Eagle Radio operates&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a>&nbsp;in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.

Here is a sampling of stories from last week:

<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/47bfcabf-afa7-4c3b-94e5-afff2ed581fd">202 pints of blood donated during 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive in MHK</a> From Little Apple Post

<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/518365f3-5540-4182-81a8-87fafd6e53d9#//">Farm economy faces obstacles, says Missouri Agriculture Director</a> From St. Joseph Post

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/21dda4a8-df38-4c4f-9eb5-4928d4a64113">🎥 A Day in the Life: Reno County 911</a> From Hutch Post

<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/80726806-85fd-46a3-a28f-b9ceccfce8e0">North Platte resident returns home to find couple rummaging through fridge</a> From North Platte Post

<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/90c5767a-c60d-48db-b868-aa81ef0413ec">Authorities report arrest in Enfinnity Hayes Lawson homicide case</a> From JC Post

<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bee5c059-bff3-4521-a6d4-0a311d20bb79">Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff</a> From Panhandle Post

<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5d2b0b9e-9302-43c5-a90c-9032ac895f72">Hoisington residents using new pool to beat summer heat wave</a> From Great Bend Post

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e153a0fc-fe06-4de4-b5c7-d6f0d57fa59b">Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban</a> From Hays Post

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8eb22de0-0264-4ac0-87bd-4407f223638c">Pursuit through west, south Salina includes bags of weed being tossed</a> From Salina Post

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587155364471.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eagle Radio operates&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/pages/post-news-network">nine Post news sites</a>&nbsp;in communities across Kansas, Nebraska and Missouri.Here is a sampling of stories from last week:<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/47bfcabf-afa7-4c3b-94e5-afff2ed581fd">202 pints of blood donated during 'Battle of the Badges' blood drive in MHK</a> From Little Apple Post<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/518365f3-5540-4182-81a8-87fafd6e53d9#//">Farm economy faces obstacles, says Missouri Agriculture Director</a> From St. Joseph Post<a href="https://hutchpost.com/posts/21dda4a8-df38-4c4f-9eb5-4928d4a64113">🎥 A Day in the Life: Reno County 911</a> From Hutch Post<a href="https://northplattepost.com/posts/80726806-85fd-46a3-a28f-b9ceccfce8e0">North Platte resident returns home to find couple rummaging through fridge</a> From North Platte Post<a href="https://jcpost.com/posts/90c5767a-c60d-48db-b868-aa81ef0413ec">Authorities report arrest in Enfinnity Hayes Lawson homicide case</a> From JC Post<a href="https://panhandlepost.com/posts/bee5c059-bff3-4521-a6d4-0a311d20bb79">Brothers restaurant brings togetherness in Scottsbluff</a> From Panhandle Post<a href="https://greatbendpost.com/posts/5d2b0b9e-9302-43c5-a90c-9032ac895f72">Hoisington residents using new pool to beat summer heat wave</a> From Great Bend Post<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e153a0fc-fe06-4de4-b5c7-d6f0d57fa59b">Hays USD 489 to revisit dress code after parent complains about satanism ban</a> From Hays Post<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8eb22de0-0264-4ac0-87bd-4407f223638c">Pursuit through west, south Salina includes bags of weed being tossed</a> From Salina Post

News From Around the Post News Network

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged criminal threat after an arrest&nbsp;

Sheriff patrol deputies were conducting surveillance in an attempt to locate 45-year-old Dahlkestiere D. Eichelberger of Topeka regarding a criminal threat investigation, according Deputy Abigail Christian.

Shortly before 6p.m. Friday, Sheriff Brian Hill and deputies located Eichelberger walking in the Walmart parking lot at 2600 NW Rochester Road. 

Deputies took Eichelberger taken into custody without incident just before he entered the store.

Eichelberger was in possession of a short barrel semi-automatic rifle and ammunition. The rifle was on a sling, concealed under his clothing.

A subsequent search warrant was conducted on Eichelberger’s residence in the 3400 block of NW Country Lane.

Eichelberger was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felony criminal threat. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658578802399.png" alt="Eichelberger-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Eichelberger-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged criminal threat after an arrest&nbsp;Sheriff patrol deputies were conducting surveillance in an attempt to locate 45-year-old Dahlkestiere D. Eichelberger of Topeka regarding a criminal threat investigation, according Deputy Abigail Christian.Shortly before 6p.m. Friday, Sheriff Brian Hill and deputies located Eichelberger walking in the Walmart parking lot at 2600 NW Rochester Road. Deputies took Eichelberger taken into custody without incident just before he entered the store.Eichelberger was in possession of a short barrel semi-automatic rifle and ammunition. The rifle was on a sling, concealed under his clothing.A subsequent search warrant was conducted on Eichelberger’s residence in the 3400 block of NW Country Lane.Eichelberger was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of felony criminal threat.

Criminal threat: Man caught with rifle in Kan. store parking lot 

Geary County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Trey L. Campbell, Junction City, on I70 westbound at mile marker 290 on requested charges including Flee or Attempt to Elude, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Stolen Property. According to the Sheriff's Department the arrest occurred at 5:32 p.m. Friday. The I-70 290 mile marker is about four miles west of Junction City.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658593610272.png" alt="Campbell-photo Geary County" />
 <figcaption>Campbell-photo Geary County</figcaption>
 </figure>Geary County Sheriff's Deputies arrested Trey L. Campbell, Junction City, on I70 westbound at mile marker 290 on requested charges including Flee or Attempt to Elude, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Stolen Property. According to the Sheriff's Department the arrest occurred at 5:32 p.m. Friday. The I-70 290 mile marker is about four miles west of Junction City.

Sheriff's Department makes an arrest on I-70

SEWARD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and have made an arrest.

just before midnight Monday, police responded to report of a shooting the 1100 Block of South Grant in Liberal, according to a media release.

First responders found a 30-year-old man who had been shot in the chest. EMS transported the victim to Southwest Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.

Investigators learned the suspect who allegedly shot the victim was 28-year-old Ricardo<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=411860"> Viveros-Magana</a> fled the scene in a stolen 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500.

On Friday night police reported U.S. Marshals assisted police in taking Viveros-Magana into custody. He is being held on a $260,000 bond on a felony warrant and requested charges of interference with law enforcement and obstruction, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658576237739.png" alt="Viveros-Magana-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Viveros-Magana-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEWARD COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and have made an arrest.just before midnight Monday, police responded to report of a shooting the 1100 Block of South Grant in Liberal, according to a media release.First responders found a 30-year-old man who had been shot in the chest. EMS transported the victim to Southwest Medical Center where he was pronounced dead.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658576541420.png" alt="Police on the scene of the arrest on Friday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the arrest on Friday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators learned the suspect who allegedly shot the victim was 28-year-old Ricardo<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=411860"> Viveros-Magana</a> fled the scene in a stolen 2008 Chevy Silverado 1500.On Friday night police reported U.S. Marshals assisted police in taking Viveros-Magana into custody. He is being held on a $260,000 bond on a felony warrant and requested charges of interference with law enforcement and obstruction, according to online jail records.

