DOUGLAS COUNTY —A man wanted in connection with a quadruple murder in Dayton, Ohio is in custody in Lawrence.

According to police spokesperson Laurie McCabe, just before 9p.m. Saturday, police in Lawrence arrested 39-year-old Stephen Marlow.

Just after noon on Friday, police in the Butler Township area of Dayton, Ohio located multiple crime scenes with a total of four victims suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Butler Township Police Chief John Porter.

 All four victims were pronounced deceased at the scenes by the Butler Township Fire Department.

Police asked for help to locate Marlow described as a white male 5-foot-11, 160 pounds with short brown hair who was last seen wearing shorts and a yellow t-shirt.&nbsp; Police believed he fled the area in a white 2007 Ford Edge SUV bearing Ohio license plate JES9806.

On Saturday night, on duty officers had reason to believe the suspect was in Lawrence, according to McCabe. Patrol supervisors initiated a city-wide search. An on-duty officer observed a vehicle matching the vehicle’s description turn eastbound onto West 23rd from Ousdahl Road and relayed the information. 

As personnel were in route, the vehicle turned into a parking lot off&nbsp;23rd Street, where Marlow exited the vehicle and&nbsp; was safely taken into custody. 

Earlier Saturday, officials identified the victims in Ohio as 82-year-old Clyde Knox, 78-year-old Eva Knox, 41-year-old Sarah Anderson and a 15-year-old girl whose name wasn’t released.&nbsp;

In Ohio on Friday, Marlow was charged with four counts of aggravated murder and, on Saturday, a federal arrest warrant was issued for him after he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.

&nbsp;“Clear multiagency communication on a national and regional level, followed by proactive teamwork by the Lawrence, Kansas police patrol department, and ultimately an alert officer, resulted in Marlow's arrest without incident. We are extremely proud of our officers’ work and thankful for the peaceful outcome,” said McCabe.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659866234713.png" alt="Marlow-photo Montgomery County, Ohio Jail" />
 <figcaption>Marlow-photo Montgomery County, Ohio Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —A man wanted in connection with a quadruple murder in Dayton, Ohio is in custody in Lawrence.According to police spokesperson Laurie McCabe, just before 9p.m. Saturday, police in Lawrence arrested 39-year-old Stephen Marlow.Just after noon on Friday, police in the Butler Township area of Dayton, Ohio located multiple crime scenes with a total of four victims suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Butler Township Police Chief John Porter. All four victims were pronounced deceased at the scenes by the Butler Township Fire Department.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659866259816.png" alt="Marlow-photo Douglas County, Kansas Sheriff's office" />
 <figcaption>Marlow-photo Douglas County, Kansas Sheriff's office</figcaption>
 </figure>Police asked for help to locate Marlow described as a white male 5-foot-11, 160 pounds with short brown hair who was last seen wearing shorts and a yellow t-shirt.&nbsp; Police believed he fled the area in a white 2007 Ford Edge SUV bearing Ohio license plate JES9806.On Saturday night, on duty officers had reason to believe the suspect was in Lawrence, according to McCabe. Patrol supervisors initiated a city-wide search. An on-duty officer observed a vehicle matching the vehicle’s description turn eastbound onto West 23rd from Ousdahl Road and relayed the information. As personnel were in route, the vehicle turned into a parking lot off&nbsp;23rd Street, where Marlow exited the vehicle and&nbsp; was safely taken into custody. Earlier Saturday, officials identified the victims in Ohio as 82-year-old Clyde Knox, 78-year-old Eva Knox, 41-year-old Sarah Anderson and a 15-year-old girl whose name wasn’t released.&nbsp;In Ohio on Friday, Marlow was charged with four counts of aggravated murder and, on Saturday, a federal arrest warrant was issued for him after he was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.&nbsp;“Clear multiagency communication on a national and regional level, followed by proactive teamwork by the Lawrence, Kansas police patrol department, and ultimately an alert officer, resulted in Marlow's arrest without incident. We are extremely proud of our officers’ work and thankful for the peaceful outcome,” said McCabe.---------

Quadruple homicide suspect captured in Kansas

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating mail theft and have two suspects in custody.

On Tuesday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received notification of a mail theft that occurred on Tuesday at a residence on SW 69th Street in Auburn, Kansas, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the investigation, additional mail thefts were discovered. Information was gathered by deputies and detectives that led to fraudulent purchases at multiple local businesses.

Investigators identified suspects and subsequent and on Wednesday, members from the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, Fugitive Warrant Unit, Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Patrol Unit executed a search warrant at a residence in the 2200 block of SW Fillmore Street. 

During the investigation, deputies found stolen property and arrested&nbsp; Randi M. Reaney, 37, of Topeka on requested charges of criminal use of a financial card, conspiracy and possession of stolen property.

Ethan S. Jennings (31) of Topeka was arrested for multiple outstanding warrants and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659637722726.png" alt="Jennings-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Jennings-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating mail theft and have two suspects in custody.On Tuesday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received notification of a mail theft that occurred on Tuesday at a residence on SW 69th Street in Auburn, Kansas, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the investigation, additional mail thefts were discovered. Information was gathered by deputies and detectives that led to fraudulent purchases at multiple local businesses.Investigators identified suspects and subsequent and on Wednesday, members from the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division, Fugitive Warrant Unit, Crime Scene Investigation Unit and Patrol Unit executed a search warrant at a residence in the 2200 block of SW Fillmore Street. During the investigation, deputies found stolen property and arrested&nbsp; Randi M. Reaney, 37, of Topeka on requested charges of criminal use of a financial card, conspiracy and possession of stolen property.Ethan S. Jennings (31) of Topeka was arrested for multiple outstanding warrants and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Sheriff: Kansas woman stole mail, went shopping 

JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities investigating the theft of a Volvo skid-steer loader in early morning hours of July 21 have a suspect in custody.

Just before 6a.m. Thursday, deputies and detectives started their investigation into the reported theft of the loader taken from a business in Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

By Thursday evening, deputies recovered the skid-steer loader just off Butler Road near the community of Rock Creek in&nbsp;Jefferson County , according to Morse.

The skid-steer loader was hidden in a wooded remote part of the property. Deputies also recovered a Doolittle trailer that was used in the theft.  The trailer was reported stolen out of Holt County, Missouri. 

&nbsp;Deputies arrested suspect, Brian Ray Stevenson, 50, of Topeka on a Jackson County District Court warrant for felony theft and possession of methamphetamine. 

Further arrests are anticipated, according to Morse.The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol and the Topeka Police Department assisted with the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659731171092.png" alt="Stevenson-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Stevenson-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement authorities investigating the theft of a Volvo skid-steer loader in early morning hours of July 21 have a suspect in custody.Just before 6a.m. Thursday, deputies and detectives started their investigation into the reported theft of the loader taken from a business in Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.By Thursday evening, deputies recovered the skid-steer loader just off Butler Road near the community of Rock Creek in&nbsp;Jefferson County , according to Morse.The skid-steer loader was hidden in a wooded remote part of the property. Deputies also recovered a Doolittle trailer that was used in the theft. The trailer was reported stolen out of Holt County, Missouri. &nbsp;Deputies arrested suspect, Brian Ray Stevenson, 50, of Topeka on a Jackson County District Court warrant for felony theft and possession of methamphetamine. Further arrests are anticipated, according to Morse.The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Kansas Highway Patrol and the Topeka Police Department assisted with the case.

