankle monitor.&nbsp; On June 21, he cut the ankle monitor and fled to Mexico.On October 15, the U.S. Marshals Service apprehended Gonzalez-Gutierrez&nbsp; in Mexico, according to Wichita Police Officer Kris Gupilan.On October 30, deputies booked Gonzalez-Gutierrez back into the Sedgwick County Jail where he remains on bond totaling over $3 million on charges of first degree murder, criminal possession of a weapon and violation of the offender registration act, according to online jail records.

Preliminary hearing for Kan. murder suspect captured in Mexico

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A Brazilian woman with family ties to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will be released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody while she fights potential deportation, an immigration judge ruled Monday.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/karoline-leavitt-ice-brother-nephew-8fba196780b422e577fb96b4c196d9ae">Bruna Ferreira,</a>&nbsp;33, a longtime Massachusetts resident, was previously engaged to Leavitt’s brother, Michael. She was driving to pick up their 11-year-old son in New Hampshire when she was arrested by ICE agents in Revere, Massachusetts, on Nov. 12.

Ferreira later was moved to a detention facility in Louisiana, where an immigration judge ordered that she be released on $1,500 bond, her attorney Todd Pomerleau said.

“We argued that she wasn’t a danger or a flight risk,” he said in a text message. “The government stipulated to our argument and never once argued that she was criminal illegal alien and waived appeal.”

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson in an email Monday called Ferreira a “criminal illegal alien” and said she had been arrested for battery, an allegation her attorney denied.

“She will have periodic mandatory check-ins with ICE law enforcement to ensure she is abiding by the terms of her release,” the spokesperson said. “The Department of Homeland Security will continue to work to remove all aliens illegally present in the country as quickly as possible.”

Pomerleau said his client came to the U.S. as a toddler and later enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, the Obama-era policy that shields immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children. He said she was in the process of applying for a green card.

Karoline Leavitt grew up in New Hampshire, and made an unsuccessful&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-leavitt-white-house-first-press-briefing-5ba5ff116e18c29b04c934a24a8983d1">run for Congress</a>&nbsp;from the state in 2022 before becoming Trump’s spokesperson for his 2024 campaign and later joining him at the White House.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765250414500.png" alt="File image White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt- from White House video" />
 <figcaption>File image White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt- from White House video</figcaption>
 </figure>CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — A Brazilian woman with family ties to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt will be released from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody while she fights potential deportation, an immigration judge ruled Monday.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/karoline-leavitt-ice-brother-nephew-8fba196780b422e577fb96b4c196d9ae">Bruna Ferreira,</a>&nbsp;33, a longtime Massachusetts resident, was previously engaged to Leavitt’s brother, Michael. She was driving to pick up their 11-year-old son in New Hampshire when she was arrested by ICE agents in Revere, Massachusetts, on Nov. 12.Ferreira later was moved to a detention facility in Louisiana, where an immigration judge ordered that she be released on $1,500 bond, her attorney Todd Pomerleau said.“We argued that she wasn’t a danger or a flight risk,” he said in a text message. “The government stipulated to our argument and never once argued that she was criminal illegal alien and waived appeal.”A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson in an email Monday called Ferreira a “criminal illegal alien” and said she had been arrested for battery, an allegation her attorney denied.“She will have periodic mandatory check-ins with ICE law enforcement to ensure she is abiding by the terms of her release,” the spokesperson said. “The Department of Homeland Security will continue to work to remove all aliens illegally present in the country as quickly as possible.”Pomerleau said his client came to the U.S. as a toddler and later enrolled in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, the Obama-era policy that shields immigrants who were brought to the U.S. as children. He said she was in the process of applying for a green card.Karoline Leavitt grew up in New Hampshire, and made an unsuccessful&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-leavitt-white-house-first-press-briefing-5ba5ff116e18c29b04c934a24a8983d1">run for Congress</a>&nbsp;from the state in 2022 before becoming Trump’s spokesperson for his 2024 campaign and later joining him at the White House.

Judge orders release of an immigrant with ties to White House press secretary 

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Wichita Police arrested an 18-year-old Saturday after he allegedly struck a relative with a rifle, threatened to shoot multiple people, and prompted a SWAT response at a home in the 2000 block of South Mosley.

Just before 1a.m. Saturday., a relative called 911 to report that her 18-year-old brother identified in county booking records as Christopher J. Cooper had assaulted their 42-year-old stepmother with a rifle and threatened to shoot several people at the residence.

Officers located the caller and the victim at a different location. The victim had injuries to the back of her head requiring medical attention. During further follow-up, officers learned from additional witnesses that Cooper had made alarming statements, including a threat to “shoot it out” with police if they responded.

