RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged assault on officers.

Just before midnight Friday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault of law enforcement in the 100 block of Bluemont Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Three officers reported a 32-year-old man pulled out a sharp object and threatened them while they were investigating a verbal argument between the man and a woman. 

Police arrested 32-year-old Exzavien Hunter of Manhattan at the scene on requested charges of aggravated assault of LEO and transported to the Pottawatomie County Jail.&nbsp; He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675697001052.png" alt="Hunter from an arrest in Johnson County in April for alleged domestic battery" />
 <figcaption>Hunter from an arrest in Johnson County in April for alleged domestic battery</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged assault on officers.Just before midnight Friday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault of law enforcement in the 100 block of Bluemont Ave. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Three officers reported a 32-year-old man pulled out a sharp object and threatened them while they were investigating a verbal argument between the man and a woman. Police arrested 32-year-old Exzavien Hunter of Manhattan at the scene on requested charges of aggravated assault of LEO and transported to the Pottawatomie County Jail.&nbsp; He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

RCPD: Suspect threatened officers with sharp object

HIGH SPRINGS, Fla. (AP) — Two abducted children who had been missing from Missouri for almost a year were found in a central Florida grocery store with their non-custodial mother, who was taken into police custody, authorities said.

Kristi Gilley was arrested last Wednesday on an out-of-state fugitive warrant. Court records show Gilley, 36, remained in jail on Sunday.

High Springs police officers found Gilley and the two children in a Winn Dixie super market after running a routine vehicle tag check that indicated the vehicle's owner was a fugitive, the High Springs Police Department said in a news release. High Springs is located about 22 miles&nbsp; northwest of Gainesville, Florida.

The children had been missing from Clay County, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas City, since last March.

The High Springs Police Department said the children were turned over to the Florida Department of Children and Families and would be reunited with family members in Missouri.

Gilley's court-appointed lawyer from the local public defender's office didn't respond to an emailed inquiry on Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675638225206.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HIGH SPRINGS, Fla. (AP) — Two abducted children who had been missing from Missouri for almost a year were found in a central Florida grocery store with their non-custodial mother, who was taken into police custody, authorities said.Kristi Gilley was arrested last Wednesday on an out-of-state fugitive warrant. Court records show Gilley, 36, remained in jail on Sunday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675638330811.png" alt="Gilley photo -Alachua County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Gilley photo -Alachua County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>High Springs police officers found Gilley and the two children in a Winn Dixie super market after running a routine vehicle tag check that indicated the vehicle's owner was a fugitive, the High Springs Police Department said in a news release. High Springs is located about 22 miles&nbsp; northwest of Gainesville, Florida.The children had been missing from Clay County, Missouri, a suburb of Kansas City, since last March.The High Springs Police Department said the children were turned over to the Florida Department of Children and Families and would be reunited with family members in Missouri.Gilley's court-appointed lawyer from the local public defender's office didn't respond to an emailed inquiry on Sunday.

2 abducted KC-area children found in a Florida supermarket

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man who admitted his role in a fatal Thanksgiving Day DUI crash is going to prison.

On Feb. 2, a judge sentenced Garrett Meyers, 38, Andover to 200 months in prison, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On Dec. 19, Myers pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and aggravated battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 8p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday Nov. 25, 2021, police responded to report of an accident at 13th and Hillside in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Investigators determined a truck driven by Myers struck an SUV driven by 65-year-old Leroy Grim, of Wichita, who was stopped westbound at the intersection. Grim was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a 67-year-old woman in the SUV to an area hospital. Police arrested Myers.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638389226894.png" alt="Myers-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Myers-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man who admitted his role in a fatal Thanksgiving Day DUI crash is going to prison.On Feb. 2, a judge sentenced Garrett Meyers, 38, Andover to 200 months in prison, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On Dec. 19, Myers pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and aggravated battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 8p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday Nov. 25, 2021, police responded to report of an accident at 13th and Hillside in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.Investigators determined a truck driven by Myers struck an SUV driven by 65-year-old Leroy Grim, of Wichita, who was stopped westbound at the intersection. Grim was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported a 67-year-old woman in the SUV to an area hospital. Police arrested Myers.&nbsp;------------

Kansas man sentenced for fatal Thanksgiving Day DUI crash

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue the search for a Kansas felon who escaped custody after a multi-county chase that started in Saline County.

Just after 11:50 p.m. Dec. 28, a Saline County Sheriff's deputy near the intersection of N. Broadway Boulevard and State Street noticed a 1992 GMC Sierra pickup with an expired license plate, according to Saline County Sheriff's Deputy Jim Hughes. 

The deputy attempted to stop the pickup, but it took off and a pursuit ensued that involved multiple law enforcement agencies, a number of Salina neighborhoods, and four counties.

At one point during the pursuit, the pickup stopped at the intersection of N. Brookville Road and Ottawa Road in northwestern Saline County at the Ottawa County line, and deputies attempted a traffic stop. 

The driver of the pickup, identified as Steven Moss, 37, of Salina, instead allegedly backed the pickup into one of the Saline County Sheriff's Office's patrol SUVs and took off again, Hughes said.

The pursuit continued into parts of Ottawa County and Lincoln County, where Moss allegedly swerved at a Lincoln County Sheriff's patrol vehicle coming from the opposite direction, Hughes said. The pursuit ended near the intersection of Old Highway 40 and 11th Road west of Ellsworth, where Lincoln County Sheriff's personnel and Kansas Highway Patrol troopers were able to apprehend Moss and a passenger in the pickup, Shaylynn Koch, 27, of Salina.

Deputies brought both back to the Saline County Jail, however, Moss was able to slip out of a handcuff and escape from the back of a Saline County Sheriff's vehicle while it was at the sallyport of the jail. 

A foot chase ensued, but Moss was able to elude law enforcement personnel and escaped.

Hughes said that if you know where Moss is or have information about him, you are asked to call Salina/Saline County Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637), or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000 and you are not required to give your name. You also can call 911.

Once Moss is apprehended, he will face requested charges Felony flee and elude, Reckless driving, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, Aggravated escape from custody and a vehicle registration violation, according to Hughes. He has previous convictions for theft, burglary, criminal damagae to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections

