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.

<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.

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.

<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.

Crime, gender and guns: July begins with dozens of new state laws in Kansas

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man facing multiple felony charges for the fatal shooting of three people at an after hours club near 57th and Prospect Avenue early Sunday in Kansas City has been moved from the hospital to jail.

Keivon M. Greene, 26,&nbsp; was booked into the Jackson County jail Friday evening, according to online jail records.

 He faces two counts of Murder in the 2nd Degree, a third Murder in the 2nd Degree Felony Murder, and three counts of Armed Criminal Action charges.

Just after 4:30a.m. Sunday, responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, according to police.

According to the probable cause statement, one of the wounded told police the shooting started after she greeted one of the suspects and his girlfriend with a hug.

The victim's boyfriend then told the suspect to “watch his hands.” When the victim and her boyfriend began to walk away, the suspect took out a gun and fatally shot him in the back, according to the statement.

Another person pulled a gun and began shooting, striking the woman in the buttocks. The victim identified Greene as the man who shot her, according to the statement.

Police initially said at least five others were shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police identified a sixth person who went to a hospital after being wounded.

The dead were identified as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.

Greene was taken into custody at a hospital, where he went after being shot in the hand.&nbsp; He had posted $1,000 cash bond about two days before the shooting on felony charges of resisting arrest and drug possession in Independence, Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688177145080.png" alt="Greene-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Greene-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man facing multiple felony charges for the fatal shooting of three people at an after hours club near 57th and Prospect Avenue early Sunday in Kansas City has been moved from the hospital to jail.Keivon M. Greene, 26,&nbsp; was booked into the Jackson County jail Friday evening, according to online jail records. He faces two counts of Murder in the 2nd Degree, a third Murder in the 2nd Degree Felony Murder, and three counts of Armed Criminal Action charges.Just after 4:30a.m. Sunday, responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, according to police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687710602889.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the probable cause statement, one of the wounded told police the shooting started after she greeted one of the suspects and his girlfriend with a hug.The victim's boyfriend then told the suspect to “watch his hands.” When the victim and her boyfriend began to walk away, the suspect took out a gun and fatally shot him in the back, according to the statement.Another person pulled a gun and began shooting, striking the woman in the buttocks. The victim identified Greene as the man who shot her, according to the statement.Police initially said at least five others were shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police identified a sixth person who went to a hospital after being wounded.The dead were identified as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.Greene was taken into custody at a hospital, where he went after being shot in the hand.&nbsp; He had posted $1,000 cash bond about two days before the shooting on felony charges of resisting arrest and drug possession in Independence, Missouri.

Suspect in Kansas City mass shooting moved from hospital to jail

PAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas man accused of child sex crimes appeared in Pawnee County District court Wednesday.

Shelby Lee Starr, 48 of Great Bend, appeared for an evidentiary Preliminary Hearing on a single count of Aggravated Indecent Liberties; lewd fondling, of a child under the age of 14, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

The alleged incident was reported by a mandatory reporter to the Kansas Department of Children and Families on February 17, 2023, and was additionally investigated by the Larned Police Department.&nbsp;The alleged acts occurred at separate private residences in Larned sometime between 2016 and the Summer of 2017.

&nbsp;Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support two separate sexual offenses and bound the Starr over to the higher court on two counts of Aggravated Indecent Liberties. Arraignment has been scheduled for October 26, 2023.&nbsp;

Starr was arrested in Barton County on April 1, 2023, without incident. He has been in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff since his arrest. Bond is currently set at $100,000 cash or surety.

He has been registered as a sex offender since 2001 for child sex crime convictions in Georgia in 1998, according to the Sex Offender Registry.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688048000741.png" alt="Starr-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Starr-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas man accused of child sex crimes appeared in Pawnee County District court Wednesday.Shelby Lee Starr, 48 of Great Bend, appeared for an evidentiary Preliminary Hearing on a single count of Aggravated Indecent Liberties; lewd fondling, of a child under the age of 14, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.The alleged incident was reported by a mandatory reporter to the Kansas Department of Children and Families on February 17, 2023, and was additionally investigated by the Larned Police Department.&nbsp;The alleged acts occurred at separate private residences in Larned sometime between 2016 and the Summer of 2017.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688048306418.png" alt="Starr has been registered as a sex offender since 2001 for child sex crime convictions in Georgia, according to the Kansas Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Starr has been registered as a sex offender since 2001 for child sex crime convictions in Georgia, according to the Kansas Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell found the State presented sufficient evidence to support two separate sexual offenses and bound the Starr over to the higher court on two counts of Aggravated Indecent Liberties. Arraignment has been scheduled for October 26, 2023.&nbsp;Starr was arrested in Barton County on April 1, 2023, without incident. He has been in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff since his arrest. Bond is currently set at $100,000 cash or surety.He has been registered as a sex offender since 2001 for child sex crime convictions in Georgia in 1998, according to the Sex Offender Registry.

