By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/09/house-democrat-unveils-cannabis-amnesty-bill/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA
 — Supported by dozens of his fellow representatives, House Minority 
Leader Vic Miller introduced a cannabis amnesty bill that would 
essentially decriminalize marijuana statewide.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2363_00_0000.pdf">House Bill 2363</a>,
 sponsored by Miller, a Topeka Democrat, along with 34 other 
representatives, would release anyone convicted for marijuana-related 
offenses from their sentence, and allow the expungement of 
marijuana-related convictions and arrest records from Kansans’ records. 
The bill would go into effect July 1, 2023.&nbsp;

The bill stipulates that anyone 
serving probation, parole, prison or jail sentences, along with other 
marijuana-related sentencing,&nbsp; would be immediately released, with their
 arrest records and marijuana convictions expunged and purged from all 
applicable state and federal systems, according to the bill language.&nbsp;

“It doesn’t legalize it per se, but it eliminates the serving a sentence punishment,” Miller said.&nbsp;

Miller sees the legislation as 
something of a remedy to the Legislature’s lack of action on marijuana 
legalization. While the bill’s fiscal note isn’t up yet, Miller said it 
could significantly reduce prosecution expenses.&nbsp;

“This is sort of a backdoor way of 
relieving people of the penalty,” Miller said. “And in and of itself, it
 would save in my mind, probably tens of millions of dollars related to 
those prosecutions in those incarcerations.”

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/15/kansas-medical-marijuana-committee-holds-final-meeting-prepares-for-january-legalization-push/"> have discussed medical marijuana legalization</a>, following months of&nbsp; information-gathering on the structure, taxation and other processes by a special committee.&nbsp;

A common fear is that new legalization bills will suffer the same fate as the<a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.com/li/b2021_22/measures/sb560/"> Senate Bill 560</a>,
 which would have allowed for the cultivation, distribution, processing,
 dispensing, and purchase of marijuana and paraphernalia.&nbsp;

The Kansas House approved medical 
marijuana legalization in 2021, but SB 560 died in committee during the 
previous legislative session, with Senate President Ty Masterson saying 
school funding issues were a higher priority.

“It’s on both sides of us now in 
Missouri and Colorado, Oklahoma,” Miller said. “So I don’t think we 
should, as Kansans, be in a race for last place to do something 
concerning everything. And it won’t be long before we are the last to do
 it. I think the people of Kansas are ready.”&nbsp;

The bill has been placed in the House
 Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee. Committee chairman Rep. 
Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, said he needed to review the bill 
before making any comments.&nbsp;

Vice Chair Rep. Eric Smith, a 
Burlington Republican, said he couldn’t comment on the bill specifically
 but felt medical marijuana legislation in general needed to be more 
thought out before he would approve it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I don’t support the present way in 
which they’re trying to pass marijuana for use in medical situations,” 
Smith said. “I’m not against the use of THC for medical purposes. I 
think there is a medical need for it, but I think it needs to be done by
 those professionals in the medical field, not by the average dispensary
 run by an entrepreneur.”&nbsp;

Missouri legalized recreational 
marijuana in a November vote, with the product potentially available to 
purchase as early as this month. Kansas is one of the three states left 
with no form of marijuana — medical or recreational — legalized. The 
other two states are Idaho and Nebraska.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676045426487.png" alt="Rep. Vic Miller said he believes Kansans are ready to legalize marijuana and that decriminalization would have widespread support. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Rep. Vic Miller said he believes Kansans are ready to legalize marijuana and that decriminalization would have widespread support. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/09/house-democrat-unveils-cannabis-amnesty-bill/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA
 — Supported by dozens of his fellow representatives, House Minority 
Leader Vic Miller introduced a cannabis amnesty bill that would 
essentially decriminalize marijuana statewide.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/documents/hb2363_00_0000.pdf">House Bill 2363</a>,
 sponsored by Miller, a Topeka Democrat, along with 34 other 
representatives, would release anyone convicted for marijuana-related 
offenses from their sentence, and allow the expungement of 
marijuana-related convictions and arrest records from Kansans’ records. 
The bill would go into effect July 1, 2023.&nbsp;The bill stipulates that anyone 
serving probation, parole, prison or jail sentences, along with other 
marijuana-related sentencing,&nbsp; would be immediately released, with their
 arrest records and marijuana convictions expunged and purged from all 
applicable state and federal systems, according to the bill language.&nbsp;“It doesn’t legalize it per se, but it eliminates the serving a sentence punishment,” Miller said.&nbsp;Miller sees the legislation as 
something of a remedy to the Legislature’s lack of action on marijuana 
legalization. While the bill’s fiscal note isn’t up yet, Miller said it 
could significantly reduce prosecution expenses.&nbsp;“This is sort of a backdoor way of 
relieving people of the penalty,” Miller said. “And in and of itself, it
 would save in my mind, probably tens of millions of dollars related to 
those prosecutions in those incarcerations.”Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/12/15/kansas-medical-marijuana-committee-holds-final-meeting-prepares-for-january-legalization-push/"> have discussed medical marijuana legalization</a>, following months of&nbsp; information-gathering on the structure, taxation and other processes by a special committee.&nbsp;A common fear is that new legalization bills will suffer the same fate as the<a target="_blank" href="http://kslegislature.com/li/b2021_22/measures/sb560/"> Senate Bill 560</a>,
 which would have allowed for the cultivation, distribution, processing,
 dispensing, and purchase of marijuana and paraphernalia.&nbsp;The Kansas House approved medical 
marijuana legalization in 2021, but SB 560 died in committee during the 
previous legislative session, with Senate President Ty Masterson saying 
school funding issues were a higher priority.“It’s on both sides of us now in 
Missouri and Colorado, Oklahoma,” Miller said. “So I don’t think we 
should, as Kansans, be in a race for last place to do something 
concerning everything. And it won’t be long before we are the last to do
 it. I think the people of Kansas are ready.”&nbsp;The bill has been placed in the House
 Corrections and Juvenile Justice Committee. Committee chairman Rep. 
Stephen Owens, a Hesston Republican, said he needed to review the bill 
before making any comments.&nbsp;Vice Chair Rep. Eric Smith, a 
Burlington Republican, said he couldn’t comment on the bill specifically
 but felt medical marijuana legislation in general needed to be more 
thought out before he would approve it.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I don’t support the present way in 
which they’re trying to pass marijuana for use in medical situations,” 
Smith said. “I’m not against the use of THC for medical purposes. I 
think there is a medical need for it, but I think it needs to be done by
 those professionals in the medical field, not by the average dispensary
 run by an entrepreneur.”&nbsp;Missouri legalized recreational 
marijuana in a November vote, with the product potentially available to 
purchase as early as this month. Kansas is one of the three states left 
with no form of marijuana — medical or recreational — legalized. The 
other two states are Idaho and Nebraska.

Kansas House minority leader unveils cannabis amnesty bill

PAWNEE COUNTY—Officials in Pawnee County were notified Thursday that John Freeman Colt was sentenced in the Federal District Court of Utah to a 21 month term with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, according to a statement from Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

In June of 2021, Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program on the campus of Larned State Hospital. Following a nationwide manhunt, he was arrested in Wayne County, Utah on September 27, 2021. 

On August 11, 2022, Colt entered a Guilty plea to a single count of Failing to Register under the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

He is currently charged under Kansas Law with Aggravated Escape from Custody, a severity level 8 non-person felony. Additionally, he is still subject to his civil commitment to the Kansas Sexual Predator Treatment Program. Once he completes his sentence on the federal conviction, arrangements will be made for Colt’s extradition back to Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1632850718422.png" alt="Colt after his arrest in Wayne County Utah" />
 <figcaption>Colt after his arrest in Wayne County Utah</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—Officials in Pawnee County were notified Thursday that John Freeman Colt was sentenced in the Federal District Court of Utah to a 21 month term with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, according to a statement from Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625086515798.png" alt="-Colt during his escape from the Larned State Hospital-photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>-Colt during his escape from the Larned State Hospital-photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>In June of 2021, Colt escaped from the Sexual Predator Treatment program on the campus of Larned State Hospital. Following a nationwide manhunt, he was arrested in Wayne County, Utah on September 27, 2021. On August 11, 2022, Colt entered a Guilty plea to a single count of Failing to Register under the Federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.He is currently charged under Kansas Law with Aggravated Escape from Custody, a severity level 8 non-person felony. Additionally, he is still subject to his civil commitment to the Kansas Sexual Predator Treatment Program. Once he completes his sentence on the federal conviction, arrangements will be made for Colt’s extradition back to Kansas.

Escapee from Kan. sex offender program sentenced on federal charges

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a kidnapping conspiracy that resulted in the victim’s murder in Kansas.

Marco A. Sosa-Perea, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 10 years in federal prison without parole, according to the. United State's Attorney.