Koch was booked into the Saline County Jail for an outstanding warrant from Salina Municipal Court.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672334302050.jpeg" alt="Steven Moss has previous convictions for theft, burglary, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. Photo-Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Steven Moss has previous convictions for theft, burglary, criminal damage to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. Photo-Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue the search for a Kansas felon who escaped custody after a multi-county chase that started in Saline County.Just after 11:50 p.m. Dec. 28, a Saline County Sheriff's deputy near the intersection of N. Broadway Boulevard and State Street noticed a 1992 GMC Sierra pickup with an expired license plate, according to Saline County Sheriff's Deputy Jim Hughes. The deputy attempted to stop the pickup, but it took off and a pursuit ensued that involved multiple law enforcement agencies, a number of Salina neighborhoods, and four counties.At one point during the pursuit, the pickup stopped at the intersection of N. Brookville Road and Ottawa Road in northwestern Saline County at the Ottawa County line, and deputies attempted a traffic stop. The driver of the pickup, identified as Steven Moss, 37, of Salina, instead allegedly backed the pickup into one of the Saline County Sheriff's Office's patrol SUVs and took off again, Hughes said.The pursuit continued into parts of Ottawa County and Lincoln County, where Moss allegedly swerved at a Lincoln County Sheriff's patrol vehicle coming from the opposite direction, Hughes said. The pursuit ended near the intersection of Old Highway 40 and 11th Road west of Ellsworth, where Lincoln County Sheriff's personnel and Kansas Highway Patrol troopers were able to apprehend Moss and a passenger in the pickup, Shaylynn Koch, 27, of Salina.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/12/1672334663170.jpeg" alt="Shaylynn Koch-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Shaylynn Koch-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies brought both back to the Saline County Jail, however, Moss was able to slip out of a handcuff and escape from the back of a Saline County Sheriff's vehicle while it was at the sallyport of the jail. A foot chase ensued, but Moss was able to elude law enforcement personnel and escaped.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584553268286.jpeg" alt="The jail sallyport (large gray door to the left of the sign) can be seen in this Salina Post file photo from 2020." />
 <figcaption>The jail sallyport (large gray door to the left of the sign) can be seen in this Salina Post file photo from 2020.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hughes said that if you know where Moss is or have information about him, you are asked to call Salina/Saline County Crimestoppers at 785-825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637), or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000 and you are not required to give your name. You also can call 911.Once Moss is apprehended, he will face requested charges Felony flee and elude, Reckless driving, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, Aggravated escape from custody and a vehicle registration violation, according to Hughes. He has previous convictions for theft, burglary, criminal damagae to property and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of CorrectionsKoch was booked into the Saline County Jail for an outstanding warrant from Salina Municipal Court.

Search continues for Kansas felon who escaped from arrest

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a cold case murder are asked the public on Friday for help in solving the case.

On July 2, 1977, in the early morning hours, Overland Park Police responded to an anonymous call that a person had been severely injured, and needed assistance in a blue house near 87th and Lowell. 

  Responding officers located 19-year-old Anthony “Tony” Payne inside a residence in the 7900 block of W. 87th Street in critical condition.  Payne was taken to the hospital, but died later that day.

The initial homicide investigation conducted at the time was not able to bring closure to this case.  In the summer of 2021, the Overland Park Police Department re-opened this cold case homicide. 

Advancements in forensic and DNA technology in the years since the homicide prompted detectives to re-open the case, as these technologies were not available to investigators at the time of Payne’s homicide. 

 As part of this process, with the permission of Payne’s relatives, an examination of his remains at his burial location has been conducted. 

 Overland Park Detectives are seeking any new tips or information about this case.  This year will be the 46th anniversary of this unsolved homicide.

  Anyone with information about the homicide of Tony Payne, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 816-474-TIPS.  A reward of up to $2,000.00 is available for information leading to an arrest in this case.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675454710871.png" alt="Payne photo Overland Park Police" />
 <figcaption>Payne photo Overland Park Police</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a cold case murder are asked the public on Friday for help in solving the case.On July 2, 1977, in the early morning hours, Overland Park Police responded to an anonymous call that a person had been severely injured, and needed assistance in a blue house near 87th and Lowell. Responding officers located 19-year-old Anthony “Tony” Payne inside a residence in the 7900 block of W. 87th Street in critical condition. Payne was taken to the hospital, but died later that day.The initial homicide investigation conducted at the time was not able to bring closure to this case. In the summer of 2021, the Overland Park Police Department re-opened this cold case homicide. Advancements in forensic and DNA technology in the years since the homicide prompted detectives to re-open the case, as these technologies were not available to investigators at the time of Payne’s homicide. As part of this process, with the permission of Payne’s relatives, an examination of his remains at his burial location has been conducted. Overland Park Detectives are seeking any new tips or information about this case. This year will be the 46th anniversary of this unsolved homicide. Anyone with information about the homicide of Tony Payne, is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 816-474-TIPS. A reward of up to $2,000.00 is available for information leading to an arrest in this case.&nbsp;

Police: Body exhumed in 46-year-old unsolved Kan. murder

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of an alleged abduction and are asking the public for help to find three children.

According to Junction City Police, on December 21, Jeana Foley abducted her children identified as 6-year-old Rosie Peterson, 5-year-old Camden Peterson and 3-year-old Genevieve Peterson

On Jan. 5, a felony warrant was issued for Foley's arrest. On Wednesday, Junction City police asked the public to call 911 if you have any&nbsp; information to help bring these kids home. Police released no additional details in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673546045642.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their investigation of an alleged abduction and are asking the public for help to find three children.According to Junction City Police, on December 21, Jeana Foley abducted her children identified as 6-year-old Rosie Peterson, 5-year-old Camden Peterson and 3-year-old Genevieve PetersonOn Jan. 5, a felony warrant was issued for Foley's arrest. On Wednesday, Junction City police asked the public to call 911 if you have any&nbsp; information to help bring these kids home. Police released no additional details in the case.

JCPD: Search continues for 3 children abducted by their mother

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes. On Thursday, the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation into child sex crimes, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. They arrested 28-year-old Joshua M. McMahan. McMahan was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of electronic solicitation of a child.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675422967261.png" alt="McMahan-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>McMahan-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes. On Thursday, the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office's Criminal Investigations Division conducted an investigation into child sex crimes, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. They arrested 28-year-old Joshua M. McMahan. McMahan was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of electronic solicitation of a child.&nbsp; The sheriff's office released no additional details.

Investigation leads to arrest of man for alleged child sex crimes

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Recreational marijuana sales in Missouri officially began Friday after the state health department unexpectedly began approving dispensary permits early.

<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/licensed-facilities.php?fbclid=IwAR2sRxxqIkZiVjcOl_8A_jJXKURdGRAt7zpHmjoI88edOK4r5ZiK0BfUbn4">Click here for a </a>list of dispensaries

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/82a662ba82bb4c8c9c858b7565ff7f95">Medical marijuana</a>&nbsp;has been legal in the state since a ballot measure passed in 2018, but voters went a step further this November by approving a constitutional amendment legalizing the drug for anyone 21 or older. The new law made Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">the 21st state to allow recreational use</a>.

Under the amendment, non-medicinal pot use became legal in the state in December. But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-missouri-united-states-government-cd25089a682d05bb1c07ae7c5b83946e">sales were stalled because the health department had until Friday to issue business licenses</a>.

Almost all of the state's medical marijuana dispensaries applied to sell recreational pot, according to Lisa Cox, spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Senior Services.

Of the medical marijuana facilities that applied to sell cannabis recreationally, 335 were approved as of Friday. That includes 207 dispensaries, 72 manufacturers and 56 cultivation facilities, according to the agency.

Close to 200 dispensaries were inspected Friday and given the go-ahead to sell to consumers.

Ryan Herget, CEO of Good Day Farm, said the company expects sales at its 19 Missouri stores, which previously only sold cannabis for medical use, to double or triple. He said the company hired about 200 new employees in anticipation of increased demand.

Adults who want to grow their own cannabis can now apply for a permit through the health department.

If the agency does not approve or deny licenses by Friday, dispensaries that previously only sold medical marijuana will automatically be permitted to sell recreational pot as well.

Missouri's constitutional amendment to legalize recreational pot use also called for the expungement of records of past arrests and convictions for nonviolent marijuana offenses, except for selling to minors or driving under the influence.