U.S. Marshals help capture SW Kansas murder suspect 

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on drug charges after the search of her residence.

On July 17 while on official duty, a sheriff's deputy identified the odor of&nbsp; burnt marijuana coming from inside a residence in Horton, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.

The resident granted a consent search which resulted in the arrest of Anna Kaler, 35 Horton on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658349196221.png" alt="Kaler-photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Kaler-photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on drug charges after the search of her residence.On July 17 while on official duty, a sheriff's deputy identified the odor of&nbsp; burnt marijuana coming from inside a residence in Horton, according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant.The resident granted a consent search which resulted in the arrest of Anna Kaler, 35 Horton on requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. .

Kan. woman jailed after deputy smells marijuana coming from home

MOSCOW (AP) — The spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry lashed out Thursday at the United States characterizing basketball star Brittney Griner’s jailing on drug charges as “wrongful detention,” saying it shows disrespect for Russian law.

Griner has been jailed since she was arrested in mid-February at a Moscow airport after vape canisters containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. The Phoenix Mercury standout and two-time Olympic gold medalist acknowledged in court this month that she had the canisters, but said she had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-trial-live-updates-bc4c1d9efd490eed0eb522c8c59e9197">no intent to break the law</a>.

She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russian-trial-1db9fad8b028b0158e46625b1a4af1bd">Her trial</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to resume Tuesday.

The State Department in May designated Griner as wrongfully detained, moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs - effectively, the government’s chief hostage negotiator.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Thursday that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-trial-updates-142a994fb4067c2b48029e4566169f04">legalization of cannabis</a>&nbsp;for medical and recreational use in parts of the U.S. has no bearing on what happens in Russia.

“If a U.S. citizen was taken in connection with the fact that she was smuggling drugs, and she does not deny this, then this should be commensurate with our Russian, local laws, and not with those adopted in San Francisco, New York and Washington,” Zakharova said.

“You understand, if drugs are legalized in the United States, in a number of states, and this is done for a long time, and now the whole country will become drug-addicted, this does not mean that all other countries are following the same path,” she added.

Russian media have persistently speculated that Griner could be exchanged for prominent Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, who is imprisoned in the United States, and that Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia for espionage, may also figure in an exchange.

U.S. officials have not commented on the prospects for such a trade. Russian officials have said no exchange could be discussed until the conclusion of the legal proceedings against Griner. It is unclear how long the trial will last, but a court has authorized Griner’s detention until Dec. 20.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="The 31-year-old Griner, 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>The 31-year-old Griner, 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>MOSCOW (AP) — The spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry lashed out Thursday at the United States characterizing basketball star Brittney Griner’s jailing on drug charges as “wrongful detention,” saying it shows disrespect for Russian law.Griner has been jailed since she was arrested in mid-February at a Moscow airport after vape canisters containing cannabis oil were found in her luggage. The Phoenix Mercury standout and two-time Olympic gold medalist acknowledged in court this month that she had the canisters, but said she had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-trial-live-updates-bc4c1d9efd490eed0eb522c8c59e9197">no intent to break the law</a>.She faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russian-trial-1db9fad8b028b0158e46625b1a4af1bd">Her trial</a>&nbsp;is scheduled to resume Tuesday.The State Department in May designated Griner as wrongfully detained, moving her case under the supervision of its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs - effectively, the government’s chief hostage negotiator.Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Thursday that the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-trial-updates-142a994fb4067c2b48029e4566169f04">legalization of cannabis</a>&nbsp;for medical and recreational use in parts of the U.S. has no bearing on what happens in Russia.“If a U.S. citizen was taken in connection with the fact that she was smuggling drugs, and she does not deny this, then this should be commensurate with our Russian, local laws, and not with those adopted in San Francisco, New York and Washington,” Zakharova said.“You understand, if drugs are legalized in the United States, in a number of states, and this is done for a long time, and now the whole country will become drug-addicted, this does not mean that all other countries are following the same path,” she added.Russian media have persistently speculated that Griner could be exchanged for prominent Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, who is imprisoned in the United States, and that Paul Whelan, an American imprisoned in Russia for espionage, may also figure in an exchange.U.S. officials have not commented on the prospects for such a trade. Russian officials have said no exchange could be discussed until the conclusion of the legal proceedings against Griner. It is unclear how long the trial will last, but a court has authorized Griner’s detention until Dec. 20.

Moscow: US must respect Russian law in Griner case

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a major security breach at the Sedgwick County Jail.

On July 17, authorities learned that inmates had removed a pipe from a&nbsp; sink&nbsp; in a day room. They used the pipe to pound on a window in a cell to create a fist sized hole in the window, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter.

The inmates later lowered a sheet through the hole to a person outside the jail who was contacted through the facility's phone system. That person delivered&nbsp; cell phones and marijuana to the inmates.

&nbsp;Through additional investigation, the sheriff's office learned the inmates expected three more deliveries that day. The deliveries included the introduction of a handgun into the jail, according to Easter.

Investigators also learned that almost twenty shanks, or improvised weapons, had been created inside the jail this month. Much of the activity was in conjunction with violence that prompted the lockdown of the Lansing Correctional Facility on July 15, according to Easter. The incident sent one prisoner to the hospital and left at least three corrections employees injured. Two leaders of a gang at&nbsp;Lansing, the state's largest and oldest prison for adult men, used to be in the Sedgwick County Jail.

Several inmates, affiliated with the same gang and still housed in Sedgwick County were planning similar violence, according to Easter.

While investigating the incident in Sedgwick County, the on-duty deputy in that area of the jail observed inmates break the window, bring the contraband into the facility and didn't stop it or inform anyone it occurred. He also did not give investigators the full story about the incident when confronted about it, according to Easter.&nbsp;

After further investigation of the jail deputy identified as 22-year-old Dustin Burnett, he was arrested on requested charges of official misconduct and conspiracy to traffic contraband into a penal institution. Burnett had been employed by the jail since January and was terminated upon his arrest.

On Wednesday, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office conducted a mass search of the entire 1,226 bed Adult Detention Facility after receiving creditable information about the contraband being introduced to the facility.​ A team comprised of 169 members of the Sheriff’s Office took over six hours to complete the search.

During the search deputies found fentanyl pills, shanks or items that could be made into dangerous weapons, a handcuff key, possible K2 and a butane lighter.