Sex offender from Georgia accused of sex crimes in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide in Topeka have made an arrest.

identified the victim as 19-year-old&nbsp; Khristopher A. L. Brown of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks

Just before 8 p.m. March 14, police&nbsp;&nbsp;responded to the 1300 block SE 8th for a hit-and-run accident, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks. Officers located 19-year-old Khristopher A. L. Brown, who was suffering from a gunshot wound.

First responders pronounced him deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After a 3 month investigation, police on Thursday transported a 17-year old boy from Topeka to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on requested charges of Murder in 1st Degree, Distribution of marijuana within 1000’ of a school and Use of communication facility in commission of a felony drug violation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678963605102.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation on March 14 -photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation on March 14 -photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide in Topeka have made an arrest.identified the victim as 19-year-old&nbsp; Khristopher A. L. Brown of Topeka, according to Police Lt. Donna EubanksJust before 8 p.m. March 14, police&nbsp;&nbsp;responded to the 1300 block SE 8th for a hit-and-run accident, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks. Officers located 19-year-old Khristopher A. L. Brown, who was suffering from a gunshot wound.First responders pronounced him deceased at the scene.&nbsp;&nbsp;After a 3 month investigation, police on Thursday transported a 17-year old boy from Topeka to the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections on requested charges of Murder in 1st Degree, Distribution of marijuana within 1000’ of a school and Use of communication facility in commission of a felony drug violation.

Kan. teen accused of murder after victim found at scene of crash

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug allegations after an arrest.

On February 2, police began an investigation that began as a theft case at Casey’s General Store in the 1600 block Main in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, police arrested&nbsp; Kenneth H. Gulley III, 29, Atchison, in the 500 block Park on a Community Corrections detain order, a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court, and a District Court warrant for possession of fentanyl, possession of alprazolam, possession of drug paraphernalia, and theft.

In March, police arrested Gulley on a District Court warrant for computer crime, criminal use of financial card, and theft.

The theft of the financial card involved a 69-year-old victim in January, according to Wilson. Gulley has previous convictions for theft, burglary,&nbsp;Interference with Law Enforcement by destroying evidence and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678112011440.png" alt="Gulley photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gulley photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new drug allegations after an arrest.On February 2, police began an investigation that began as a theft case at Casey’s General Store in the 1600 block Main in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;On Wednesday, police arrested&nbsp; Kenneth H. Gulley III, 29, Atchison, in the 500 block Park on a Community Corrections detain order, a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court, and a District Court warrant for possession of fentanyl, possession of alprazolam, possession of drug paraphernalia, and theft.In March, police arrested Gulley on a District Court warrant for computer crime, criminal use of financial card, and theft.The theft of the financial card involved a 69-year-old victim in January, according to Wilson. Gulley has previous convictions for theft, burglary,&nbsp;Interference with Law Enforcement by destroying evidence and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon caught with fentanyl as part of theft investigation

FRANKLIN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; alleged meth distribution and have made an arrest.

On Tuesday, the Franklin County drug enforcement unit executed a search warrant in the 100 Block of Monroe Street in the city of Pomoma, according to Sheriff Jeff Richards.

Deputies arrested 33-year-old Taylor Larsh on requested charges of possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia and not drug tax stamp.

The case will be presented to the Franklin County Attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687976763408.png" alt="Larsh-photo Franklin Co." />
 <figcaption>Larsh-photo Franklin Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKLIN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; alleged meth distribution and have made an arrest.On Tuesday, the Franklin County drug enforcement unit executed a search warrant in the 100 Block of Monroe Street in the city of Pomoma, according to Sheriff Jeff Richards.Deputies arrested 33-year-old Taylor Larsh on requested charges of possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia and not drug tax stamp.The case will be presented to the Franklin County Attorney.

Sheriff: Kansas man intended to sell meth

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged aggravated assault.

