PAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas man arrested after deputies executed a search warrant at his home in Larned March 15, made his first court appearance in the case on Monday.

William Christopher Woods, 54 of Larned, is charged with Possession of 49.4 Grams of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute within 1000 Feet of a School; Criminal Use of an Explosive; Aggravated Endangering a Child; Possession of Fentanyl; Felony Drug Paraphernalia suitable to distribute a controlled substance;&nbsp; Felony Defacing Identification Marks of a Firearm; Possession of Marijuana; and&nbsp; Misdemeanor Drug Paraphernalia suitable to ingest a controlled substance, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett. 

Two juveniles removed from the home during the execution of the search warrant also face pending charges, according to the McNett.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647891633991.png" alt="Woods-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Woods-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—A Kansas man arrested after deputies executed a search warrant at his home in Larned March 15, made his first court appearance in the case on Monday.William Christopher Woods, 54 of Larned, is charged with Possession of 49.4 Grams of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute within 1000 Feet of a School; Criminal Use of an Explosive; Aggravated Endangering a Child; Possession of Fentanyl; Felony Drug Paraphernalia suitable to distribute a controlled substance;&nbsp; Felony Defacing Identification Marks of a Firearm; Possession of Marijuana; and&nbsp; Misdemeanor Drug Paraphernalia suitable to ingest a controlled substance, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647449462804.jpeg" alt="Photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Woods is being held on a $100,000 bond.Two juveniles removed from the home during the execution of the search warrant also face pending charges, according to the McNett.

Kan. man charged after explosives, guns and drugs seized at home

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman charged with murder in a fatal hit-and-run in March of 2021 entered a plea in the case Friday.

Charity Blackmon, 32, Wichita, pled guilty to 2nd degree intentional murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. She was scheduled for a jury trial starting this week.

On March 26, 2021 police were dispatched to 13th&nbsp;Street North and Oliver Avenue in Wichita for a shooting call, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arriving, they located&nbsp;54-year-old <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/2blv6y22g0?qid=7f0e4807b16464f4303f8d95ed764ff1">Merrill Rabus of Wichita</a> unconscious and receiving life-saving measures.

Rabus had undetermined injuries, including what appeared to be a single gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

The investigation revealed Rabus was on his bicycle at the intersection of 13th&nbsp;Street North and Oliver Avenue when he was struck by a white Plymouth van driven by 31-year-old Charity Blackmon. 

Blackmon then got out of her vehicle and fired a shot from a handgun, striking Rabus. Blackmon fled the scene and was followed by witnesses who provided her location. She was located and arrested at 14th&nbsp;Street North and Green Street by a Wichita State University police officer, according to Cruz.

 Blackmon and Rabus were not known to each other. Officers also recovered a handgun through this investigation.&nbsp;

She is scheduled for sentencing on May 9.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616855135199.png" alt="Blackmon photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Blackmon photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas woman charged with murder in a fatal hit-and-run in March of 2021 entered a plea in the case Friday.Charity Blackmon, 32, Wichita, pled guilty to 2nd degree intentional murder and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. She was scheduled for a jury trial starting this week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616871807743.png" alt="Police at the scene of the investigation on Friday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the investigation on Friday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>On March 26, 2021 police were dispatched to 13th&nbsp;Street North and Oliver Avenue in Wichita for a shooting call, according to officer Paul Cruz. Upon arriving, they located&nbsp;54-year-old <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/2blv6y22g0?qid=7f0e4807b16464f4303f8d95ed764ff1">Merrill Rabus of Wichita</a> unconscious and receiving life-saving measures.Rabus had undetermined injuries, including what appeared to be a single gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital, where he later died from his injuries.The investigation revealed Rabus was on his bicycle at the intersection of 13th&nbsp;Street North and Oliver Avenue when he was struck by a white Plymouth van driven by 31-year-old Charity Blackmon. Blackmon then got out of her vehicle and fired a shot from a handgun, striking Rabus. Blackmon fled the scene and was followed by witnesses who provided her location. She was located and arrested at 14th&nbsp;Street North and Green Street by a Wichita State University police officer, according to Cruz. Blackmon and Rabus were not known to each other. Officers also recovered a handgun through this investigation.&nbsp;She is scheduled for sentencing on May 9.----------

Kan. woman enters plea to running over, fatally shooting bicyclist

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A third teen has been arrested in connection to the case in which a landscaper was shot with a gel gun in downtown Salina on March 15 Three other cases of such shootings were reported on Saturday, March 19

On Friday, police arrested Kaleb A. Arthurs, 18, Salina, on requested charges of battery and aggravated assault, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.