Also during the search,&nbsp;a medical emergency occurred in one of the housing units where an inmate was found unresponsive in the housing unit gymnasium.​ Medical staff responded quickly and was able to revive the inmate after administering four doses of Narcan.​ As a precaution the inmate was transported to a local area hospital for treatment, but has since been returned to the Detention Facility.​

While the inmate was being treated in the housing unit he was found in possession of the six pills believed to be fentanyl. ​ The 26-year-old white male is being held on Aggravated Assault, Criminal Poss of a Firearm, Flee and Elude Law Enforcement and Drug Charges​

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658430090733.png" alt="Suspected Fentanyl Laced Pills found during a search -photo Sedgwick Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Suspected Fentanyl Laced Pills found during a search -photo Sedgwick Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a major security breach at the Sedgwick County Jail.On July 17, authorities learned that inmates had removed a pipe from a&nbsp; sink&nbsp; in a day room. They used the pipe to pound on a window in a cell to create a fist sized hole in the window, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter.The inmates later lowered a sheet through the hole to a person outside the jail who was contacted through the facility's phone system. That person delivered&nbsp; cell phones and marijuana to the inmates.&nbsp;Through additional investigation, the sheriff's office learned the inmates expected three more deliveries that day. The deliveries included the introduction of a handgun into the jail, according to Easter.Investigators also learned that almost twenty shanks, or improvised weapons, had been created inside the jail this month. Much of the activity was in conjunction with violence that prompted the lockdown of the Lansing Correctional Facility on July 15, according to Easter. The incident sent one prisoner to the hospital and left at least three corrections employees injured. Two leaders of a gang at&nbsp;Lansing, the state's largest and oldest prison for adult men, used to be in the Sedgwick County Jail.Several inmates, affiliated with the same gang and still housed in Sedgwick County were planning similar violence, according to Easter.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658430002977.png" alt="Outlet cover sharpened into a shank​" />
 <figcaption>Outlet cover sharpened into a shank​</figcaption>
 </figure>While investigating the incident in Sedgwick County, the on-duty deputy in that area of the jail observed inmates break the window, bring the contraband into the facility and didn't stop it or inform anyone it occurred. He also did not give investigators the full story about the incident when confronted about it, according to Easter.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429257903.png" alt="Burnett-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Burnett-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>After further investigation of the jail deputy identified as 22-year-old Dustin Burnett, he was arrested on requested charges of official misconduct and conspiracy to traffic contraband into a penal institution. Burnett had been employed by the jail since January and was terminated upon his arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658429970384.png" alt="Pen sharpened down into a shank" />
 <figcaption>Pen sharpened down into a shank</figcaption>
 </figure>On Wednesday, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office conducted a mass search of the entire 1,226 bed Adult Detention Facility after receiving creditable information about the contraband being introduced to the facility.​ A team comprised of 169 members of the Sheriff’s Office took over six hours to complete the search.During the search deputies found fentanyl pills, shanks or items that could be made into dangerous weapons, a handcuff key, possible K2 and a butane lighter.Also during the search,&nbsp;a medical emergency occurred in one of the housing units where an inmate was found unresponsive in the housing unit gymnasium.​ Medical staff responded quickly and was able to revive the inmate after administering four doses of Narcan.​ As a precaution the inmate was transported to a local area hospital for treatment, but has since been returned to the Detention Facility.​While the inmate was being treated in the housing unit he was found in possession of the six pills believed to be fentanyl. ​ The 26-year-old white male is being held on Aggravated Assault, Criminal Poss of a Firearm, Flee and Elude Law Enforcement and Drug Charges​

Security breach: Weapons, drugs found at Kansas jail

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A 26-year-old Salina woman was stopped before she lost money to a scammer.

The woman was notified via text that her Amazon account had been hacked, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

When she called the phone number in the text, she was told that Amazon was working with law enforcement in Texas, and that there was a warrant out for her arrest for identity theft.

The woman was told to put $10,000 into the crypto coin machine in the mall, which she started to do before her father stopped her. Forrester said she was able to cancel the transaction before losing any money.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610470843065.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA 26-year-old Salina woman was stopped before she lost money to a scammer.The woman was notified via text that her Amazon account had been hacked, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.When she called the phone number in the text, she was told that Amazon was working with law enforcement in Texas, and that there was a warrant out for her arrest for identity theft.The woman was told to put $10,000 into the crypto coin machine in the mall, which she started to do before her father stopped her. Forrester said she was able to cancel the transaction before losing any money.

Police: Dad saves Kan. woman from text scam involving crypto

KANSAS CITY —The suspect accused in the death of a Kansas City police officer made his first court appearance on Thursday.

Officials in Clay County asked North Kansas officers if they would like to escort murder suspect Joshua Rocha from the Clay County jail to his arraignment.&nbsp; North Kansas City Police Sgt. J. Holm put fallen Officer Daniel Vasquez’s handcuffs on the man charged with killing him.&nbsp;

Joshua Rocha, 24, of Kansas City, was charged in the death of Officer&nbsp;Vasquez,&nbsp;32, who was killed Tuesday during a traffic stop. He is being held on a $2 million bond.

According to a probable cause statement, Rocha told police after his arrest that he shot the officer because he didn't want to go to jail or have his vehicle towed.

Rocha told police he was on his way to buy ammunition for a rifle he had in the vehicle when he was stopped.

If convicted of first-degree murder, Rocha could face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Mike Wood, deputy chief of the Kansas City police department, which is conducting the investigation, said Rocha owned the vehicle he was driving. He was not aware of any previous contact between Vasquez and Rocha, who does not have an extensive criminal record. Rocha is scheduled to return to court on July 28, according to online jail records.

Funeral service information for Vasquez was announced Thursday. There will be a public visitation Tuesday, July 26, from 5-9 p.m. at the Vineyard Church at 12300 NW Arrowhead Trafficway in KCMO. The funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 27, at 9 a.m. at Vineyard Church.

If attending the public visitation on Tuesday, July 26, or funeral services Wednesday, July 27, you must enter from U.S. 169 South.

For community members who would like to show support to the Vasquez Family and North Kansas City Police Department but are unable to attend the service, there will be a procession immediately following the funeral services on Wednesday, July 27. The procession will leave from Vineyard Church at 12300 NW Arrowhead Trafficway in KCMO and proceed down U.S. 169 South to MO 9 South, to Armour Road, to I-29/35 North, to Antioch North, to 64th Street E., to White Chapel Memorial Gardens.

