SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on drug and related charges

Just after 2a.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a&nbsp; 2014 Dodge Challenger near NE Soldier Street and NE Monroe Street in Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The driver, later identified as 39-year-old William P. Roberts of Topeka had a felony warrant for his arrest. He failed to stop for the officer and was located inside of a residence in the 1500 block of NE Jefferson Street a short time later.

Deputies arrested Roberts and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the felony arrest warrant and on requested charges of flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, interference with law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and transporting an open container of liquor.

He has previous convictions for drugs and theft, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688575144773.png" alt="Roberts photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Roberts photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on drug and related chargesJust after 2a.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a&nbsp; 2014 Dodge Challenger near NE Soldier Street and NE Monroe Street in Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.The driver, later identified as 39-year-old William P. Roberts of Topeka had a felony warrant for his arrest. He failed to stop for the officer and was located inside of a residence in the 1500 block of NE Jefferson Street a short time later.Deputies arrested Roberts and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the felony arrest warrant and on requested charges of flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, interference with law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and transporting an open container of liquor.He has previous convictions for drugs and theft, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Deputies catch wanted Kansas felon who ran from arrest

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.

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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/2023/7/1688568556077.jpeg" alt="Michael Glenn Miller, Probation Violation; Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice; Arrested 07/04/2023" />
 <figcaption>Michael Glenn Miller, Probation Violation; Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice; Arrested 07/04/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688568824550.jpeg" alt="Lyle Lance Smith, Domestic battery; unknown circumstance; misdemeanor; Arrested 07/04/2023" />
 <figcaption>Lyle Lance Smith, Domestic battery; unknown circumstance; misdemeanor; Arrested 07/04/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos July 5

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent knife fight and have made an arrest.

On Sunday, police were&nbsp;dispatched to report of a fight in the 300 block of College Drive in Garden City, according to a media release.

When Officers arrived, they found a 36-year-old man had been stabbed and beaten. Through the investigation, 44-year-old Jemie Mehammed was identified as the suspect. Police took him into custody.

EMS transported the victim to St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City. He was later flown to Colorado for treatment due to the extent of his injuries.

Mehammed remains in the the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Attempted Second-Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688398208268.png" alt="Mehammed photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Mehammed photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent knife fight and have made an arrest.On Sunday, police were&nbsp;dispatched to report of a fight in the 300 block of College Drive in Garden City, according to a media release.When Officers arrived, they found a 36-year-old man had been stabbed and beaten. Through the investigation, 44-year-old Jemie Mehammed was identified as the suspect. Police took him into custody.EMS transported the victim to St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City. He was later flown to Colorado for treatment due to the extent of his injuries.Mehammed remains in the the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Attempted Second-Degree Murder and Aggravated Battery.

SW Kansas man jailed after violent knife fight

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/2023/7/1688567755773.jpeg" alt="Kambria Shanice Holloway, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner; Theft; Pocket picking; unknown value; Counterfeiting currency; Distribute or possess w/intent to distribute; &lt;$25K; Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket Picking; Unknown value; Counterfeiting currency; Distribute or possess w/intent to distribute ; &lt;$25K x2; Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket Picking; Arrested 07/03/2023" />
 <figcaption>Kambria Shanice Holloway, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner; Theft; Pocket picking; unknown value; Counterfeiting currency; Distribute or possess w/intent to distribute; &lt;$25K; Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket Picking; Unknown value; Counterfeiting currency; Distribute or possess w/intent to distribute ; &lt;$25K x2; Theft &lt;$1,500 Pocket Picking; Arrested 07/03/2023</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688568311317.jpeg" alt="Robert Medina Rivera, Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance; Arrested 07/04/2023" />
 <figcaption>Robert Medina Rivera, Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Criminal trespass; Unknown circumstance; Arrested 07/04/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos July 4

BEIJING (AP) — The U.S. recommended Americans reconsider traveling to China because of arbitrary law enforcement and exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.

No specific cases were cited, but<a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/china-travel-advisory.html"> the advisory</a> came after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-charged-spying-china-prison-2de86767bbc828ec4362af23fb271afd" target="_blank">78-year-old U.S. citizen</a>&nbsp;was sentenced to life in prison on spying charges in May.

It also followed the passage last week of a sweeping Foreign Relations Law that threatens countermeasures against those seen as harming China’s interests.

China also recently passed a broadly written counterespionage law that has sent a chill through the foreign business community, with offices being raided, as well as a law to sanction foreign critics.

“The People’s Republic of China (PRC) government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including issuing exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law,” the U.S. advisory said.

“U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime,” it warned.

The advisory also said that Chinese authorities “appear to have broad discretion to deem a wide range of documents, data, statistics, or materials as state secrets and to detain and prosecute foreign nationals for alleged espionage.”

It listed a wide range of potential offenses from taking part in demonstrations to sending electronic messages critical of Chinese policies or even simply conducting research into areas deemed sensitive.

Exit bans could be used to compel individuals to participate in Chinese government investigations, pressure family members to return from abroad, resolve civil disputes in favor of Chinese citizens and “gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments,” the advisory said.

Similar advisories were issued for the semi-autonomous Chinese regions of Hong Kong and Macao. They were dated Friday and emailed to journalists on Monday.

The U.S. had issued similar advisories to its citizens in the past, but those in recent years had mainly warned of the dangers of being caught in strict and lengthy lockdowns while China closed its borders for three years under its draconian “zero-COVID” policy.

China generally responds angrily to what it considers U.S. efforts to impugn its authoritarian Communist Party-led system. It has issued its own travel advisories concerning the U.S., warning of the dangers of crime, anti-Asian discrimination and the high cost of emergency medical assistance.

China had no immediate response to the travel advisory on Monday.

Details of the accusations against the accused spy John Shing-Wan Leung are not available, given China’s authoritarian political system and the ruling Communist Party’s absolute control over legal matters. Leung, who also holds permanent residency in Hong Kong, was detained in the southeastern city of Suzhou on April 15, 2021 — a time when China had closed its borders and tightly restricted movement of people domestically to control the spread of COVID-19.

The warnings come as U.S.-China relations are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-taiwan-us-relations-ambassador-b599541d7af42fff9fa2783030c7c824" target="_blank">at their lowest in years</a>, over trade, technology, Taiwan and human rights, although the sides are taking some steps to improve the situation. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a long-delayed visit to Beijing last week and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-yellen-biden-xi-economics-867a9a92427386ded2076ba8e342c6e2" target="_blank">Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen</a>&nbsp;is making a much-anticipated trip to Beijing this week. China also recently appointed a new ambassador to Washington, who presented his credentials in a meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House.

Other incidents, however, have also pointed to the testiness in the relationship. China formally protested last month after Biden called Chinese leader Xi Jinping a “dictator,” days after Blinken’s visit.

Biden brushed off the protest, saying his words would have no negative impact on U.S.-China relations and that he still expects to meet with Xi sometime soon. Biden has also drawn rebukes from Beijing by explicitly saying the U.S. would defend self-governing Taiwan if China, which claims the island as its own territory, were to attack it.

Biden said his blunt statements regarding China are “just not something I’m going to change very much.”

The administration is also under pressure from both parties to take a tough line on China, making it one of the few issues on which most Democrats and Republicans agree.