More than 5,200 past crimes had been wiped from Missourians’ records as of Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669409427772.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Recreational marijuana sales in Missouri officially began Friday after the state health department unexpectedly began approving dispensary permits early.<a href="https://health.mo.gov/safety/cannabis/licensed-facilities.php?fbclid=IwAR2sRxxqIkZiVjcOl_8A_jJXKURdGRAt7zpHmjoI88edOK4r5ZiK0BfUbn4">Click here for a </a>list of dispensaries<a href="https://apnews.com/article/82a662ba82bb4c8c9c858b7565ff7f95">Medical marijuana</a>&nbsp;has been legal in the state since a ballot measure passed in 2018, but voters went a step further this November by approving a constitutional amendment legalizing the drug for anyone 21 or older. The new law made Missouri&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">the 21st state to allow recreational use</a>.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHealthyLivingMo%2Fposts%2Fpfbid06UtxfvfA78zSR6kMq9psV3aQ9GQJgwn6bNdXhWytknbZbMcL9pn8bcmEDRfsnri1l&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="710" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>Under the amendment, non-medicinal pot use became legal in the state in December. But&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-missouri-united-states-government-cd25089a682d05bb1c07ae7c5b83946e">sales were stalled because the health department had until Friday to issue business licenses</a>.Almost all of the state's medical marijuana dispensaries applied to sell recreational pot, according to Lisa Cox, spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Senior Services.Of the medical marijuana facilities that applied to sell cannabis recreationally, 335 were approved as of Friday. That includes 207 dispensaries, 72 manufacturers and 56 cultivation facilities, according to the agency.Close to 200 dispensaries were inspected Friday and given the go-ahead to sell to consumers.Ryan Herget, CEO of Good Day Farm, said the company expects sales at its 19 Missouri stores, which previously only sold cannabis for medical use, to double or triple. He said the company hired about 200 new employees in anticipation of increased demand.Adults who want to grow their own cannabis can now apply for a permit through the health department.If the agency does not approve or deny licenses by Friday, dispensaries that previously only sold medical marijuana will automatically be permitted to sell recreational pot as well.Missouri's constitutional amendment to legalize recreational pot use also called for the expungement of records of past arrests and convictions for nonviolent marijuana offenses, except for selling to minors or driving under the influence.More than 5,200 past crimes had been wiped from Missourians’ records as of Thursday.

Legal recreational pot sales begin for adults in Missouri 

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery, have made an arrest and are asking the public for help to locate a second suspect. During the investigation of the Jan. 30th weekend robbery, detectives gathered valuable information. The Sheriff’s Office’s Fugitive Warrant Unit located and arrested Michael-Don A. Vincent Sr., 32. Vincent Sr. was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated assault and theft. Another individual involved in this case is still outstanding. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of 24-year-old Stephanie Santana Munoz, 24, to contact police or email Shawnee County Sheriff's office&nbsp;Stephanie.Dicken@snco.us

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675435728112.png" alt="Vincent photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Vincent photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery, have made an arrest and are asking the public for help to locate a second suspect. During the investigation of the Jan. 30th weekend robbery, detectives gathered valuable information. The Sheriff’s Office’s Fugitive Warrant Unit located and arrested Michael-Don A. Vincent Sr., 32. Vincent Sr. was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated assault and theft. Another individual involved in this case is still outstanding. The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of 24-year-old Stephanie Santana Munoz, 24, to contact police or email Shawnee County Sheriff's office&nbsp;Stephanie.Dicken@snco.us

Search underway for suspect in Kansas robbery investigation

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Wednesday, a family contacted the Garden City Police Department and reported their 15-year-old child was involved in a relationship with a 22-year-old man from South Carolina, according to a media release.

Officers were told that the individuals had shared explicit photographs with each other. During the investigation, it was learned that the man, identified as Justin Raines, had traveled to Garden City and was staying at&nbsp; the AmericInn, 3020 E. Kansas Avenue in Garden City. 

Raines had barricaded himself in his room and was making suicidal comments while he was in possession of a knife.

Officers responded to the hotel and attempted to negotiate with Raines.&nbsp; He refused to exit the room and surrender to police. 

After a search warrant was obtained, Raines was arrested and taken into custody. He is being held on requested charges that include 9 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child (Possession)&nbsp; and 9 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child (Transmission).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675394221837.png" alt="Raines-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Raines-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Wednesday, a family contacted the Garden City Police Department and reported their 15-year-old child was involved in a relationship with a 22-year-old man from South Carolina, according to a media release.Officers were told that the individuals had shared explicit photographs with each other. During the investigation, it was learned that the man, identified as Justin Raines, had traveled to Garden City and was staying at&nbsp; the AmericInn, 3020 E. Kansas Avenue in Garden City. Raines had barricaded himself in his room and was making suicidal comments while he was in possession of a knife.Officers responded to the hotel and attempted to negotiate with Raines.&nbsp; He refused to exit the room and surrender to police. After a search warrant was obtained, Raines was arrested and taken into custody. He is being held on requested charges that include 9 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child (Possession)&nbsp; and 9 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child (Transmission).

Man from So. Carolina jailed after trip to meet 15-year-old in SW Kan.

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just after 6a.m. Monday, police officers and the Garden City/Finney County Joint Drug Task Force conducted a traffic stop in the 3700 block of E. Schulman Avenue, according to a media release.

Officers made contact with 25-year-old Jessica Esparza-Gallegos,&nbsp; Garden City and a transient identified as 26-year-old Rodolfo Garcia.

After further investigation, a search of the vehicle was conducted, where suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located. 

Esparza-Gallegos and Garcia were arrested at the scene and are being held on requested charges that include Possession of Methamphetamine w/ Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675182555367.png" alt="Garcia-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Garcia-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.Just after 6a.m. Monday, police officers and the Garden City/Finney County Joint Drug Task Force conducted a traffic stop in the 3700 block of E. Schulman Avenue, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675349098211.png" alt="Esparza-Gallegos-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Esparza-Gallegos-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers made contact with 25-year-old Jessica Esparza-Gallegos,&nbsp; Garden City and a transient identified as 26-year-old Rodolfo Garcia.After further investigation, a search of the vehicle was conducted, where suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located. Esparza-Gallegos and Garcia were arrested at the scene and are being held on requested charges that include Possession of Methamphetamine w/ Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Two accused of attempting to sell meth in southwest Kansas 

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for sex trafficking two 16-year-olds, according to the United State's Attorney.

Antonio B. Flemming, 40,&nbsp; Shawnee, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison without parole and 15 years of supervised release following incarceration. 

He will be required to register as a sex offender after being released from prison. He will also be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which “may” apply for the rest of his life.

In July, Flemming pleaded guilty to two counts of sex trafficking a child. He admitted to recruiting two 16-year-olds from St. Joseph and Kansas City, Missouri, to engage in prostitution during the month of January in 2019.

A Lenexa, Kansas, officer arrested Flemming on Feb. 1, 2019. At that time, he and a woman were leaving a local hotel with one of the victims.

Investigators learned that he and that woman had dropped one of the victims off at the victim’s home around midnight. After that, they drove to St. Joseph to pick up the other victim and meet with a “client” at a hotel in Lenexa.

When the meeting didn’t happen, Flemming and the victim had sex at the hotel instead. They were leaving the hotel when they were stopped by the officer.

Investigators interviewed both victims, who said Flemming had initially recruited them to do “‘massages’ for clients.’” They quickly learned that actually meant having sex with the clients.