Parking will be restricted along Armour Road. However, parking on side streets will be permitted.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658447688980.png" alt="Photos courtesy Clay Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Clay Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The suspect accused in the death of a Kansas City police officer made his first court appearance on Thursday.Officials in Clay County asked North Kansas officers if they would like to escort murder suspect Joshua Rocha from the Clay County jail to his arraignment.&nbsp; North Kansas City Police Sgt. J. Holm put fallen Officer Daniel Vasquez’s handcuffs on the man charged with killing him.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658447665465.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Joshua Rocha, 24, of Kansas City, was charged in the death of Officer&nbsp;Vasquez,&nbsp;32, who was killed Tuesday during a traffic stop. He is being held on a $2 million bond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658265015795.png" alt="Officer Daniel Vasquez-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Officer Daniel Vasquez-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>According to a probable cause statement, Rocha told police after his arrest that he shot the officer because he didn't want to go to jail or have his vehicle towed.Rocha told police he was on his way to buy ammunition for a rifle he had in the vehicle when he was stopped.If convicted of first-degree murder, Rocha could face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.Mike Wood, deputy chief of the Kansas City police department, which is conducting the investigation, said Rocha owned the vehicle he was driving. He was not aware of any previous contact between Vasquez and Rocha, who does not have an extensive criminal record. Rocha is scheduled to return to court on July 28, according to online jail records.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658448105261.png" alt="Police escorted Officer Daniel Vasquez to the funeral home on Thursday" />
 <figcaption>Police escorted Officer Daniel Vasquez to the funeral home on Thursday</figcaption>
 </figure>Funeral service information for Vasquez was announced Thursday. There will be a public visitation Tuesday, July 26, from 5-9 p.m. at the Vineyard Church at 12300 NW Arrowhead Trafficway in KCMO. The funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 27, at 9 a.m. at Vineyard Church.If attending the public visitation on Tuesday, July 26, or funeral services Wednesday, July 27, you must enter from U.S. 169 South.For community members who would like to show support to the Vasquez Family and North Kansas City Police Department but are unable to attend the service, there will be a procession immediately following the funeral services on Wednesday, July 27. The procession will leave from Vineyard Church at 12300 NW Arrowhead Trafficway in KCMO and proceed down U.S. 169 South to MO 9 South, to Armour Road, to I-29/35 North, to Antioch North, to 64th Street E., to White Chapel Memorial Gardens.Parking will be restricted along Armour Road. However, parking on side streets will be permitted.&nbsp;

Fallen KC officer's handcuffs used to escort his suspected killer to court

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home burglary and have 3 suspects in custody.

&nbsp;On July 17, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle near 198th and G. Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Deputies arrived in the area and located three individuals who are allegedly connected to an area burglary of an abandoned house. 

Deputies found property from the residence inside the vehicle. They arrested were 20-year-old Cyrie Ryan De Jong,of Olathe, Kansas; 21-year-old Omar Garcia-Delgado of Kansas City, Missouri and 20-year-old Grant Timothy Gardner. 

 All three were booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of burglary, possession of stolen property, criminal trespass and theft, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658330998757.png" alt="Garcia-Delgado" />
 <figcaption>Garcia-Delgado</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home burglary and have 3 suspects in custody.&nbsp;On July 17, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle near 198th and G. Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Deputies arrived in the area and located three individuals who are allegedly connected to an area burglary of an abandoned house. Deputies found property from the residence inside the vehicle. They arrested were 20-year-old Cyrie Ryan De Jong,of Olathe, Kansas; 21-year-old Omar Garcia-Delgado of Kansas City, Missouri and 20-year-old Grant Timothy Gardner. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658331062592.png" alt="Gardner" />
 <figcaption>Gardner</figcaption>
 </figure> All three were booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of burglary, possession of stolen property, criminal trespass and theft, according to Morse.

Sheriff: Suspects found with items taken in burglary from Kan. home

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Three suspects arrested after a fatal drug deal shooting will return to court for a preliminary hearing Thursday afternoon.

Brian Youngman, 20 of Wichita, was charged with 1st degree murder and attempted distribution of a controlled substance, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Myrashia Griffin, 20 and&nbsp;Lanita Baugh, 19, both of Wichita, were charged with 1st degree murder and attempted aggravated robbery, according to the DA's office.

Just after 7:30p.m. July 11, deputies were sent to a shooting call near the intersection of 47th Street South and Clifton in Wichita, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.

 The call location was quickly updated to the QuikTrip at 47th Street South and Hydraulic. When deputies arrived at the convenience store they found a 19-year-old later identified as Donovan Graves of Wichita, in a vehicle deceased from a gunshot wound. Two adult woman were with him.

Deputies were directed to a mobile home in the 5200 block of south Clifton where the shooting occurred. 

Deputies arrested 20-year-old Brian Youngman of Wichita at the mobile home and booked him on requested charges of first degree murder.

Investigators learned that Graves, 19-year-old Lanita Baugh and 20-year-old Myrashia Griffin drove to the 5200 Block of South Clifton for a drug transaction, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter. 

Graves attempted to rob a 17-year-old girl of marijuana, according to Easter. Youngman pulled a gun and shot Graves during the robbery.

Deputies arrested the two women with Graves, according to Blick.&nbsp; Deputies also arrested the 17-year-old girl for marijuana possession with intent to sell, according to Easter. She and Graves knew each other.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657641940268.png" alt="Youngman-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Youngman-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Three suspects arrested after a fatal drug deal shooting will return to court for a preliminary hearing Thursday afternoon.Brian Youngman, 20 of Wichita, was charged with 1st degree murder and attempted distribution of a controlled substance, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Myrashia Griffin, 20 and&nbsp;Lanita Baugh, 19, both of Wichita, were charged with 1st degree murder and attempted aggravated robbery, according to the DA's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657634255367.png" alt="Deputies on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Deputies on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 7:30p.m. July 11, deputies were sent to a shooting call near the intersection of 47th Street South and Clifton in Wichita, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick. The call location was quickly updated to the QuikTrip at 47th Street South and Hydraulic. When deputies arrived at the convenience store they found a 19-year-old later identified as Donovan Graves of Wichita, in a vehicle deceased from a gunshot wound. Two adult woman were with him.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657636612949.png" alt="Griffin-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Griffin-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies were directed to a mobile home in the 5200 block of south Clifton where the shooting occurred. Deputies arrested 20-year-old Brian Youngman of Wichita at the mobile home and booked him on requested charges of first degree murder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657636527733.png" alt="Baugh-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Baugh-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators learned that Graves, 19-year-old Lanita Baugh and 20-year-old Myrashia Griffin drove to the 5200 Block of South Clifton for a drug transaction, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter. Graves attempted to rob a 17-year-old girl of marijuana, according to Easter. Youngman pulled a gun and shot Graves during the robbery.Deputies arrested the two women with Graves, according to Blick.&nbsp; Deputies also arrested the 17-year-old girl for marijuana possession with intent to sell, according to Easter. She and Graves knew each other.Each is being held on a $500,000 bond

Preliminary hearing in Kansas marijuana theft killing

NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man was charged Wednesday with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the shooting death of a police officer during a traffic stop prompted by an expired temporary tag on the vehicle.

Joshua Rocha, 24, of Kansas City, was being held on $2 million bond in the&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/5b31d6b986058acabc1f2ba0225a422a/249c148d1a04d66ca31b8866842b0647">death of North Kansas City police officer Daniel Vasquez,</a>&nbsp;32, who was killed Tuesday. Rocha will be arraigned Thursday.

Vasquez's dashcam video shows Rocha shooting the officer once in the face after partially opening the car door, then stepping out and firing two more shots at Vasquez, who was lying on the ground, according to the statement.