Along with several detained Americans,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smh.com.au/world/asia/detained-australians-in-china-will-have-to-wait-longer-to-learn-their-fate-20230118-p5cdht.html" target="_blank">Two Chinese-Australians,</a>&nbsp;Cheng Lei, who formerly worked for China’s state broadcaster, and writer Yang Jun, have been held since 2020 and 2019 respectively without word on their sentencing.

Perhaps the most notorious case of arbitrary detention involved two&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-canada-china-arrests-washington-2b6e0977ae93557ad1265869d57838ed" target="_blank">Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor,</a>&nbsp;who were detained in China in 2018, shortly after Canada arrested Meng Wanzhou, Huawei Technologies’ chief financial officer and the daughter of the tech powerhouse’s founder, on a U.S. extradition request.

They were charged with national security crimes that were never explained and released three years later after the U.S. settled fraud charges against Meng. Many countries labeled China’s action “hostage politics.”

BEIJING (AP) — The U.S. recommended Americans reconsider traveling to China because of arbitrary law enforcement and exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions.No specific cases were cited, but<a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/china-travel-advisory.html"> the advisory</a> came after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/american-charged-spying-china-prison-2de86767bbc828ec4362af23fb271afd" target="_blank">78-year-old U.S. citizen</a>&nbsp;was sentenced to life in prison on spying charges in May.It also followed the passage last week of a sweeping Foreign Relations Law that threatens countermeasures against those seen as harming China’s interests.China also recently passed a broadly written counterespionage law that has sent a chill through the foreign business community, with offices being raided, as well as a law to sanction foreign critics.“The People’s Republic of China (PRC) government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including issuing exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law,” the U.S. advisory said.“U.S. citizens traveling or residing in the PRC may be detained without access to U.S. consular services or information about their alleged crime,” it warned.The advisory also said that Chinese authorities “appear to have broad discretion to deem a wide range of documents, data, statistics, or materials as state secrets and to detain and prosecute foreign nationals for alleged espionage.”It listed a wide range of potential offenses from taking part in demonstrations to sending electronic messages critical of Chinese policies or even simply conducting research into areas deemed sensitive.Exit bans could be used to compel individuals to participate in Chinese government investigations, pressure family members to return from abroad, resolve civil disputes in favor of Chinese citizens and “gain bargaining leverage over foreign governments,” the advisory said.Similar advisories were issued for the semi-autonomous Chinese regions of Hong Kong and Macao. They were dated Friday and emailed to journalists on Monday.The U.S. had issued similar advisories to its citizens in the past, but those in recent years had mainly warned of the dangers of being caught in strict and lengthy lockdowns while China closed its borders for three years under its draconian “zero-COVID” policy.China generally responds angrily to what it considers U.S. efforts to impugn its authoritarian Communist Party-led system. It has issued its own travel advisories concerning the U.S., warning of the dangers of crime, anti-Asian discrimination and the high cost of emergency medical assistance.China had no immediate response to the travel advisory on Monday.Details of the accusations against the accused spy John Shing-Wan Leung are not available, given China’s authoritarian political system and the ruling Communist Party’s absolute control over legal matters. Leung, who also holds permanent residency in Hong Kong, was detained in the southeastern city of Suzhou on April 15, 2021 — a time when China had closed its borders and tightly restricted movement of people domestically to control the spread of COVID-19.The warnings come as U.S.-China relations are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-taiwan-us-relations-ambassador-b599541d7af42fff9fa2783030c7c824" target="_blank">at their lowest in years</a>, over trade, technology, Taiwan and human rights, although the sides are taking some steps to improve the situation. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken made a long-delayed visit to Beijing last week and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-yellen-biden-xi-economics-867a9a92427386ded2076ba8e342c6e2" target="_blank">Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen</a>&nbsp;is making a much-anticipated trip to Beijing this week. China also recently appointed a new ambassador to Washington, who presented his credentials in a meeting with President Joe Biden at the White House.Other incidents, however, have also pointed to the testiness in the relationship. China formally protested last month after Biden called Chinese leader Xi Jinping a “dictator,” days after Blinken’s visit.Biden brushed off the protest, saying his words would have no negative impact on U.S.-China relations and that he still expects to meet with Xi sometime soon. Biden has also drawn rebukes from Beijing by explicitly saying the U.S. would defend self-governing Taiwan if China, which claims the island as its own territory, were to attack it.Biden said his blunt statements regarding China are “just not something I’m going to change very much.”The administration is also under pressure from both parties to take a tough line on China, making it one of the few issues on which most Democrats and Republicans agree.Along with several detained Americans,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.smh.com.au/world/asia/detained-australians-in-china-will-have-to-wait-longer-to-learn-their-fate-20230118-p5cdht.html" target="_blank">Two Chinese-Australians,</a>&nbsp;Cheng Lei, who formerly worked for China’s state broadcaster, and writer Yang Jun, have been held since 2020 and 2019 respectively without word on their sentencing.Perhaps the most notorious case of arbitrary detention involved two&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-canada-china-arrests-washington-2b6e0977ae93557ad1265869d57838ed" target="_blank">Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor,</a>&nbsp;who were detained in China in 2018, shortly after Canada arrested Meng Wanzhou, Huawei Technologies’ chief financial officer and the daughter of the tech powerhouse’s founder, on a U.S. extradition request.They were charged with national security crimes that were never explained and released three years later after the U.S. settled fraud charges against Meng. Many countries labeled China’s action “hostage politics.”

US warns Americans: Don't travel to China 

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a toddler's hospitalization have made an arrest.

On February 13, police began an investigation that focused on a child younger than 2 years old who had suffered a medical emergency, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Officers had responded to a home in the 900 block Santa Fe in Atchison shortly before 2a.m. that morning where the baby was found to be unresponsive. 

Life saving measures were taken and the baby was transported to the hospital by EMS and subsequently to Children’s Mercy.

On Sunday, police arrested 34-year-old&nbsp;Sasha E. Gerard, of Atchison in the 100 block South 3rd Street on a District Court warrant for aggravated endangering a child. She is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

The child recovered after the hospitalization, according to Wilson.  Police released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688394163684.png" alt="Gerard-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gerard-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a toddler's hospitalization have made an arrest.On February 13, police began an investigation that focused on a child younger than 2 years old who had suffered a medical emergency, according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.Officers had responded to a home in the 900 block Santa Fe in Atchison shortly before 2a.m. that morning where the baby was found to be unresponsive. Life saving measures were taken and the baby was transported to the hospital by EMS and subsequently to Children’s Mercy.On Sunday, police arrested 34-year-old&nbsp;Sasha E. Gerard, of Atchison in the 100 block South 3rd Street on a District Court warrant for aggravated endangering a child. She is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.The child recovered after the hospitalization, according to Wilson. Police released no additional details.

Kansas woman accused after toddler's hospitalization 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead have made an arrest.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of North Glendale in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Officers arrived on the scene and located 17-year-old Jaron Reed unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.

The teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.

While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The 21- year-old victim was treated by medical staff and dismissed from the hospital and transported to investigations for further questioning.