One of the victims told investigators she saw clients for Flemming about five to six times a day, three times a week, in January of 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675371987559.png" alt="Flemming from his arrest in Johnson Co. in 2019" />
 <figcaption>Flemming from his arrest in Johnson Co. in 2019</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas man has been sentenced to 13 years in prison for sex trafficking two 16-year-olds, according to the United State's Attorney.Antonio B. Flemming, 40,&nbsp; Shawnee, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison without parole and 15 years of supervised release following incarceration. He will be required to register as a sex offender after being released from prison. He will also be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which “may” apply for the rest of his life.In July, Flemming pleaded guilty to two counts of sex trafficking a child. He admitted to recruiting two 16-year-olds from St. Joseph and Kansas City, Missouri, to engage in prostitution during the month of January in 2019.A Lenexa, Kansas, officer arrested Flemming on Feb. 1, 2019. At that time, he and a woman were leaving a local hotel with one of the victims.Investigators learned that he and that woman had dropped one of the victims off at the victim’s home around midnight. After that, they drove to St. Joseph to pick up the other victim and meet with a “client” at a hotel in Lenexa.When the meeting didn’t happen, Flemming and the victim had sex at the hotel instead. They were leaving the hotel when they were stopped by the officer.Investigators interviewed both victims, who said Flemming had initially recruited them to do “‘massages’ for clients.’” They quickly learned that actually meant having sex with the clients.One of the victims told investigators she saw clients for Flemming about five to six times a day, three times a week, in January of 2019.

Kansas man sentenced for sex trafficking 16-year-olds

BY JUDD WEIL and NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Reno County jury on Thursday found 37-year-old Kyle Hardwick guilty in the August 2021 deaths of 56-year-old Marion “Ed” Bates and 58-year-old Phillip Anstine both of Hutchinson.

Hardwick was convicted of two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree and&nbsp; one count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000, along with one count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000 and a count of solicitation of perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp;

On Sept. 1 of 2021, police arrested Hardwick in Maize after he was listed as a person of interest when authorities discovered the bodies of Bates and Anstine on a property in eastern Reno County.

The state called upon over 45 witnesses to testify in the case, as well as presented over 110 pieces of evidence. &nbsp;

Sentencing is set in the case for April 7. Hardwick remains in jail without bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630432406794.png" alt="Hardwick-photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Hardwick-photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JUDD WEIL and NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — A Reno County jury on Thursday found 37-year-old Kyle Hardwick guilty in the August 2021 deaths of 56-year-old Marion “Ed” Bates and 58-year-old Phillip Anstine both of Hutchinson.Hardwick was convicted of two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree and&nbsp; one count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000, along with one count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000 and a count of solicitation of perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp;On Sept. 1 of 2021, police arrested Hardwick in Maize after he was listed as a person of interest when authorities discovered the bodies of Bates and Anstine on a property in eastern Reno County.The state called upon over 45 witnesses to testify in the case, as well as presented over 110 pieces of evidence. &nbsp;Sentencing is set in the case for April 7. Hardwick remains in jail without bond.

Jury finds Kansas man guilty of double-murder 

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an arrest in Manhattan.

Just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday, a 65-year-old man reported a 41-year-old man stole his 2016 Ford F-250, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Officers quickly found the suspect later identified as Theodore Ayton, Jr., of Manhattan and the truck in the 700 block of Yuma Street in Manhattan.&nbsp; 

When officers attempted to make contact with Ayton, he ran but was taken into custody a short time later in the 700 block of Colorado Street.

Ayon also was found to have a suspended driver's license and was driving the stolen truck to the residence of an individual who had a no contact order issued against him.

Police arrested Ayton on requested charges of theft, interference with law enforcement, violation of a protection order, and driving while suspended. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $10,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an arrest in Manhattan.Just after 7:30p.m. Wednesday, a 65-year-old man reported a 41-year-old man stole his 2016 Ford F-250, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Officers quickly found the suspect later identified as Theodore Ayton, Jr., of Manhattan and the truck in the 700 block of Yuma Street in Manhattan.&nbsp; When officers attempted to make contact with Ayton, he ran but was taken into custody a short time later in the 700 block of Colorado Street.Ayon also was found to have a suspended driver's license and was driving the stolen truck to the residence of an individual who had a no contact order issued against him.Police arrested Ayton on requested charges of theft, interference with law enforcement, violation of a protection order, and driving while suspended. He remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $10,000.

Manhattan man jailed for alleged theft of pickup truck

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an intentionally set house fire that resulted in two people being seriously injured.

Just after 1a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to 214 NE Chandler Street in reference to an unknown individual causing a disturbance outside of the home, according to spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

When officers arrived, they observed a large house fire at 206 NE Chandler Street and requested the response of Topeka Fire crews and American Medical Response.

Fire crews found a man and woman&nbsp;outside the house suffering from serious fire-related injuries, according to Nichols.

While fire crews were performing an offensive fire attack on the house, police located an adult male suspect in the area from the earlier disturbance. 

Police took the suspect identified as Arturo R. Ramirez, 41, Topeka&nbsp; was&nbsp; into custody and transported him to the Law Enforcement Center to be interviewed.

As a result of the investigation, police arrested Ramirez and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Attempted Murder in the 1st degree: Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated Arson: Substantial Risk To Great Bodily Endangerment; Reckless Expose to Danger, Bodily Harm, Violate protection order, Abuse order per KSA 60-3105, 60-3106, 60-3107, Probation County On Felony and Probation Violation County Misdemeanor.

The cause of the fire has been determined by fire investigators as incendiary; intentionally set in connection with a domestic incident, according to the Topeka Fire Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675280599060.png" alt="Ramirez-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Ramirez-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an intentionally set house fire that resulted in two people being seriously injured.Just after 1a.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to 214 NE Chandler Street in reference to an unknown individual causing a disturbance outside of the home, according to spokesperson Rosie Nichols.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675262479413.png" alt="Crews on the scene of the fire-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Crews on the scene of the fire-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>When officers arrived, they observed a large house fire at 206 NE Chandler Street and requested the response of Topeka Fire crews and American Medical Response.Fire crews found a man and woman&nbsp;outside the house suffering from serious fire-related injuries, according to Nichols.While fire crews were performing an offensive fire attack on the house, police located an adult male suspect in the area from the earlier disturbance. Police took the suspect identified as Arturo R. Ramirez, 41, Topeka&nbsp; was&nbsp; into custody and transported him to the Law Enforcement Center to be interviewed.As a result of the investigation, police arrested Ramirez and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Attempted Murder in the 1st degree: Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated Arson: Substantial Risk To Great Bodily Endangerment; Reckless Expose to Danger, Bodily Harm, Violate protection order, Abuse order per KSA 60-3105, 60-3106, 60-3107, Probation County On Felony and Probation Violation County Misdemeanor.The cause of the fire has been determined by fire investigators as incendiary; intentionally set in connection with a domestic incident, according to the Topeka Fire Department.

Suspect accused of setting Kan. house fire that injured two

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft and have made an arrest.

Just after noon Tuesday, a&nbsp;29 year old victim reported the theft of a 1992 Mercury passenger car from a parking lot in the 700 block Kansas Avenue in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

&nbsp;Police recovered the vehicle on Wednesday morning in a parking lot in the 400 block Main Street. They took Leanna M. Michaels, 59, Atchison, into custody on a requested charge of theft of the vehicle.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675273750296.png" alt="Michaels-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Michaels-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a car theft and have made an arrest.Just after noon Tuesday, a&nbsp;29 year old victim reported the theft of a 1992 Mercury passenger car from a parking lot in the 700 block Kansas Avenue in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp;Police recovered the vehicle on Wednesday morning in a parking lot in the 400 block Main Street. They took Leanna M. Michaels, 59, Atchison, into custody on a requested charge of theft of the vehicle.&nbsp;

Police arrest Kansas woman for alleged car theft

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

Just after 12:40 p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 900 block of SE 34th Street in Topeka, according to spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

First responders located a man later identified as 40-year-old Michael R. Comp suffering from life-threatening injuries believed to be associated with the shooting. 