The arrest is in connection to a case in which a 26-year -old Salina woman was shot in the chest with a pellet from a gel gun while she was doing some landscaping work in the 200 block of S. Santa Fe Avenue.

On Friday, police announced that two teens, a 17-year-old Salina boy and Lucas E. Burleson, 18, of Salina, had been apprehended in the case.

Police believe the incident is part of a TikTok "Orbeez Challenge" that encourages participants to use airsoft-type guns that shoot gel or water beads at pedestrians. The nationwide phenomenon has resulted in multiple injuries, including in Salina.

Hanus said that between 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, three additional instances of people being shot with gel guns were reported. Two of the instances resulted in injury. Those instances include the following.

●A woman was struck in the face, resulting in a slight injury. The incident occurred in the parking lot of the YMCA, 570 YMCA Drive in Salina.

●A 22-year-old runner was shot near the intersection of S. Ohio Street and E. Crawford Street in Salina. She reported no injury.

●A 50-year-old veteran was struck in the face while sitting in a vehicle in the Sunset Plaza parking lot on W. Crawford Street in Salina. He was slightly injured.

Hanus said that people need to be aware that the TikTok challenge is dangerous and that there will be consequences for people who shoot others with gel guns. Parents particularly need to be aware of what their children are doing with gel guns, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647879082593.png" alt="Kaleb A. Arthurs -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Kaleb A. Arthurs -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA third teen has been arrested in connection to the case in which a landscaper was shot with a gel gun in downtown Salina on March 15 Three other cases of such shootings were reported on Saturday, March 19On Friday, police arrested Kaleb A. Arthurs, 18, Salina, on requested charges of battery and aggravated assault, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.The arrest is in connection to a case in which a 26-year -old Salina woman was shot in the chest with a pellet from a gel gun while she was doing some landscaping work in the 200 block of S. Santa Fe Avenue.On Friday, police announced that two teens, a 17-year-old Salina boy and Lucas E. Burleson, 18, of Salina, had been apprehended in the case.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647624264575.jpeg" alt="Crimestoppers asked for tips about this white Dodge Ram in connection with the incident in which a worker&nbsp; was shot with a BB gun" />
 <figcaption>Crimestoppers asked for tips about this white Dodge Ram in connection with the incident in which a worker&nbsp; was shot with a BB gun</figcaption>
 </figure>Police believe the incident is part of a TikTok "Orbeez Challenge" that encourages participants to use airsoft-type guns that shoot gel or water beads at pedestrians. The nationwide phenomenon has resulted in multiple injuries, including in Salina.Hanus said that between 6:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, three additional instances of people being shot with gel guns were reported. Two of the instances resulted in injury. Those instances include the following.●A woman was struck in the face, resulting in a slight injury. The incident occurred in the parking lot of the YMCA, 570 YMCA Drive in Salina.●A 22-year-old runner was shot near the intersection of S. Ohio Street and E. Crawford Street in Salina. She reported no injury.●A 50-year-old veteran was struck in the face while sitting in a vehicle in the Sunset Plaza parking lot on W. Crawford Street in Salina. He was slightly injured.Hanus said that people need to be aware that the TikTok challenge is dangerous and that there will be consequences for people who shoot others with gel guns. Parents particularly need to be aware of what their children are doing with gel guns, he said.

Police arrest third Kan. teen in connection with TikTok challenge

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug charges after the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrants in the 1300 Block NW Van Buren, according to Lt. Ronnie Connell

While conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

As a result, officers arrested 37-year-old Rolanda Shopteese and 42-year-old Crystal Wakolee both of Topeka.&nbsp; They were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Crystal Wakolee is jailed on requested charges of  Distribute controlled substance, Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernaliam  Making False Information, Forgery, Theft by deception, Perjury and Identity theft.