Detectives learned that Reed and Love met to conduct a drug transaction before multiple shots were fired. Detectives are still working to fully determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

Love is being held on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Rebolledo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688386566244.png" alt="Blurry booking photo of Love-Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Blurry booking photo of Love-Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688315722286.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>At approximately 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of North Glendale in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Officers arrived on the scene and located 17-year-old Jaron Reed unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.The teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries.The 21- year-old victim was treated by medical staff and dismissed from the hospital and transported to investigations for further questioning.Detectives learned that Reed and Love met to conduct a drug transaction before multiple shots were fired. Detectives are still working to fully determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting.Love is being held on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Rebolledo.

Suspect jailed for gunfight that left 17-year-old Kan. boy dead

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was arrested last week on fraud charges after an FBI search of his Hays home on June 26, according to a media release from the bureau.

Last week, FBI agents arrested two men who allegedly targeted elderly individuals in a telemarketing scheme by purporting to represent companies who provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. 

Michael Farole, 44, of West Los Angeles, and Christopher Lang, 42, a resident of Hays, were charged this week in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants allegedly convinced victims to pay advance fees in return for services that involved selling or securing the sale or rental of their timeshares.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said Hays police officers provided a support role in the FBI search of Lang's home on June 26.

After the victims paid initial fees for services that were never provided, Farole and Lang continued to contact the victims by phone, text and email in attempts to obtain additional fees.

The investigation revealed at least 370 elderly individuals lost over $4.5 million as a result of the fraud. The victims used funds from their social security income, investment and retirement accounts, as well as their savings, to pay the fraudulent companies.

Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, none received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised.

Evidence obtained throughout the investigation indicates that the subjects used the proceeds from their scheme to enrich themselves and to pay for personal expenses and luxury items. Farole was ordered detained at his initial court appearance; Lang has a detention hearing set for next week.

The investigation of Farole and Lang is being conducted by the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, which received assistance from the FBI’s Kansas City Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles.

A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office is raising public awareness about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/safety-resources/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/elder-fraud">elder fraud schemes</a>, which have increased in recent years, and is announcing charges against two men who were arrested June 28, 2023, for allegedly targeting elderly victims. In 2022, adults over the age 60 reported 88,262 complaints to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/" target="_blank">FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center</a>, with a total loss of $3.1 billion. This represents an 84% increase in losses as compared to losses reported in 2021. The average loss per victim was more than $35,000, and more than 5,000 victims lost over $100,000. California leads the nation in the number of elderly victims of fraud, and the collective amount of reported losses incurred in California was $624,509,520 in 2022.

Elder fraud is a form of older adult exploitation where a perpetrator misuses or steals financial assets, savings, income, or personal identifying information from an adult over the age 60, often without their direct knowledge or consent. Fraudsters often use deception to scam older adults by posing as a person in a position of trust (such as a government official) by claiming to have a romantic interest in the victim or by posing as a shrewd investor promising a financial payout.

In 2022, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received almost 10,000 complaints from victims over the age of 60 involving the use of some type of cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Ripple. Losses incurred by these victims totaled over $1 billion. Cryptocurrency is becoming a preferred payment method for all types of scams. Last year, William Webster, a former Director of the FBI and of the CIA, was a victim of elder fraud and worked with the FBI&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">to make a public service</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">announcement</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688408367149.png" alt="Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28. He is currently being held in Jackson County, according to online jail records." />
 <figcaption>Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28. He is currently being held in Jackson County, according to online jail records.</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was arrested last week on fraud charges after an FBI search of his Hays home on June 26, according to a media release from the bureau.Last week, FBI agents arrested two men who allegedly targeted elderly individuals in a telemarketing scheme by purporting to represent companies who provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. Michael Farole, 44, of West Los Angeles, and Christopher Lang, 42, a resident of Hays, were charged this week in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants allegedly convinced victims to pay advance fees in return for services that involved selling or securing the sale or rental of their timeshares.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said Hays police officers provided a support role in the FBI search of Lang's home on June 26.After the victims paid initial fees for services that were never provided, Farole and Lang continued to contact the victims by phone, text and email in attempts to obtain additional fees.The investigation revealed at least 370 elderly individuals lost over $4.5 million as a result of the fraud. The victims used funds from their social security income, investment and retirement accounts, as well as their savings, to pay the fraudulent companies.Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, none received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised.Evidence obtained throughout the investigation indicates that the subjects used the proceeds from their scheme to enrich themselves and to pay for personal expenses and luxury items. Farole was ordered detained at his initial court appearance; Lang has a detention hearing set for next week.The investigation of Farole and Lang is being conducted by the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, which received assistance from the FBI’s Kansas City Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles.A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. <h2>FBI tries to increase fraud awareness</h2>The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office is raising public awareness about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/safety-resources/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/elder-fraud">elder fraud schemes</a>, which have increased in recent years, and is announcing charges against two men who were arrested June 28, 2023, for allegedly targeting elderly victims. In 2022, adults over the age 60 reported 88,262 complaints to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/" target="_blank">FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center</a>, with a total loss of $3.1 billion. This represents an 84% increase in losses as compared to losses reported in 2021. The average loss per victim was more than $35,000, and more than 5,000 victims lost over $100,000. California leads the nation in the number of elderly victims of fraud, and the collective amount of reported losses incurred in California was $624,509,520 in 2022.Elder fraud is a form of older adult exploitation where a perpetrator misuses or steals financial assets, savings, income, or personal identifying information from an adult over the age 60, often without their direct knowledge or consent. Fraudsters often use deception to scam older adults by posing as a person in a position of trust (such as a government official) by claiming to have a romantic interest in the victim or by posing as a shrewd investor promising a financial payout.In 2022, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received almost 10,000 complaints from victims over the age of 60 involving the use of some type of cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Ripple. Losses incurred by these victims totaled over $1 billion. Cryptocurrency is becoming a preferred payment method for all types of scams. Last year, William Webster, a former Director of the FBI and of the CIA, was a victim of elder fraud and worked with the FBI&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">to make a public service</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">announcement</a>.

FBI: Kan. man arrested in $4.5 million fraud scheme targeting elderly

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/2023/7/1688397237299.jpeg" alt="William Antonio Aguilar Peraza, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Transporting an open container; Improper parking; Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence; Arrested 07/02/2023" />
 <figcaption>William Antonio Aguilar Peraza, Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; Misdemeanor; Transporting an open container; Improper parking; Interference with LEO; Conceal/alter/destroy evidence; Arrested 07/02/2023</figcaption>
 </figure>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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Geary County Booking Photos July 3

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a mass shooting at a Wichita nightclub have arrested a Missouri man.

Brandon Lee Young, 31, Florissant, Missouri is being held <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740905">on requested charges </a>of aggravated battery; knowingly use a weapon to cause great bodily harm, according to the Sedgwick County booking report.

Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to the City Nightz club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Wichita's Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.

There were eleven people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured. Police took Young into custody.

The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police have also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.

The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday, according to Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple.

Sedgwick County EMS transported five of the victims to area hospitals. Private vehicles transported two others to the hospital.

Police have been called to the nightclub about a dozen times this year for various incidents, including a report of aggravated battery and a drive-by shooting on May 21, according to Police Detective Chris Merceau

He said police met with the club's owner after that incident and discussed the importance of using electronic wands to detect weapons on patrons and surveillance cameras. He said investigators will work to determine if any of those recommendations were followed.