Sheriff: Kan. man tried to hide stolen skid-steer loader

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

JUNCTION CITY - Shortly before 2:30 am on Saturday August 6th, officers with the Junction City Police Department responded to the 2600 block of Deerfield Blvd. for the report of a possible stabbing.

When officers arrived on the scene, they located an adult male with a stab wound, he was transported to the Geary Community Hospital in serious but stable condition. He was later transported to Stormont Vail Hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Upon further investigation, officers found a second victim, 30-year old Stacy Subotich, of Fort Riley, had been transported to Irwin Army Hospital with life-threatening stab wounds. Subotich later died from her injuries.

Officers learned a third individual had driven themselves to Geary Community Hospital for treatment of a non-life threatening stab wound.

The third individual was identified as 21-year old Jalen Thomas of Junction City.&nbsp;

After investigation, Thomas was arrested for 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Battery, Domestic Battery, and Aggravated Assault. He was transported to the Geary County Detention Center and is being held until his first court appearance.

The Junction City Police Department thanks the US Army Criminal Investigation Division, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, and the Junction City Fire Department for their assistance in this investigation. 

This case remains under investigation and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department 785-762-5912 or Geary County Crimestoppers at 785-762-8477. 

No further information will be released at this time.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659810364644.png" alt="Thomas photo Geary Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Thomas photo Geary Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostJUNCTION CITY - Shortly before 2:30 am on Saturday August 6th, officers with the Junction City Police Department responded to the 2600 block of Deerfield Blvd. for the report of a possible stabbing.When officers arrived on the scene, they located an adult male with a stab wound, he was transported to the Geary Community Hospital in serious but stable condition. He was later transported to Stormont Vail Hospital for treatment of his injuries.Upon further investigation, officers found a second victim, 30-year old Stacy Subotich, of Fort Riley, had been transported to Irwin Army Hospital with life-threatening stab wounds. Subotich later died from her injuries.Officers learned a third individual had driven themselves to Geary Community Hospital for treatment of a non-life threatening stab wound.The third individual was identified as 21-year old Jalen Thomas of Junction City.&nbsp;After investigation, Thomas was arrested for 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Battery, Domestic Battery, and Aggravated Assault. He was transported to the Geary County Detention Center and is being held until his first court appearance.The Junction City Police Department thanks the US Army Criminal Investigation Division, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, and the Junction City Fire Department for their assistance in this investigation. This case remains under investigation and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Junction City Police Department 785-762-5912 or Geary County Crimestoppers at 785-762-8477. No further information will be released at this time.

Saturday morning stabbing leaves one dead in Junction City

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and asking the public for help to locate a person of interest.

Just before 11p.m. August 4, 2022, police were dispatched to St. Francis Hospital in Topeka in response to the report of an individual who had arrived suffering from a non-life threatening gunshot wound, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

Investigators determined that the incident took place in the 600 block of SW Roosevelt Street in Topeka

The Topeka Police Department is looking to speak with 31-year-old Dylan Dean Thomas of Topeka in reference to this Aggravated Battery investigation.

In March, police arrested him in connection with a non-life threatening shooting in 500 Block of NE Grattan in Topeka.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Dylan Dean Thomas contact&nbsp; the Topeka Police Department.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648214947885.png" alt="Thomas-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Thomas-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and asking the public for help to locate a person of interest.Just before 11p.m. August 4, 2022, police were dispatched to St. Francis Hospital in Topeka in response to the report of an individual who had arrived suffering from a non-life threatening gunshot wound, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.Investigators determined that the incident took place in the 600 block of SW Roosevelt Street in TopekaThe Topeka Police Department is looking to speak with 31-year-old Dylan Dean Thomas of Topeka in reference to this Aggravated Battery investigation.In March, police arrested him in connection with a non-life threatening shooting in 500 Block of NE Grattan in Topeka.Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Dylan Dean Thomas contact&nbsp; the Topeka Police Department.

Police ask for help to locate Kansas shooting suspect 

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in Overland Park on Sunday have a suspect identified as 24-year-old Zarrell Finley of Kansas City in custody

Just before 4:30p.m. July 31, police responded to report of a shooting at a gas station in the 8600 Block of College Boulevard, according to a media release from Overland Park police.

They found&nbsp; 26-year-old Shaquille Jackson of Kansas City, Missouri with a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

On Friday, the FBI Fugitive task force arrested Finley and transported him to the Jackson County detention center. He is awaiting extradition to Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;This case will be presented to Johnson County District Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659716103003.png" alt="Finley-photo from an April arrest in Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Finley-photo from an April arrest in Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting in Overland Park on Sunday have a suspect identified as 24-year-old Zarrell Finley of Kansas City in custody<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659349398024.png" alt="Police on the scene of the fatal shooting investigation -Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the fatal shooting investigation -Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 4:30p.m. July 31, police responded to report of a shooting at a gas station in the 8600 Block of College Boulevard, according to a media release from Overland Park police.They found&nbsp; 26-year-old Shaquille Jackson of Kansas City, Missouri with a gunshot wound. EMS transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.On Friday, the FBI Fugitive task force arrested Finley and transported him to the Jackson County detention center. He is awaiting extradition to Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;This case will be presented to Johnson County District Attorney’s Office.---

FBI Fugitive task force makes arrest in Kansas gas station killing

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged sexual assault by a massage therapist and have made an arrest.

On May 23, police received a report from a 38-year-old woman that a male massage therapist had sexually assaulted her during a massage at an East Wichita massage establishment, according to Office Trevor Macy.

 The suspect was identified as 32-year-old Zachary Sample of Belle Plaine who was an employee of the business at that time. 

Two additional victims – a 29-year-old woman and a 26-year-old woman – reported being sexually assaulted by Sample during the month of May.

After extensive follow-up by detectives, a warrant was issued for Sample’s arrest through the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. Police located and arrested Sample on the warrant Thursday night.

 He was booked on three charges of sexual battery.&nbsp;The massage establishment where the crimes were alleged to have happened has cooperated with the investigation and Sample is no longer employed there, according to Macy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659732152030.png" alt="Sample-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Sample-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged sexual assault by a massage therapist and have made an arrest.On May 23, police received a report from a 38-year-old woman that a male massage therapist had sexually assaulted her during a massage at an East Wichita massage establishment, according to Office Trevor Macy. The suspect was identified as 32-year-old Zachary Sample of Belle Plaine who was an employee of the business at that time. Two additional victims – a 29-year-old woman and a 26-year-old woman – reported being sexually assaulted by Sample during the month of May.After extensive follow-up by detectives, a warrant was issued for Sample’s arrest through the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office. Police located and arrested Sample on the warrant Thursday night. He was booked on three charges of sexual battery.&nbsp;The massage establishment where the crimes were alleged to have happened has cooperated with the investigation and Sample is no longer employed there, according to Macy.

Police: 3 women accuse Kan. massage therapist of sexual battery 

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating vandalism that included political messages the day before election day at two churches in Lawrence including Victory Bible Church in the 1900 Block of Massachusetts Street have made an arrest.