Just before 7p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault in the 700 block of Allen Rd. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Two juvenile girls reported a juvenile boy known to them threatened them with a knife. Police arrested the boy on a requested charge of aggravated assault and he was processed through juvenile intake.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged aggravated assault.Just before 7p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault in the 700 block of Allen Rd. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Two juvenile girls reported a juvenile boy known to them threatened them with a knife. Police arrested the boy on a requested charge of aggravated assault and he was processed through juvenile intake.The RCPD released no additional details.

RCPD: Boy allegedly threatened girls with a knife

JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug allegations.

Just before 9:30 a.m. Tuesday., a deputy with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a Chrysler Sebring for a traffic infraction near 102nd and U.S. Highway 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 During the course of the traffic stop, the deputy discovered substances and items believed to be fentanyl and drug paraphernalia.

 The driver, Kasandra Oleva Marie Alexander, 28, of Atchison was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of distribution of opiates opium narcotics or stimulants, possession of opium, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving under the influence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687958868877.png" alt="Alexander-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Alexander-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug allegations.Just before 9:30 a.m. Tuesday., a deputy with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a Chrysler Sebring for a traffic infraction near 102nd and U.S. Highway 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the course of the traffic stop, the deputy discovered substances and items believed to be fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. The driver, Kasandra Oleva Marie Alexander, 28, of Atchison was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of distribution of opiates opium narcotics or stimulants, possession of opium, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving under the influence.

Sheriff: Kansas woman was transporting fentanyl 

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Bond has been set for a man charged in the shooting death of a man outside of a Hays bar early Sunday morning.

40-year-old Keith A. Ostrom of Hays, was arrested outside of the Horseshoe Bar in the 1000 block of East Eighth Street in Hays.

Ostrom was arrested on a charge of second-degree murder in the death of&nbsp;63-year-old Larry D. Braun, Ellis County resident. Braun was taken Sunday to Hays Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.

Ostrom's bond has been set at $200,000. As of Wednesday morning, he remained in custody at the Ellis County Detention Center.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said the case is still under investigation but has been referred to the Ellis County Attorney.

Law enforcement officials have released no further details what may have led to the shooting.

No further court dates had been set as of Wednesday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687978043263.jpeg" alt="Keith Ostrom. Photo courtesy of Ellis County Sheriff's Department" />
 <figcaption>Keith Ostrom. Photo courtesy of Ellis County Sheriff's Department</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostBond has been set for a man charged in the shooting death of a man outside of a Hays bar early Sunday morning.40-year-old Keith A. Ostrom of Hays, was arrested outside of the Horseshoe Bar in the 1000 block of East Eighth Street in Hays.Ostrom was arrested on a charge of second-degree murder in the death of&nbsp;63-year-old Larry D. Braun, Ellis County resident. Braun was taken Sunday to Hays Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.Ostrom's bond has been set at $200,000. As of Wednesday morning, he remained in custody at the Ellis County Detention Center.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said the case is still under investigation but has been referred to the Ellis County Attorney.Law enforcement officials have released no further details what may have led to the shooting.No further court dates had been set as of Wednesday.

Suspect in deadly NW Kan. shooting remains jailed on $200K bond

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in his daughter's murder made his first court appearance Wednesday.

51-year-old Thomas Gatewood of Wichita was charged with&nbsp;with 1st Degree Murder, Abuse of a Child,  Aggravated Kidnapping and Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness/ Victim, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

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

The&nbsp;Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit and Homicide detectives investigated the incident and presented a case to the District Attorney’s office.

On Tuesday, a warrant was issued for Gatewood's arrest for the murder of his 8-year-old daughter. 

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

Gatewood being held on a $250,000 bond and is scheduled to return to court July 12.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687976261144.png" alt="Gatewood-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Gatewood-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in his daughter's murder made his first court appearance Wednesday.51-year-old Thomas Gatewood of Wichita was charged with&nbsp;with 1st Degree Murder, Abuse of a Child, Aggravated Kidnapping and Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness/ Victim, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On May 8, police&nbsp;were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of N. Oliver in Wichita after report of an&nbsp;unresponsive 8-year-old girl, according to Officer&nbsp; Kris Gupilan. The child was pronounced deceased at the scene. The&nbsp;Exploited and Missing Children’s Unit and Homicide detectives investigated the incident and presented a case to the District Attorney’s office.On Tuesday, a warrant was issued for Gatewood's arrest for the murder of his 8-year-old daughter. Wichita Police Officers utilized FLOCK technology and Thomas was quickly located and taken into custody within hours of the warrant being issued.Gatewood being held on a $250,000 bond and is scheduled to return to court July 12.

Kansas man charged in 8-year-old daughter's murder

CHASE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a pursuit in Chase County.