Wichita Police requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688386727947.png" alt="Young-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Young-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a mass shooting at a Wichita nightclub have arrested a Missouri man.Brandon Lee Young, 31, Florissant, Missouri is being held <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740905">on requested charges </a>of aggravated battery; knowingly use a weapon to cause great bodily harm, according to the Sedgwick County booking report.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to the City Nightz club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Wichita's Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.There were eleven people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured. Police took Young into custody.The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police have also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday, according to Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple.Sedgwick County EMS transported five of the victims to area hospitals. Private vehicles transported two others to the hospital.Police have been called to the nightclub about a dozen times this year for various incidents, including a report of aggravated battery and a drive-by shooting on May 21, according to Police Detective Chris MerceauHe said police met with the club's owner after that incident and discussed the importance of using electronic wands to detect weapons on patrons and surveillance cameras. He said investigators will work to determine if any of those recommendations were followed.Wichita Police requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.

Suspect accused in mass shooting at Wichita nightclub

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary at&nbsp; Paris Park Pool, 600 West 5th Avenue in Arkansas City.

Just before 2:30a.m. June 28, police arrested a 14-year-old from Wichita and a 15-year-old from Arkansas City on requested charges of burglary theft from the concession stand at the pool, according to a media release.

Police will present the case to the Cowley County Attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688264611664.png" alt="Photo courtesy Paris Park Pool" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Paris Park Pool</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary at&nbsp; Paris Park Pool, 600 West 5th Avenue in Arkansas City.Just before 2:30a.m. June 28, police arrested a 14-year-old from Wichita and a 15-year-old from Arkansas City on requested charges of burglary theft from the concession stand at the pool, according to a media release.Police will present the case to the Cowley County Attorney.

Teens accused of burglary at Kansas pool

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the June 23, murder of 17-year-old&nbsp;JaMarcus D. Lane, Jr. that occurred at a home in the 3100 Block of W. Barker Circle have made an arrest.

Police took a juvenile into custody. The Wyandotte County District Attorney charged the juvenile with second-degree intentional murder.

The suspect is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Juvenile Detention Center. 

This is the 11th homicide in Kansas City, Kansas this year. Last year on this date, the city had recorded 21 homicides.This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp;

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the June 23, murder of 17-year-old&nbsp;JaMarcus D. Lane, Jr. that occurred at a home in the 3100 Block of W. Barker Circle have made an arrest.Police took a juvenile into custody. The Wyandotte County District Attorney charged the juvenile with second-degree intentional murder.The suspect is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Juvenile Detention Center. This is the 11th homicide in Kansas City, Kansas this year. Last year on this date, the city had recorded 21 homicides.This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp;

Teen charged with murder of 17-year-old at Kansas home

PARIS — France has mobilized tens of thousands of police officers in an effort to head off widespread urban rioting following the deadly police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel M. that shocked the nation.

The office of French Interior&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">Minister Gerald Darmanin said 45,000 police officers</a>&nbsp;were again deployed Sunday night in the streets to counter anger over discrimination against people who trace their roots to former French colonies and live in low-income neighborhoods. Nahel is of Algerian descent and was shot in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.

According to the statement from the U.S. Embassy in Paris, U.S. citizens should continue to avoid mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity as they can turn violent and result in clashes. 

Some cities continue to impose curfews. As always, it is a good practice to notify friends or family of your whereabouts. Note that public transportation is being affected.

President Emmanuel Macron held a special security meeting Sunday night and plans to meet Monday with the heads of both houses of parliament and Tuesday with the mayors of 220 towns and cities affected by the protests, said a participant in the meeting, who spoke anonymously in line with French government practices. Macron also wants to start a detailed, longer-term assessment of the reasons that led to the unrest, the official said.

Highlighting the seriousness of the rioting, Macron has delayed what would have been the first state visit to Germany by a French president in 23 years, which had been scheduled to start Sunday evening.

The interior ministry said police made 49 arrests nationwide Sunday, French media reported, down significantly from 719 arrests the day before. More than 3,000 people have been detained overall&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">following a mass security deployment</a>. Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured in the violence, although authorities haven’t said how many protesters have been hurt.

French authorities were appalled on Sunday after a burning car struck the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of L’Hay-les-Roses. Several police stations and town halls have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days, but such a personal attack on a mayor’s home is unusual.

Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his children were injured in the 1:30 a.m. attack while they slept and he was in the town hall monitoring the violence. Jeanbrun, of the conservative opposition Republicans party, said the attack represented a new stage of “horror and ignominy” in the unrest.

The U.S. Embassy suggested actions to take:

U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following:

<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Embassy Paris, France</a>

<a href="mailto:CitizenInfo@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfo@state.gov</a>

<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/marseille/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov</a>

<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/strasbourg/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizeninfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">USAStrasbourg@state.gov</a>

State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html" target="_blank">France Country Specific Information&nbsp;</a> Enroll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://step.state.gov/step/" target="_blank">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;(STEP) to receive security updates

PARIS — France has mobilized tens of thousands of police officers in an effort to head off widespread urban rioting following the deadly police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel M. that shocked the nation.The office of French Interior&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">Minister Gerald Darmanin said 45,000 police officers</a>&nbsp;were again deployed Sunday night in the streets to counter anger over discrimination against people who trace their roots to former French colonies and live in low-income neighborhoods. Nahel is of Algerian descent and was shot in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.According to the statement from the U.S. Embassy in Paris, U.S. citizens should continue to avoid mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity as they can turn violent and result in clashes. Some cities continue to impose curfews. As always, it is a good practice to notify friends or family of your whereabouts. Note that public transportation is being affected.President Emmanuel Macron held a special security meeting Sunday night and plans to meet Monday with the heads of both houses of parliament and Tuesday with the mayors of 220 towns and cities affected by the protests, said a participant in the meeting, who spoke anonymously in line with French government practices. Macron also wants to start a detailed, longer-term assessment of the reasons that led to the unrest, the official said.Highlighting the seriousness of the rioting, Macron has delayed what would have been the first state visit to Germany by a French president in 23 years, which had been scheduled to start Sunday evening.The interior ministry said police made 49 arrests nationwide Sunday, French media reported, down significantly from 719 arrests the day before. More than 3,000 people have been detained overall&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">following a mass security deployment</a>. Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured in the violence, although authorities haven’t said how many protesters have been hurt.French authorities were appalled on Sunday after a burning car struck the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of L’Hay-les-Roses. Several police stations and town halls have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days, but such a personal attack on a mayor’s home is unusual.Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his children were injured in the 1:30 a.m. attack while they slept and he was in the town hall monitoring the violence. Jeanbrun, of the conservative opposition Republicans party, said the attack represented a new stage of “horror and ignominy” in the unrest.The U.S. Embassy suggested actions to take:<ul>
 <li>Avoid demonstrations and protest activity</li><li>Avoid areas with significant police activity</li><li>If unavoidable, protect yourself/find shelter</li><li>Follow the advice of police and local authorities</li><li>Monitor local media for updates</li><li>Be aware of your surroundings</li>
 </ul>U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following:<ul>
 <li><a href="http://www.france24.com/en/" target="_blank">http://www.france24.com/en/&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="http://en.rfi.fr/france/" target="_blank">http://en.rfi.fr/france/&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://www.thelocal.fr/%20" target="_blank">https://www.thelocal.fr/&nbsp;</a></li>
 </ul>Assistance:<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Embassy Paris, France</a>+33 (1) 43 12 22 22<a href="mailto:CitizenInfo@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfo@state.gov</a><a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/marseille/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov</a><a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/strasbourg/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizeninfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">USAStrasbourg@state.gov</a>State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html" target="_blank">France Country Specific Information&nbsp;</a> Enroll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://step.state.gov/step/" target="_blank">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;(STEP) to receive security updates

U.S. Embassy continues to alert Americans traveling in France

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces a charge of Animal Abuse, an E felony, in connection with a dog's abuse and death in October 2022, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Ryan R. Jackson, 30, faces Property Damage 1st Degree and Animal Abuse.