On Jan. 4, 2022, Sosa-Perea pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Co-defendants Jonathan M. Bravo-Lopez (also known as “Jonathan Vravo,” and “Shadow”), 28, and Juan D. Osorio (also known as “Spexx”), 29, both of whom are citizens of Mexico illegally residing in Kansas City, Mo., were found guilty at trial on Dec. 16, 2022, of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping resulting in death. Osorio was also found guilty of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Bravo-Lopez was also found guilty of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported in 2016. Sentencing hearings have not yet been scheduled for Bravo-Lopez and Osorio.

Evidence introduced during the trial indicated that Bravo-Lopez and Osorio conspired to kidnap Cristian Escutia in an attempt to rob him of money. They transported Escutia across state lines from Missouri to Kansas before fatally shooting him on April 3, 2017.

Bravo-Lopez and Osorio arranged to purchase $300 of marijuana from Escutia as a ruse to lure him into their kidnapping plan. On April 3, 2017, Sosa-Perea drove Bravo-Lopez and Osorio in his girlfriend’s car, a Chrysler Pacifica, to Escutia’s residence. When Escutia came out of his residence and approached the vehicle, Bravo-Lopez and Osorio got out of the vehicle and confronted him. Escutia was forced into their vehicle at gunpoint. Sosa-Perea, who had remained in the car, drove them away from the scene of the kidnapping. The kidnapping was captured by the video surveillance system outside a nearby residence.

Sosa-Perea drove his co-defendants and the kidnapping victim to the 200 block of Donovan Road in Kansas City, Kan.. They forced Escutia out of the vehicle. Escutia was shot three times in the head and left to die on the side of the road. Sosa-Perea then drove himself, Bravo-Lopez, and Osorio back into Missouri from Kansas.

Osorio, who is in the United States unlawfully, was in possession of an Action Arms Uzi .45-caliber semi-automatic pistol when he was arrested on April 7, 2017.

Under federal statutes, Bravo-Lopez and Osorio each are subject to a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1671644570715.png" alt="Cristian Escutia-photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Cristian Escutia-photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a kidnapping conspiracy that resulted in the victim’s murder in Kansas.Marco A. Sosa-Perea, 27, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 10 years in federal prison without parole, according to the. United State's Attorney.On Jan. 4, 2022, Sosa-Perea pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Co-defendants Jonathan M. Bravo-Lopez (also known as “Jonathan Vravo,” and “Shadow”), 28, and Juan D. Osorio (also known as “Spexx”), 29, both of whom are citizens of Mexico illegally residing in Kansas City, Mo., were found guilty at trial on Dec. 16, 2022, of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping resulting in death. Osorio was also found guilty of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Bravo-Lopez was also found guilty of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported in 2016. Sentencing hearings have not yet been scheduled for Bravo-Lopez and Osorio.Evidence introduced during the trial indicated that Bravo-Lopez and Osorio conspired to kidnap Cristian Escutia in an attempt to rob him of money. They transported Escutia across state lines from Missouri to Kansas before fatally shooting him on April 3, 2017.Bravo-Lopez and Osorio arranged to purchase $300 of marijuana from Escutia as a ruse to lure him into their kidnapping plan. On April 3, 2017, Sosa-Perea drove Bravo-Lopez and Osorio in his girlfriend’s car, a Chrysler Pacifica, to Escutia’s residence. When Escutia came out of his residence and approached the vehicle, Bravo-Lopez and Osorio got out of the vehicle and confronted him. Escutia was forced into their vehicle at gunpoint. Sosa-Perea, who had remained in the car, drove them away from the scene of the kidnapping. The kidnapping was captured by the video surveillance system outside a nearby residence.Sosa-Perea drove his co-defendants and the kidnapping victim to the 200 block of Donovan Road in Kansas City, Kan.. They forced Escutia out of the vehicle. Escutia was shot three times in the head and left to die on the side of the road. Sosa-Perea then drove himself, Bravo-Lopez, and Osorio back into Missouri from Kansas.Osorio, who is in the United States unlawfully, was in possession of an Action Arms Uzi .45-caliber semi-automatic pistol when he was arrested on April 7, 2017.Under federal statutes, Bravo-Lopez and Osorio each are subject to a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

Man sentenced for kidnapping conspiracy that led to Kan. murder 

BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug charges after vehicle crash.

Early Wednesday, a Brown County deputy responded to reported of non-injury accident to the vicinity of 2100 and 240th Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Upon investigation, the deputy arrested the driver and sole occupant 47-year-old Tonya White of Horton on requested charges of Possession of Meth and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675911778190.png" alt="White photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>White photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on drug charges after vehicle crash. Early Wednesday, a Brown County deputy responded to reported of non-injury accident to the vicinity of 2100 and 240th Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.Upon investigation, the deputy arrested the driver and sole occupant 47-year-old Tonya White of Horton on requested charges of Possession of Meth and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Kan. deputy found meth at scene of vehicle crash

Colby Christian Kostelac passed away on 
February 3, 2023.&nbsp; His Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday February 
10, 2023, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas 
City, MO 64111, at 9:30 A.M.&nbsp; Visitation will be at Amos Family Funeral 
Home, 10901 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS&nbsp; 66203 on Thursday February 9, 
2023, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.&nbsp; Colby’s favorite team was the Kansas State 
Wildcats!&nbsp; Dress as you like but K-State attire and the color purple 
would be very appropriate!&nbsp; The Kansas City Chiefs would be a close 
second.

Colby was born May 26, 1999 at Overland 
Park Regional Medical Center to Denise and Chris Kostelac of Shawnee, 
KS. Colby was the middle of three children.&nbsp; He was baptized at Our Lady
 of Perpetual Help.&nbsp; Growing up Colby was close with his older brother 
Avery and younger sister Tasha.&nbsp; There was that one magical year for his
 parents where all three were in the same school building.&nbsp; Like all 
siblings they squabled but Colby was fiercely protective of his family 
and would always look out for them.&nbsp; Tasha has said his protective 
nature is one thing she will miss the most about Colby.&nbsp; Avery mentioned
 their silly, immature and often “inside” jokes as the thing he will 
miss most.

Colby Began his academic career at 
Peppermint Patty’s day care and then Canterbury Preparatory School.&nbsp; 
There his antics led to him becoming lifelong friends with the owners.&nbsp; 
He then attended grade school at Benninghoven Elementary in Shawnee and 
went from there to Trailridge Middle School finally graduating from 
Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in 2017.&nbsp; While at Shawnee Mission
 Northwest, Colby was a member of Marching Band for four years, Swim Team
 for 2 years, a manager for the girls Swim Team, and played tennis for 
one year.&nbsp; One class he particularly enjoyed in high school was 
woodworking, taking those classes several semesters.&nbsp; Colby worked hard 
to prepare for the next step and he was very proud of his acceptance to 
Kansas State University. In the fall of 2017 Colby headed off to 
Manhattan, KS for his next great adventure.

Growing up, to say Colby was a typical 
boy would be a considerable understatement.&nbsp; He excelled in sports but 
often disagreed with the calls of the officials.&nbsp; He played many sports 
but swimming and soccer were his passions. He loved to swim, boat and 
fish.&nbsp; He and his friend Reid could often be found with their lines in 
the water.&nbsp; Fish were rarely in danger, but they would talk for hours 
and hours.&nbsp; This friendship continued to Colby’s last moment on earth as
 Reid joined him at K-State and spent those last watchful hours on 
Friday with our family.

His sophomore year of high school, Colby
 suffered a Sudden Cardiac Arrest.&nbsp; This occurred while swimming in gym 
class.&nbsp; Several things came together that day that helped Colby become 
one of less than 10% of people who survive a Sudden Cardiac Arrest 
outside a hospital.&nbsp; The attention of his teacher, prompt CPR, the 
intervention of the school nurse and school resource officer coupled 
with the close proximity and skill of the first responders overshadowed 
by the Grace of God, resulted in Colby’s resuscitation and recovery.&nbsp; He
 was very grateful for the excellent care he received at Children’s 
Mercy Hospital.&nbsp; It wasn’t long before Colby was back to being Colby.&nbsp; 
However, this incident left him with a greater appreciation for life and
 faith in God.&nbsp; After that, Colby made it a point to wear his cross 
daily.

At Kansas State University Colby found a
 circle of friends that exceeded all expectations. It was reassuring to 
his parents to know he had that camaraderie. Colby had an amazing spirit
 and when he showed up it always seemed the party had started.&nbsp; There 
are so many pictures and videos with the crazy antics of this group.&nbsp; 
Colby was studying Mass Communications with an emphasis in Strategic 
Communications&nbsp;at KSU and hoped to graduate in December of 2023.&nbsp; He was
 a founding father of the Iota Pi chapter of the Alpha Sigma Phi 
fraternity at K-State.&nbsp; Colby put his social skills to work serving as a
 bartender at several establishments in the Aggieville bar district.&nbsp; 
His last job which he truly enjoyed was at the Marriott hotel bar.&nbsp; 
There he engaged in mixology far more complex than the typical pulling 
of a tap or pouring of a shot.