According to a social media report from the Lawrence Police Department,&nbsp; investigators worked to identify the suspects caught on tape.&nbsp;

Police obtained a search warrant that was issued Friday morning and made an arrest. Police have not released a suspect name

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659730408764.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating vandalism that included political messages the day before election day at two churches in Lawrence including Victory Bible Church in the 1900 Block of Massachusetts Street have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659730436213.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>According to a social media report from the Lawrence Police Department,&nbsp; investigators worked to identify the suspects caught on tape.&nbsp;Police obtained a search warrant that was issued Friday morning and made an arrest. Police have not released a suspect name

Police make arrest in ‘Value Them Both’ church vandalism

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged sex crimes.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a suspect identified as&nbsp;Luis Martinez, 31, of Topeka, allegedly battered a 37-year-old woman and forced her to stay in a room for an extended period of time.

Police located him already in custody in Pottawatomie County, arrested him on a warrant and transported him to the Riley County jail. 

Martinez is being held on requested charges of aggravated domestic battery, aggravated criminal sodomy, and aggravated kidnapping on a $75,000 bond, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659710997182.png" alt="Martinez-photo Pottawatomie County" />
 <figcaption>Martinez-photo Pottawatomie County</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged sex crimes.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a suspect identified as&nbsp;Luis Martinez, 31, of Topeka, allegedly battered a 37-year-old woman and forced her to stay in a room for an extended period of time.Police located him already in custody in Pottawatomie County, arrested him on a warrant and transported him to the Riley County jail. Martinez is being held on requested charges of aggravated domestic battery, aggravated criminal sodomy, and aggravated kidnapping on a $75,000 bond, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Man jailed for alleged violent attack on a woman

CEDAR COUNTY, NE —The Nebraska State Patrol has arrested a suspect in connection with four homicides that occurred in Laurel early Thursday morning. The investigation included two scenes on Elm Street in Laurel. Each scene included a residence with a fire, according to a media release from the patrol.

Once fire suppression efforts were complete at a residence at 503 Elm Street, NSP Crime Scene Investigators were able to examine the scene. Investigators located three deceased victims at that location, each with suspected gunshot wounds. The victims have been identified as Gene Twiford, 86, Janet Twiford, 85, and Dana Twiford, 55. All three were residents of the home.

One deceased victim was located at 209 Elm Street, also with suspected gunshot wounds. That victim has been identified as Michele Ebeling, 53. She was a resident at that home.

Physical evidence located at both scenes led investigators to identify a suspect as Jason Jones, 42, who is a resident of Laurel. Investigators developed information to believe that Jones was inside his home at 206 Elm Street in Laurel. The NSP SWAT Team was activated, and an arrest warrant was obtained for Jones. Following repeated attempts to have Jones exit the home voluntarily, the SWAT Team made entry into the home and located Jones in a bedroom, with severe burns.

Jones was flown to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Lincoln for treatment of his burn injuries. He is in custody at the hospital.

The investigation remains ongoing. Several agencies have been involved in the response and investigation, including the volunteer fire departments of Laurel, Wayne, and Beldon, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Cedar County Attorney, the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, as well as the Laurel Police Department, Cedar County Sheriff’s Office, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

CEDAR COUNTY, NE —The Nebraska State Patrol, working with several public safety partners, is investigating the deaths of four people, at two different scenes in Laurel, Nebraska, according to a release from the patrol.

The first incident occurred shortly after 3:00 a.m. Thursday, when an explosion was reported at a residence in the 200 block of&nbsp;Elm Street in Laurel. Local volunteer firefighters responded and located an individual inside the home. That victim was found to be deceased. At that point, the Laurel Police Department and Cedar County Sheriff’s Office responded and requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol.

As investigators were on scene at the first residence, a second fire was reported a few blocks away, at a residence in the 500 block of Elm Street.&nbsp;Fire crews and law enforcement responded immediately. Three individuals were located deceased inside the residence.

At this time there are no identified suspects, however, NSP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a vehicle that was seen leaving Laurel shortly after the second fire. That vehicle is described as a silver sedan that was seen traveling westbound out of Laurel on Highway 20. According to a witness report, the vehicle was driven by a black male, and may have picked up a passenger before leaving Laurel. Fire investigators believe that anyone inside either residence at the time of the fires may have suffered burns.

Anyone with information about either incident, or about the vehicle, is urged to contact the Nebraska State Patrol at 402-479-4921. This is an active investigation. Additional details will be released when possible.

CEDAR COUNTY, NE —The Nebraska State Patrol is able to release new information and urges public vigilance as the investigation into four deaths in Laurel continues, according to a media release from the patrol.

After fire suppression efforts were successful this afternoon at the scene in the 500 block of Elm Street in Laurel, investigators have been able to examine the crime scene and now identify that gunfire is suspected to have played a part in the incidents at both homes. Fire investigators also believe that the fire in the 500 block of Elm Street may have started around the same time as the reported explosion in the 200 block of Elm Street. However, indications of that fire weren’t visible outside the home for hours. Both incidents are now believed to have occurred shortly after 3:00 a.m. Thursday.

Based on that time frame, NSP is requesting anyone that may have seen anything out-of-the-ordinary in Laurel between midnight and 4:00 a.m. to report it immediately. Tips can be reported to 402-479-4921.

Additionally, based on this focused time frame of the fires, investigators now believe the previously sought silver sedan reported by a member of the public may have left Laurel much later after the incidents than previously thought.

LAUREL, Neb. (AP) — An unknown number of people were found dead Thursday in two homes in a small community in northeastern Nebraska, and schools and most businesses went on lockdown as a precaution at the recommendation of police, officials said.

Cody Thomas, a spokesman for the Nebraska State Patrol, said he didn't know how many people were found dead or how anyone died, but that fire “was involved” at both houses. He said state investigators were headed to Laurel and would likely take the lead in investigating what happened.

Most businesses, a senior center and schools voluntarily went on lockdown at the recommendation of police, said Lori Hansen, a clerical assistant at the Laurel City Hall. She said she had no other information about what was happening at the police scenes.

“We've been listening to TV to try to find out what's going on," she said.

A woman who answered the phone at the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office said she had no information about the deaths and that she was the only person in the office.

Laurel is home to fewer than 1,000 people and is located about 100 miles northwest of Omaha.