American Medical Response (AMR) and the Topeka Fire Department (TFD) responded to the scene. A short time later, and Comp was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene.

Late Tuesday night, police reported the arrest of&nbsp; 47-year-old Wesley Tyrone Rayton of Topeka. He is being held on requested charges of first degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal discharge of a deadly weapon, according to Lt. Michael Hren.

This incident is being investigated as an isolated event, and is not believed to be connected to prior homicide investigations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675206373661.png" alt="First responders at the scene on Tuesday-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene on Tuesday-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a homicide at a home in Topeka have made an arrest.Just after 12:40 p.m. Tuesday, police were dispatched to a shooting in the 900 block of SE 34th Street in Topeka, according to spokesperson Rosie Nichols.First responders located a man later identified as 40-year-old Michael R. Comp suffering from life-threatening injuries believed to be associated with the shooting. American Medical Response (AMR) and the Topeka Fire Department (TFD) responded to the scene. A short time later, and Comp was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675251943235.png" alt="Rayton-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Rayton-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>Late Tuesday night, police reported the arrest of&nbsp; 47-year-old Wesley Tyrone Rayton of Topeka. He is being held on requested charges of first degree murder, aggravated assault and criminal discharge of a deadly weapon, according to Lt. Michael Hren.This incident is being investigated as an isolated event, and is not believed to be connected to prior homicide investigations.

Police ID man who died in shooting at Kansas home

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a theft of guns in Riley County have made an arrest.

On Tuesday, police arrested 24-year-old Kansas inmate Brandon Welty, of Manhattan after he was transported from the Lansing Correction Facility to the Riley County Jail on a Riley County District Court warrant for burglary and three counts of theft, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The warrant stems from a February 23, 2022, incident in the 11900 block of Crooked Creek Road where it was reported 13 guns and other miscellaneous items were stolen from a home. 

A 39-year-old man and a 51-year-old man were listed as the victims in the case. Welty remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $25,000. Welty has previous convictions in 2020 for obstruction and marijuana possession, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1675264812204.png" alt="Welty has previous convictions for obstruction and marijuana possession, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Welty has previous convictions for obstruction and marijuana possession, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a theft of guns in Riley County have made an arrest.On Tuesday, police arrested 24-year-old Kansas inmate Brandon Welty, of Manhattan after he was transported from the Lansing Correction Facility to the Riley County Jail on a Riley County District Court warrant for burglary and three counts of theft, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The warrant stems from a February 23, 2022, incident in the 11900 block of Crooked Creek Road where it was reported 13 guns and other miscellaneous items were stolen from a home. A 39-year-old man and a 51-year-old man were listed as the victims in the case. Welty remains confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $25,000. Welty has previous convictions in 2020 for obstruction and marijuana possession, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Kansas inmate accused of theft of guns in Riley County

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been charged in an assault of a police officer after the defendant caused the officer to fall down stairs and break an ankle, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Twann J. McGill Jr. 42,, faces Assault 2nd Degree and Resisting Arrest.

According to court records, Raytown police were dispatched on a reported domestic disturbance in an apartment on Raytown Road. Upon arrival police heard a man yell, "'I'm going to beat your ass again." 

Officers knocked on the door and announced their presence. The defendant cracked the door open and told the police officer to go away. 

Other officers arrived after the defendant continued to refuse to open the door. They took the defendant into custody and were walking him down stairs in the apartment complex when the defendant lunged and pushed into the officer, causing the officer to fall down the stairs and break his ankle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674915210555.png" alt="McGill-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>McGill-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man has been charged in an assault of a police officer after the defendant caused the officer to fall down stairs and break an ankle, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Twann J. McGill Jr. 42,, faces Assault 2nd Degree and Resisting Arrest.According to court records, Raytown police were dispatched on a reported domestic disturbance in an apartment on Raytown Road. Upon arrival police heard a man yell, "'I'm going to beat your ass again." Officers knocked on the door and announced their presence. The defendant cracked the door open and told the police officer to go away. Other officers arrived after the defendant continued to refuse to open the door. They took the defendant into custody and were walking him down stairs in the apartment complex when the defendant lunged and pushed into the officer, causing the officer to fall down the stairs and break his ankle.

KC man pushed police officer down stairs, broke his ankle

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a meth lab.

On Monday, deputies made an arrest in connection to a search warrant executed on July 16, 2022, in the 800 block of Third Avenue West in Glade, Kansas, according to a media release from the Phillips Co. Sheriff.

During the execution of the search warrant, items were located that indicated they may be components of a methamphetamine lab. Kansas Bureau of Investigation Clandestine Laboratory Response Team responded and collected the items of concern. Those items were transported to the KBI for analysis which revealed they were, as suspected, meth lab components.

On Monday, deputies served an arrest warrant on Jimmie C. Lamb, 40, Glade, and took him into custody without incident.

Lamb was arrested on suspicion of unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, possession of precursors, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 Lamb is being held in the Phillips County jail with a $250,000 bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675194629717.png" alt="-Lamb / Phillips County photo" />
 <figcaption>-Lamb / Phillips County photo</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a meth lab.On Monday, deputies made an arrest in connection to a search warrant executed on July 16, 2022, in the 800 block of Third Avenue West in Glade, Kansas, according to a media release from the Phillips Co. Sheriff.During the execution of the search warrant, items were located that indicated they may be components of a methamphetamine lab. Kansas Bureau of Investigation Clandestine Laboratory Response Team responded and collected the items of concern. Those items were transported to the KBI for analysis which revealed they were, as suspected, meth lab components.On Monday, deputies served an arrest warrant on Jimmie C. Lamb, 40, Glade, and took him into custody without incident.Lamb was arrested on suspicion of unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, possession of precursors, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Lamb is being held in the Phillips County jail with a $250,000 bond.&nbsp;

KBI confirms deputies found a meth lab in northwest Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a homicide at a home in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just before 9:30a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a medical emergency in the 400 Block of SW Tyler Street, according to Lt. Edward Stanley.

First responders found one victim, later identified as 48-year-old Jeremy Neal of Topeka, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

As a result of the investigation, Police arrested Skyler J.M. Wilson, 33, Topeka on requested charges of Murder in the 1st Degree, according to Lt. Stanley.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675030639545.png" alt="Police tape at the scene of the homicide investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police tape at the scene of the homicide investigation-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a homicide at a home in Topeka have made an arrest.Just before 9:30a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to a medical emergency in the 400 Block of SW Tyler Street, according to Lt. Edward Stanley.First responders found one victim, later identified as 48-year-old Jeremy Neal of Topeka, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675175589206.png" alt="Wilson-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Wilson-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result of the investigation, Police arrested Skyler J.M. Wilson, 33, Topeka on requested charges of Murder in the 1st Degree, according to Lt. Stanley.

Police arrest suspect in weekend murder at Kansas home

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal chase and crash and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 5:30 a.m. Saturday, deputies attempted to stop a Hyundia Elantra for alleged traffic infractions on Kellogg Drive, according to Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs. The driver of the vehicle <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20054606">Harry Rediker 22,</a> Wichita,&nbsp; failed to stop and fled from deputies.

The Preliminary Investigation shows Rediker’s vehicle left the roadway at Hoover and Taft and struck a utility pole ending the pursuit.