Colby was preceded in death by many that
 he knew and loved; his grandparents, Joe and Betty Kostelac, Soren 
Medley, Richard Schlehuber, his great grandmother, Frieda Birkle, and 
his cousin Abigail Medley.&nbsp; He is survived by his parents Chris and 
Denise Kostelac, his brother Avery,&nbsp;his sister Tasha and his Grandmother
 Betty Medley. There are too many other friends, family, roommates and 
acquaintances to list them all.

Colby was passionate about the topic of 
Sudden Cardiac Arrest and often could be heard encouraging others to 
have more than the standard school sports physical.&nbsp; He knew that each 
year about 7000 young people under the age of 21 die of Sudden Cardiac 
Arrest.&nbsp; Many of those incidents are sports related.&nbsp; His family would 
like Colby to be able to continue that advocacy even after his death.&nbsp; 


Donations are suggested to Heartfeltscreening.org an organization that 
provides low cost cardiac screenings in an attempt to prevent SCA.&nbsp; 
Alternatively, donations may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help 
Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675983126962.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Colby Christian Kostelac passed away on 
February 3, 2023.&nbsp; His Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday February 
10, 2023, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas 
City, MO 64111, at 9:30 A.M.&nbsp; Visitation will be at Amos Family Funeral 
Home, 10901 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS&nbsp; 66203 on Thursday February 9, 
2023, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.&nbsp; Colby’s favorite team was the Kansas State 
Wildcats!&nbsp; Dress as you like but K-State attire and the color purple 
would be very appropriate!&nbsp; The Kansas City Chiefs would be a close 
second.Colby was born May 26, 1999 at Overland 
Park Regional Medical Center to Denise and Chris Kostelac of Shawnee, 
KS. Colby was the middle of three children.&nbsp; He was baptized at Our Lady
 of Perpetual Help.&nbsp; Growing up Colby was close with his older brother 
Avery and younger sister Tasha.&nbsp; There was that one magical year for his
 parents where all three were in the same school building.&nbsp; Like all 
siblings they squabled but Colby was fiercely protective of his family 
and would always look out for them.&nbsp; Tasha has said his protective 
nature is one thing she will miss the most about Colby.&nbsp; Avery mentioned
 their silly, immature and often “inside” jokes as the thing he will 
miss most.Colby Began his academic career at 
Peppermint Patty’s day care and then Canterbury Preparatory School.&nbsp; 
There his antics led to him becoming lifelong friends with the owners.&nbsp; 
He then attended grade school at Benninghoven Elementary in Shawnee and 
went from there to Trailridge Middle School finally graduating from 
Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in 2017.&nbsp; While at Shawnee Mission
 Northwest, Colby was a member of Marching Band for four years, Swim Team
 for 2 years, a manager for the girls Swim Team, and played tennis for 
one year.&nbsp; One class he particularly enjoyed in high school was 
woodworking, taking those classes several semesters.&nbsp; Colby worked hard 
to prepare for the next step and he was very proud of his acceptance to 
Kansas State University. In the fall of 2017 Colby headed off to 
Manhattan, KS for his next great adventure.Growing up, to say Colby was a typical 
boy would be a considerable understatement.&nbsp; He excelled in sports but 
often disagreed with the calls of the officials.&nbsp; He played many sports 
but swimming and soccer were his passions. He loved to swim, boat and 
fish.&nbsp; He and his friend Reid could often be found with their lines in 
the water.&nbsp; Fish were rarely in danger, but they would talk for hours 
and hours.&nbsp; This friendship continued to Colby’s last moment on earth as
 Reid joined him at K-State and spent those last watchful hours on 
Friday with our family.His sophomore year of high school, Colby
 suffered a Sudden Cardiac Arrest.&nbsp; This occurred while swimming in gym 
class.&nbsp; Several things came together that day that helped Colby become 
one of less than 10% of people who survive a Sudden Cardiac Arrest 
outside a hospital.&nbsp; The attention of his teacher, prompt CPR, the 
intervention of the school nurse and school resource officer coupled 
with the close proximity and skill of the first responders overshadowed 
by the Grace of God, resulted in Colby’s resuscitation and recovery.&nbsp; He
 was very grateful for the excellent care he received at Children’s 
Mercy Hospital.&nbsp; It wasn’t long before Colby was back to being Colby.&nbsp; 
However, this incident left him with a greater appreciation for life and
 faith in God.&nbsp; After that, Colby made it a point to wear his cross 
daily.At Kansas State University Colby found a
 circle of friends that exceeded all expectations. It was reassuring to 
his parents to know he had that camaraderie. Colby had an amazing spirit
 and when he showed up it always seemed the party had started.&nbsp; There 
are so many pictures and videos with the crazy antics of this group.&nbsp; 
Colby was studying Mass Communications with an emphasis in Strategic 
Communications&nbsp;at KSU and hoped to graduate in December of 2023.&nbsp; He was
 a founding father of the Iota Pi chapter of the Alpha Sigma Phi 
fraternity at K-State.&nbsp; Colby put his social skills to work serving as a
 bartender at several establishments in the Aggieville bar district.&nbsp; 
His last job which he truly enjoyed was at the Marriott hotel bar.&nbsp; 
There he engaged in mixology far more complex than the typical pulling 
of a tap or pouring of a shot.Colby was preceded in death by many that
 he knew and loved; his grandparents, Joe and Betty Kostelac, Soren 
Medley, Richard Schlehuber, his great grandmother, Frieda Birkle, and 
his cousin Abigail Medley.&nbsp; He is survived by his parents Chris and 
Denise Kostelac, his brother Avery,&nbsp;his sister Tasha and his Grandmother
 Betty Medley. There are too many other friends, family, roommates and 
acquaintances to list them all.Colby was passionate about the topic of 
Sudden Cardiac Arrest and often could be heard encouraging others to 
have more than the standard school sports physical.&nbsp; He knew that each 
year about 7000 young people under the age of 21 die of Sudden Cardiac 
Arrest.&nbsp; Many of those incidents are sports related.&nbsp; His family would 
like Colby to be able to continue that advocacy even after his death.&nbsp; 
Donations are suggested to Heartfeltscreening.org an organization that 
provides low cost cardiac screenings in an attempt to prevent SCA.&nbsp; 
Alternatively, donations may be made to Our Lady of Perpetual Help 
Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64111.

Colby Christian Kostelac

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;

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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676056948778.jpeg" alt="Carlos Eugene Merchant Third, Outside warrant, arrested 2/9" />
 <figcaption>Carlos Eugene Merchant Third, Outside warrant, arrested 2/9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676057069250.jpeg" alt="Matthew June Young Keen, Criminal trespass, arrested 2/9" />
 <figcaption>Matthew June Young Keen, Criminal trespass, arrested 2/9</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676057102616.jpeg" alt="Charmayne Nichelle Jackson, Failure to appear; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Possession of marijuana; Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; arrested 2/9 " />
 <figcaption>Charmayne Nichelle Jackson, Failure to appear; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Possession of marijuana; Possession of controlled substance; unknown substance; Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; arrested 2/9 </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676057307760.jpeg" alt="Tailon L Engram, Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/ dangerous weapon, arrested 2/9 " />
 <figcaption>Tailon L Engram, Aggravated Robbery; Armed w/ dangerous weapon, arrested 2/9 </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676057436363.jpeg" alt="Cassandra Elizabeth Ann Crowley-Williams, Outside warrant, arrested 2/9" />
 <figcaption>Cassandra Elizabeth Ann Crowley-Williams, Outside warrant, arrested 2/9</figcaption>
 </figure>

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 9

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for assistance in locating 54-year-old Patrick Paul Woodcox.

He is wanted for a Saline County District Court felony arrest warrant on charges&nbsp; of Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Battery, according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. He had a previous conviction for aggravated robbery in Lyon County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

 Woodcox was last known to live in the Abilene area. He is described as 5-foot- 10, 230 pounds with green eyes and brown hair.

The sheriff's department warned the public not to not attempt to apprehend him. 

If you know his location in Abilene or Dickinson County, contact the Abilene Police Department at 785-263-1213 or the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office at 785-263-4081.  If outside of Dickinson County, please call the Salina Police Department Dispatch at 785-826-7210, the Saline County Sheriff's Office at 785-826-6500 or Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or TEXT SATIPS to CRIMES (274637). 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675961380237.png" alt="Woodcox-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Woodcox-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for assistance in locating 54-year-old Patrick Paul Woodcox.He is wanted for a Saline County District Court felony arrest warrant on charges&nbsp; of Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Battery, according to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. He had a previous conviction for aggravated robbery in Lyon County, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. Woodcox was last known to live in the Abilene area. He is described as 5-foot- 10, 230 pounds with green eyes and brown hair.The sheriff's department warned the public not to not attempt to apprehend him. If you know his location in Abilene or Dickinson County, contact the Abilene Police Department at 785-263-1213 or the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office at 785-263-4081. If outside of Dickinson County, please call the Salina Police Department Dispatch at 785-826-7210, the Saline County Sheriff's Office at 785-826-6500 or Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS or TEXT SATIPS to CRIMES (274637).