Rolanda Shopteese is being held on&nbsp;on requested charges of Distribution of opiate/opium/narc, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent of distribution and Possession of marijuana

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647739661548.png" alt="Shopteese-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Shopteese-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug charges after the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrants in the 1300 Block NW Van Buren, according to Lt. Ronnie ConnellWhile conducting the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.As a result, officers arrested 37-year-old Rolanda Shopteese and 42-year-old Crystal Wakolee both of Topeka.&nbsp; They were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647739712780.png" alt="Wakolee-photo Shawee Co." />
 <figcaption>Wakolee-photo Shawee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Crystal Wakolee is jailed on requested charges of Distribute controlled substance, Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernaliam Making False Information, Forgery, Theft by deception, Perjury and Identity theft.Rolanda Shopteese is being held on&nbsp;on requested charges of Distribution of opiate/opium/narc, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent of distribution and Possession of marijuana

Police accuse two Kan. women of ID theft, drug possession

KANSAS CITY(AP) — The family of a man who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-travel-crime-shootings-missouri-c0f9c4bf729c2f3e96bbc8def6ca9264">shot and killed while riding an Amtrak train</a>&nbsp;in Missouri is suing the railroad company and the alleged shooter for at least $100 million.

Richie Terell Aaron Jr., 30, of Independence, was shot as the Missouri River Runner train arrived at the Lee's Summit station on Jan. 14, where the alleged shooter got off.

The federal lawsuit says the train continued on to the Independence stop, despite pleas from passengers to wait and get help for Aaron, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article259564104.html#storylink=cpy">reported</a>.

Aaron was pronounced dead when the train arrived in Independence about 35 minutes later, according to the lawsuit, which was filed Friday by lawyers representing Aaron's widow and three children.

The lawsuit accuses Amtrak of making “no effort” to get medical treatment for Aaron. It also alleges the company has lax security.

An Amtrak spokeswoman said Sunday the organization could not comment on the lawsuit.

Marquise Webb, 21, of Kansas City, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-arrests-kansas-city-independence-82241edc52a78997f855061e35baa9a4">charged&nbsp;</a>with second-degree murder and armed criminal action in Aaron’s killing.

Webb is also charged in Jackson County with carjacking a man after he got off the train. He was arrested two weeks later after a standoff with Kansas City police. He is being held in the Jackson County jail on a $500,000 cash-only bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1643803193805.png" alt="Webb-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Webb-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — The family of a man who was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lifestyle-travel-crime-shootings-missouri-c0f9c4bf729c2f3e96bbc8def6ca9264">shot and killed while riding an Amtrak train</a>&nbsp;in Missouri is suing the railroad company and the alleged shooter for at least $100 million.Richie Terell Aaron Jr., 30, of Independence, was shot as the Missouri River Runner train arrived at the Lee's Summit station on Jan. 14, where the alleged shooter got off.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642418758538.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Jan. 14 shooting investigation -photo courtesy KMBC TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Jan. 14 shooting investigation -photo courtesy KMBC TV</figcaption>
 </figure>The federal lawsuit says the train continued on to the Independence stop, despite pleas from passengers to wait and get help for Aaron, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article259564104.html#storylink=cpy">reported</a>.Aaron was pronounced dead when the train arrived in Independence about 35 minutes later, according to the lawsuit, which was filed Friday by lawyers representing Aaron's widow and three children.The lawsuit accuses Amtrak of making “no effort” to get medical treatment for Aaron. It also alleges the company has lax security.An Amtrak spokeswoman said Sunday the organization could not comment on the lawsuit.Marquise Webb, 21, of Kansas City, is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-shootings-arrests-kansas-city-independence-82241edc52a78997f855061e35baa9a4">charged&nbsp;</a>with second-degree murder and armed criminal action in Aaron’s killing.Webb is also charged in Jackson County with carjacking a man after he got off the train. He was arrested two weeks later after a standoff with Kansas City police. He is being held in the Jackson County jail on a $500,000 cash-only bond.