EMS transported Rediker was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. EMS also transported the passenger in the vehicle identified as 38-year-old Lindsey Garmon of Wellington to a local hospital with serious injuries. Gamon later died at the hospital, according to Gibbs.

<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20054606">Rediker was booked into the </a>Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder in commission of a felony, Interference with law enforcement officer: obstruct felony warrant service, flee and elude, and state parole violation.

He has previous convictions for theft, criminal possession of a weapon and flee or attempt to elude law enforcement had had been reported as absconder on Jan. 9, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. The agency issued a warrant for his arrest on Jan. 28.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1675092662469.png" alt="Rediker has previous convictions for theft, criminal possession of a weapon and flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Rediker has previous convictions for theft, criminal possession of a weapon and flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal chase and crash and have a suspect in custody.Just before 5:30 a.m. Saturday, deputies attempted to stop a Hyundia Elantra for alleged traffic infractions on Kellogg Drive, according to Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs. The driver of the vehicle <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20054606">Harry Rediker 22,</a> Wichita,&nbsp; failed to stop and fled from deputies. The Preliminary Investigation shows Rediker’s vehicle left the roadway at Hoover and Taft and struck a utility pole ending the pursuit.EMS transported Rediker was transported to a local hospital for treatment of minor injuries. EMS also transported the passenger in the vehicle identified as 38-year-old Lindsey Garmon of Wellington to a local hospital with serious injuries. Gamon later died at the hospital, according to Gibbs.<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20054606">Rediker was booked into the </a>Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder in commission of a felony, Interference with law enforcement officer: obstruct felony warrant service, flee and elude, and state parole violation. He has previous convictions for theft, criminal possession of a weapon and flee or attempt to elude law enforcement had had been reported as absconder on Jan. 9, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. The agency issued a warrant for his arrest on Jan. 28.

Wanted Kansas felon jailed after chase, fatal crash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The jury was sworn in and the trial for the State v. Kyle Hardwick officially began in the courtroom of Judge Keith Schroeder on Jan. 25. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Kyle Hardwick, represented by Scott Loftis, an attorney from Ponca City, Oklahoma, is pleading not guilty to the charges of Two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree. &nbsp;&nbsp;

One count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;One count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;Two counts of solicitation perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The charges stem from the murders of Marion “Ed” Bates, 56, Hutchinson, and&nbsp;Phillip Anstine, 58, Hutchinson, in August 2021. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In their opening statement, Loftis presented Hardwick’s defense. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis told the jury that on Aug. 24, 2021, Hardwick had travelled with Phillip Anstine to the “compound.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Described by the state in their opening statement, the "compound" is a property east of Hutchinson, where Marion Bates and Phillip Anstine would frequent. It had various other additions like buildings built on it, a camper, a dried-up pond, and burn pits. The two men would hang out there, shoot firearms, and overall hone their survival techniques. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick did not know Marion Bates, but had a prior association with Phillip Anstine through work that included building houses, akin to Habitat for Humanity. Anstine was said to have overseen much of the work, while Hardwick assisted with installation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick called Anstine a friend and they were said to have a mutual interest in firearms. They were said to be close enough that they would travel to visit each other from time to time, but not frequently. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick’s last visit to see Anstine was said to be because of personal problems in his life. He wanted get out of Kansas City for a while. Hardwick was said to have taken a Greyhound bus from Kansas City, Missouri to Hutchinson, Kansas to visit Anstine.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis told the jury that Anstine had dropped off Hardwick at the compound with a set of keys. Hardwick was said to have permission to drive Anstine’s truck and had those keys as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anstine then returned shortly after with Little Caesar’s pizza and Samuel Adams beer. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“After drinking about half a beer and eating piece of pizza, Kyle starts to feel sick,” Loftis said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick’s symptoms were described as&nbsp;stomach pains, light-headedness, and disorientation. Hardwick was said to have voiced his sudden illness to Anstine, and then went to the camper on the property where he passed out. Hardwick was said to not remember passing out in the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Loftis, Hardwick woke up the next day, still disoriented, face down on a bed in the camper with his pants down, and a pain in his anus. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick is said to surmise he was raped.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon leaving the camper to search for Anstine out of concern, Hardwick returned to the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Anstine is said to have returned to the compound with a shotgun in his hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick is alleged to have tried to tell Anstine of his situation, but became suspicious when Anstine is said to have been dismissive. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis said, when Hardwick then accused Anstine of raping him, Anstine cocked and aimed his shotgun at Hardwick. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardwick is said to have played to Anstine’s paranoia by looking over Anstine’s shoulder, forcing him to turn around. Hardwick was then said to have used this gambit to wrestle the shotgun out of Anstine’s hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Anstine was said to have then pulled a .380 semiautomatic pistol and pointed it at Hardwick, causing Hardwick to fatally shoot him with the shotgun. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Still disoriented from the prior drugging and rape, the defense said that Hardwick then made his way to the pump house, north of the camper, for water. &nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis described to the jury what happened next as, “one of the real tragedies of this case.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