Sheriff asks for help to located wanted Kan. robbery suspect

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an alleged arson fire at Manhattan High School have made an arrest.

Just after 10a.m. Thursday, police arrested 16-year-old Jason Lucas of Manhattan&nbsp;in the 2300 block of Oak Street&nbsp; after he was found in his vehicle in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

In addition to the drug allegations, police arrested Lucas on requested charges of aggravated arson in connection to a November 28,&nbsp; incident at Manhattan High School in the&nbsp;2100 block of Poyntz Avenue.&nbsp; It was reported he set a bathroom soap dispenser on fire during school hours.&nbsp;A teacher with a fire extinguisher  quickly put the fire out.  

Lucas was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility in Junction City on the requested arson charge and&nbsp; for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of an electronic cigarette by a minor.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an alleged arson fire at Manhattan High School have made an arrest.Just after 10a.m. Thursday, police arrested 16-year-old Jason Lucas of Manhattan&nbsp;in the 2300 block of Oak Street&nbsp; after he was found in his vehicle in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.In addition to the drug allegations, police arrested Lucas on requested charges of aggravated arson in connection to a November 28,&nbsp; incident at Manhattan High School in the&nbsp;2100 block of Poyntz Avenue.&nbsp; It was reported he set a bathroom soap dispenser on fire during school hours.&nbsp;A teacher with a fire extinguisher quickly put the fire out. Lucas was transported to the North Central Kansas Regional Juvenile Detention Facility in Junction City on the requested arson charge and&nbsp; for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of an electronic cigarette by a minor.----------

Police make arrest for arson fire in bathroom at Manhattan High

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged identity theft and have a suspect in custody.

On January 31, 2023, the First Baptist Church, 1005 North 11th, in Garden City contacted police about an individual who had been using the church’s debit card, and the church was missing approximately $100,000.00. 

During the investigation, police identified 36-year-old Manuel Terrazas&nbsp; of Garden City as the suspect.

On Tuesday, police arrested Terrazas at the Finney County Law Enforcement Center and he is being held on requested charges that include 162 counts of Criminal Use of a Financial Card and 162 counts of Theft.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675895574967.png" alt="Terrazas-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Terrazas-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged identity theft and have a suspect in custody.On January 31, 2023, the First Baptist Church, 1005 North 11th, in Garden City contacted police about an individual who had been using the church’s debit card, and the church was missing approximately $100,000.00. During the investigation, police identified 36-year-old Manuel Terrazas&nbsp; of Garden City as the suspect.On Tuesday, police arrested Terrazas at the Finney County Law Enforcement Center and he is being held on requested charges that include 162 counts of Criminal Use of a Financial Card and 162 counts of Theft.

Police: Kansas church lost $100,000 in debit card fraud

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged threat at a southwest Kansas school.

On Wednesday, an upset parent made a call to Sunnyside Elementary, 511, Sunnyside Avenue in Dodge City, and threatened to blow up the school, according to a media release from police.

The parent arrived at the school shortly after the call&nbsp;to pick up her children and police were notified.&nbsp;&nbsp;When officers arrived, they contacted a 31-year old woman from Dodge City in the building entryway. 

Due to security measures at the school, she only entered the entry doors and not the locked interior doors.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Officers arrested her immediately without incident. They found no explosive materials. 

She was booked into the Ford County Jail on a requested felony charge of criminal threat and the case will be forwarded to the Ford County Attorney's office. Police did not release her name.

FORD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged threat at a southwest Kansas school.On Wednesday, an upset parent made a call to Sunnyside Elementary, 511, Sunnyside Avenue in Dodge City, and threatened to blow up the school, according to a media release from police.The parent arrived at the school shortly after the call&nbsp;to pick up her children and police were notified.&nbsp;&nbsp;When officers arrived, they contacted a 31-year old woman from Dodge City in the building entryway. Due to security measures at the school, she only entered the entry doors and not the locked interior doors.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officers arrested her immediately without incident. They found no explosive materials. She was booked into the Ford County Jail on a requested felony charge of criminal threat and the case will be forwarded to the Ford County Attorney's office. Police did not release her name.

Police: SW Kan. woman threatened to blow up elementary school

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp;are investigating a fight on Monday that led to the the death of an 18-year-old in Leavenworth as a homicide.

According to Leavenworth Police, the fight happened in the 600 block of Shawnee Street after a basketball game between Eric Miller and a 19-year-old suspect. Police responded to report of the disturbance and found the teen with critical injuries. EMS transported him to an area hospital where he died.

On their social media page, the Leavenworth Football Booster Club shared their grief over Miller's death on Tuesday evening. He was a member of the Leavenworth High School football team. 

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp;are investigating a fight on Monday that led to the the death of an 18-year-old in Leavenworth as a homicide.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLeavenworthFootballBoosterClub%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0JxXRkDNSXDCc6nRVWRiEsci2aTnT36GcjhEiv78PgCCAX21K8G5AXGds4CnHc6ngl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="653" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>According to Leavenworth Police, the fight happened in the 600 block of Shawnee Street after a basketball game between Eric Miller and a 19-year-old suspect. Police responded to report of the disturbance and found the teen with critical injuries. EMS transported him to an area hospital where he died.On their social media page, the Leavenworth Football Booster Club shared their grief over Miller's death on Tuesday evening. He was a member of the Leavenworth High School football team. Police have not reported an arrest.

Homicide: Kan. high school football player dead after fight

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The rape case against a former Hutchinson police officer will have its pretrial hearing in April.

Following a Wednesday status conference, Judge Daniel Gilligan set the pretrial hearing for Todd W. Allen for April 10 at 8:30 a.m.

The formal charges filed against Allen include 17 felonies and seven misdemeanors.&nbsp;

Allen was arrested August 17&nbsp;and is charged with two counts of rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;

The charges also include three counts of attempted rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery, two more counts of aggravated sexual battery, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of kidnapping and two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;

The two counts of rape are level one person felonies.&nbsp; Allen also faces five counts of breach of privacy and two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery. &nbsp;He is currently free on a $250,000 bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1660773528862.png" alt="Allen remains free on a $250,000 bond-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Allen remains free on a $250,000 bond-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The rape case against a former Hutchinson police officer will have its pretrial hearing in April.Following a Wednesday status conference, Judge Daniel Gilligan set the pretrial hearing for Todd W. Allen for April 10 at 8:30 a.m.The formal charges filed against Allen include 17 felonies and seven misdemeanors.&nbsp;Allen was arrested August 17&nbsp;and is charged with two counts of rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;The charges also include three counts of attempted rape or alternative counts of aggravated sexual battery, two more counts of aggravated sexual battery, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, two counts of kidnapping and two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery. &nbsp;The two counts of rape are level one person felonies.&nbsp; Allen also faces five counts of breach of privacy and two misdemeanor counts of sexual battery. &nbsp;He is currently free on a $250,000 bond.&nbsp;

Preliminary hearing set for ex Kan. cop charged with rape

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged theft and forgery.

On February 3, police began an investigation that focused on the unlawful use of a donation that was intended for the Salvation Army, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

 This donation was made with gift cards which were used in transactions at an Atchison business on various dates in December.

On Tuesday, police arrested Pamela S. Bilderback, 39, Atchison, on requested charges that include theft by deception, forgery, criminal use of a financial card, and unlawful computer acts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675874175185.png" alt="Bilderback-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Bilderback-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged theft and forgery.On February 3, police began an investigation that focused on the unlawful use of a donation that was intended for the Salvation Army, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson. This donation was made with gift cards which were used in transactions at an Atchison business on various dates in December.On Tuesday, police arrested Pamela S. Bilderback, 39, Atchison, on requested charges that include theft by deception, forgery, criminal use of a financial card, and unlawful computer acts.

Police: Kan. woman used gift cards donated to Salvation Army

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities took three suspects into custody after a car struck a deputy's vehicle who was involved in an earlier traffic stop.

Just after 8p.m. Sunday,&nbsp;Corporal Roger Wilt with the Cowley County Sheriff’s Office was on a traffic stop in the 26,000 block of 85th Road, according to Sheriff Dave Faletti.

Wilt’s patrol vehicle had the rear emergency lights activated for other drivers on the roadway and was standing outside of his patrol vehicle speaking with the driver of the stopped vehicle when he saw a Red Saturn Vue approaching the area. 

The Saturn failed to slow down, struck his patrol vehicle, and continued southbound toward 71st Road at a high rate of speed. Wilt pursued the Saturn driven by&nbsp;Kenneth Raye Corcran, 20 of Arkansas City.

As the Saturn approached 71s Road, Corcran appeared to lose control of the vehicle. It rolled on its side and came to rest on its wheels. All occupants of the vehicle were removed from the vehicle. Arkansas City Fire and EMS checked all occupants of the car. All refused treatment.