Family of man fatally shot on train near Kansas City sues Amtrak

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man has been sentenced for a deadly shooting during a dispute in August of 2020.&nbsp;

A judge sentenced 26-year-old Donovan Harrington, 26, to just over 20 years in prison&nbsp; for the murder of Miguel Tapia, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; 

A jury found Harrington guilty of voluntary manslaughter and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.

Just after 7:30 a.m. August 17, 2020, police responded to a shooting call in the 600 block of South Armour Drive in Wichita, according to Officer Kevin Wheeler. Upon arrival, officers located 27-year-old Miguel Tapia outside of a Nissan Pathfinder with gunshot wounds. Tapia was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.

The investigation&nbsp; revealed that Tapia was driving the Pathfinder with a suspect later identified as Harrington  and a 19-year-old and 20-year-old females as passengers. 

An argument ensued between Harrington and Tapia, and Harrington shot him. Harrington and the passengers ran from the vehicle and flagged down an unknowing driver to get a ride.

Harrington was arrested the following day during a vehicle stop in the 600 block of South Woodlawn, according to Wheeler.

Harrington has previously been convicted on of theft, criminal threat, aggravated robbery, Flee or elude law enforcement with five or more moving violations and was on parole through the Kansas Department of Corrections at the time of the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597846708906.png" alt="Harrington-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Harrington-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man has been sentenced for a deadly shooting during a dispute in August of 2020.&nbsp;A judge sentenced 26-year-old Donovan Harrington, 26, to just over 20 years in prison&nbsp; for the murder of Miguel Tapia, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp; A jury found Harrington guilty of voluntary manslaughter and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon.Just after 7:30 a.m. August 17, 2020, police responded to a shooting call in the 600 block of South Armour Drive in Wichita, according to Officer Kevin Wheeler. Upon arrival, officers located 27-year-old Miguel Tapia outside of a Nissan Pathfinder with gunshot wounds. Tapia was transported to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries.The investigation&nbsp; revealed that Tapia was driving the Pathfinder with a suspect later identified as Harrington and a 19-year-old and 20-year-old females as passengers. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597783835983.png" alt="On Tuesday, police asked the public for help to locate this teal F150 pickup that gave Harrington and the women a ride from the crime scene, according to Wheeler." />
 <figcaption>On Tuesday, police asked the public for help to locate this teal F150 pickup that gave Harrington and the women a ride from the crime scene, according to Wheeler.</figcaption>
 </figure>An argument ensued between Harrington and Tapia, and Harrington shot him. Harrington and the passengers ran from the vehicle and flagged down an unknowing driver to get a ride.Harrington was arrested the following day during a vehicle stop in the 600 block of South Woodlawn, according to Wheeler.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597701535023.png" alt="Police on the scene of the shooting investigation Monday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the shooting investigation Monday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Harrington has previously been convicted on of theft, criminal threat, aggravated robbery, Flee or elude law enforcement with five or more moving violations and was on parole through the Kansas Department of Corrections at the time of the shooting.--------------

Kan. man sentenced for killing during SUV ride with 2 women

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.

Just before 2a.m. Thursday, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a spray painted 1996 Dodge Dakota pickup truck in the 2400 block of SW Fillmore Street for driving with an expired license plate, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The driver, Christopher L. Allen (39) of Topeka, had a suspended driver’s license and two warrants for his arrest out of Shawnee County. During the investigation, the deputy located illegal narcotics.

Allen was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for his warrants and on requested charge of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a suspended driver’s license, vehicle registration violations and no vehicle liability insurance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647609449425.png" alt="Allen-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Allen-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after a traffic stop.Just before 2a.m. Thursday, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a spray painted 1996 Dodge Dakota pickup truck in the 2400 block of SW Fillmore Street for driving with an expired license plate, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.The driver, Christopher L. Allen (39) of Topeka, had a suspended driver’s license and two warrants for his arrest out of Shawnee County. During the investigation, the deputy located illegal narcotics.Allen was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for his warrants and on requested charge of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a suspended driver’s license, vehicle registration violations and no vehicle liability insurance.

Wanted Kan. suspect was driving spray-painted truck with expired plates

MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and made an arrest.