The patrol plans to hold a news conference later Thursday to discuss its findings.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659643660427.png" alt="Investigators on the scene Thursday photo courtesy KCAU TV" />
 <figcaption>Investigators on the scene Thursday photo courtesy KCAU TV</figcaption>
 </figure>CEDAR COUNTY, NE —The Nebraska State Patrol has arrested a suspect in connection with four homicides that occurred in Laurel early Thursday morning. The investigation included two scenes on Elm Street in Laurel. Each scene included a residence with a fire, according to a media release from the patrol.Once fire suppression efforts were complete at a residence at 503 Elm Street, NSP Crime Scene Investigators were able to examine the scene. Investigators located three deceased victims at that location, each with suspected gunshot wounds. The victims have been identified as Gene Twiford, 86, Janet Twiford, 85, and Dana Twiford, 55. All three were residents of the home.One deceased victim was located at 209 Elm Street, also with suspected gunshot wounds. That victim has been identified as Michele Ebeling, 53. She was a resident at that home.Physical evidence located at both scenes led investigators to identify a suspect as Jason Jones, 42, who is a resident of Laurel. Investigators developed information to believe that Jones was inside his home at 206 Elm Street in Laurel. The NSP SWAT Team was activated, and an arrest warrant was obtained for Jones. Following repeated attempts to have Jones exit the home voluntarily, the SWAT Team made entry into the home and located Jones in a bedroom, with severe burns.Jones was flown to St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Lincoln for treatment of his burn injuries. He is in custody at the hospital.The investigation remains ongoing. Several agencies have been involved in the response and investigation, including the volunteer fire departments of Laurel, Wayne, and Beldon, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, the Cedar County Attorney, the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, as well as the Laurel Police Department, Cedar County Sheriff’s Office, and the Nebraska State Patrol.----------CEDAR COUNTY, NE —The Nebraska State Patrol, working with several public safety partners, is investigating the deaths of four people, at two different scenes in Laurel, Nebraska, according to a release from the patrol.The first incident occurred shortly after 3:00 a.m. Thursday, when an explosion was reported at a residence in the 200 block of&nbsp;Elm Street in Laurel. Local volunteer firefighters responded and located an individual inside the home. That victim was found to be deceased. At that point, the Laurel Police Department and Cedar County Sheriff’s Office responded and requested assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol.As investigators were on scene at the first residence, a second fire was reported a few blocks away, at a residence in the 500 block of Elm Street.&nbsp;Fire crews and law enforcement responded immediately. Three individuals were located deceased inside the residence.At this time there are no identified suspects, however, NSP is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a vehicle that was seen leaving Laurel shortly after the second fire. That vehicle is described as a silver sedan that was seen traveling westbound out of Laurel on Highway 20. According to a witness report, the vehicle was driven by a black male, and may have picked up a passenger before leaving Laurel. Fire investigators believe that anyone inside either residence at the time of the fires may have suffered burns.Anyone with information about either incident, or about the vehicle, is urged to contact the Nebraska State Patrol at 402-479-4921. This is an active investigation. Additional details will be released when possible.------CEDAR COUNTY, NE —The Nebraska State Patrol is able to release new information and urges public vigilance as the investigation into four deaths in Laurel continues, according to a media release from the patrol.After fire suppression efforts were successful this afternoon at the scene in the 500 block of Elm Street in Laurel, investigators have been able to examine the crime scene and now identify that gunfire is suspected to have played a part in the incidents at both homes. Fire investigators also believe that the fire in the 500 block of Elm Street may have started around the same time as the reported explosion in the 200 block of Elm Street. However, indications of that fire weren’t visible outside the home for hours. Both incidents are now believed to have occurred shortly after 3:00 a.m. Thursday.Based on that time frame, NSP is requesting anyone that may have seen anything out-of-the-ordinary in Laurel between midnight and 4:00 a.m. to report it immediately. Tips can be reported to 402-479-4921.Additionally, based on this focused time frame of the fires, investigators now believe the previously sought silver sedan reported by a member of the public may have left Laurel much later after the incidents than previously thought.---------LAUREL, Neb. (AP) — An unknown number of people were found dead Thursday in two homes in a small community in northeastern Nebraska, and schools and most businesses went on lockdown as a precaution at the recommendation of police, officials said.Cody Thomas, a spokesman for the Nebraska State Patrol, said he didn't know how many people were found dead or how anyone died, but that fire “was involved” at both houses. He said state investigators were headed to Laurel and would likely take the lead in investigating what happened.Most businesses, a senior center and schools voluntarily went on lockdown at the recommendation of police, said Lori Hansen, a clerical assistant at the Laurel City Hall. She said she had no other information about what was happening at the police scenes.“We've been listening to TV to try to find out what's going on," she said.A woman who answered the phone at the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office said she had no information about the deaths and that she was the only person in the office.Laurel is home to fewer than 1,000 people and is located about 100 miles northwest of Omaha.The patrol plans to hold a news conference later Thursday to discuss its findings.

Patrol: Suspect arrested after multiple deaths in small Nebraska city

MIAMI COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities issued a public safety bulletin after a police officer was hospitalized following a traffic stop.

Just after 4 p.m. Tuesday, police in Osawatomie conducted a traffic stop in the 800 Block of First Street, according to Police Chief David Stuteville.

During the encounter with suspects an officer became ill and disoriented, exhibiting symptoms consistent with high level opioid exposure.&nbsp; EMS transported the officer to Olathe Medical Center for treatment of potential opioid poisoning.&nbsp;

As of Thursday afternoon, the officer was still receiving treatment and recovering, according to Stuteville.

Police arrested one suspect on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, certain stimulants, DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Upon further investigation, the unknown substance was field tested with a positive result for fentanyl, according to Stuteville. A small dose of only 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be life threatening and require immediate medical care. Fentanyl may commonly occur through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion. Symptoms of exposure include shallow breathing, confusion, lessened alertness and loss of consciousness, according to the police department. Contact emergency services immediately if you suspect an exposure.

MIAMI COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities issued a public safety bulletin after a police officer was hospitalized following a traffic stop.Just after 4 p.m. Tuesday, police in Osawatomie conducted a traffic stop in the 800 Block of First Street, according to Police Chief David Stuteville.During the encounter with suspects an officer became ill and disoriented, exhibiting symptoms consistent with high level opioid exposure.&nbsp; EMS transported the officer to Olathe Medical Center for treatment of potential opioid poisoning.&nbsp;As of Thursday afternoon, the officer was still receiving treatment and recovering, according to Stuteville.Police arrested one suspect on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, certain stimulants, DUI and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;Upon further investigation, the unknown substance was field tested with a positive result for fentanyl, according to Stuteville. A small dose of only 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be life threatening and require immediate medical care. Fentanyl may commonly occur through skin contact, inhalation or ingestion. Symptoms of exposure include shallow breathing, confusion, lessened alertness and loss of consciousness, according to the police department. Contact emergency services immediately if you suspect an exposure.

Kansas officer exposed to fentanyl during traffic stop

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal authorities have charged a man accused of taking a weapon with him to the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Jerod Thomas Bargar, 36, of Centralia, Missouri, was arrested Wednesday in Osage Beach, Missouri, the U.S. Justice Department said. He was charged with entering a restricted building or grounds with a weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm on Capitol grounds or buildings, along with related misdemeanors.

Bargar is the 23rd Missourian charged in connection to the Jan. 6 insurrection, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article264157891.html">reported</a>. He is not accused of entering the Capitol building.

Federal documents allege Bargar took a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol with him to a rally and then to the Capitol. Bargar did not have a license to carry a weapon in the District of Columbia.

A police officer found the weapon on the ground a few minutes after protesters broke through police lines on the west side of the Capitol, according to court documents.

Authorities traced the pistol to Bargar, who said he lost it after protesters were sprayed with tear gas and he tried to help a woman who had fallen.

It was not immediately clear if Bargar has an attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659648140354.png" alt="Bargar photo Dept. of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Bargar photo Dept. of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal authorities have charged a man accused of taking a weapon with him to the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol.Jerod Thomas Bargar, 36, of Centralia, Missouri, was arrested Wednesday in Osage Beach, Missouri, the U.S. Justice Department said. He was charged with entering a restricted building or grounds with a weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm on Capitol grounds or buildings, along with related misdemeanors.Bargar is the 23rd Missourian charged in connection to the Jan. 6 insurrection, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article264157891.html">reported</a>. He is not accused of entering the Capitol building.Federal documents allege Bargar took a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol with him to a rally and then to the Capitol. Bargar did not have a license to carry a weapon in the District of Columbia.A police officer found the weapon on the ground a few minutes after protesters broke through police lines on the west side of the Capitol, according to court documents.Authorities traced the pistol to Bargar, who said he lost it after protesters were sprayed with tear gas and he tried to help a woman who had fallen.It was not immediately clear if Bargar has an attorney.