Rocha said his gun jammed at one point. but that he was able to clear it and fire at Vasquez again, according to the statement.

Rocha fled in his vehicle and later changed his clothes, shaved his goatee, and spray painted part of his car. But he later turned himself in to Clay County authorities, saying “I committed murder," the statement says.

Clay County Prosecutor Dan White said the investigation is ongoing, but prosecutors feel “very comfortable” with the evidence they have against Rocha.

Mike Wood, deputy chief of the Kansas City police department, which is conducting the investigation, said Rocha owned the vehicle he was driving. He was not aware of any previous contact between Vasquez and Rocha, who does not have an extensive criminal record.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658265015795.png" alt="Daniel Vasquez-photo North Kansas City Police" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Vasquez-photo North Kansas City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTH KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A Missouri man was charged Wednesday with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in the shooting death of a police officer during a traffic stop prompted by an expired temporary tag on the vehicle.Joshua Rocha, 24, of Kansas City, was being held on $2 million bond in the&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/5b31d6b986058acabc1f2ba0225a422a/249c148d1a04d66ca31b8866842b0647">death of North Kansas City police officer Daniel Vasquez,</a>&nbsp;32, who was killed Tuesday. Rocha will be arraigned Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658339821213.png" alt="Rocha-photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Rocha-photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>According to a probable cause statement, Rocha told police after his arrest that he shot the officer because he didn't want to go to jail or have his vehicle towed.Rocha told police he was on his way to buy ammunition for a rifle he had in the vehicle when he was stopped.Vasquez's dashcam video shows Rocha shooting the officer once in the face after partially opening the car door, then stepping out and firing two more shots at Vasquez, who was lying on the ground, according to the statement.Rocha said his gun jammed at one point. but that he was able to clear it and fire at Vasquez again, according to the statement.Rocha fled in his vehicle and later changed his clothes, shaved his goatee, and spray painted part of his car. But he later turned himself in to Clay County authorities, saying “I committed murder," the statement says.Clay County Prosecutor Dan White said the investigation is ongoing, but prosecutors feel “very comfortable” with the evidence they have against Rocha.If convicted of first-degree murder, Rocha could face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.Mike Wood, deputy chief of the Kansas City police department, which is conducting the investigation, said Rocha owned the vehicle he was driving. He was not aware of any previous contact between Vasquez and Rocha, who does not have an extensive criminal record.

Police: Man was on his way to buy ammunition when he killed KC officer

PAWNEE COUNTY — Two Kansas men appeared in the Pawnee County District Court, Tuesday for a Preliminary Hearing on one count of Felony Theft of property worth between $1,500 and $25,000, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Ruben Lopez-Lupercio, 42, and Axel Elian Gomez-Saldana, 24, both of Larned, are accused of stealing eleven heifers. 

Evidence presented at the preliminary hearing indicated an investigation was opened after a State Cattle Brand Inspector recognized feedlot finished heifers attempting to be sold at the La Crosse sale barn on December 10, 2021.

The matter was then referred to the Attorney General’s Livestock/Brand investigation unit who determined some of the heifers were branded with a brand registered to a Pawnee County Feedlot. 

With the assistance of the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, it was later determined that Lopez-Lupercio and Gomez-Saldana were employed as cowboys at the feedlot near Pawnee Rock, Kansas. They were arrested without incident at the feedlot on January 6, 2022, after the feedlot ownership decided to press charges, according to McNett.&nbsp;

Following the hearing, the magistrate judge determined the State had presented sufficient evidence to support the charge and bound the pair over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for September 15, 2022.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658334775089.png" alt="Lopez-Lupercio-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lopez-Lupercio-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY — Two Kansas men appeared in the Pawnee County District Court, Tuesday for a Preliminary Hearing on one count of Felony Theft of property worth between $1,500 and $25,000, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.Ruben Lopez-Lupercio, 42, and Axel Elian Gomez-Saldana, 24, both of Larned, are accused of stealing eleven heifers. Evidence presented at the preliminary hearing indicated an investigation was opened after a State Cattle Brand Inspector recognized feedlot finished heifers attempting to be sold at the La Crosse sale barn on December 10, 2021.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658334721691.png" alt="Gomez-Saldana-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Gomez-Saldana-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The matter was then referred to the Attorney General’s Livestock/Brand investigation unit who determined some of the heifers were branded with a brand registered to a Pawnee County Feedlot. With the assistance of the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Department, it was later determined that Lopez-Lupercio and Gomez-Saldana were employed as cowboys at the feedlot near Pawnee Rock, Kansas. They were arrested without incident at the feedlot on January 6, 2022, after the feedlot ownership decided to press charges, according to McNett.&nbsp;Following the hearing, the magistrate judge determined the State had presented sufficient evidence to support the charge and bound the pair over to the higher court. Arraignment has been scheduled for September 15, 2022.

Two cowboys accused of stealing heifers from Kansas feedlot

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a&nbsp;July 4th weekend double murder have identified the second victim as 29-year-old Gerardo Ruvalcaba-Ulloam from California, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

Just after 5 a.m. July 3, sheriff's deputies were sent to a shooting call in the 4400 block of south Rock Road in rural Sedgwick County, according to Blick.&nbsp;

During a search of the rural property, deputies found Ruvalcaba-Ulloam and&nbsp;  43-year-old Saren Negrete-Perez of California. deceased in the backyard of a residence the 4300 block of South Rock Road. They died from apparent gunshot wounds.&nbsp;

At the scene, first responders also found David Baeza, 42 of Wichita, on the side of the road suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Colonel Brian White with the sheriff's department. EMS transported Baeza to an area hospital for treatment and later arrested him.

Baeza and Joseph Ponse, 43 of Wichita have been charged with attempted 1st degree murder in connection with their deaths.

Hieu Luong, 42 of Wichita, is charged with attempted 1st degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

All three remain jailed each on a bond of $500,000.&nbsp; They are due back in court on July 18, according to the district attorney's office.

Luong&nbsp; is scheduled to return to court July 22, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656781809875.png" alt="Portions of Rock Road were closed during the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Portions of Rock Road were closed during the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a&nbsp;July 4th weekend double murder have identified the second victim as 29-year-old Gerardo Ruvalcaba-Ulloam from California, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.Just after 5 a.m. July 3, sheriff's deputies were sent to a shooting call in the 4400 block of south Rock Road in rural Sedgwick County, according to Blick.&nbsp;During a search of the rural property, deputies found Ruvalcaba-Ulloam and&nbsp; 43-year-old Saren Negrete-Perez of California. deceased in the backyard of a residence the 4300 block of South Rock Road. They died from apparent gunshot wounds.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657051675461.png" alt="Baeza-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Baeza-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>At the scene, first responders also found David Baeza, 42 of Wichita, on the side of the road suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Colonel Brian White with the sheriff's department. EMS transported Baeza to an area hospital for treatment and later arrested him.Baeza and Joseph Ponse, 43 of Wichita have been charged with attempted 1st degree murder in connection with their deaths.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657051599579.png" alt="Ponse-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Ponse-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Hieu Luong, 42 of Wichita, is charged with attempted 1st degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657823720573.png" alt="Luong-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Luong-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>All three remain jailed each on a bond of $500,000.&nbsp; They are due back in court on July 18, according to the district attorney's office.Luong&nbsp; is scheduled to return to court July 22, according to the district attorney's office.