The deputy arrested Corcran on requested charge of Driving while Under the Influence, Flee or attempt to Elude, Criminal Restraint, Duty of Driver to report Accident, No Driver’s License, No Proof of Insurance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and reckless driving.&nbsp;

A passenger, Daniel Laszlo Soproni, age 22 of Arkansas City, Ks. was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; A second Aaron Christian Griffith, 23 of Arkansas City&nbsp; was arrested on a requested charge of Failure to Appear Warrant and a fourth passenger was released at the scene with no charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675724981134.png" alt="Corcran-photo Cowley County" />
 <figcaption>Corcran-photo Cowley County</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities took three suspects into custody after a car struck a deputy's vehicle who was involved in an earlier traffic stop.Just after 8p.m. Sunday,&nbsp;Corporal Roger Wilt with the Cowley County Sheriff’s Office was on a traffic stop in the 26,000 block of 85th Road, according to Sheriff Dave Faletti.Wilt’s patrol vehicle had the rear emergency lights activated for other drivers on the roadway and was standing outside of his patrol vehicle speaking with the driver of the stopped vehicle when he saw a Red Saturn Vue approaching the area. The Saturn failed to slow down, struck his patrol vehicle, and continued southbound toward 71st Road at a high rate of speed. Wilt pursued the Saturn driven by&nbsp;Kenneth Raye Corcran, 20 of Arkansas City.As the Saturn approached 71s Road, Corcran appeared to lose control of the vehicle. It rolled on its side and came to rest on its wheels. All occupants of the vehicle were removed from the vehicle. Arkansas City Fire and EMS checked all occupants of the car. All refused treatment.The deputy arrested Corcran on requested charge of Driving while Under the Influence, Flee or attempt to Elude, Criminal Restraint, Duty of Driver to report Accident, No Driver’s License, No Proof of Insurance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and reckless driving.&nbsp;A passenger, Daniel Laszlo Soproni, age 22 of Arkansas City, Ks. was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.&nbsp; A second Aaron Christian Griffith, 23 of Arkansas City&nbsp; was arrested on a requested charge of Failure to Appear Warrant and a fourth passenger was released at the scene with no charges.

SUV struck Kan. deputy's patrol vehicle on a traffic stop

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an abduction have made an arrest.

Just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the 1200 block of E. Mt. Vernon in Wichita for a disturbance, abduction call, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo. 

A witnesses reported seeing two men arguing with a woman and forcibly placing her inside a vehicle and leaving the area.

Officers immediately began checking the area for the vehicle, and with the information provided by one of the witnesses following Atkinson’s vehicle, officers were able to locate the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but a suspect later identified as 26-year-old Daivon Atkinson refused to stop, and a chase ensued.

Officers were able to stop Atkinson’s vehicle after a brief pursuit at the intersection of 10th Street North and Madison.&nbsp; The officers arrested Atkinson after a foot pursuit.

The investigation revealed that Atkinson confronted his girlfriend, the 33-year-old victim, over an unknown circumstance. Atkinson told the victim to get in the car, and she refused. Atkinson and an acquaintance of the victim grabbed her and placed her inside the vehicle before fleeing the area.

This case would not have been solved so quickly without our officers’ and DIVERT officer’s quick response and help from the witnesses. Atkinson was booked on requested traffic charges and a requested aggravated assault charge not related to the initial disturbance, according to Rebolledo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675860596880.png" alt="ATKINSON-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>ATKINSON-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an abduction have made an arrest.Just after 12:30p.m. Tuesday, police responded to the 1200 block of E. Mt. Vernon in Wichita for a disturbance, abduction call, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo. A witnesses reported seeing two men arguing with a woman and forcibly placing her inside a vehicle and leaving the area.Officers immediately began checking the area for the vehicle, and with the information provided by one of the witnesses following Atkinson’s vehicle, officers were able to locate the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but a suspect later identified as 26-year-old Daivon Atkinson refused to stop, and a chase ensued.Officers were able to stop Atkinson’s vehicle after a brief pursuit at the intersection of 10th Street North and Madison.&nbsp; The officers arrested Atkinson after a foot pursuit.The investigation revealed that Atkinson confronted his girlfriend, the 33-year-old victim, over an unknown circumstance. Atkinson told the victim to get in the car, and she refused. Atkinson and an acquaintance of the victim grabbed her and placed her inside the vehicle before fleeing the area.This case would not have been solved so quickly without our officers’ and DIVERT officer’s quick response and help from the witnesses. Atkinson was booked on requested traffic charges and a requested aggravated assault charge not related to the initial disturbance, according to Rebolledo.

Kansas man accused in girlfriend's abduction 

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

Three Salina residents have been arrested in connection to the shooting death of Dylan Eugene Garman on May 7, in Salina.

The Salina Police Department announced Wednesday that Dalton Levi Palmer, 29; Dakota Wayne Bunting, 24 and Tataum Elois Escamilla, 19, all of Salina, all have been arrested in connection to the shooting death.

At approximately 3:20 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were dispatched to the 400 block of S. College Avenue in Salina for a report of several gunshots in the area. Although they located multiple spent ammunition casings in the street at that location, officers did not find any victims or witnesses at the scene, the department noted in a news release.

That same morning, at 3:23 a.m., officers were dispatched to the emergency department of Salina Regional Health Center, 400 S. Santa Fe Avenue, for the report of two gunshot victims there: an 18-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man. The man, who was pronounced deceased by medical staff, was later identified as Garman.

At 3:34 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were sent to a residence in the 500 block of E. Cloud Street in Salina for the report of a person lying in the front yard who had been shot multiple times. Officers located a 23-year-old man who had multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported by EMS to Salina Regional where he underwent emergency surgery. He later was transferred to a hospital in Wichita, the Salina Police Department noted.

Also on May 7, 2022, police identified Palmer as a person of interest and warned the public that due to Palmer's past criminal behavior, he should be considered armed and dangerous. Palmer was located at a north Salina residence and arrested by agents of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on Jan. 31, the Salina Police Department noted in a news release issued Wednesday afternoon.

Additionally, Escamilla was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Benton County, Ark., on Feb. 1 and Bunting was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Bryant County, Okla., on Monday, according to information provided today by the Salina Police Department.

"The Salina Police Department would like to thank the public, the U.S. Marshals, and Kansas Bureau of Investigation for their assistance with this investigation," the Salina Police Department noted.

Dalton Levi Palmer is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder, Attempted first degree murder and Criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied vehicle

Dakota Wayne Bunting is jailed on requested charges of&nbsp;Voluntary manslaughter, Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and Unlawful possession of marijuana.

Tataum Elois Escamilla is in custody on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder and Attempted first degree murder,

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675262559179.jpeg" alt="Dalton Levi Palmer -Photo Salina Police Department" />
 <figcaption>Dalton Levi Palmer -Photo Salina Police Department</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostThree Salina residents have been arrested in connection to the shooting death of Dylan Eugene Garman on May 7, in Salina.The Salina Police Department announced Wednesday that Dalton Levi Palmer, 29; Dakota Wayne Bunting, 24 and Tataum Elois Escamilla, 19, all of Salina, all have been arrested in connection to the shooting death.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675889245921.png" alt="Dakota Wayne Bunting-photo Salina Police" />
 <figcaption>Dakota Wayne Bunting-photo Salina Police</figcaption>
 </figure>At approximately 3:20 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were dispatched to the 400 block of S. College Avenue in Salina for a report of several gunshots in the area. Although they located multiple spent ammunition casings in the street at that location, officers did not find any victims or witnesses at the scene, the department noted in a news release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675889269229.png" alt="Tataum Elois Escamilla-photo Salina Police" />
 <figcaption>Tataum Elois Escamilla-photo Salina Police</figcaption>
 </figure>That same morning, at 3:23 a.m., officers were dispatched to the emergency department of Salina Regional Health Center, 400 S. Santa Fe Avenue, for the report of two gunshot victims there: an 18-year-old woman and a 25-year-old man. The man, who was pronounced deceased by medical staff, was later identified as Garman.At 3:34 a.m. on May 7, 2022, officers were sent to a residence in the 500 block of E. Cloud Street in Salina for the report of a person lying in the front yard who had been shot multiple times. Officers located a 23-year-old man who had multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported by EMS to Salina Regional where he underwent emergency surgery. He later was transferred to a hospital in Wichita, the Salina Police Department noted.Also on May 7, 2022, police identified Palmer as a person of interest and warned the public that due to Palmer's past criminal behavior, he should be considered armed and dangerous. Palmer was located at a north Salina residence and arrested by agents of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on Jan. 31, the Salina Police Department noted in a news release issued Wednesday afternoon.Additionally, Escamilla was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Benton County, Ark., on Feb. 1 and Bunting was arrested by U.S. Marshals in Bryant County, Okla., on Monday, according to information provided today by the Salina Police Department."The Salina Police Department would like to thank the public, the U.S. Marshals, and Kansas Bureau of Investigation for their assistance with this investigation," the Salina Police Department noted.Dalton Levi Palmer is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder, Attempted first degree murder and Criminal discharge of a firearm at an occupied vehicleDakota Wayne Bunting is jailed on requested charges of&nbsp;Voluntary manslaughter, Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and Unlawful possession of marijuana.Tataum Elois Escamilla is in custody on requested charges of&nbsp;First degree murder and Attempted first degree murder,