According to court records, in October 2022, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on a disturbance. Officers were told by a caller that the defendant had just told him that he had messed up the caller's home and harmed his dog, named Rom. 

Officers on the scene observed a white and grey bulldog in the roadway. The dog had numerous injuries and was bleeding from the mouth and face. The dog was unable to move. The dog later succumbed to his injuries. Inside the residence, officers found heavy damage. Kitchen cabinets were ripped out of the wall.

KC Pet Project responded to the scene of the dog's abuse and transported the injured animal to Blue Pearl Emergency Animal Hospital for treatment.

The animal abuses charges were filed in April 2023. An arrest warrant was signed June 22. The following day, Jackson was involved in a fatal shooting near 10th and Locust in Downtown Kansas City. Jackson faces charges of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action in that case and is being held without bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688215396434.png" alt="Jackson is being held without bond in Jackson County Detention Center" />
 <figcaption>Jackson is being held without bond in Jackson County Detention Center</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces a charge of Animal Abuse, an E felony, in connection with a dog's abuse and death in October 2022, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Ryan R. Jackson, 30, faces Property Damage 1st Degree and Animal Abuse.According to court records, in October 2022, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on a disturbance. Officers were told by a caller that the defendant had just told him that he had messed up the caller's home and harmed his dog, named Rom. Officers on the scene observed a white and grey bulldog in the roadway. The dog had numerous injuries and was bleeding from the mouth and face. The dog was unable to move. The dog later succumbed to his injuries. Inside the residence, officers found heavy damage. Kitchen cabinets were ripped out of the wall.KC Pet Project responded to the scene of the dog's abuse and transported the injured animal to Blue Pearl Emergency Animal Hospital for treatment.The animal abuses charges were filed in April 2023. An arrest warrant was signed June 22. The following day, Jackson was involved in a fatal shooting near 10th and Locust in Downtown Kansas City. Jackson faces charges of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action in that case and is being held without bond.

Murder suspect also accused in deadly abuse of dog

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead.

Officers arrived on the scene and located a 17-year-old victim unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.

While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries. 

Detectives learned that the 17-year-old and the 21-year-old had an encounter before multiple shots were fired. Police did not report an arrest or additional details early Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688315722286.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead.At approximately 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of North Glendale in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Officers arrived on the scene and located a 17-year-old victim unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.The teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The 21- year-old victim was treated by medical staff and dismissed from the hospital and transported to investigations for further questioning.Detectives learned that the 17-year-old and the 21-year-old had an encounter before multiple shots were fired. Police did not report an arrest or additional details early Sunday.

Police: 17-year-old dead after gunfight in Wichita

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in a deadly shooting and crash made a court appearance in the case this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Damion Hazelton, 24 of Wichita, is charged with 2nd degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office

Hazelton is also charged in two other cases, aggravated battery and interference with law enforcement.&nbsp;

Just before 2:30p.m. June 23, police in Wichita received a series of 911 calls about a vehicle collision and a shooting in the 7000 Block of East Lincoln in Wichita, according to&nbsp;Officer Aaron Moses.

First responders located a red GMC Yukon that struck a building and a victim later identified as&nbsp;49-year-old Chris Baker of Wichita, inside the SUV with a gunshot wound.. Life-saving measures were attempted, but Baker would be pronounced deceased on the scene.

Investigators at the scene learned from witnesses that someone involved in the crash had fled into one of the nearby buildings, according to Moses. A small group of the Wichita Police SWAT team responded to the scene.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Investigators worked through the evening hours and were able to determine that Hazelton was the shooter. 

Police located and arrested him without incident.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is due back in court on July 12 and remains jailed on a $600,000 bond.&nbsp;&nbsp;has previous convictions for falsely reporting a crime and Giving false alarm - false information regarding violent criminal activity or threat to persons life, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687694361794.png" alt="Hazelton has previous convictions for falsely reporting a crime and Giving false alarm - false information regarding violent criminal activity or threat to persons life, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Hazelton has previous convictions for falsely reporting a crime and Giving false alarm - false information regarding violent criminal activity or threat to persons life, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in a deadly shooting and crash made a court appearance in the case this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;Damion Hazelton, 24 of Wichita, is charged with 2nd degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's officeHazelton is also charged in two other cases, aggravated battery and interference with law enforcement.&nbsp;Just before 2:30p.m. June 23, police in Wichita received a series of 911 calls about a vehicle collision and a shooting in the 7000 Block of East Lincoln in Wichita, according to&nbsp;Officer Aaron Moses.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687565978422.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>First responders located a red GMC Yukon that struck a building and a victim later identified as&nbsp;49-year-old Chris Baker of Wichita, inside the SUV with a gunshot wound.. Life-saving measures were attempted, but Baker would be pronounced deceased on the scene.Investigators at the scene learned from witnesses that someone involved in the crash had fled into one of the nearby buildings, according to Moses. A small group of the Wichita Police SWAT team responded to the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;Investigators worked through the evening hours and were able to determine that Hazelton was the shooter. Police located and arrested him without incident.&nbsp; &nbsp;He is due back in court on July 12 and remains jailed on a $600,000 bond.&nbsp;&nbsp;has previous convictions for falsely reporting a crime and Giving false alarm - false information regarding violent criminal activity or threat to persons life, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. felon charged with murder of man who crashed SUV

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a chase, traffic stop.

&nbsp;On June 26, Officer Dustin Christina was actively patrolling and observed a black SUV at a high rate of speed traveling south on Blue Ridge Blvd. in Raytown, according to a media release.

With his experience as an officer, he could estimate the vehicle exceeded 100mph. The officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the SUV continued to evade him and he lost sight of the SUV.

The officer located the vehicle again shortly after and activated his emergency lights and sirens for a traffic stop, but once more, it SUV fled. 

However, this time, officer Christina could read the license plate, which came to an address close to the area the vehicle was navigating through.

Officer Christina responded to the plate's registered address and waited for the vehicle. About 15 minutes later, the SUV returned to the address, and when the driver saw the patrol car, he tried to circle to leave. 

However, Officer Christina predicted this outcome and had stop sticks deployed. The SUV could not flee without hitting them, so the driver decided to park his car instead.

When Officer Christina contacted the driver, he spontaneously uttered, "I'm sorry, I just didn't want to go back to jail. I'm on house arrest." 

He was then arrested and detained in the patrol vehicle. Officer Christina then returned to the driver's vehicle, which was still running with the driver's door open, and he observed what looked to be an AK47 sticking up from the vehicle's passenger side within the driver's reach. 