Another man, unknown to Hardwick, appeared and shot at Hardwick. Hardwick shot back with the shotgun he had taken from Anstine, striking the second man. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After a while, determining the man is dead, Hardwick approached the body and searched the man and discovered his identity as Marion Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Loftis said, more than likely Bates was not part of Hardwick’s alleged rape, and only came to aid his friend, Anstine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The state, consisting of District Attorney (DA) Thomas Stanton and Deputy District Attorney Andrew Davidson, called a number of witnesses, including friends of the victims, who corroborated the state’s opening statement that accused Hardwick of killing the pair for different reasons.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Cathy Havel and Marion Bates had been close friends for around 11 years. Havel last spoke to Bates on Aug. 25, 2021, about a COVID-19 test she was going to take. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Bates said he could not talk at that moment, and had something to do at the compound. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Havel never heard back from Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Havel said she texted and called Bates multiple times on Aug. 26, 2021, and that it was unusual for Bates to not answer his phone in a timely manner. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Evidence presented during the trial showed that Havel did try to reach Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Corroborating each other’s&nbsp;testimonies as they took the stand separately, Havel and Dawnita Hartung eventually went to the compound to search for Bates and Anstine. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630432406794.png" alt="Hardwock photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Hardwock photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BY JUDD WEIL and NICK GOSNELL Hutch PostHUTCHINSON, Kan. — The jury was sworn in and the trial for the State v. Kyle Hardwick officially began in the courtroom of Judge Keith Schroeder on Jan. 25. &nbsp;&nbsp;The state called upon over 45 witnesses to testify in the case, as well as presented over 110 pieces of evidence. &nbsp;Kyle Hardwick, represented by Scott Loftis, an attorney from Ponca City, Oklahoma, is pleading not guilty to the charges of Two counts of intentional and premeditated murder in the first degree. &nbsp;&nbsp;One count of theft of property or services, valued at $1,500 to $25,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;One count of theft of property or services of a firearm with a value less than $25,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;Two counts of solicitation perjury; testify to material fact in felony proceeding.&nbsp;&nbsp;The charges stem from the murders of Marion “Ed” Bates, 56, Hutchinson, and&nbsp;Phillip Anstine, 58, Hutchinson, in August 2021. &nbsp;&nbsp;In their opening statement, Loftis presented Hardwick’s defense. &nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis told the jury that on Aug. 24, 2021, Hardwick had travelled with Phillip Anstine to the “compound.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Described by the state in their opening statement, the "compound" is a property east of Hutchinson, where Marion Bates and Phillip Anstine would frequent. It had various other additions like buildings built on it, a camper, a dried-up pond, and burn pits. The two men would hang out there, shoot firearms, and overall hone their survival techniques. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick did not know Marion Bates, but had a prior association with Phillip Anstine through work that included building houses, akin to Habitat for Humanity. Anstine was said to have overseen much of the work, while Hardwick assisted with installation. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick called Anstine a friend and they were said to have a mutual interest in firearms. They were said to be close enough that they would travel to visit each other from time to time, but not frequently. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick’s last visit to see Anstine was said to be because of personal problems in his life. He wanted get out of Kansas City for a while. Hardwick was said to have taken a Greyhound bus from Kansas City, Missouri to Hutchinson, Kansas to visit Anstine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis told the jury that Anstine had dropped off Hardwick at the compound with a set of keys. Hardwick was said to have permission to drive Anstine’s truck and had those keys as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anstine then returned shortly after with Little Caesar’s pizza and Samuel Adams beer. &nbsp;&nbsp;“After drinking about half a beer and eating piece of pizza, Kyle starts to feel sick,” Loftis said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick’s symptoms were described as&nbsp;stomach pains, light-headedness, and disorientation. Hardwick was said to have voiced his sudden illness to Anstine, and then went to the camper on the property where he passed out. Hardwick was said to not remember passing out in the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;According to Loftis, Hardwick woke up the next day, still disoriented, face down on a bed in the camper with his pants down, and a pain in his anus. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick is said to surmise he was raped.&nbsp;&nbsp;Upon leaving the camper to search for Anstine out of concern, Hardwick returned to the camper. &nbsp;&nbsp;Anstine is said to have returned to the compound with a shotgun in his hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick is alleged to have tried to tell Anstine of his situation, but became suspicious when Anstine is said to have been dismissive. &nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis said, when Hardwick then accused Anstine of raping him, Anstine cocked and aimed his shotgun at Hardwick. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hardwick is said to have played to Anstine’s paranoia by looking over Anstine’s shoulder, forcing him to turn around. Hardwick was then said to have used this gambit to wrestle the shotgun out of Anstine’s hands. &nbsp;&nbsp;Anstine was said to have then pulled a .380 semiautomatic pistol and pointed it at Hardwick, causing Hardwick to fatally shoot him with the shotgun. &nbsp;&nbsp;Still disoriented from the prior drugging and rape, the defense said that Hardwick then made his way to the pump house, north of the camper, for water. &nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis described to the jury what happened next as, “one of the real tragedies of this case.” &nbsp;&nbsp;Another man, unknown to Hardwick, appeared and shot at Hardwick. Hardwick shot back with the shotgun he had taken from Anstine, striking the second man. &nbsp;&nbsp;After a while, determining the man is dead, Hardwick approached the body and searched the man and discovered his identity as Marion Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;Loftis said, more than likely Bates was not part of Hardwick’s alleged rape, and only came to aid his friend, Anstine. &nbsp;&nbsp;The state, consisting of District Attorney (DA) Thomas Stanton and Deputy District Attorney Andrew Davidson, called a number of witnesses, including friends of the victims, who corroborated the state’s opening statement that accused Hardwick of killing the pair for different reasons.&nbsp; &nbsp;Cathy Havel and Marion Bates had been close friends for around 11 years. Havel last spoke to Bates on Aug. 25, 2021, about a COVID-19 test she was going to take. &nbsp;&nbsp;Bates said he could not talk at that moment, and had something to do at the compound. &nbsp;&nbsp;Havel never heard back from Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;Havel said she texted and called Bates multiple times on Aug. 26, 2021, and that it was unusual for Bates to not answer his phone in a timely manner. &nbsp;&nbsp;Evidence presented during the trial showed that Havel did try to reach Bates. &nbsp;&nbsp;Corroborating each other’s&nbsp;testimonies as they took the stand separately, Havel and Dawnita Hartung eventually went to the compound to search for Bates and Anstine. &nbsp;&nbsp;They noticed a red Ford pickup truck in the driveway. &nbsp;&nbsp;It was there they met a man, unknown to them,&nbsp;who identified himself as ‘Kyle Birch.’ &nbsp;&nbsp;Havel and Hartung pointed out Kyle Hardwick as the man who identified himself as ‘Kyle Birch.’ &nbsp;&nbsp;As ‘Birch,’ Hardwick told the two women that Bates and Anstine had gone to town to buy cigarettes about 40 minutes prior.&nbsp;&nbsp;The women found this suspicious given how close the nearest gas station was.&nbsp;‘Birch’ had told the women his mother had kicked him out. &nbsp;&nbsp;Hartung during her testimony, said ‘Kyle Birch’ was not someone Bates would hang out with. &nbsp;&nbsp;Later when the women returned to the compound, they found that the red truck, and Hardwick as ‘Birch,’&nbsp;were gone. &nbsp;Havel and Hartung left notes in the driveway for Bates.&nbsp;&nbsp;Joined by Jerry Bastion on Aug. 27, Havel and Hartung searched for Bates on the property. &nbsp;&nbsp;Kenneth Bates, the brother of Marion Bates, who was informed his brother was missing, gave Bastion permission to break into Marion Bates’ garage. &nbsp;&nbsp;There they found Marion Bates unattended vehicle, with his wallet still inside.&nbsp; Shortly after, the authorities were called for a welfare check.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Reno County Sheriff’s Office responded and surveyed the property. Deputies located the body of Marion Bates that day.&nbsp; Bates was discovered in the dried up pond covered by&nbsp;tree limbs. Forensic evidence used to identify him revealed he had not been dead long and that his head was riddled with shotgun pellets. &nbsp;&nbsp;On Aug. 28, at 8 a.m., following the discovery of Bates, a search warrant was obtained for the rest of the property.