Sheriff IDs second victim in rural Kansas double murder

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect in connection with break in at a salvage yard.

Just before 4a.m. Tuesday, deputies reported a sighting of two men at the salvage yard&nbsp;near 330th and U.S. Highway 75 in  Netawaka, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

  Deputies and other area law enforcement secured the perimeter around the salvage yard.&nbsp;

A Jackson County Sheriff’s Office drone and K-9 were used in the search.  The Jackson County Sheriff’s drone located a subject just east of the salvage yard lying in a field.

 Shortly thereafter, a second man was located by the drone in a soybean field east of the property and east of U.S. Highway 75. 

 Both men were taken into custody and identified as 59-year-old, Ronald Almon Wieland Jr. and 49-year-old Michael Ray Young both of Topeka. 

They&nbsp; are being held in the Jackson County Jail on requested charges&nbsp; that include burglary, attempted theft and drug charges.

The Kansas Highway Patrol, Kickapoo Police Department, Holton Police Department, Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the search.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658260080152.png" alt="Wieland-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Wieland-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect in connection with break in at a salvage yard.Just before 4a.m. Tuesday, deputies reported a sighting of two men at the salvage yard&nbsp;near 330th and U.S. Highway 75 in Netawaka, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Deputies and other area law enforcement secured the perimeter around the salvage yard.&nbsp;A Jackson County Sheriff’s Office drone and K-9 were used in the search. The Jackson County Sheriff’s drone located a subject just east of the salvage yard lying in a field.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658260043802.png" alt="Young-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Young-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure> Shortly thereafter, a second man was located by the drone in a soybean field east of the property and east of U.S. Highway 75. Both men were taken into custody and identified as 59-year-old, Ronald Almon Wieland Jr. and 49-year-old Michael Ray Young both of Topeka. They&nbsp; are being held in the Jackson County Jail on requested charges&nbsp; that include burglary, attempted theft and drug charges.The Kansas Highway Patrol, Kickapoo Police Department, Holton Police Department, Brown County Sheriff’s Office, Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the search.

Sheriff: Drone used to locate, arrest Kansas burglary suspects

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. House overwhelmingly approved legislation Tuesday to protect same-sex and interracial marriages amid concerns that the Supreme Court ruling overturning&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Roe v. Wade abortion access</a>&nbsp;could jeopardize other rights criticized by many conservatives.

In a robust but lopsided debate, Democrats argued intensely and often personally in favor of enshrining marriage equality in federal law, while Republicans steered clear of openly rejecting gay marriage. Instead leading Republicans portrayed the bill as unnecessary amid other issues facing the nation.

Tuesday's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-bills-house-vote-fc24d99f184d7aeec4926a6520311da5">election-year roll call,</a>&nbsp;267-157, was partly political strategy, forcing all House members, Republicans and Democrats, to go on the record. It also reflected the legislative branch pushing back against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-us-supreme-court-right-to-privacy-6e1d7ee2a6d26bef09392971fd4948b5">an aggressive court that has raised questions about revisiting other apparently settled U.S. laws.</a>

Wary of political fallout, GOP leaders did not press their members to hold the party line against the bill, aides said. In all, 47 Republicans joined all Democrats in voting for passage. No GOP members of the Kansas or Missouri delegation voted in favor of the bill.&nbsp;

“For me, this is personal,” said Rep. Mondaire Jones, D-N.Y., who said he was among the openly gay members of the House.

“Imagine telling the next generation of Americans, my generation, we no longer have the right to marry who we love,” he said. “Congress can't allow that to happen.”

While the Respect for Marriage Act easily passed the House with a Democratic majority, it is likely to stall in the evenly split Senate, where most Republicans would probably join a filibuster to block it. It's one of several bills, including those enshrining abortion access, that Democrats are proposing to confront the court's conservative majority. Another bill, guaranteeing access to contraceptive services, is set for a vote later this week.

House GOP leaders split over the issue, with Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Whip Rep. Steve Scalise voting against the marriage rights bill, but the No. 3 Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York voting in favor.

In a notable silence, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell declined to express his view on the bill, leaving an open question over how strongly his party would fight it, if it should come up for a vote in the upper chamber.

Key Republicans in the House have shifted in recent years on the same-sex marriage issue, including Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, who joined those voting in favor on Tuesday.

Said another Republican, Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina, in a statement about her yes vote: “If gay couples want to be as happily or miserably married as straight couples, more power to them.”

Polling shows a majority of Americans favor preserving rights to marry, regardless of sex, gender, race or ethnicity, a long-building shift in modern mores toward inclusion.

A Gallup poll in June showed broad and increasing support for same-sex marriage, with 70% of U.S. adults saying they think such unions should be recognized by law as valid. The poll showed majority support among both Democrats (83%) and Republicans (55%).

Approval of interracial marriage in the U.S. hit a six-decade high at 94% in September, according to Gallup.

Ahead of Tuesday's voting, a number of lawmakers joined protesters demonstrating against the abortion ruling outside the Supreme Court, which sits across from the Capitol and remains fenced off for security during tumultuous political times. Capitol Police said among those arrested were 16 members of Congress.

“The extremist right-wing majority on the Supreme Court has put our country down a perilous path,” said Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., in a floor speech setting Tuesday’s debate in motion.

“It’s time for our colleagues across the aisle to stand up and be counted. Will they vote to protect these fundamental freedoms? Or will they vote to let states take those freedoms away?”

But Republicans insisted the court was only focused on abortion access in June when it struck down the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade ruling, and they argued that same-sex marriage and other rights were not threatened.

In fact, almost none of the Republicans who rose to speak during the debate directly broached the subject of same-sex or interracial marriage.

"We are here for a political charade, we are here for political messaging,” said Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee.

That same tack could be expected in the Senate.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said, “The predicate of this is just wrong. I don’t think the Supreme Court is going to overturn any of that stuff.”

As several Democrats spoke of inequalities they said they or their loved ones had faced in same-sex marriages, the Republicans talked about rising gas prices, inflation and crime, including recent threats to justices in connection with the abortion ruling.

For Republicans in Congress the Trump-era confirmation of conservative justices to the Supreme Court has fulfilled a long-term GOP goal of revisiting many social, environmental and regulatory issues the party has been unable to tackle on its own by passing bills that could be signed into law.