Officer Christina secured the weapon and confirmed it was an AK47 with the buttstock removed. 

It was loaded with a magazine and one in the chamber.The male driver was transported to the Raytown Police Headquarters. He was issued citations for C&amp;I, fleeing and eluding, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and no proof of insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688035314698.png" alt="Photo Raytown Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Raytown Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a chase, traffic stop.&nbsp;On June 26, Officer Dustin Christina was actively patrolling and observed a black SUV at a high rate of speed traveling south on Blue Ridge Blvd. in Raytown, according to a media release.With his experience as an officer, he could estimate the vehicle exceeded 100mph. The officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the SUV continued to evade him and he lost sight of the SUV.The officer located the vehicle again shortly after and activated his emergency lights and sirens for a traffic stop, but once more, it SUV fled. However, this time, officer Christina could read the license plate, which came to an address close to the area the vehicle was navigating through.Officer Christina responded to the plate's registered address and waited for the vehicle. About 15 minutes later, the SUV returned to the address, and when the driver saw the patrol car, he tried to circle to leave. However, Officer Christina predicted this outcome and had stop sticks deployed. The SUV could not flee without hitting them, so the driver decided to park his car instead.When Officer Christina contacted the driver, he spontaneously uttered, "I'm sorry, I just didn't want to go back to jail. I'm on house arrest." He was then arrested and detained in the patrol vehicle. Officer Christina then returned to the driver's vehicle, which was still running with the driver's door open, and he observed what looked to be an AK47 sticking up from the vehicle's passenger side within the driver's reach. Officer Christina secured the weapon and confirmed it was an AK47 with the buttstock removed. It was loaded with a magazine and one in the chamber.The male driver was transported to the Raytown Police Headquarters. He was issued citations for C&amp;I, fleeing and eluding, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and no proof of insurance.

KC-area officer found loaded AK 47 after 100mph chase

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas felon accused in a series of burglary been charged in multiple crimes.

According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office, Harold Deloach, 49, was charged this week with four counts of burglary non-residence, four counts of theft which included the theft of a firearm, and six&nbsp; counts of unlawful use of financial card.&nbsp;

The crime spree occurred in February, according&nbsp;to police spokesman Officer Chad Ditch. 

Seven officers and two sergeants from Patrol West in Wichita coordinated 9 cases, 4 victims and 9 witnesses in connection with the crime spree.

The&nbsp; investigation led to the arrest of&nbsp; Deloach and 39-year-old Princess Karibo.&nbsp; Deloach has a previous forgery conviction, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681409703672.png" alt="Deloach-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Deloach-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas felon accused in a series of burglary been charged in multiple crimes.According to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office, Harold Deloach, 49, was charged this week with four counts of burglary non-residence, four counts of theft which included the theft of a firearm, and six&nbsp; counts of unlawful use of financial card.&nbsp;The crime spree occurred in February, according&nbsp;to police spokesman Officer Chad Ditch. Seven officers and two sergeants from Patrol West in Wichita coordinated 9 cases, 4 victims and 9 witnesses in connection with the crime spree.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681409536968.png" alt="Karibo-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Karibo-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp; investigation led to the arrest of&nbsp; Deloach and 39-year-old Princess Karibo.&nbsp; Deloach has a previous forgery conviction, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon charged with string of theft and burglaries

More than 75 laws surviving 2023 legislative gauntlet take root

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Jay Schumacher was locked up at the Ellis County Jail on a charge of first-degree murder in the slaying of his wife, but under Kansas law could spend the couple’s assets while awaiting trial for offenses capable of sending him to prison for decades.

A loophole in the state’s so-called slayer law compelled Jeremiah Schumacher, the son of alleged perpetrator Jay and domestic violence victim Karen, to plead with the 2023 Kansas Legislature to adopt a statute to prevent distribution of assets until resolution of criminal proceedings involving anyone arrested or charged with killing a person sharing financial interest in an estate.

Under Kansas law in place at time of the March 2022 slaying, alleged perpetrators could procure estate assets until convicted of killing someone.

“He’s arrested for the murder of his spouse,”&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/18/son-sister-of-slain-hays-resident-urge-kansas-house-members-to-amend-estate-law/">Jeremiah Schumacher told lawmakers</a>&nbsp;days after the session began in January. “I can’t wrap my head around it.”

Gov. Laura Kelly as well as the Senate and House heard his plea. The House vote on House Bill 2027 was 123-0. The Senate paired that with a 40-0 vote. The law signed by Kelly allowed as of July 1 a court to block sale, distribution, spending or other use of a decedent’s assets by a person arrested or charged in that killing. That order must stand until charges were dismissed, the accused was acquitted or convicted, and if records were expunged.

“This change is necessary, reasonable and will close what amounts to a loophole in the slayer provision of Kansas probate law by limiting those individuals, who kill a spouse or person from whom they will inherit, from receiving those proceeds,” said Hays attorney Chris McGowne.

The amended slayer law was among 77 bills — three fourths of the total to survive the legislative process in 2023 — scheduled to become effective on Saturday. The 21 others went live promptly rather than await the first day of July. The new roster of laws delve into abortion, concealed guns, elections, clergy abuse, public health, retirement investments, food stamps, transgender rights, water, smoking, utilities and sports.

Republicans in the Legislature tangled with Democrats and the governor on merits of the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, otherwise known as House Bill 2238. It was designed to forbid transgender girls or women from participating in girls or women school sports. The anti-transgender&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/17/kansas-governor-vetoes-legislation-banning-transgender-athletes-from-school-sports/">bill easily cleared the GOP-led Legislature, but was vetoed by Kelly</a>. Both chambers were able to override her veto.

The law required interscholastic, intercollegiate, intramural and club athletic teams sponsored by public or private educational entities to group players on teams of boys or men, girls or women or on separate coeducational units based on “biological sex” of athletes. It covered sports teams from kindergarten through college.

“The fairness in women’s sports act is just that — fairness,” said Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover. “It simply sets guidelines that ensure the fair playing field continues for women and girls that we have recognized for decades.”

The Kansas State High School Activities Association established a policy requiring participants to present a copy of their first birth certificate to verify the gender declaration at birth.

Initially, the idea of decriminalizing possession of test strips to detect the synthetic opioid fentanyl didn’t gain much political traction at the statehouse. For three years, the prevailing legislative sentiment was Senate Bill 174 and others like it sent the wrong message to people using drugs illegally.

<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Advocates for the change pointed with alarm to the rising death toll among Kansans</a>&nbsp;who unknowingly consumed drugs blended with fentanyl, which could be 50 to 100 times as potent as morphine.

Kelly, looking for ways to prevent overdose poisonings and fatalities, signed the bipartisan bill removing test strips from the state’s list of illegal drug paraphernalia. At the same time, the penalty for manufacture and distribution of fentanyl-laced substances was heightened.

Rep. Jason Probst, D-Hutchinson, said the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/05/11/gov-kelly-signs-bipartisan-bill-decriminalizing-use-of-fentanyl-test-strips-in-kansas/">agonizing wait for adoption of the legislation</a>&nbsp;meant the values of kindness and compassion prevailed in the end.