Man charged with bringing gun to the Capitol on Jan. 6

KHIMKI, Russia (AP) — U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner was convicted Thursday in Russia of drug possession and sentenced to nine years in prison following a politically charged trial that came amid soaring tensions between Moscow and Washington over Ukraine and could lead to a high-stakes prisoner exchange between the two world powers.

The 31-year-old Griner, a two-time U.S. Olympic champion and a eight-time all-star with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury listened with a blank expression as an interpreter translated the verdict by Judge Anna Sotnikova. The judge also fined 1 million rubles (about $16,700) fine.

U.S. President Joe Biden denounced the verdict and sentence as “unacceptable.”

“I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates,” Biden said, adding that he would continue to work to bring home Griner and Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia on an espionage conviction.

Earlier in the session, with a conviction all but certain, an emotional Griner made a final appeal to the court for leniency. She said she had no intention to break the law by bringing vape cartridges with cannabis oil when she flew to Moscow in February to play basketball in the city of Yekaterinburg.

“I want to apologize to my teammates, my club, my fans and the city of (Yekaterinburg) for my mistake that I made and the embarrassment that I brought on them,” Griner said, her voice cracking. “I want to also apologize to my parents, my siblings, the Phoenix Mercury organization back at home, the amazing women of the WNBA, and my amazing spouse back at home.”

Under Russian law, the 31-year-old Griner faces up to 10 years in prison, but judges have considerable latitude on sentencing.

If she does not go free, attention will turn to the possibility of a high-stakes prisoner swap that was proposed last week by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to his Russian counterpart.

Griner said she made “an honest mistake” in bringing the vape cartridges into Russia, adding: “I hope in your ruling it does not end my life.”

Griner said Yekaterinburg, a city east of the Ural Mountains, had become her “second home.”

“I had no idea that the team, the cities, the fans, my teammates would make such a great impression on me over the 6 1/2 years that I spent here,” she said. “I remember vividly coming out of the gym and all the little girls that were in the stands there waiting on me, and that’s what kept making me come back here.”

Prosecutor Nikolai Vlasenko insisted that Griner packed the cannabis oil deliberately, and he asked the court to hand Briner a fine of 1 million rubles (about $16,700) in addition to the prison sentence.

Lawyers for the Phoenix Mercury center and two-time Olympic gold medalist have sought to bolster Griner's contention that she had no criminal intent and that the canisters ended up in her luggage by mistake. They presented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russian-trial-1db9fad8b028b0158e46625b1a4af1bd">character witnesses</a>&nbsp;from the Yekaterinburg team that she plays for in the WNBA offseason and written testimony from a doctor who said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-trial-medical-cannabis-371fa5bc6b77c97a445414193cd637c6">prescribed her cannabis</a>&nbsp;for pain treatment from injuries sustained in her basketball career.

Her lawyer, Maria Blagovolina, argued that Griner used the cannabis only in Arizona, where medical marijuana is legal.

She emphasized that Griner was packing in haste after a grueling flight and suffering from the consequences of COVID-19. Blagovolina also pointed out that the analysis of cannabis found in Griner's possession was flawed and violated legal procedures.

Blagovolina asked the court to acquit Griner, noting that she had no past criminal record and hailing her role in "the development of Russian basketball."

Another defense attorney, Alexander Boykov, emphasized Griner's role in taking her Yekaterinburg team to win multiple championships, noting that she was loved and admired by her teammates. He told the judge that a conviction would undermine Russia's efforts to develop national sports and make Moscow's call to depoliticize sports sound shallow.

Boykov added that even after her arrest, Griner won the sympathy of both her guards and prison inmates, who supported her by shouting, “Brittney, everything will be OK!” when she went on walks at the jail.

Before her trial began in July, the State Department designated her as “wrongfully detained,” moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, effectively the government’s chief hostage negotiator.

Then last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-moscow-antony-blinken-sergey-lavrov-paul-whelan-54d694915c7c6c7222d2bb8893f93b04">in an extraordinary move</a>, Blinken spoke to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, urging him to accept a deal under which Griner and Whelan would go free.

The Lavrov-Blinken call marked the highest-level known contact between Washington and Moscow since Russia sent troops into Ukraine more than five months ago. The direct outreach over Griner is at odds with U.S. efforts to isolate the Kremlin.

People familiar with the proposal say it envisions trading Griner and Whelan for the notorious arms trader Viktor Bout, who is serving a prison sentence in the United States. It underlines the public pressure that the White House has faced to get Griner released.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Monday that Russia has made a “bad faith” response to the U.S. government’s offer, a counteroffer that American officials don’t regard as serious. She declined to elaborate.