Officers responded to the South Mosley address and believed Cooper was inside a detached garage behind the home. They attempted to communicate with him using drones but were unsuccessful.

SWAT and Crisis Negotiators were activated while officers obtained a search warrant for the residence and garage. Negotiators attempted to contact Cooper again using loudspeakers, but were unsuccessful.

Once the warrant was secured, SWAT deployed less-lethal tactics, including bean bag rounds and a Noise/Flash Diversionary Device (NFDD). After the NFDD was deployed, Cooper exited the structure, saw SWAT officers and a police K9, and surrendered peacefully.

The 42-year-old victim was treated at a local hospital and later released.

Cooper was booked into Sedgwick County Jail and is being held on requested charges of aggravated assault; use of a deadly weapon and criminal threat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765112822131.png" alt="Cooper-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Cooper-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Wichita Police arrested an 18-year-old Saturday after he allegedly struck a relative with a rifle, threatened to shoot multiple people, and prompted a SWAT response at a home in the 2000 block of South Mosley.Just before 1a.m. Saturday., a relative called 911 to report that her 18-year-old brother identified in county booking records as Christopher J. Cooper had assaulted their 42-year-old stepmother with a rifle and threatened to shoot several people at the residence.Officers located the caller and the victim at a different location. The victim had injuries to the back of her head requiring medical attention. During further follow-up, officers learned from additional witnesses that Cooper had made alarming statements, including a threat to “shoot it out” with police if they responded.Officers responded to the South Mosley address and believed Cooper was inside a detached garage behind the home. They attempted to communicate with him using drones but were unsuccessful.SWAT and Crisis Negotiators were activated while officers obtained a search warrant for the residence and garage. Negotiators attempted to contact Cooper again using loudspeakers, but were unsuccessful.Once the warrant was secured, SWAT deployed less-lethal tactics, including bean bag rounds and a Noise/Flash Diversionary Device (NFDD). After the NFDD was deployed, Cooper exited the structure, saw SWAT officers and a police K9, and surrendered peacefully.The 42-year-old victim was treated at a local hospital and later released.Cooper was booked into Sedgwick County Jail and is being held on requested charges of aggravated assault; use of a deadly weapon and criminal threat.

Kan. teen accused of violent attack on his stepmother

KANSAS CITY – A Kansas man pleaded guilty in federal court last week to illegally possessing a fully automatic pistol.

Verdell D. Mays, 30, of Overland Park, Kansas pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a machinegun, according to the United State's Attorney.

By pleading guilty, Mays admitted on June 28, 2025, he possessed a Glock, Model 22C, .40 caliber fully automatic pistol and that the Glock pistol had a rear slide plate that was modified to produce automatic fire.&nbsp;Mays is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has prior felony convictions, including a prior conviction in federal court for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm.

Under federal statutes, Mays is subject to a sentence of up to 25 years in federal prison without parole.&nbsp; The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.&nbsp; A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2, 2026, after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Jennings. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cass County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765029150128.png" alt="Mays from an arrest in Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Mays from an arrest in Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – A Kansas man pleaded guilty in federal court last week to illegally possessing a fully automatic pistol.Verdell D. Mays, 30, of Overland Park, Kansas pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a machinegun, according to the United State's Attorney.By pleading guilty, Mays admitted on June 28, 2025, he possessed a Glock, Model 22C, .40 caliber fully automatic pistol and that the Glock pistol had a rear slide plate that was modified to produce automatic fire.&nbsp;Mays is prohibited from possessing firearms because he has prior felony convictions, including a prior conviction in federal court for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm.Under federal statutes, Mays is subject to a sentence of up to 25 years in federal prison without parole.&nbsp; The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.&nbsp; A sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2, 2026, after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Jennings. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cass County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office.

Kansas man admits illegally possessing a machine gun

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A driver accused in a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred in February finally made her first court appearance on Thursday.

Madelyn Walter, 24, Derby,&nbsp; was charged with with involuntary manslaughter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and leaving the scene of an accident, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

Just after 5 p.m. February 6, deputies, Sedgwick County EMS and Sedgwick County Fire District #1 responded to a hit-and-run crash at 47th Street South and Clifton, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.

Witnesses reported that a red Dodge Nitro was traveling south on Clifton when it failed to yield to an eastbound Ford Fiesta and struck the vehicle in the intersection.&nbsp;

The impact caused the driver of the Fiesta, identified as&nbsp; Manolopoulos &nbsp;Panagiotis of Wichita, to be ejected and then struck by his own car.