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Reno County Sheriff’s deputy Matthew Mondragon, three feet from where Bates was found, Anstine was discovered in a burn&nbsp;pit. Most of his body had been incinerated by a fire in the pit. Forensic evidence used to identify Anstine showed he had been shot in the head as well. &nbsp;&nbsp;Mondragon identified other pieces of evidence found on the property, including combustible materials, and items belonging to Hardwick. &nbsp;&nbsp;These items included two debit cards, one with Hardwick’s name, a social security card, also with Hardwick’s name, and a bus ticket with the name ‘Kyle Hardhack.’&nbsp;&nbsp;The defense did not cross-examine many witnesses, but they did Mondragon. Mondragon was asked to recall zip-ties found on the property and if they could be used to restrain somebody, which he confirmed. &nbsp;&nbsp;A drone was deployed by Reno County Sheriff Jeremy VanWey to gather another view of the crime scene.&nbsp;Some of the evidence collected from the scene included .12 gauge shotgun shells, gas cans, campfire fuel, the barrel of a shotgun from the burn pit Anstine was found in,&nbsp;a pair of gloves, two empty bottles of Kentucky Deluxe bourbon, two&nbsp;empty bottles of vodka, a Dollar General receipt,&nbsp;and soil samples with biomaterial.&nbsp;&nbsp;During his testimony, Daniel Nowlan, Reno County Death Investigator, noted for Anstine’s body to burn the way it did, the fire would have to been man-maintained for a time. &nbsp;&nbsp;During cross-examination by the defense, Nowlan did confirm that Phillip Anstine did not die by burning alive, and cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head. The same cause of death determined for Marion Bates. He also said that Hardwick acted in self-defense could not be ruled out. &nbsp;&nbsp;Following Daniel Nowlan, the jury was dismissed for the first day. &nbsp;On day two, Sedgwick County Forensic Center DNA analyst Therese Gibler testified that through her analysis, a sample she tested was almost certainly that of a child of Marion Bates' mother, Betty and a separate sample was almost certainly that of a child of Phillip Anstine's father, Duane. This was intended to establish that the victims were Marion Bates and Phillip Anstine.&nbsp;Sedgwick County Forensic Center's Dr. Scott Kipper performed the autopsies on Bates and Anstine and confirmed that the shotgun wound killed Bates. Anstine's body was significantly burned, but Kipper was still able to determine that a shotgun wound also killed Anstine. Kipper could not rule out the possibility that the shots were in self-defense.&nbsp;Several law enforcement witnesses were then called, including members of the Reno County Sheriff's Office and Maize Police, to establish the security of the crime scene and the circumstances under which Kyle Hardwick was found and arrested in Maize on Sept. 1.&nbsp;The prosecution also attempted to establish through law enforcement testimony that electronic devices, including what they believe to be a cell phone, were found in a fire pit on the property. In addition, they went over the circumstances in which Phillip Anstine's truck was found elsewhere in the county in October.&nbsp;Also, Anstine's friend Paul Jorgenson testified by Zoom from Wyoming to establish that Anstine told him he had both silver and gold on the property at the compound where the murders occurred.&nbsp;The majority of day three of the State v. Kyle Hardwick, saw testimonies from officials with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). &nbsp;During the corroborating testimony of the KBI, regarding the inventory and investigation of the items found in the truck, established to belong to Phillip Anstine, day three saw the most evidence admitted by the state. Including:&nbsp;A Motorola blue cellphone; mesh covering; a beer bottle; two ghillie suits; a red bag containing ammunition; a pellet rifle; a total of six guns between five rifle cases; a camo duffle bag; metal siding that when removed, revealed seven ammunition boxes containing mostly 22 caliber ammunition; .12 gauge ammunition; a metal tool box; a vitamin container labeled ‘char-claw;’ two action cameras; jeep keys; as well as three empty packages of Marlboro Black 100s cigarettes. &nbsp;The same brand of cigarettes had previously been found in the camper located at the compound and the abandoned grain silo where Hardwick was arrested. &nbsp;The inventory of the truck was delivered in testimony by Chris Engle-Tjaden with the KBI.&nbsp;During cross-examination, the defense confirmed the existence of the .380 ammunition. &nbsp;Under defense examination, Engle-Tjaden said the only correlation to the mesh covering, was that it was found in the truck. &nbsp;Forensic testing revealed Hardwick’s DNA was found on a lot of the items. Latent prints belonging to Hardwick were found on a food container and soda bottles. A latent print of Hardwick’s palm was also found on the truck. &nbsp;Day three closed with people known to Hardwick taking the stand, Chase Mattingly and Sherry Reed. &nbsp;During his testimony, Mattingly, the boyfriend of Sherry Reed’s daughter, said he had overheard part of a phone conversation between Hardwick and Reed on Aug. 31,&nbsp;2021. &nbsp;He only understood part of the conversation, and said he had heard Hardwick tell Reed he had messed up. &nbsp;During cross-examination by the defense, Mattingly said he did not know what Hardwick was referring to at the time. &nbsp;The state then called key witness, Sherry Reed. &nbsp;Reed said she has known Hardwick since high school. &nbsp;Reed, of Lawrence, Kansas, said she believed she still has a friendship with Hardwick. Hardwick had previously lived with Reed. &nbsp;Hardwick’s&nbsp;additional count of solicitation to commit perjury stems from&nbsp;a FaceTime call between the defendant and Reed.&nbsp;The FaceTime call had been played in court prior when Hardwick was bound over in June 2022, and was played again on Jan. 27. &nbsp;In the recorded FaceTime conversation, Hardwick repeatedly tells Reed not to show up for the hearing and, if she did testify, to tell the court she was mentally unstable and on drugs. At one time he said, “Please don’t come,” and repeatedly said, “you don’t have to show up.”&nbsp;Hardwick was also noted as telling Reed to “just tell the truth.” &nbsp;<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/07b4a825-c01a-4caf-9b40-ceac29173d6b" target="_blank">Much like her last reported appearance in court,</a> Reed&nbsp;seemed very confused. &nbsp;She could not remember much about phone calls she got from Hardwick or her meetings with the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, nor&nbsp;whether she drove him from Lawrence to a bus station in Kansas City.&nbsp;During her testimony, Reed implied numerous times her confusion with her activities with the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, conversations with Hardwick, and whether she dropped him off at a bus stop were due to her not having her ‘calendar’ or her ‘notes.’ &nbsp;In effort to help Reed remember, courtesy of the state, she was presented with copies of her prior testimony to aid her in current testimony.&nbsp;When asked, after taking a moment to review her prior testimony, Reed said she took Hardwick to a bus station in Kansas City in the morning of August 2021. &nbsp;When asked if she remembered telling the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, she was given $600 out of $1,200 from Hardwick, Reed said she only remembered having $600. &nbsp;Reed said she remembered giving a lot of evidence to the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, including a Dollar General receipt for a cell phone. &nbsp;Despite the aid of having a copy of her prior testimony, Reed’s memory issues persisted. &nbsp;The state and Judge Schroeder suggested Reed retrieve the notes she claimed to have, if they would aid with her testimony. However, Reed said they were in her car. &nbsp;Reed said she knew Hardwick was coming to Hutchinson via bus when she dropped him off in Kansas City. &nbsp;When presented with state evidence of an iPhone, Reed said she remembered providing the phone to the Reno County Sheriff’s Office. &nbsp;The state yielded their time with Reed to cross-examination with the defense. &nbsp;Reed told the defense, she does get a prescription for anxiety, as well as a prescription for Adderall. &nbsp;The first witness of day four of the trial, was Scott Anstine, the brother of Phillip Anstine. &nbsp;Scott Anstine said his brother usually stored his weapons in his house, and never just left them in his truck. He confirmed the firearms found in the truck in prior testimony were his brother’s. &nbsp;Scott Anstine said Phillip Anstine did not store his ammunition on the compound. &nbsp;Scott Anstine told the court, he is the heir to his brother’s estate. &nbsp;According to Scott Anstine, his brother kept his truck clean. &nbsp;During cross-examination and redirection, Scott Anstine did confirm that Phillip Anstine carried a pistol matching the description in the defense’s opening statement. &nbsp;The testimony of Det. Matt Franklin with the Reno County Sheriff’s Office, the lead investigator of the murders of Marion Bates and Phillip Anstine, recalled to the court the events of the case. &nbsp;According to Det. Franklin, no gold or silver had been found on the compound. &nbsp;Only Phillip Anstine will know where the boxes of silver and gold others say he had are buried on the property.&nbsp;During his testimony, it was established via state and defense that Kyle Hardwick and Phillip Anstine had a friendly relationship. &nbsp;Det. Franklin was able to recall that through interviews with Sherry Reed and her submission of case-related items from August 2021 to October 2021, Hardwick was able to be taken into custody. &nbsp;It was also established that it was unclear what started the fire used to burn Anstine’s body. &nbsp;During Sherry Reed’s second testimony during the trial, she told the court she remained in contact with Hardwick post-arrest. &nbsp;Following Det. Franklin's testimony, Reed had a much better memory, and even supplied more intimate details about Hardwick, including his work history.&nbsp;The state rested their case on Jan. 30.&nbsp; The defense will continue presenting its evidence on Tuesday, Jan. 31.