3 accused in May shooting death in Salina

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;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676049501319.jpeg" alt="Dana Loroff Gaither, DUI - Liquor/drugs(1st offense) arrested 2/8" />
 <figcaption>Dana Loroff Gaither, DUI - Liquor/drugs(1st offense) arrested 2/8</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676049667491.jpeg" alt="Christopher Lawrence Lapp, Possession of substance in KSA&nbsp;65-4105(g) and KSA 65-4111(c)-(g); 1 prior conviction;&nbsp;Possession of hallucinogenic drug;&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 2/7" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Lawrence Lapp, Possession of substance in KSA&nbsp;65-4105(g) and KSA 65-4111(c)-(g); 1 prior conviction;&nbsp;Possession of hallucinogenic drug;&nbsp;Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Arrested 2/7</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676049986215.jpeg" alt="Dominique Trevonne Patrick,&nbsp;Burglary; Vehicle to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime;&nbsp;Theft&lt;$1,500 Pocket Picking;&nbsp; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; arrested 2/8&nbsp;&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Dominique Trevonne Patrick,&nbsp;Burglary; Vehicle to commit felony, theft or sexually motivated crime;&nbsp;Theft&lt;$1,500 Pocket Picking;&nbsp; Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; arrested 2/8&nbsp;&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676050063502.jpeg" alt="Dquane Tramane Phillips, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/8" />
 <figcaption>Dquane Tramane Phillips, Failure to appear x2; arrested 2/8</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676050105075.jpeg" alt="Jenesis Michelle Rigdon,&nbsp;Burglary; Unknown circumstance; Theft; Pocket Picking; Unknown value; Criminal damage to property; Felony; arrested 2/8 " />
 <figcaption>Jenesis Michelle Rigdon,&nbsp;Burglary; Unknown circumstance; Theft; Pocket Picking; Unknown value; Criminal damage to property; Felony; arrested 2/8 </figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1676050202329.jpeg" alt="Gabriella Victoria Erthal,&nbsp;Possession of substance in KSA 65-4105(g) and KSA 65-4111(c)-(g); 1 prior conviction;&nbsp;Maximum speed limits; arrested 2/7" />
 <figcaption>Gabriella Victoria Erthal,&nbsp;Possession of substance in KSA 65-4105(g) and KSA 65-4111(c)-(g); 1 prior conviction;&nbsp;Maximum speed limits; arrested 2/7</figcaption>
 </figure>

Geary County Booking Photos Feb. 8

RILEY COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in Aggieville have arrested a second suspect.

Just before 2p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 27-year-old Edward Wright of Junction City on a Riley County District Court&nbsp; warrant for first-degree murder and three counts of aggravated assault, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 These charges were brought by the Riley County Attorney's Office for Wright's involvement in the homicide of Joshua Wardi in February 5, 2022.

Just after 3a.m. on February 5, 2022, RCPD officers working in the police substation in Aggieville heard gunshots. The officers immediately responded in the direction of the gunfire that occurred outside a bar near 12th and Moro Street, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.  Officers found a 21-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. They also observed an armed man nearby who ran from the area. Two officers chased the suspect on foot, while the third officer remained with the shooting victim and rendered first-aid.

The victim was later identified as Wardi of Fort Riley. Preliminary information indicated that as the armed suspect fled, he turned the corner onto 12th Street. During the foot chase, one of the RCPD officers fired two rounds at the suspect, striking him in the leg, and causing him to stop part way down the block, between Moro Street and Laramie Street.

Officers secured the handgun and provided medical assistance. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

Wright remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000. 

On Jan. 7, Junction City Police arrested 24-year-old Jordan Prather of Junction City for on a Riley County District Court warrant for the same charges as Wright.&nbsp; Prather also remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644236764866.png" alt="KBI on the scene of the Feb. 2022 investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>KBI on the scene of the Feb. 2022 investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in Aggieville have arrested a second suspect.Just before 2p.m. Tuesday, police arrested 27-year-old Edward Wright of Junction City on a Riley County District Court&nbsp; warrant for first-degree murder and three counts of aggravated assault, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. These charges were brought by the Riley County Attorney's Office for Wright's involvement in the homicide of Joshua Wardi in February 5, 2022.Just after 3a.m. on February 5, 2022, RCPD officers working in the police substation in Aggieville heard gunshots. The officers immediately responded in the direction of the gunfire that occurred outside a bar near 12th and Moro Street, according to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Officers found a 21-year-old man suffering from a gunshot wound. They also observed an armed man nearby who ran from the area. Two officers chased the suspect on foot, while the third officer remained with the shooting victim and rendered first-aid.The victim was later identified as Wardi of Fort Riley. Preliminary information indicated that as the armed suspect fled, he turned the corner onto 12th Street. During the foot chase, one of the RCPD officers fired two rounds at the suspect, striking him in the leg, and causing him to stop part way down the block, between Moro Street and Laramie Street.Officers secured the handgun and provided medical assistance. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.Wright remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673278266130.png" alt="-Prather-photo from a domestic battery arrest in Jan. 2022" />
 <figcaption>-Prather-photo from a domestic battery arrest in Jan. 2022</figcaption>
 </figure>On Jan. 7, Junction City Police arrested 24-year-old Jordan Prather of Junction City for on a Riley County District Court warrant for the same charges as Wright.&nbsp; Prather also remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $500,000.&nbsp;

2nd Junction City man accused of killing in Aggieville

WELLINGTON,
 New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand police said Wednesday they found more 
than 3 tons of cocaine floating in a remote part of the Pacific Ocean 
after it was dropped there by an international drug-smuggling syndicate.

While
 they had yet to make any arrests, police said they had dealt a 
financial blow to everyone from the South American producers of the 
drugs through to the distributors in what was the nation's largest-ever 
drug seizure.

New Zealand Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said 
the cocaine had been dropped at a floating transit point in 81 bales 
before it was intercepted by a navy ship, which was deployed to the area
 last week. The ship then made the six-day trip back to New Zealand, 
where the drugs were being documented and destroyed.

Coster said 
the wholesale value of the 3.5 tons of cocaine was about $316 million and it was likely 
destined for Australia.

“We believe there was enough cocaine to 
service the Australian market for about one year, and this would be more
 than New Zealand would use in 30 years,” Coster said.

He said 
police, customs and the military found the drugs after launching 
Operation Hydros in December in collaboration with international partner
 agencies to identify and monitor the movements of suspicious vessels.

Coster said they were continuing to investigate the case with other international agencies.

Bill
 Perry, the acting comptroller of the New Zealand Customs Service, said 
the haul illustrated the lengths that organized syndicates were going to
 in order to smuggle drugs in the South Pacific.

“We see perhaps 
this is just an indication that the transnational organized crime groups
 are testing the market in different ways, so as agencies, we need to 
collaborate," Perry said.

WELLINGTON,
 New Zealand (AP) — New Zealand police said Wednesday they found more 
than 3 tons of cocaine floating in a remote part of the Pacific Ocean 
after it was dropped there by an international drug-smuggling syndicate.While
 they had yet to make any arrests, police said they had dealt a 
financial blow to everyone from the South American producers of the 
drugs through to the distributors in what was the nation's largest-ever 
drug seizure.New Zealand Police Commissioner Andrew Coster said 
the cocaine had been dropped at a floating transit point in 81 bales 
before it was intercepted by a navy ship, which was deployed to the area
 last week. The ship then made the six-day trip back to New Zealand, 
where the drugs were being documented and destroyed.Coster said 
the wholesale value of the 3.5 tons of cocaine was about $316 million and it was likely 
destined for Australia.“We believe there was enough cocaine to 
service the Australian market for about one year, and this would be more
 than New Zealand would use in 30 years,” Coster said.He said 
police, customs and the military found the drugs after launching 
Operation Hydros in December in collaboration with international partner
 agencies to identify and monitor the movements of suspicious vessels.Coster said they were continuing to investigate the case with other international agencies.Bill
 Perry, the acting comptroller of the New Zealand Customs Service, said 
the haul illustrated the lengths that organized syndicates were going to
 in order to smuggle drugs in the South Pacific.“We see perhaps 
this is just an indication that the transnational organized crime groups
 are testing the market in different ways, so as agencies, we need to 
collaborate," Perry said.

New Zealand police find 3.5 tons of cocaine floating in Pacific Ocean

BONNE TERRE, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend and her three young children was executed Tuesday despite his claims that he was in another state when the killings occurred.

Raheem Taylor, 58, was the third Missouri inmate put to death since November at the state prison in Bonne Terre. It was the nation’s fifth execution this year, following a previous execution in Missouri, two in Texas and one in Oklahoma. All were by lethal injection.

Taylor kicked his feet as the 5 grams of pentobarbital were administered, then took five or six deep breaths before all movement stopped. In a final statement, Taylor said Muslims don’t die but “live eternally in the hearts of our family and friends.”