Just after 9p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a reported theft near 16th and Maple in the city of Independence, according to a media release.

The victim reported his electric bike was stolen by a naked man and identified the suspect as 33-year-old Shane May of Independence. to police.  Dispatch immediately began receiving other reports of a naked man running around the 10th and Myrtle area. 

 Officers located the nude man and May refused to surrender.  He ran into oncoming traffic and jumped on the side of a slowing vehicle.  At this time officers were able to grab May and physically subdue him. May was&nbsp; taken into custody without serious injury to himself or the officers.

May is being held on requested charges of aggravated robbery, interference with law enforcement officers, and disorderly conduct.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647619433512.png" alt="May-photo Montgomery County" />
 <figcaption>May-photo Montgomery County</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and made an arrest.Just after 9p.m. Wednesday, police were dispatched to a reported theft near 16th and Maple in the city of Independence, according to a media release.The victim reported his electric bike was stolen by a naked man and identified the suspect as 33-year-old Shane May of Independence. to police. Dispatch immediately began receiving other reports of a naked man running around the 10th and Myrtle area. Officers located the nude man and May refused to surrender. He ran into oncoming traffic and jumped on the side of a slowing vehicle. At this time officers were able to grab May and physically subdue him. May was&nbsp; taken into custody without serious injury to himself or the officers.May is being held on requested charges of aggravated robbery, interference with law enforcement officers, and disorderly conduct.&nbsp;

Police arrest naked man for Kan. strong-arm robbery

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/18/survivors-of-child-sex-abuse-call-for-elimination-of-kansas-statute-of-limitations/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kim Bergman was 12 years old when her gymnastics coach, David Byrd, began abusing her.

Bergman was not his first victim, and she was not his last. Coaches 
she confided in did not report the crime, and when a therapist finally 
did, nothing came of it. Bergman said she felt she had done something 
wrong and that nobody believed her.

By the time she was able to come forward, it was past the statute of 
limitations in Kansas to collect damages for childhood sexual abuse. 
Under current law, these lawsuits must be filed within three years of 
the survivor turning 18 or within three years of discovering an injury 
or illness caused by the abuse.

When Byrd was eventually arrested for indecent liberties with a 
minor, Bergman said, she felt tremendous guilt for not having come 
forward sooner, reigniting her desire to ensure others in her position 
have a way to seek justice. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb420/">Senate Bill 420</a> would do that by eliminating the deadline for filing lawsuits.

“One of David Byrd’s last known victims recently stated, ‘If the 
statute of limitations had been lifted before my assault, there’s a good
 chance that I never would have been a victim,’ ” Bergman said Thursday 
at a news conference at the Statehouse. “Over and over, I have been told
 that my abusers’ rights mattered more than mine. Removing the statute 
of limitations would give me the opportunity to make my abuser 
accountable for what he did to me.”

Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, introduced legislation four 
years ago, but after a wave of initial support, it was put on the 
backburner as COVID-19 matters took priority. Supporters were optimistic
 the bill would clear the Legislature this year, but Sen. Kellie Warren,
 a Leawood Republican and chairwoman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, 
has yet to schedule the bill for a hearing despite repeated requests 
from Bregman and other supporters.

A coalition of victims, legislators and an attorney are now calling 
on Warren to schedule a hearing and give the bill a chance. Warren, who 
is seeking the GOP nomination for attorney general, did not respond to a
 request for comment for this story.

“A person who has been subjected to this type of sexual assault, 
sexual violence as a child, may take decades before they’re able to talk
 about it again,” Holscher said. “It’s what we call the age of 
disclosure, which on average for this is the age of 52.”

It would also eliminate the requirement that the claimant must have 
suffered injury or illness from childhood sexual abuse. Any claims for 
damages suffered because of childhood sexual abuse that occurred on or 
after July 1984 would also be revived.

Chris Mann, a Democrat campaigning for Kansas Attorney General, said 
his time as a police officer and prosecutor taught him how daunting it 
can be for victims to come forward, especially if they are a child. With
 the statute of limitations in place, he said, the opportunity for many 
to seek justice is limited.