“By decriminalizing fentanyl testing strips,” Probst said, “we are helping Kansans protect themselves from a deadly poison that has taken far too many lives, including the tragic and profoundly painful loss of far too many teenagers and young adults in our state.”

The contents of Senate Bill 180 also become law July 1, but conflict over interpretations of the statute could drag on for months or years.

The measure labeled by supporters as the Women’s Bill of Rights aimed to define biological sex as the determinant for use of restrooms, domestic violence shelters, locker rooms and correctional facilities. It didn’t contain enforcement mechanisms, leaving open questions about how the bill would operate in the real world outside the Capitol bubble.

Kelly vetoed the bill, but the House and Senate had votes to override the governor.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/06/26/kris-kobach-delivers-advice-on-new-law-targeting-transgender-kansans/">Attorney General Kris Kobach issued a nonbinding legal opinion</a>&nbsp;declaring new Kansas licenses to drive and birth certificates had to reflect gender at birth. At the same time, he said, the identification documents revised in the past to address transgender residents of Kansas had to be reissued to reflect an individual’s determination of sex at birth.

The ACLU of Kansas and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/06/29/kansas-governor-rejects-ags-advice-on-new-anti-trans-law-kobach-we-will-see-her-in-court/">the governor disagreed with the Republican attorney general</a>, and contended the law couldn’t impact public accommodations because it didn’t include an enforcement mechanism. Kelly said state agencies would continue to allow transgender individuals to change gender markers on driver’s licenses and birth certificates.

“KDHE and KDOR disagree about its impacts on their operations and will instead keep in place their policies regarding gender markers on birth certificates and driver’s licenses,” Kelly said.

Kobach, who lost the 2018 general election for governor against Kelly, said he would proceed with a legal challenge of the governor’s decision.

The launch of a new fiscal year July 1 coincided with implementation of salary adjustments for state government employees. The package adopted by the Legislature and embraced by the governor linked pay increases to market rates for comparable job classifications in the private sector.

State workers 10% below peers in that occupational field would be brought up to that 10% figure or given a 5% adjustment. Personnel earning above 10% of the market rate would receive a 2.5% increase. Those less than 10% below market or 10% above market would qualify for a 5% raise.

Meanwhile, the Legislature pushed through a bill forbidding trustees of the Kansas Public Employee Retirement System from making investment decisions based on principles of ESG. It stands for environmental, social and corporate governance considerations relied on by investors and often associated with liberal political causes.

Majorities in the Legislature said KPERS should manage its $20 billion portfolio to bring about the highest return on investment with the least risk.

<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/07/kansas-attorney-general-craves-law-making-state-funded-esg-investment-policies-illegal/">Kobach, who lobbied for passage of the reform</a>, said it was wrong to enable corporate intruders to jeopardize pensions of state government workers, teachers and law enforcement officers.

“ESG investing uses retirement savings as leverage to force companies to reduce their carbon footprints, adopt racial and gender quotas or to succumb to the ‘woke’ social justice fad of the month,” he said.

After years of debate, a bipartisan coalition of Kansas lawmakers agreed to make it easier for victims of childhood sexual assault to make a case in court.

House Bill 2027, which received unanimous support in the Senate and House, dropped the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution of the alleged crimes and extended by 10 years the opportunity to file lawsuits against alleged perpetrators.

Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/gov-laura-kelly-legislators-honor-bipartisan-reform-of-kansas-law-on-sexual-abuse-claims/">persistence of a group of survivors made the difference</a>.

“This is breakthrough legislation that will keep our children and communities safer by permitting our state to get more predators off our streets, while building a foundation to allow more survivors of childhood sexual violence to pursue justice,” she said.

Previous Kansas law dictated criminal cases had to be filed within five years of the alleged crime. Cases of rape carried a 10-year statute of limitations once a person alleging harm turned 18. In civil cases, the suit had to be filed by the time a victim turned 21 years of age.

Turn of the calendar to July also enabled implementation of a law requiring groundwater management districts to produce for the Legislature annual reports on water usage and to develop strategies for conserving a resource made scarce by drought and heavy reliance on the Ogallala Aquifer for irrigation.