Just after 8p.m. on Monday, sheriff's deputies attempted to pull a driver over after he was clocked going 80 mph in a 45 mph zone on Highway 50 near Strong City, according to a media release.

The driver, later identified as 64-year-old&nbsp; Richard Harrington of Kansas City, Mo., refused to pull over and drove faster to outrun deputies.&nbsp; Harrington doubled back on county roads to end up on eastbound Highway 50. Herrington finally stopped just east of the Kansas Turnpike exit where he was arrested.

Soon after the stop, deputies learned that Harrington may have been under the influence and was in possession of illegal drugs. He was&nbsp;booked into the Chase Co. Jail on requested charges of&nbsp; Felony Flee and Elude, DUI, transporting an open container, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and traffic violation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687901260896.png" alt="Harrington-photo Chase Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Harrington-photo Chase Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>CHASE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a pursuit in Chase County.Just after 8p.m. on Monday, sheriff's deputies attempted to pull a driver over after he was clocked going 80 mph in a 45 mph zone on Highway 50 near Strong City, according to a media release.The driver, later identified as 64-year-old&nbsp; Richard Harrington of Kansas City, Mo., refused to pull over and drove faster to outrun deputies.&nbsp; Harrington doubled back on county roads to end up on eastbound Highway 50. Herrington finally stopped just east of the Kansas Turnpike exit where he was arrested.Soon after the stop, deputies learned that Harrington may have been under the influence and was in possession of illegal drugs. He was&nbsp;booked into the Chase Co. Jail on requested charges of&nbsp; Felony Flee and Elude, DUI, transporting an open container, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and traffic violation.

Kan. man jailed after caught driving 80mph in a 45mph zone

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged altercation that included a gun.

Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault, battery, and disorderly conduct in the 1400 block of Chase Pl. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

&nbsp;A 22-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman were listed as both the victims and suspects when it was reported the man threw the woman in a pool and the woman punched him after getting out of the pool.

 It was also reported after this altercation, a separate 22-year-old man pulled out a handgun and threatened the woman with it.

Police reported no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged altercation that included a gun.Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault, battery, and disorderly conduct in the 1400 block of Chase Pl. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A 22-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman were listed as both the victims and suspects when it was reported the man threw the woman in a pool and the woman punched him after getting out of the pool. It was also reported after this altercation, a separate 22-year-old man pulled out a handgun and threatened the woman with it.Police reported no additional details and have not reported an arrest.

RCPD: Man threatened woman with gun after fight at pool

MORRIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

On June 24, police stopped a vehicle in the 10 block of S. 9th Street in Council Grove for an alleged traffic violation, according to a media release.

During the traffic stop, officers determined 34-year-old Tami Hewitt of Council Grove had multiple felony warrants for her arrest in Kansas and out of state.

She was arrested in July and again in December of 2022, according to online jail recored. She remains jailed on a $25,000 bond on a requested charge of failure to appear.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687949740176.png" alt="Hewitt-photo DIckinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hewitt-photo DIckinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MORRIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.On June 24, police stopped a vehicle in the 10 block of S. 9th Street in Council Grove for an alleged traffic violation, according to a media release.During the traffic stop, officers determined 34-year-old Tami Hewitt of Council Grove had multiple felony warrants for her arrest in Kansas and out of state.She was arrested in July and again in December of 2022, according to online jail recored. She remains jailed on a $25,000 bond on a requested charge of failure to appear.

Police catch Kansas woman wanted on warrants from out of state

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In an unusual legal move, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is asking a state appeals court to reverse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">the conviction</a>&nbsp;of a white former Kansas City police detective who shot and killed a Black man three years ago.

In a brief filed Monday, Bailey said the evidence presented at a trial in 2021 did not support Eric DeValkenaere's conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.

Bailey asked the court to reverse DeValkenaere's conviction or order a new trial.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, whose office secured DeValkenaere's conviction, said the motion by the attorney general — the state's top law enforcement officer — to challenge a conviction was “unprecedented” and an affront to the people of Kansas City.

In a news conference on Monday, she accused Bailey, a Republican who was appointed to the attorney general's office in January, of “attempting to expand his power to that of a judge.”

“I can’t say in my time, 25 plus years of being here, that I’ve seen anything like this before," Baker said.

Cameron Lamb’s father, Aqil Bey, said at the news conference that Bailey's actions were a miscarriage of justice. He said DeValkanaere had been given every legal advantage, including not having to serve a day in jail since his conviction.

“We don't feel good about it. But we are going to continue to let the legal system run its course, and we'll see what happens,” Bey said.