“Death is not your enemy, it is your destiny. Look forward to meeting it. Peace!” he wrote in the statement.

Taylor, who previously went by the first name Leonard, long maintained that he was in California when Angela Rowe, her 10-year-old daughter Alexus Conley, 6-year-old daughter AcQreya Conley, and 5-year-old son Tyrese Conley were killed in 2004. His supporters included the national NAACP, nearly three dozen civil rights and religious groups and the Midwest Innocence Project.

But Taylor’s innocence claims were turned aside time and again. St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell, a Democrat, last week declined Taylor’s request for a hearing before a judge, stating the “facts are not there to support a credible case of innocence.”

Republican Gov. Mike Parson declined to grant clemency on Monday, the same day the Missouri Supreme Court denied a stay request. Earlier Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene.

There was no question that Taylor was not in Missouri when the bodies were found. What isn’t known for certain is when the family was killed.

Taylor and Rowe lived with the children at a home in the St. Louis suburb of Jennings. Taylor boarded a flight to California on Nov. 26, 2004.

On Dec. 3, 2004, police were sent to the home in Jennings after worried relatives said they hadn’t heard from Rowe. Officers found the bodies of Rowe and her children. All four had been shot.

The initial finding by a medical examiner was that the killings likely happened within a few days of the discovery of the bodies — when Taylor was in California. But at Taylor’s trial, Medical Examiner Phillip Burch said the killings could have happened two or three weeks before the discovery of the bodies.

Taylor’s attorney, Kent Gipson, said that several people, including relatives of Rowe and a neighbor, saw Rowe alive in the days after Taylor left St. Louis. Meanwhile, Taylor’s daughter in California, Deja Taylor, claimed in a court filing that she and her father called Angela Rowe and one of the children during his visit. The court filing said Deja Taylor’s mother and sister corroborated her story.

Bob McCulloch, who was St. Louis County’s elected prosecutor at the time of the killings, said Taylor’s claim of innocence was “nonsense,” and the alibis provided by his daughter and her relatives were “completely made up.”

McCulloch told The Associated Press that evidence suggested Rowe and the kids were killed on the night of Nov. 22 or on Nov. 23, at a time when Taylor was still in St. Louis. He noted that Rowe typically made around 70 outgoing calls or texts each day. Starting Nov. 23, she made none.

Meanwhile, DNA from Rowe’s blood was found on Taylor’s glasses when he was arrested, a relative taking him to the airport saw Taylor toss a gun into the sewer, and Taylor’s brother told police that Taylor admitted to the crime, McCulloch said. Authorities believe Taylor shot Rowe during a violent argument, then killed the children because they were witnesses.

All three recent Missouri executions involved cases out of St. Louis County. Kevin Johnson was executed in November for killing a police officer in 2005. Amber McLaughlin was put to death Jan. 3 for killing a woman in 2003. It was believed to be the first execution of a transgender woman in the U.S.

BONNE TERRE, Mo. (AP) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to halt the execution of a Missouri man convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend and her three young children nearly two decades ago — apparently clearing the way for the execution to proceed.

Attorney Kent Gipson hds asked the Supreme Court to grant a stay of execution and appoint a special master to review Raheem Taylor’s case, arguing that his client is innocent and that executing him would be a “constitutionally intolerable event.” A similar request to the Missouri Supreme Court was turned aside late Monday and prosecutors have said Taylor's claim of innocence is “nonsense."

Taylor, 58, is scheduled to die Tuesday evening at the state prison in Bonne Terre, Missouri.

Taylor has long maintained that he was in California when Angela Rowe, her 10-year-old daughter Alexus Conley, 6-year-old daughter AcQreya Conley, and 5-year-old son Tyrese Conley were killed in 2004.

A medical examiner initially said the family was likely killed shortly before the bodies were found. At trial, the medical examiner had a different take, saying the family was probably slain much earlier, when Taylor was still in Missouri.

The Midwest Innocence Project, the national NAACP and several Missouri civil rights and religious groups also called for a stay of execution.

Last month, Taylor's attorneys petitioned St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell to ask a judge for a new hearing on the innocence claim, as allowed by a relatively new Missouri law.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-state-government-california-st-louis-crime-f527565eb092ff8f1df97db3f216c37c">Bell declined</a>, finding no "credible case of innocence.” On Monday, he reiterated his belief that the jury “got the verdict right.”

Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homicide-naacp-california-missouri-children-7946cb7e87d468b5df9af935ff34559d">Gov. Mike Parson denied a clemency</a>&nbsp;request on Monday, dismissing Taylor's “self-serving claim of innocence.”

At Taylor’s trial, Medical Examiner Phillip Burch said the killings could have happened two or three weeks before the discovery of the bodies, long before Taylor's trip to California.

But Gipson said that several people, including relatives of Rowe and a neighbor, saw Rowe alive in the days after Taylor left St. Louis. Meanwhile, Taylor’s daughter in California, Deja Taylor, claimed in a court filing that she and her father called Angela Rowe and one of the children during his visit. The court filing said Deja Taylor’s mother and sister corroborated her story.

Meanwhile, DNA from Rowe’s blood was found on Taylor’s glasses when he was arrested and a relative who took him to the airport saw Taylor toss a gun into the sewer, McCulloch said. Authorities believe Taylor shot Rowe during a violent argument, then killed the children because they were witnesses.