Russian officials have scoffed at U.S. statements about the case, saying they show a disrespect for Russian law. They remained poker-faced, urging Washington to discuss the issue through “quiet diplomacy without releases of speculative information.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="Griner, 31, is one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>Griner, 31, is one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>KHIMKI, Russia (AP) — U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner was convicted Thursday in Russia of drug possession and sentenced to nine years in prison following a politically charged trial that came amid soaring tensions between Moscow and Washington over Ukraine and could lead to a high-stakes prisoner exchange between the two world powers.The 31-year-old Griner, a two-time U.S. Olympic champion and a eight-time all-star with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury listened with a blank expression as an interpreter translated the verdict by Judge Anna Sotnikova. The judge also fined 1 million rubles (about $16,700) fine.U.S. President Joe Biden denounced the verdict and sentence as “unacceptable.”“I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates,” Biden said, adding that he would continue to work to bring home Griner and Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia on an espionage conviction.Earlier in the session, with a conviction all but certain, an emotional Griner made a final appeal to the court for leniency. She said she had no intention to break the law by bringing vape cartridges with cannabis oil when she flew to Moscow in February to play basketball in the city of Yekaterinburg.“I want to apologize to my teammates, my club, my fans and the city of (Yekaterinburg) for my mistake that I made and the embarrassment that I brought on them,” Griner said, her voice cracking. “I want to also apologize to my parents, my siblings, the Phoenix Mercury organization back at home, the amazing women of the WNBA, and my amazing spouse back at home.”Under Russian law, the 31-year-old Griner faces up to 10 years in prison, but judges have considerable latitude on sentencing.If she does not go free, attention will turn to the possibility of a high-stakes prisoner swap that was proposed last week by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to his Russian counterpart.Griner said she made “an honest mistake” in bringing the vape cartridges into Russia, adding: “I hope in your ruling it does not end my life.”Griner said Yekaterinburg, a city east of the Ural Mountains, had become her “second home.”“I had no idea that the team, the cities, the fans, my teammates would make such a great impression on me over the 6 1/2 years that I spent here,” she said. “I remember vividly coming out of the gym and all the little girls that were in the stands there waiting on me, and that’s what kept making me come back here.”Prosecutor Nikolai Vlasenko insisted that Griner packed the cannabis oil deliberately, and he asked the court to hand Briner a fine of 1 million rubles (about $16,700) in addition to the prison sentence.Lawyers for the Phoenix Mercury center and two-time Olympic gold medalist have sought to bolster Griner's contention that she had no criminal intent and that the canisters ended up in her luggage by mistake. They presented&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russian-trial-1db9fad8b028b0158e46625b1a4af1bd">character witnesses</a>&nbsp;from the Yekaterinburg team that she plays for in the WNBA offseason and written testimony from a doctor who said he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-trial-medical-cannabis-371fa5bc6b77c97a445414193cd637c6">prescribed her cannabis</a>&nbsp;for pain treatment from injuries sustained in her basketball career.Her lawyer, Maria Blagovolina, argued that Griner used the cannabis only in Arizona, where medical marijuana is legal.She emphasized that Griner was packing in haste after a grueling flight and suffering from the consequences of COVID-19. Blagovolina also pointed out that the analysis of cannabis found in Griner's possession was flawed and violated legal procedures.Blagovolina asked the court to acquit Griner, noting that she had no past criminal record and hailing her role in "the development of Russian basketball."Another defense attorney, Alexander Boykov, emphasized Griner's role in taking her Yekaterinburg team to win multiple championships, noting that she was loved and admired by her teammates. He told the judge that a conviction would undermine Russia's efforts to develop national sports and make Moscow's call to depoliticize sports sound shallow.Boykov added that even after her arrest, Griner won the sympathy of both her guards and prison inmates, who supported her by shouting, “Brittney, everything will be OK!” when she went on walks at the jail.Before her trial began in July, the State Department designated her as “wrongfully detained,” moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, effectively the government’s chief hostage negotiator.Then last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-moscow-antony-blinken-sergey-lavrov-paul-whelan-54d694915c7c6c7222d2bb8893f93b04">in an extraordinary move</a>, Blinken spoke to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, urging him to accept a deal under which Griner and Whelan would go free.The Lavrov-Blinken call marked the highest-level known contact between Washington and Moscow since Russia sent troops into Ukraine more than five months ago. The direct outreach over Griner is at odds with U.S. efforts to isolate the Kremlin.People familiar with the proposal say it envisions trading Griner and Whelan for the notorious arms trader Viktor Bout, who is serving a prison sentence in the United States. It underlines the public pressure that the White House has faced to get Griner released.White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Monday that Russia has made a “bad faith” response to the U.S. government’s offer, a counteroffer that American officials don’t regard as serious. She declined to elaborate.Russian officials have scoffed at U.S. statements about the case, saying they show a disrespect for Russian law. They remained poker-faced, urging Washington to discuss the issue through “quiet diplomacy without releases of speculative information.”

Russian judge: Former Big 12 star guilty, 9 years in prison

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged aggravated battery and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 2:30a.m. Thursday, police filed a report for aggravated battery in the 500 block of Leavenworth Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity rep ort.

A 42-year-old woman reported a 41-year-old male suspect later identified as Nicholas Mainville of Manhattan hit her in the face with a baseball bat. 

EMS transported the victim to Via Christi for treatment of her injuries. Police arrested Mainville on a requested charge of aggravated battery. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.

Mainville has previous convictions for making a false writing, attempted trafficking contraband into a correctional facility and for unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659537643478.jpeg" alt="Mainville has previous convictions for making a false writing, attempted trafficking contraband into a correctional facility and for unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Mainville has previous convictions for making a false writing, attempted trafficking contraband into a correctional facility and for unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged aggravated battery and have a suspect in custody.Just after 2:30a.m. Thursday, police filed a report for aggravated battery in the 500 block of Leavenworth Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity rep ort.A 42-year-old woman reported a 41-year-old male suspect later identified as Nicholas Mainville of Manhattan hit her in the face with a baseball bat. EMS transported the victim to Via Christi for treatment of her injuries. Police arrested Mainville on a requested charge of aggravated battery. He is no longer in custody, according to online jail records.Mainville has previous convictions for making a false writing, attempted trafficking contraband into a correctional facility and for unlawful manufacture of a controlled substance, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;

RCPD: Man allegedly struck woman in face with a baseball bat

DOUGLAS COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a Kansas woman with cause to believe she took advantage of co-workers, acquaintances and a neighbor&nbsp;by stealing their personal identifying information and fraudulently charging thousands of dollars to the victims’ accounts over several months, according to police spokesperson&nbsp;Laura McCabe.

Police arrested 25-year-old Billie Jean Peterson of Lawrence on requested charges of felony theft along with 26 counts of criminal use of a financial card, 28 counts of unlawful computer acts, and 56 counts of identity theft – 111 total counts involving 18 evidence-based victims and additional witnesses.

The investigation began in March when a small group of women who worked with Peterson at a local dental office compared notes about fraudulent charges on their bank cards.&nbsp;

After gathering paperwork and facts from their banks, the women called the&nbsp;Lawrence Police Department.&nbsp;Patrol Officers responded to the initial call, took the reports, and forwarded them to the department's Investigations Unit where the lead investigator dug deeper.&nbsp;

A trail led by evidence and dozens of interviews&nbsp;found potential victims dating back as far as&nbsp;June of 2021&nbsp;and enough facts to gain a search warrant.&nbsp;The warrant, executed in April, resulted in additional clues and more potential victims. 

Peterson has held jobs at several dental offices during this time, but the crimes were not limited to co-workers. Managers and employees at each of the clinics have been helpful and cooperative during the investigation.

Investigators have proactively contacted every person whose information they found during their search. 

Those who believe you are a victim of this criminal activity, contact your financial institution to stop any fraudulent activity, and an officer with the LKPD would be happy to speak with you.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659540000423.png" alt="Peterson from an earlier arrest in Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Peterson from an earlier arrest in Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a Kansas woman with cause to believe she took advantage of co-workers, acquaintances and a neighbor&nbsp;by stealing their personal identifying information and fraudulently charging thousands of dollars to the victims’ accounts over several months, according to police spokesperson&nbsp;Laura McCabe.Police arrested 25-year-old Billie Jean Peterson of Lawrence on requested charges of felony theft along with 26 counts of criminal use of a financial card, 28 counts of unlawful computer acts, and 56 counts of identity theft – 111 total counts involving 18 evidence-based victims and additional witnesses.The investigation began in March when a small group of women who worked with Peterson at a local dental office compared notes about fraudulent charges on their bank cards.&nbsp;After gathering paperwork and facts from their banks, the women called the&nbsp;Lawrence Police Department.&nbsp;Patrol Officers responded to the initial call, took the reports, and forwarded them to the department's Investigations Unit where the lead investigator dug deeper.&nbsp;A trail led by evidence and dozens of interviews&nbsp;found potential victims dating back as far as&nbsp;June of 2021&nbsp;and enough facts to gain a search warrant.&nbsp;The warrant, executed in April, resulted in additional clues and more potential victims. Peterson has held jobs at several dental offices during this time, but the crimes were not limited to co-workers. Managers and employees at each of the clinics have been helpful and cooperative during the investigation.Investigators have proactively contacted every person whose information they found during their search. Those who believe you are a victim of this criminal activity, contact your financial institution to stop any fraudulent activity, and an officer with the LKPD would be happy to speak with you.

Kan. investigation leads to arrest of habitual ID theft, fraud suspect

WYANDOTTE COUNTY – On Wednesday, August 3, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) executed a search warrant at the Wyandotte Unified Government. The search warrant relates to an ongoing investigation into allegations made against certain personnel of the Unified Government.

The Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office received information, reviewed it, and determined an investigation was warranted. Subsequently, the KBI initiated this case on June 23. The County Administrator’s Office and the Mayor’s Office are cooperating fully with the investigation.

Currently, no arrest(s) have been made. The investigation remains ongoing.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY – On Wednesday, August 3, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) executed a search warrant at the Wyandotte Unified Government. The search warrant relates to an ongoing investigation into allegations made against certain personnel of the Unified Government.The Wyandotte County District Attorney’s Office received information, reviewed it, and determined an investigation was warranted. Subsequently, the KBI initiated this case on June 23. The County Administrator’s Office and the Mayor’s Office are cooperating fully with the investigation.Currently, no arrest(s) have been made. The investigation remains ongoing.

KBI: Search warrant at Wyandotte Unified Gov. following ‘allegations’

RENO COUNTY — A man who claims to be from Maryland took a unique way to establish a permanent address with his arrest early Wednesday morning.

Deputies arrested 43-year-old Robert Laney, who told authorities he is homeless, at the W. 30th Avenue Yesway store in Hutchinson on suspicion of arson. 

According to the Reno Co. Sheriff’s Department Laney allegedly set fire to a dumpster at the convenience store. When he was detained by law enforcement he said he needed to be taken to jail so he would have a permanent address to collect his disability check and move on from Hutchinson.

He was taken into custody on a bond of $5000. No serious damage occurred from the fire.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659539433804.png" alt="Laney-photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>Laney-photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — A man who claims to be from Maryland took a unique way to establish a permanent address with his arrest early Wednesday morning.Deputies arrested 43-year-old Robert Laney, who told authorities he is homeless, at the W. 30th Avenue Yesway store in Hutchinson on suspicion of arson. According to the Reno Co. Sheriff’s Department Laney allegedly set fire to a dumpster at the convenience store. When he was detained by law enforcement he said he needed to be taken to jail so he would have a permanent address to collect his disability check and move on from Hutchinson.He was taken into custody on a bond of $5000. No serious damage occurred from the fire.&nbsp;

Man jailed for alleged arson in Kan. wanted permanent address

TOPEKA (AP) —Two Kansas lawmakers who faced legal issues during their time in the Legislature have been soundly defeated in their bids for reelection.

Freshman Rep. Aaron Coleman, of Turner, lost a three-way race to Melissa Oropeza, of Kansas City, Kansas, in Tuesday's Democratic primary. And Republican Rep. Mark Samsel, of Wellsville, who has served in the Legislature since 2019, was defeated by conservative Carrie Barth, of Baldwin City.

Coleman has been ensnared in controversy since running for election in 2020. He agreed in March to undergo mental health counseling and a domestic violence assessment to avoid prosecution on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-cad353ffd3afe3583df3d267ebb535a5">misdemeanor domestic battery charge</a>&nbsp;involving his brother.

Coleman had previously admitted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-election-2020-kansas-d6ea4066903abd8ef70d60bebe6c8a3c">abuse of young women and girls</a>&nbsp;before he was elected, including circulating revenge porn and slapping and choking an ex-girlfriend. Gov. Laura Kelly and other Democrats said Coleman should resign and the House issued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-legislature-kansas-city-kansas-topeka-768126190ab7c98965245d7808a2bf58">a written reprimand</a>. Coleman also faced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-topeka-47d594a1472cc0786048c81d073694e9">two traffic charges</a>&nbsp;after he was arrested in November.

Coleman received only 321 votes, or 13.1%, while Oropeza won with 1,203 votes, 49.2%, and Faith Rivera received 923 votes, or 37.7% of the vote.

In a statement posted on Twitter, Coleman congratulated Oropeza and thanked his supporters. “I hope this decision is the best for everyone,” he wrote. Coleman did not respond to messages Wednesday seeking further comment.

Samsel, an attorney, was placed on a year of probation after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-media-social-media-kansas-topeka-3c076c31d41d2849b151d27c41775251">he pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;in September to three misdemeanor charges of battery after he was accused of angry interactions with two students, ages 15 or 16, while he was working as a substitute teacher at the high school in his hometown of Wellsville.

Barth received 2,769 votes, or 63.4%, to Samsel's 1,599, or 36.6%. Samsel did not return a message Wednesday seeking comment.

Videos shot by students on April 28 and provided by a parent showed Samsel talking about suicide, God and sex in a noisy classroom. He was accused of kicking a boy in the testicles. Samsel said he only “demonstrated a kick” for one boy who had disrupted class but did not kick him, according to a deputy's affidavit.

Samsel said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-stress-4aa77a2a880b0a3b9837e80dd3f3b7d9">in a Facebook post</a>&nbsp;that he was under extreme stress at the time, which caused him to have “an isolated episode of mania with psychotic features” in a classroom. He said he was undergoing mental health treatment and surrendered his state substitute teacher’s license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Coleman's booking photo from Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Coleman's booking photo from Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA (AP) —Two Kansas lawmakers who faced legal issues during their time in the Legislature have been soundly defeated in their bids for reelection.Freshman Rep. Aaron Coleman, of Turner, lost a three-way race to Melissa Oropeza, of Kansas City, Kansas, in Tuesday's Democratic primary. And Republican Rep. Mark Samsel, of Wellsville, who has served in the Legislature since 2019, was defeated by conservative Carrie Barth, of Baldwin City.Coleman has been ensnared in controversy since running for election in 2020. He agreed in March to undergo mental health counseling and a domestic violence assessment to avoid prosecution on a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-cad353ffd3afe3583df3d267ebb535a5">misdemeanor domestic battery charge</a>&nbsp;involving his brother.Coleman had previously admitted to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-election-2020-kansas-d6ea4066903abd8ef70d60bebe6c8a3c">abuse of young women and girls</a>&nbsp;before he was elected, including circulating revenge porn and slapping and choking an ex-girlfriend. Gov. Laura Kelly and other Democrats said Coleman should resign and the House issued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-legislature-kansas-city-kansas-topeka-768126190ab7c98965245d7808a2bf58">a written reprimand</a>. Coleman also faced&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-topeka-47d594a1472cc0786048c81d073694e9">two traffic charges</a>&nbsp;after he was arrested in November.Coleman received only 321 votes, or 13.1%, while Oropeza won with 1,203 votes, 49.2%, and Faith Rivera received 923 votes, or 37.7% of the vote.In a statement posted on Twitter, Coleman congratulated Oropeza and thanked his supporters. “I hope this decision is the best for everyone,” he wrote. Coleman did not respond to messages Wednesday seeking further comment.Samsel, an attorney, was placed on a year of probation after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-media-social-media-kansas-topeka-3c076c31d41d2849b151d27c41775251">he pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;in September to three misdemeanor charges of battery after he was accused of angry interactions with two students, ages 15 or 16, while he was working as a substitute teacher at the high school in his hometown of Wellsville.Barth received 2,769 votes, or 63.4%, to Samsel's 1,599, or 36.6%. Samsel did not return a message Wednesday seeking comment.Videos shot by students on April 28 and provided by a parent showed Samsel talking about suicide, God and sex in a noisy classroom. He was accused of kicking a boy in the testicles. Samsel said he only “demonstrated a kick” for one boy who had disrupted class but did not kick him, according to a deputy's affidavit.Samsel said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-stress-4aa77a2a880b0a3b9837e80dd3f3b7d9">in a Facebook post</a>&nbsp;that he was under extreme stress at the time, which caused him to have “an isolated episode of mania with psychotic features” in a classroom. He said he was undergoing mental health treatment and surrendered his state substitute teacher’s license.