Sedgwick County EMS transported Panagiotis to a Wichita hospital in extremely critical condition. He later succumbed to his injuries at 10:46 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;The driver of the Nitro, later identified as Walter, fled the scene following the collision.

Thanks to witness reports and information provided to 911 dispatchers, deputies utilized the Flock license plate reader system to locate the suspect vehicle in the parking lot of the Walmart in Derby. With assistance from the Derby Police Department Walter was found at a nearby Derby residence.

She was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. As part of the investigation, it was determined that Walter’s 5-year-old child was in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Neither Walter nor the child was injured.

Walter met the requirement for bond and was released from custody Feb. 7, according to online jail records.&nbsp; &nbsp;She is scheduled to return to court Dec. 15, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1738943687419.png" alt="Walter photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Walter photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A driver accused in a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred in February finally made her first court appearance on Thursday.Madelyn Walter, 24, Derby,&nbsp; was charged with with involuntary manslaughter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and leaving the scene of an accident, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.Just after 5 p.m. February 6, deputies, Sedgwick County EMS and Sedgwick County Fire District #1 responded to a hit-and-run crash at 47th Street South and Clifton, according to Sheriff's Department spokesman Branden Stitt.Witnesses reported that a red Dodge Nitro was traveling south on Clifton when it failed to yield to an eastbound Ford Fiesta and struck the vehicle in the intersection.&nbsp;The impact caused the driver of the Fiesta, identified as&nbsp; Manolopoulos &nbsp;Panagiotis of Wichita, to be ejected and then struck by his own car.Sedgwick County EMS transported Panagiotis to a Wichita hospital in extremely critical condition. He later succumbed to his injuries at 10:46 p.m.&nbsp;&nbsp;The driver of the Nitro, later identified as Walter, fled the scene following the collision.Thanks to witness reports and information provided to 911 dispatchers, deputies utilized the Flock license plate reader system to locate the suspect vehicle in the parking lot of the Walmart in Derby. With assistance from the Derby Police Department Walter was found at a nearby Derby residence.She was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail. As part of the investigation, it was determined that Walter’s 5-year-old child was in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Neither Walter nor the child was injured.Walter met the requirement for bond and was released from custody Feb. 7, according to online jail records.&nbsp; &nbsp;She is scheduled to return to court Dec. 15, according to the district attorney's office.

5-year-old was in SUV during hit-and-run that killed Kan. man

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug allegations.

Just after 3a.m. Nov. 29,&nbsp; a sheriff's deputy with conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2008 Ford Taurus near SW Huntoon Street and SW Lincoln Street, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian.

 During the investigation, illegal narcotics, including methamphetamine, were located. Roger K. Kelley, 63, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Dept. of Corrections on requested charges, Criminal possession of a weapon by felon and Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764775968393.png" alt="Kelley photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Kelley photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug allegations.Just after 3a.m. Nov. 29,&nbsp; a sheriff's deputy with conducted a traffic stop on a blue 2008 Ford Taurus near SW Huntoon Street and SW Lincoln Street, according to Shawnee County Deputy Abigail Christian. During the investigation, illegal narcotics, including methamphetamine, were located. Roger K. Kelley, 63, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Dept. of Corrections on requested charges, Criminal possession of a weapon by felon and Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body.

Kansas felon is back in jail on drug allegations

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A wanted fugitive is in custody after an arrest in Shawnee County.

On December 2, sheriff deputies were investigating the occupants of a vehicle at the KWIK Shop near Morse and Topeka, according to Deputy Abigal Christian. Deputies identified a possible wanted subject. The driver was immediately detained, and the passenger ran.

With assistance from patrol deputies, a K-9 Unit, a drone and the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), deputies conducted a search of the neighborhood west of the KWIK Shop and successfully apprehended the fleeing suspect.

Danny J. Belisle Jr., 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department&nbsp; of Corrections on requested charges of Felony interference with law enforcement. Belisle also had two felony warrants for his arrest

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1764775528180.png" alt="Belisle photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Belisle photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—A wanted fugitive is in custody after an arrest in Shawnee County.On December 2, sheriff deputies were investigating the occupants of a vehicle at the KWIK Shop near Morse and Topeka, according to Deputy Abigal Christian. Deputies identified a possible wanted subject. The driver was immediately detained, and the passenger ran.With assistance from patrol deputies, a K-9 Unit, a drone and the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), deputies conducted a search of the neighborhood west of the KWIK Shop and successfully apprehended the fleeing suspect.Danny J. Belisle Jr., 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department&nbsp; of Corrections on requested charges of Felony interference with law enforcement. Belisle also had two felony warrants for his arrest