The Respect for Marriage Act would repeal a law from the Clinton era that defines marriage as a heterogeneous relationship between a man and a woman. It would also provide legal protections for interracial marriages by prohibiting any state from denying out-of-state marriage licenses and benefits on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity or national origin.

The 1996 law, the Defense of Marriage Act, had basically been sidelined by Obama-era court rulings, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-courts-marriage-supreme-court-of-the-united-states-united-states-government-9e1933cd1e1a4e969ab45f5952bbb45f">Obergefell v. Hodges, which established the rights of same-sex couples to marry nationwide,</a>&nbsp;a landmark case for gay rights.

But last month, writing for the majority in overturning Roe v. Wade, Justice Samuel Alito argued for a more narrow interpretation of the rights guaranteed to Americans, noting that the right to an abortion was not spelled out in the Constitution.

In a concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas went further, saying other rulings similar to Roe, including those around same-sex marriage and the right for couples to use contraception,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-marriage-a0cee537c6f9f10d29fa71f6e7a4d19d">should be reconsidered</a>.

While Alito insisted in the majority opinion that “this decision concerns the constitutional right to abortion and no other right,” others have taken notice.

“The MAGA radicals that are taking over the Republican Party have made it abundantly clear they are not satisfied with repealing Roe,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., referring to Trump's backers.

He pointed to comments from Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who said over the weekend that the Supreme Court’s decision protecting marriage equality was “clearly wrong” and state legislatures should visit the issue.

But Schumer did not commit to holding a vote on the marriage bill.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. House overwhelmingly approved legislation Tuesday to protect same-sex and interracial marriages amid concerns that the Supreme Court ruling overturning&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-supreme-court-decision-854f60302f21c2c35129e58cf8d8a7b0">Roe v. Wade abortion access</a>&nbsp;could jeopardize other rights criticized by many conservatives.In a robust but lopsided debate, Democrats argued intensely and often personally in favor of enshrining marriage equality in federal law, while Republicans steered clear of openly rejecting gay marriage. Instead leading Republicans portrayed the bill as unnecessary amid other issues facing the nation.Tuesday's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-bills-house-vote-fc24d99f184d7aeec4926a6520311da5">election-year roll call,</a>&nbsp;267-157, was partly political strategy, forcing all House members, Republicans and Democrats, to go on the record. It also reflected the legislative branch pushing back against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-biden-us-supreme-court-right-to-privacy-6e1d7ee2a6d26bef09392971fd4948b5">an aggressive court that has raised questions about revisiting other apparently settled U.S. laws.</a>Wary of political fallout, GOP leaders did not press their members to hold the party line against the bill, aides said. In all, 47 Republicans joined all Democrats in voting for passage. No GOP members of the Kansas or Missouri delegation voted in favor of the bill.&nbsp;“For me, this is personal,” said Rep. Mondaire Jones, D-N.Y., who said he was among the openly gay members of the House.“Imagine telling the next generation of Americans, my generation, we no longer have the right to marry who we love,” he said. “Congress can't allow that to happen.”While the Respect for Marriage Act easily passed the House with a Democratic majority, it is likely to stall in the evenly split Senate, where most Republicans would probably join a filibuster to block it. It's one of several bills, including those enshrining abortion access, that Democrats are proposing to confront the court's conservative majority. Another bill, guaranteeing access to contraceptive services, is set for a vote later this week.House GOP leaders split over the issue, with Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy and Whip Rep. Steve Scalise voting against the marriage rights bill, but the No. 3 Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York voting in favor.In a notable silence, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell declined to express his view on the bill, leaving an open question over how strongly his party would fight it, if it should come up for a vote in the upper chamber.Key Republicans in the House have shifted in recent years on the same-sex marriage issue, including Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, who joined those voting in favor on Tuesday.Said another Republican, Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina, in a statement about her yes vote: “If gay couples want to be as happily or miserably married as straight couples, more power to them.”Polling shows a majority of Americans favor preserving rights to marry, regardless of sex, gender, race or ethnicity, a long-building shift in modern mores toward inclusion.A Gallup poll in June showed broad and increasing support for same-sex marriage, with 70% of U.S. adults saying they think such unions should be recognized by law as valid. The poll showed majority support among both Democrats (83%) and Republicans (55%).Approval of interracial marriage in the U.S. hit a six-decade high at 94% in September, according to Gallup.Ahead of Tuesday's voting, a number of lawmakers joined protesters demonstrating against the abortion ruling outside the Supreme Court, which sits across from the Capitol and remains fenced off for security during tumultuous political times. Capitol Police said among those arrested were 16 members of Congress.“The extremist right-wing majority on the Supreme Court has put our country down a perilous path,” said Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., in a floor speech setting Tuesday’s debate in motion.“It’s time for our colleagues across the aisle to stand up and be counted. Will they vote to protect these fundamental freedoms? Or will they vote to let states take those freedoms away?”But Republicans insisted the court was only focused on abortion access in June when it struck down the nearly 50-year-old Roe v. Wade ruling, and they argued that same-sex marriage and other rights were not threatened.In fact, almost none of the Republicans who rose to speak during the debate directly broached the subject of same-sex or interracial marriage."We are here for a political charade, we are here for political messaging,” said Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, the top Republican on the Judiciary Committee.That same tack could be expected in the Senate.Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., said, “The predicate of this is just wrong. I don’t think the Supreme Court is going to overturn any of that stuff.”As several Democrats spoke of inequalities they said they or their loved ones had faced in same-sex marriages, the Republicans talked about rising gas prices, inflation and crime, including recent threats to justices in connection with the abortion ruling.For Republicans in Congress the Trump-era confirmation of conservative justices to the Supreme Court has fulfilled a long-term GOP goal of revisiting many social, environmental and regulatory issues the party has been unable to tackle on its own by passing bills that could be signed into law.The Respect for Marriage Act would repeal a law from the Clinton era that defines marriage as a heterogeneous relationship between a man and a woman. It would also provide legal protections for interracial marriages by prohibiting any state from denying out-of-state marriage licenses and benefits on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity or national origin.The 1996 law, the Defense of Marriage Act, had basically been sidelined by Obama-era court rulings, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-courts-marriage-supreme-court-of-the-united-states-united-states-government-9e1933cd1e1a4e969ab45f5952bbb45f">Obergefell v. Hodges, which established the rights of same-sex couples to marry nationwide,</a>&nbsp;a landmark case for gay rights.But last month, writing for the majority in overturning Roe v. Wade, Justice Samuel Alito argued for a more narrow interpretation of the rights guaranteed to Americans, noting that the right to an abortion was not spelled out in the Constitution.In a concurring opinion, Justice Clarence Thomas went further, saying other rulings similar to Roe, including those around same-sex marriage and the right for couples to use contraception,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-government-and-politics-marriage-a0cee537c6f9f10d29fa71f6e7a4d19d">should be reconsidered</a>.While Alito insisted in the majority opinion that “this decision concerns the constitutional right to abortion and no other right,” others have taken notice.“The MAGA radicals that are taking over the Republican Party have made it abundantly clear they are not satisfied with repealing Roe,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., referring to Trump's backers.He pointed to comments from Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who said over the weekend that the Supreme Court’s decision protecting marriage equality was “clearly wrong” and state legislatures should visit the issue.But Schumer did not commit to holding a vote on the marriage bill.