2 Kansas state lawmakers who faced legal issues ousted

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman arrested July 30 in connection with the death of a 1-year-old boy made her first court appearance Tuesday.

<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069445">Xjohnna Hannah,</a>&nbsp;25,&nbsp;Wichita, was charged with one count of 1st degree murder, abuse of a child and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On July 30, police responded to a child abuse report at a Wichita area hospital, according to Officer Chad Ditch.&nbsp;

When officers arrived at the hospital, they were told a family member and guardian of 1-year-old Lasiah Williams brought him to the hospital unresponsive. Doctors pronounced the boy deceased.

Investigators learned Lasisah had been with his Father 25-year-old Kentrell Willingham and girlfriend <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069445">Xjohnna Hannah,</a> for a few days. A family member of the child met Kentrell, Thursday in the 1600 hundred block of South Oliver to exchange custody.

The family member left with Lasiah and a short time later would realize the child was unresponsive. The family member and Lasiah’s legal guardian immediately drove to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased. 

Police arrested Willingham and his girlfriend <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069445">&nbsp;Hannah,</a> both of Wichita. Willingham has bonded out of jail and will appear in court August 15, according to the district attorney's office.&nbsp;

Hannah remains jailed on a $250,000 bond and will return to court August 15. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659122621318.png" alt="Willingham-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Willingham-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman arrested July 30 in connection with the death of a 1-year-old boy made her first court appearance Tuesday.<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069445">Xjohnna Hannah,</a>&nbsp;25,&nbsp;Wichita, was charged with one count of 1st degree murder, abuse of a child and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On July 30, police responded to a child abuse report at a Wichita area hospital, according to Officer Chad Ditch.&nbsp;When officers arrived at the hospital, they were told a family member and guardian of 1-year-old Lasiah Williams brought him to the hospital unresponsive. Doctors pronounced the boy deceased.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659123012533.png" alt="Hannah photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Hannah photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators learned Lasisah had been with his Father 25-year-old Kentrell Willingham and girlfriend <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069445">Xjohnna Hannah,</a> for a few days. A family member of the child met Kentrell, Thursday in the 1600 hundred block of South Oliver to exchange custody. The family member left with Lasiah and a short time later would realize the child was unresponsive. The family member and Lasiah’s legal guardian immediately drove to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Police arrested Willingham and his girlfriend <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069445">&nbsp;Hannah,</a> both of Wichita. Willingham has bonded out of jail and will appear in court August 15, according to the district attorney's office.&nbsp;Hannah remains jailed on a $250,000 bond and will return to court August 15. &nbsp;

Kan. woman charged in the death of boyfriend's 1-year-old son

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINE COUNTY —A pursuit that began in Salina early Wednesday ended with stop spikes in Ellsworth County.

Just after 2a.m., an Audi 7 driven by Kaleb Beaugh, 29, of rural Saline County, was northbound on N. College Avenue when he failed to signal a turn west onto W. Ash Street, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.

An officer followed the car, and once it turned south onto N. Broadway Boulevard, another officer attempted to stop the car, but Beaugh took off west on State Street to Kansas Highway 140, then north on N. Halstead Road, and west on State Street.

The car reached speeds of more than 100 mph on K-140, and the officers terminated their pursuit in the 3900 block of State Street because of the excessive speed, according to Forrester.

A short time later, a deputy spotted the car and attempted to stop it in the 8800 block of W. Crawford Street, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. The Audi took off again, sometimes reaching speeds of up to 130 mph on K-140.

The Audi was finally stopped when stop spikes were deployed on K-140 inside Ellsworth County. Deputies arrested Beaugh and booked him on requested charges of possession of cocaine, meth and marijuana. He also booked on requested charges of possession of a firearm while under the influence, flee and elude, driving under the influence, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended and driving while a habitual violator.&nbsp;

Beaugh has previous convictions for theft, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement,  fleeing law enforcement, reckless driving and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He had been out of prison since June of 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650721136802.jpeg" alt="Kaleb Beaugh has previous convictions for theft, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement,&nbsp; fleeing law enforcement, reckless driving and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;PhotoSaline County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kaleb Beaugh has previous convictions for theft, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement,&nbsp; fleeing law enforcement, reckless driving and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.&nbsp;PhotoSaline County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINE COUNTY —A pursuit that began in Salina early Wednesday ended with stop spikes in Ellsworth County.Just after 2a.m., an Audi 7 driven by Kaleb Beaugh, 29, of rural Saline County, was northbound on N. College Avenue when he failed to signal a turn west onto W. Ash Street, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.An officer followed the car, and once it turned south onto N. Broadway Boulevard, another officer attempted to stop the car, but Beaugh took off west on State Street to Kansas Highway 140, then north on N. Halstead Road, and west on State Street.The car reached speeds of more than 100 mph on K-140, and the officers terminated their pursuit in the 3900 block of State Street because of the excessive speed, according to Forrester.A short time later, a deputy spotted the car and attempted to stop it in the 8800 block of W. Crawford Street, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. The Audi took off again, sometimes reaching speeds of up to 130 mph on K-140.The Audi was finally stopped when stop spikes were deployed on K-140 inside Ellsworth County. Deputies arrested Beaugh and booked him on requested charges of possession of cocaine, meth and marijuana. He also booked on requested charges of possession of a firearm while under the influence, flee and elude, driving under the influence, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended and driving while a habitual violator.&nbsp;Beaugh has previous convictions for theft, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, fleeing law enforcement, reckless driving and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections. He had been out of prison since June of 2019.

Kan. felon transporting drugs caught after 130mph chase

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas woman arrested on Monday in Allen County in connection with the July 25 murder of a man in Chanute was also wanted in connection with a violent armed robbery on July 16.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659024081286.png" alt="Fox-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Fox-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas woman arrested on Monday in Allen County in connection with the July 25 murder of a man in Chanute was also wanted in connection with a violent armed robbery on July 16.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/8/1659458428733.png" alt="Fox after her arrest in Allen County. She is being held in Neosho County on a&nbsp; requested murder charge." />
 <figcaption>Fox after her arrest in Allen County. She is being held in Neosho County on a&nbsp; requested murder charge.</figcaption>
 </figure>According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, 41-year-old Nicole Pike is being held in the Neosho&nbsp; County jail on requested first-degree murder charges for the death of Blake Pearson. He was found with a gunshot wound in an alley in Chanute and later died.Just after&nbsp;8p.m. July 16, sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the 11,000 block of SW 29th Street in Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp;&nbsp;A 27-year-old female victim was taken at gun point from Topeka to this location.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1659024111950.png" alt="Pike-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Pike-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During this time, the victim was struck in the head with a firearm, threatened and stripped of her outer clothing. The victim’s black 2017 Chevrolet Malibu was stolen and she was left in the roadway. A citizen found her walking and called 911.The victim received medical attention on scene by American Medical Response&nbsp;and was then transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to Christian.Throughout the investigation, investigators identified Fox and 20-year-old Landon D. Pike of Topeka as suspects. Authorities continue to search for Pike.