Ben Trachtenberg, a University of Missouri School of Law professor and expert in criminal law, agreed that Bailey's decision was unusual, noting the state's attorney general's office has a history of vigorously defending convictions, even in cases where the local prosecutor is trying to overturn a conviction.

Bailey's predecessor, Eric Schmidt, who is now a Republican U.S. senator, strongly opposed efforts by Baker and former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner to release two men —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-prisons-5c4f3e6faadb018aef74685044b882d1">Lamar Johnson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-kansas-missouri-bba67efd61eaa165165e29a7298a1dc3">Kevin Strickland</a>&nbsp;— who they believed were jailed for murders they didn't commit. Both men were eventually released from prison.

Still, Trachtenberg said Bailey was within his authority in not defending DeValkenaere’s conviction.

“The attorney general’s office does have broad responsibility for dealing with criminal appeals,” he said. “But lawyers don’t have to defend every single case. The attorney general’s office's highest duty is to pursue justice. If they think somebody is innocent, they don’t have to defend the conviction.”

DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November 2021 of killing Lamb, who was shot as he backed his truck into his garage. Police said DeValkenaere and his partner, Troy Schwalm, went to Lamb's home after reports that Lamb was involved in a car chase with his girlfriend on residential streets.

Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs, who convicted the former detective after a bench trial,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">sentenced</a>&nbsp;DeValkenaere to three years for involuntary manslaughter and six years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run consecutively.

But Youngs later ruled that DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">could remain free</a>&nbsp;while his conviction is appealed.

In his motion, Bailey said Lamb's death was “tragic” and shouldn't have happened. But he argued that DeValkenaere used reasonable force because he believed Lamb was going to shoot Schwalm. The motion, which includes several pages reiterating the police department's version of events, said officers believed they saw Lamb with a handgun inside the truck, and a handgun was found near the truck after Lamb was shot.

“DeValkenaere’s use of force was reasonable in light of Mr. Lamb’s use of deadly force against Schwalm, and the court erred as a matter of fact and law in determining that Schwalm and DeValkenaere were the initial aggressors,” Bailey wrote. “DeValkenaere also was not criminally negligent.”

Prosecutors and Lamb's family had alleged the handgun was planted after the shooting. But Youngs did not address that issue when he convicted the detective.

Instead, the judge said the officers had no probable cause to believe that any crime had been committed, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He said police were the initial aggressors and they had a duty to retreat, but DeValkenaere illegally used deadly force instead.

Rumors had swirled in the last month that Republican Gov. Mike Parson was considering pardoning or granting clemency to DeValkenaere, prompting Baker to send him a letter urging him not to do so. Civil rights advocates warned that releasing the former detective could cause unrest in the city and damage an already tense relationship between police and Kansas City's minority community.