47 Republicans join Dems as House votes to protect same-sex marriage

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on child sex allegations.

On July 7, employees of the City of Garden City received information that an individual live streamed children to the internet while at Garden Rapids at the Big Pool, according to a media release from police.

Officials with the pool reported the information to police. During the investigation, police identified 57-year-old William Joe Bolin of Garden City as the suspect. 

On July 18, 2022, the Garden City Police Department, with assistance from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC), served a search warrant at Bolin’s residence at 1106 N. 12th Street in Garden City.

Inside the residence, police seized several electronic and computer-related items, suspected methamphetamine and marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. A preliminary search of the electronic items resulted in the location of numerous items of child pornography. 

Police arrested Bolin was while he was reporting to his probation officer. 

Bolin is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658246896225.png" alt="Bolin-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Bolin-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on child sex allegations.On July 7, employees of the City of Garden City received information that an individual live streamed children to the internet while at Garden Rapids at the Big Pool, according to a media release from police.Officials with the pool reported the information to police. During the investigation, police identified 57-year-old William Joe Bolin of Garden City as the suspect. On July 18, 2022, the Garden City Police Department, with assistance from the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC), served a search warrant at Bolin’s residence at 1106 N. 12th Street in Garden City.Inside the residence, police seized several electronic and computer-related items, suspected methamphetamine and marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. A preliminary search of the electronic items resulted in the location of numerous items of child pornography. Police arrested Bolin was while he was reporting to his probation officer. Bolin is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Police: Man sent live video of kids at Kansas pool to internet

PUEBLO COUNTY —A Colorado murder suspect who authorities indicated could be traveling to Wichita is now in custody.&nbsp;

Just after 11 a.m. Tuesday, Pueblo, Colorado Police received a report of a wanted homicide suspect Tyler Mitchell in the 1600 block of West Highway 50, according to a media release.

&nbsp;Mitchell was wanted in the May 31, homicide of 33-year-old, Chelsea Longshore in the 3000 block of N. Elizabeth Street.&nbsp;

Police arrested Mitchell without incident. Mitchell was booked on a requested charge of 1st Degree Murder. On July 14, police issued an alert to the public in an effort to locate him.

PUEBLO COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a murder and asking for help in locating 33-year-old Tyler Jordan Mitchell.

On Wednesday, officials in Colorado issued a warrant for Mitchell’s arrest for the crime of 1st Degree Murder in relation to the death of a 33-year-old woman, according to a media release.

Mitchell is described as a white male, approximately 5-foot-8 and 140 pounds. He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”. 

His&nbsp; right arm is deformed, and he usually keeps it in a shoulder sling. 

He is frequently seen on the north side of Pueblo, but may be in route to the Wichita, Kansas area.

Mitchell should be considered dangerous and if you see him, do not approach him.&nbsp;

  If you have any information about the whereabouts of Tyler J. Mitchell, please contact the Pueblo Police Department (719-553-2502), or local law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657832190500.png" alt="Mitchell-photo Pueblo Police" />
 <figcaption>Mitchell-photo Pueblo Police</figcaption>
 </figure>PUEBLO COUNTY —A Colorado murder suspect who authorities indicated could be traveling to Wichita is now in custody.&nbsp;Just after 11 a.m. Tuesday, Pueblo, Colorado Police received a report of a wanted homicide suspect Tyler Mitchell in the 1600 block of West Highway 50, according to a media release.&nbsp;Mitchell was wanted in the May 31, homicide of 33-year-old, Chelsea Longshore in the 3000 block of N. Elizabeth Street.&nbsp;Police arrested Mitchell without incident. Mitchell was booked on a requested charge of 1st Degree Murder. On July 14, police issued an alert to the public in an effort to locate him.--------------PUEBLO COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a murder and asking for help in locating 33-year-old Tyler Jordan Mitchell.On Wednesday, officials in Colorado issued a warrant for Mitchell’s arrest for the crime of 1st Degree Murder in relation to the death of a 33-year-old woman, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657832368816.png" alt="He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”.Photo Pueblo Police" />
 <figcaption>He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”.Photo Pueblo Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Mitchell is described as a white male, approximately 5-foot-8 and 140 pounds. He has a large tattoo on his left forearm that states “Est. 1989”. His&nbsp; right arm is deformed, and he usually keeps it in a shoulder sling. He is frequently seen on the north side of Pueblo, but may be in route to the Wichita, Kansas area.Mitchell should be considered dangerous and if you see him, do not approach him.&nbsp; If you have any information about the whereabouts of Tyler J. Mitchell, please contact the Pueblo Police Department (719-553-2502), or local law enforcement.

Murder suspect believed traveling to Kan. captured in Colorado

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a traffic stop.

Just before 4 p.m., Monday, sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop for an alleged traffic violation in the 2400 block of 6th Street in Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

During the investigation Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was deployed and indicated the presence of controlled substances in or around the vehicle. Deputies found Methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and brass knuckles.

The driver, identified as Leona Bahr-Strecker, age 35 of Great Bend, was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. 

Strecker was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal carrying of a weapon. Strecker is being held in the Barton County jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond.

A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Justin Herren, age 38 of Great Bend, was found to have outstanding warrants from the City of Great Bend. He was also in possession of methamphetamine. 

Herren was transported the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and two Great Bend municipal warrants. Herren is being held on a $10,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658242423885.jpeg" alt="K-9 Maxx with his handler from the Barton County Sheriff's Office." />
 <figcaption>K-9 Maxx with his handler from the Barton County Sheriff's Office.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple charges after a traffic stop.Just before 4 p.m., Monday, sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop for an alleged traffic violation in the 2400 block of 6th Street in Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.During the investigation Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was deployed and indicated the presence of controlled substances in or around the vehicle. Deputies found Methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and brass knuckles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658242466147.jpeg" alt="Leona Bahr-Strecker" />
 <figcaption>Leona Bahr-Strecker</figcaption>
 </figure>The driver, identified as Leona Bahr-Strecker, age 35 of Great Bend, was arrested and transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. Strecker was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and criminal carrying of a weapon. Strecker is being held in the Barton County jail in lieu of a $20,000 bond.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658242492147.jpeg" alt="Justin Herren" />
 <figcaption>Justin Herren</figcaption>
 </figure>A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Justin Herren, age 38 of Great Bend, was found to have outstanding warrants from the City of Great Bend. He was also in possession of methamphetamine. Herren was transported the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and two Great Bend municipal warrants. Herren is being held on a $10,000 bond.