Conservative legislators pushed through eligibility reform in the state’s food stamp program, technically known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. The new Kansas mandate required people 50 to 59 years of age without dependents to work 30 hours a week or participate in job training initiatives to qualify for food aid.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688217568622.png" alt="Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and Republican-led Kansas Legislature tangled over many issues in 2023 session — there were more than a dozen veto showdowns — and led to implementation Saturday of 77 new state laws, including a measure altering criminal and civil procedure in sex abuse cases. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly and Republican-led Kansas Legislature tangled over many issues in 2023 session — there were more than a dozen veto showdowns — and led to implementation Saturday of 77 new state laws, including a measure altering criminal and civil procedure in sex abuse cases. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>More than 75 laws surviving 2023 legislative gauntlet take root</h2>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Jay Schumacher was locked up at the Ellis County Jail on a charge of first-degree murder in the slaying of his wife, but under Kansas law could spend the couple’s assets while awaiting trial for offenses capable of sending him to prison for decades.A loophole in the state’s so-called slayer law compelled Jeremiah Schumacher, the son of alleged perpetrator Jay and domestic violence victim Karen, to plead with the 2023 Kansas Legislature to adopt a statute to prevent distribution of assets until resolution of criminal proceedings involving anyone arrested or charged with killing a person sharing financial interest in an estate.Under Kansas law in place at time of the March 2022 slaying, alleged perpetrators could procure estate assets until convicted of killing someone.“He’s arrested for the murder of his spouse,”&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/01/18/son-sister-of-slain-hays-resident-urge-kansas-house-members-to-amend-estate-law/">Jeremiah Schumacher told lawmakers</a>&nbsp;days after the session began in January. “I can’t wrap my head around it.”Gov. Laura Kelly as well as the Senate and House heard his plea. The House vote on House Bill 2027 was 123-0. The Senate paired that with a 40-0 vote. The law signed by Kelly allowed as of July 1 a court to block sale, distribution, spending or other use of a decedent’s assets by a person arrested or charged in that killing. That order must stand until charges were dismissed, the accused was acquitted or convicted, and if records were expunged.“This change is necessary, reasonable and will close what amounts to a loophole in the slayer provision of Kansas probate law by limiting those individuals, who kill a spouse or person from whom they will inherit, from receiving those proceeds,” said Hays attorney Chris McGowne.The amended slayer law was among 77 bills — three fourths of the total to survive the legislative process in 2023 — scheduled to become effective on Saturday. The 21 others went live promptly rather than await the first day of July. The new roster of laws delve into abortion, concealed guns, elections, clergy abuse, public health, retirement investments, food stamps, transgender rights, water, smoking, utilities and sports.<h2>Just that — fairness’</h2>Republicans in the Legislature tangled with Democrats and the governor on merits of the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, otherwise known as House Bill 2238. It was designed to forbid transgender girls or women from participating in girls or women school sports. The anti-transgender&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/17/kansas-governor-vetoes-legislation-banning-transgender-athletes-from-school-sports/">bill easily cleared the GOP-led Legislature, but was vetoed by Kelly</a>. Both chambers were able to override her veto.The law required interscholastic, intercollegiate, intramural and club athletic teams sponsored by public or private educational entities to group players on teams of boys or men, girls or women or on separate coeducational units based on “biological sex” of athletes. It covered sports teams from kindergarten through college.“The fairness in women’s sports act is just that — fairness,” said Senate President Ty Masterson, R-Andover. “It simply sets guidelines that ensure the fair playing field continues for women and girls that we have recognized for decades.”The Kansas State High School Activities Association established a policy requiring participants to present a copy of their first birth certificate to verify the gender declaration at birth.<h2>Test-strip ban lifted</h2>Initially, the idea of decriminalizing possession of test strips to detect the synthetic opioid fentanyl didn’t gain much political traction at the statehouse. For three years, the prevailing legislative sentiment was Senate Bill 174 and others like it sent the wrong message to people using drugs illegally.<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Advocates for the change pointed with alarm to the rising death toll among Kansans</a>&nbsp;who unknowingly consumed drugs blended with fentanyl, which could be 50 to 100 times as potent as morphine.Kelly, looking for ways to prevent overdose poisonings and fatalities, signed the bipartisan bill removing test strips from the state’s list of illegal drug paraphernalia. At the same time, the penalty for manufacture and distribution of fentanyl-laced substances was heightened.Rep. Jason Probst, D-Hutchinson, said the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/05/11/gov-kelly-signs-bipartisan-bill-decriminalizing-use-of-fentanyl-test-strips-in-kansas/">agonizing wait for adoption of the legislation</a>&nbsp;meant the values of kindness and compassion prevailed in the end.“By decriminalizing fentanyl testing strips,” Probst said, “we are helping Kansans protect themselves from a deadly poison that has taken far too many lives, including the tragic and profoundly painful loss of far too many teenagers and young adults in our state.”<h2>Unsettled law</h2>The contents of Senate Bill 180 also become law July 1, but conflict over interpretations of the statute could drag on for months or years.The measure labeled by supporters as the Women’s Bill of Rights aimed to define biological sex as the determinant for use of restrooms, domestic violence shelters, locker rooms and correctional facilities. It didn’t contain enforcement mechanisms, leaving open questions about how the bill would operate in the real world outside the Capitol bubble.Kelly vetoed the bill, but the House and Senate had votes to override the governor.&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/06/26/kris-kobach-delivers-advice-on-new-law-targeting-transgender-kansans/">Attorney General Kris Kobach issued a nonbinding legal opinion</a>&nbsp;declaring new Kansas licenses to drive and birth certificates had to reflect gender at birth. At the same time, he said, the identification documents revised in the past to address transgender residents of Kansas had to be reissued to reflect an individual’s determination of sex at birth.The ACLU of Kansas and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/06/29/kansas-governor-rejects-ags-advice-on-new-anti-trans-law-kobach-we-will-see-her-in-court/">the governor disagreed with the Republican attorney general</a>, and contended the law couldn’t impact public accommodations because it didn’t include an enforcement mechanism. Kelly said state agencies would continue to allow transgender individuals to change gender markers on driver’s licenses and birth certificates.“KDHE and KDOR disagree about its impacts on their operations and will instead keep in place their policies regarding gender markers on birth certificates and driver’s licenses,” Kelly said.Kobach, who lost the 2018 general election for governor against Kelly, said he would proceed with a legal challenge of the governor’s decision.<h2>State salaries, pensions</h2>The launch of a new fiscal year July 1 coincided with implementation of salary adjustments for state government employees. The package adopted by the Legislature and embraced by the governor linked pay increases to market rates for comparable job classifications in the private sector.State workers 10% below peers in that occupational field would be brought up to that 10% figure or given a 5% adjustment. Personnel earning above 10% of the market rate would receive a 2.5% increase. Those less than 10% below market or 10% above market would qualify for a 5% raise.Meanwhile, the Legislature pushed through a bill forbidding trustees of the Kansas Public Employee Retirement System from making investment decisions based on principles of ESG. It stands for environmental, social and corporate governance considerations relied on by investors and often associated with liberal political causes.Majorities in the Legislature said KPERS should manage its $20 billion portfolio to bring about the highest return on investment with the least risk.<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/07/kansas-attorney-general-craves-law-making-state-funded-esg-investment-policies-illegal/">Kobach, who lobbied for passage of the reform</a>, said it was wrong to enable corporate intruders to jeopardize pensions of state government workers, teachers and law enforcement officers.“ESG investing uses retirement savings as leverage to force companies to reduce their carbon footprints, adopt racial and gender quotas or to succumb to the ‘woke’ social justice fad of the month,” he said.<h2>Revise and extend</h2>After years of debate, a bipartisan coalition of Kansas lawmakers agreed to make it easier for victims of childhood sexual assault to make a case in court.House Bill 2027, which received unanimous support in the Senate and House, dropped the statute of limitations for criminal prosecution of the alleged crimes and extended by 10 years the opportunity to file lawsuits against alleged perpetrators.Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, said&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/gov-laura-kelly-legislators-honor-bipartisan-reform-of-kansas-law-on-sexual-abuse-claims/">persistence of a group of survivors made the difference</a>.“This is breakthrough legislation that will keep our children and communities safer by permitting our state to get more predators off our streets, while building a foundation to allow more survivors of childhood sexual violence to pursue justice,” she said.Previous Kansas law dictated criminal cases had to be filed within five years of the alleged crime. Cases of rape carried a 10-year statute of limitations once a person alleging harm turned 18. In civil cases, the suit had to be filed by the time a victim turned 21 years of age.<h2>The grab bag</h2>Turn of the calendar to July also enabled implementation of a law requiring groundwater management districts to produce for the Legislature annual reports on water usage and to develop strategies for conserving a resource made scarce by drought and heavy reliance on the Ogallala Aquifer for irrigation.Conservative legislators pushed through eligibility reform in the state’s food stamp program, technically known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. The new Kansas mandate required people 50 to 59 years of age without dependents to work 30 hours a week or participate in job training initiatives to qualify for food aid.In divorce cases, Kansans would now be permitted to change a last name to something other than a maiden name or former name.Election laws were modified to open the door to a presidential preference primary in March 2024.The cluster of abortion reforms include a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/26/kansas-house-overrides-governors-vetoes-of-three-anti-abortion-bills/">law requiring health professionals to perform life-saving care</a>&nbsp;when an infant was was born alive during an abortion. In 2022, Kansas doctors reported no such instances of live birth. Organizations opposed to abortion, a right protected in Kansas by the state constitution, pointed to examples of failed abortions in other states. Kelly vetoed the measure but was overridden.In addition, state lawmakers earmarked $2 million to support activities of anti-abortion centers that would be scattered across Kansas.Legislators and the governor agreed the state should limit how much public utility companies could recover through rate increases when making investments in new electricity transmission lines.The $100 fee paid to the attorney general’s office to obtain a concealed weapon license in Kansas was eliminated, but left in place a charge of $32.50 payable to a county sheriff’s department. Individuals as young as 18 can receive a permit to carry a concealed handgun.But&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/28/kansas-legislature-on-cusp-of-raising-to-21-minimum-age-to-buy-tobacco-products/">lawmakers passed a law declaring only individuals 21 years of age or older</a>&nbsp;were mature enough to purchase, possess or consume tobacco products. Until Saturday, those 18 or older could buy cigarettes.