The execution would be the third in three months in Missouri.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-executions-st-louis-missouri-7d4caf03a8eec955deb54a4b2f68a50b">Kevin Johnson</a>&nbsp;was executed in November for killing a police officer in 2005.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-capital-punishment-b45a31029fa42d9eb67b5b4e1f6a6ffe">Amber McLaughlin</a>&nbsp;was put to death Jan. 3 for killing a woman in 2003. It was believed to be the first execution of a transgender woman in the U.S.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673437071153.png" alt="Taylor was convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend and her three young children nearly two decades ago-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Taylor was convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend and her three young children nearly two decades ago-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>BONNE TERRE, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend and her three young children was executed Tuesday despite his claims that he was in another state when the killings occurred.Raheem Taylor, 58, was the third Missouri inmate put to death since November at the state prison in Bonne Terre. It was the nation’s fifth execution this year, following a previous execution in Missouri, two in Texas and one in Oklahoma. All were by lethal injection.Taylor kicked his feet as the 5 grams of pentobarbital were administered, then took five or six deep breaths before all movement stopped. In a final statement, Taylor said Muslims don’t die but “live eternally in the hearts of our family and friends.”“Death is not your enemy, it is your destiny. Look forward to meeting it. Peace!” he wrote in the statement.Taylor, who previously went by the first name Leonard, long maintained that he was in California when Angela Rowe, her 10-year-old daughter Alexus Conley, 6-year-old daughter AcQreya Conley, and 5-year-old son Tyrese Conley were killed in 2004. His supporters included the national NAACP, nearly three dozen civil rights and religious groups and the Midwest Innocence Project.But Taylor’s innocence claims were turned aside time and again. St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell, a Democrat, last week declined Taylor’s request for a hearing before a judge, stating the “facts are not there to support a credible case of innocence.”Republican Gov. Mike Parson declined to grant clemency on Monday, the same day the Missouri Supreme Court denied a stay request. Earlier Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene.There was no question that Taylor was not in Missouri when the bodies were found. What isn’t known for certain is when the family was killed.Taylor and Rowe lived with the children at a home in the St. Louis suburb of Jennings. Taylor boarded a flight to California on Nov. 26, 2004.On Dec. 3, 2004, police were sent to the home in Jennings after worried relatives said they hadn’t heard from Rowe. Officers found the bodies of Rowe and her children. All four had been shot.The initial finding by a medical examiner was that the killings likely happened within a few days of the discovery of the bodies — when Taylor was in California. But at Taylor’s trial, Medical Examiner Phillip Burch said the killings could have happened two or three weeks before the discovery of the bodies.Taylor’s attorney, Kent Gipson, said that several people, including relatives of Rowe and a neighbor, saw Rowe alive in the days after Taylor left St. Louis. Meanwhile, Taylor’s daughter in California, Deja Taylor, claimed in a court filing that she and her father called Angela Rowe and one of the children during his visit. The court filing said Deja Taylor’s mother and sister corroborated her story.Bob McCulloch, who was St. Louis County’s elected prosecutor at the time of the killings, said Taylor’s claim of innocence was “nonsense,” and the alibis provided by his daughter and her relatives were “completely made up.”McCulloch told The Associated Press that evidence suggested Rowe and the kids were killed on the night of Nov. 22 or on Nov. 23, at a time when Taylor was still in St. Louis. He noted that Rowe typically made around 70 outgoing calls or texts each day. Starting Nov. 23, she made none.Meanwhile, DNA from Rowe’s blood was found on Taylor’s glasses when he was arrested, a relative taking him to the airport saw Taylor toss a gun into the sewer, and Taylor’s brother told police that Taylor admitted to the crime, McCulloch said. Authorities believe Taylor shot Rowe during a violent argument, then killed the children because they were witnesses.All three recent Missouri executions involved cases out of St. Louis County. Kevin Johnson was executed in November for killing a police officer in 2005. Amber McLaughlin was put to death Jan. 3 for killing a woman in 2003. It was believed to be the first execution of a transgender woman in the U.S.-----------------------BONNE TERRE, Mo. (AP) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday declined to halt the execution of a Missouri man convicted of killing his live-in girlfriend and her three young children nearly two decades ago — apparently clearing the way for the execution to proceed.Attorney Kent Gipson hds asked the Supreme Court to grant a stay of execution and appoint a special master to review Raheem Taylor’s case, arguing that his client is innocent and that executing him would be a “constitutionally intolerable event.” A similar request to the Missouri Supreme Court was turned aside late Monday and prosecutors have said Taylor's claim of innocence is “nonsense."Taylor, 58, is scheduled to die Tuesday evening at the state prison in Bonne Terre, Missouri.Taylor has long maintained that he was in California when Angela Rowe, her 10-year-old daughter Alexus Conley, 6-year-old daughter AcQreya Conley, and 5-year-old son Tyrese Conley were killed in 2004.A medical examiner initially said the family was likely killed shortly before the bodies were found. At trial, the medical examiner had a different take, saying the family was probably slain much earlier, when Taylor was still in Missouri.The Midwest Innocence Project, the national NAACP and several Missouri civil rights and religious groups also called for a stay of execution.Last month, Taylor's attorneys petitioned St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell to ask a judge for a new hearing on the innocence claim, as allowed by a relatively new Missouri law.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-state-government-california-st-louis-crime-f527565eb092ff8f1df97db3f216c37c">Bell declined</a>, finding no "credible case of innocence.” On Monday, he reiterated his belief that the jury “got the verdict right.”Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homicide-naacp-california-missouri-children-7946cb7e87d468b5df9af935ff34559d">Gov. Mike Parson denied a clemency</a>&nbsp;request on Monday, dismissing Taylor's “self-serving claim of innocence.”Taylor and Rowe lived with the children at a home in the St. Louis suburb of Jennings. Taylor boarded a flight to California on Nov. 26, 2004.On Dec. 3, 2004, police were sent to the home in Jennings after worried relatives said they hadn’t heard from Rowe. Officers found the bodies of Rowe and her children. All four had been shot.At Taylor’s trial, Medical Examiner Phillip Burch said the killings could have happened two or three weeks before the discovery of the bodies, long before Taylor's trip to California.But Gipson said that several people, including relatives of Rowe and a neighbor, saw Rowe alive in the days after Taylor left St. Louis. Meanwhile, Taylor’s daughter in California, Deja Taylor, claimed in a court filing that she and her father called Angela Rowe and one of the children during his visit. The court filing said Deja Taylor’s mother and sister corroborated her story.Bob McCulloch, who was St. Louis County’s elected prosecutor at the time of the killings, said Taylor’s claim of innocence was “nonsense,” and the alibis provided by his daughter and her relatives were “completely made up.”McCulloch told The Associated Press that evidence suggested Rowe and the kids were killed on the night of Nov. 22 or on Nov. 23, at a time when Taylor was still in St. Louis. He noted that Rowe typically made around 70 outgoing calls or texts each day. Starting Nov. 23, she made none.Meanwhile, DNA from Rowe’s blood was found on Taylor’s glasses when he was arrested and a relative who took him to the airport saw Taylor toss a gun into the sewer, McCulloch said. Authorities believe Taylor shot Rowe during a violent argument, then killed the children because they were witnesses.The execution would be the third in three months in Missouri.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-executions-st-louis-missouri-7d4caf03a8eec955deb54a4b2f68a50b">Kevin Johnson</a>&nbsp;was executed in November for killing a police officer in 2005.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-legal-proceedings-missouri-st-louis-capital-punishment-b45a31029fa42d9eb67b5b4e1f6a6ffe">Amber McLaughlin</a>&nbsp;was put to death Jan. 3 for killing a woman in 2003. It was believed to be the first execution of a transgender woman in the U.S.

Killer of girlfriend, 3 kids makes statement before execution

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects for multiple allegations involving drugs and guns.

On Feb. 5, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2007 Pontiac G6 driving southbound on U.S. Highway 75 near 126th&nbsp;Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp; 

During the traffic stop the deputy discovered what was believed to be cocaine, methamphetamine, two 9 mm handguns, multiple loaded syringes, marijuana, 50 pills of suboxone and other drug paraphernalia.

The driver, Patricia Nichols, 45, of Wamego, was arrested on requested charges of distribution of stimulant, criminal use of weapons, possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The front seat passenger, Sheila Walker, 46, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, criminal use of weapons, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The back seat passenger, Marques Cates, 27, of El Dorado, was arrested on requested charges of possession of controlled substances and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675781190382.png" alt="Walker-photo Jackson o." />
 <figcaption>Walker-photo Jackson o.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects for multiple allegations involving drugs and guns.On Feb. 5, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2007 Pontiac G6 driving southbound on U.S. Highway 75 near 126th&nbsp;Road, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp; During the traffic stop the deputy discovered what was believed to be cocaine, methamphetamine, two 9 mm handguns, multiple loaded syringes, marijuana, 50 pills of suboxone and other drug paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675781140833.png" alt="Nichols-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Nichols-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, Patricia Nichols, 45, of Wamego, was arrested on requested charges of distribution of stimulant, criminal use of weapons, possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, and possession of drug paraphernalia.The front seat passenger, Sheila Walker, 46, of Topeka, was arrested on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, criminal use of weapons, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675781235463.png" alt="Cates-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Cates-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The back seat passenger, Marques Cates, 27, of El Dorado, was arrested on requested charges of possession of controlled substances and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Wamego woman caught with cocaine, handguns

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a hit-and-run crash.

Just after 8p.m. Feb. 5,&nbsp; Cowley County Emergency Communications dispatched Arkansas City Fire/EMS to a critically injured pedestrian found laying in a ditch in the 31,000 block of 61st Road, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.

&nbsp;Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the area when it was reported that the individual may have been struck by a vehicle. Deputies found vehicle debris and a cell phone on the ground near victim.

Arkansas City Fire/EMS transported the victim to South Central Kansas Medical Center and later Eagle Med transferred the victim to St Francis in Wichita, according to Faletti.

Cowley County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Kevin Horinek checked the area for a vehicle with damage matching the debris and made contact with 49-year-old Brady Pudden, driver of a white Ford F250 with damage to the passenger side of the pickup.

Deputies arrested Pudden on requested charges that included duty of driver involving great bodily harm, Suspended license and expired tag. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675724872988.png" alt="Pudden-photo Cowley County" />
 <figcaption>Pudden-photo Cowley County</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a hit-and-run crash.Just after 8p.m. Feb. 5,&nbsp; Cowley County Emergency Communications dispatched Arkansas City Fire/EMS to a critically injured pedestrian found laying in a ditch in the 31,000 block of 61st Road, according to Cowley County Sheriff Dave Faletti.&nbsp;Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to the area when it was reported that the individual may have been struck by a vehicle. Deputies found vehicle debris and a cell phone on the ground near victim.Arkansas City Fire/EMS transported the victim to South Central Kansas Medical Center and later Eagle Med transferred the victim to St Francis in Wichita, according to Faletti.Cowley County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Kevin Horinek checked the area for a vehicle with damage matching the debris and made contact with 49-year-old Brady Pudden, driver of a white Ford F250 with damage to the passenger side of the pickup.Deputies arrested Pudden on requested charges that included duty of driver involving great bodily harm, Suspended license and expired tag. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Kan. deputies found pedestrian in critical condition on rural road

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a weekend pursuit.

On Sunday, the Brown County Sheriffs office was notified that a vehicle reported stolen from Hiawatha a few days prior was located at a residence in the vicinity of 130th and Falcon on the Kickapoo reservation, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675695840952.png" alt="Morris-photo Brown County" />
 <figcaption>Morris-photo Brown County</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a weekend pursuit.On Sunday, the Brown County Sheriffs office was notified that a vehicle reported stolen from Hiawatha a few days prior was located at a residence in the vicinity of 130th and Falcon on the Kickapoo reservation, according to Sheriff John Merchant.Just after 8 a.m., the vehicle drove away from the residence and failed to yield to deputies and a pursuit ensued.&nbsp; The vehicle pulled in to a field in the vicinity of 220th and Acorn. The driver and sole occupant identified as 26-year-old Tristan Morris of Topeka was arrested without incident on a requested charge of Possession of Meth, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia,&nbsp; Felony Obstruction, Possession of Stolen Property, Flee and Attempt to Elude, Reckless Driving, No Drivers License.&nbsp; Morris also had Felony Warrants in Brown County for Probation Violation and Failure to Appear as well as a Felony Warrant out of Douglas County Nebraska for Failure to Appear. No injuries were reported as a result of the pursuit.