Parson said last week that he had not yet decided what action to take and criticized Baker for using the case for political purposes.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592994941014.png" alt="Eric DeValkenaere-photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Eric DeValkenaere-photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — In an unusual legal move, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey is asking a state appeals court to reverse&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">the conviction</a>&nbsp;of a white former Kansas City police detective who shot and killed a Black man three years ago.In a brief filed Monday, Bailey said the evidence presented at a trial in 2021 did not support Eric DeValkenaere's conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.Bailey asked the court to reverse DeValkenaere's conviction or order a new trial.Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, whose office secured DeValkenaere's conviction, said the motion by the attorney general — the state's top law enforcement officer — to challenge a conviction was “unprecedented” and an affront to the people of Kansas City.In a news conference on Monday, she accused Bailey, a Republican who was appointed to the attorney general's office in January, of “attempting to expand his power to that of a judge.”“I can’t say in my time, 25 plus years of being here, that I’ve seen anything like this before," Baker said.Cameron Lamb’s father, Aqil Bey, said at the news conference that Bailey's actions were a miscarriage of justice. He said DeValkanaere had been given every legal advantage, including not having to serve a day in jail since his conviction.“We don't feel good about it. But we are going to continue to let the legal system run its course, and we'll see what happens,” Bey said.Ben Trachtenberg, a University of Missouri School of Law professor and expert in criminal law, agreed that Bailey's decision was unusual, noting the state's attorney general's office has a history of vigorously defending convictions, even in cases where the local prosecutor is trying to overturn a conviction.Bailey's predecessor, Eric Schmidt, who is now a Republican U.S. senator, strongly opposed efforts by Baker and former St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner to release two men —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-prisons-5c4f3e6faadb018aef74685044b882d1">Lamar Johnson</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kansas-city-kansas-missouri-bba67efd61eaa165165e29a7298a1dc3">Kevin Strickland</a>&nbsp;— who they believed were jailed for murders they didn't commit. Both men were eventually released from prison.Still, Trachtenberg said Bailey was within his authority in not defending DeValkenaere’s conviction.“The attorney general’s office does have broad responsibility for dealing with criminal appeals,” he said. “But lawyers don’t have to defend every single case. The attorney general’s office's highest duty is to pursue justice. If they think somebody is innocent, they don’t have to defend the conviction.”DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November 2021 of killing Lamb, who was shot as he backed his truck into his garage. Police said DeValkenaere and his partner, Troy Schwalm, went to Lamb's home after reports that Lamb was involved in a car chase with his girlfriend on residential streets.Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs, who convicted the former detective after a bench trial,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">sentenced</a>&nbsp;DeValkenaere to three years for involuntary manslaughter and six years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run consecutively.But Youngs later ruled that DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">could remain free</a>&nbsp;while his conviction is appealed.In his motion, Bailey said Lamb's death was “tragic” and shouldn't have happened. But he argued that DeValkenaere used reasonable force because he believed Lamb was going to shoot Schwalm. The motion, which includes several pages reiterating the police department's version of events, said officers believed they saw Lamb with a handgun inside the truck, and a handgun was found near the truck after Lamb was shot.“DeValkenaere’s use of force was reasonable in light of Mr. Lamb’s use of deadly force against Schwalm, and the court erred as a matter of fact and law in determining that Schwalm and DeValkenaere were the initial aggressors,” Bailey wrote. “DeValkenaere also was not criminally negligent.”Prosecutors and Lamb's family had alleged the handgun was planted after the shooting. But Youngs did not address that issue when he convicted the detective.Instead, the judge said the officers had no probable cause to believe that any crime had been committed, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He said police were the initial aggressors and they had a duty to retreat, but DeValkenaere illegally used deadly force instead.Rumors had swirled in the last month that Republican Gov. Mike Parson was considering pardoning or granting clemency to DeValkenaere, prompting Baker to send him a letter urging him not to do so. Civil rights advocates warned that releasing the former detective could cause unrest in the city and damage an already tense relationship between police and Kansas City's minority community.Parson said last week that he had not yet decided what action to take and criticized Baker for using the case for political purposes.

AG seeks reversal of former KC detective's conviction in Black man's death

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces multiple felony charges for the fatal shooting of three persons at an after hours club near 57th and Prospect Avenue early Sunday in Kansas City, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced on Tuesday.

Keivon M. Greene, 26, faces two counts of Murder in the 2nd Degree, a third Murder in the 2nd Degree Felony Murder, and three counts of Armed Criminal Action charges.

Responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds about 4:30 a.m. Sunday in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, according to police.

Online court records did not name an attorney for Greene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687892030362.png" alt="Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced the additional charges Tuesday" />
 <figcaption>Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced the additional charges Tuesday</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces multiple felony charges for the fatal shooting of three persons at an after hours club near 57th and Prospect Avenue early Sunday in Kansas City, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker announced on Tuesday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-JTqJ4z5tyA?start=300" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Keivon M. Greene, 26, faces two counts of Murder in the 2nd Degree, a third Murder in the 2nd Degree Felony Murder, and three counts of Armed Criminal Action charges.Responding officers found two men and a woman dead from gunshot wounds about 4:30 a.m. Sunday in a parking lot where a crowd had gathered near an auto shop known to host informal after-hours get-togethers, according to police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687710602889.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday-photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday-photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the probable cause statement, one of the wounded told police the shooting started after she greeted one of the suspects and his girlfriend with a hug.The victim's boyfriend then told the suspect to “watch his hands.” When the victim and her boyfriend began to walk away, the suspect took out a gun and fatally shot him in the back, according to the statement.Another person pulled a gun and began shooting, striking the woman in the buttocks. The victim identified Greene as the man who shot her, according to the statement.Online court records did not name an attorney for Greene.Police initially said at least five others were shot and taken to hospitals by private vehicles and ambulances. On Monday, police identified a sixth person who went to a hospital after being wounded.The dead were identified as Nikko Manning, 22; Jasity Strong, 28; and Camden Brown, 29.Greene was taken into custody at a hospital, where he went after being shot in the hand.&nbsp; He had posted $1,000 cash bond about two days before the shooting on felony charges of resisting arrest and drug possession in Independence, an eastern suburb of Kansas City.