“We must not put an expiration date on justice. We must not put an 
expiration date on protecting our children from violent sexual 
predators,” Mann said. “This type of crime can rock a family to its core
 and rob survivors of their future. We cannot turn a blind eye just 
because it happened too far in the past.”

Another bill the group pushed for, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb75/">Senate Bill 75</a>,
 would add duly ordained ministers to the list of positions required to 
report abuse and neglect of children. A minister who suspects abuse or 
neglect based on penitential communication would not be required to 
violate penitential privilege.

Susan Lenore, a victim of clergy childhood sexual abuse, said the 
bill was one step in a long road to justice and accountability for the 
many survivors of clergy abuse.

“How do I find the right words for describing what happened to me in 
church and school when I was 10 and 12 years old?” she said. “Words like
 ‘terrorized,’ ‘rape,’ ‘sexually abused’ or ‘violent sexual predator,’ 
and I believe the most important word is ‘silence’ — to be silenced and 
shamed by what happened, to be silenced and never to speak about what 
happened.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647613717527.png" alt="Kim Bergman urges Kansas lawmakers during a news conference Thursday at the Statehouse in Topeka to adopt a bill that would eliminate the deadline for filing civil lawsuits seeking damages for childhood sexual abuse. Bergman has sent repeated emails and messages over social media calling on Sen. Kellie Warren to schedule a hearing on Senate Bill 420, but hasn’t gotten a response. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kim Bergman urges Kansas lawmakers during a news conference Thursday at the Statehouse in Topeka to adopt a bill that would eliminate the deadline for filing civil lawsuits seeking damages for childhood sexual abuse. Bergman has sent repeated emails and messages over social media calling on Sen. Kellie Warren to schedule a hearing on Senate Bill 420, but hasn’t gotten a response. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/03/18/survivors-of-child-sex-abuse-call-for-elimination-of-kansas-statute-of-limitations/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kim Bergman was 12 years old when her gymnastics coach, David Byrd, began abusing her.Bergman was not his first victim, and she was not his last. Coaches 
she confided in did not report the crime, and when a therapist finally 
did, nothing came of it. Bergman said she felt she had done something 
wrong and that nobody believed her.By the time she was able to come forward, it was past the statute of 
limitations in Kansas to collect damages for childhood sexual abuse. 
Under current law, these lawsuits must be filed within three years of 
the survivor turning 18 or within three years of discovering an injury 
or illness caused by the abuse.When Byrd was eventually arrested for indecent liberties with a 
minor, Bergman said, she felt tremendous guilt for not having come 
forward sooner, reigniting her desire to ensure others in her position 
have a way to seek justice. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb420/">Senate Bill 420</a> would do that by eliminating the deadline for filing lawsuits.“One of David Byrd’s last known victims recently stated, ‘If the 
statute of limitations had been lifted before my assault, there’s a good
 chance that I never would have been a victim,’ ” Bergman said Thursday 
at a news conference at the Statehouse. “Over and over, I have been told
 that my abusers’ rights mattered more than mine. Removing the statute 
of limitations would give me the opportunity to make my abuser 
accountable for what he did to me.”Sen. Cindy Holscher, D-Overland Park, introduced legislation four 
years ago, but after a wave of initial support, it was put on the 
backburner as COVID-19 matters took priority. Supporters were optimistic
 the bill would clear the Legislature this year, but Sen. Kellie Warren,
 a Leawood Republican and chairwoman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, 
has yet to schedule the bill for a hearing despite repeated requests 
from Bregman and other supporters.A coalition of victims, legislators and an attorney are now calling 
on Warren to schedule a hearing and give the bill a chance. Warren, who 
is seeking the GOP nomination for attorney general, did not respond to a
 request for comment for this story.“A person who has been subjected to this type of sexual assault, 
sexual violence as a child, may take decades before they’re able to talk
 about it again,” Holscher said. “It’s what we call the age of 
disclosure, which on average for this is the age of 52.”It would also eliminate the requirement that the claimant must have 
suffered injury or illness from childhood sexual abuse. Any claims for 
damages suffered because of childhood sexual abuse that occurred on or 
after July 1984 would also be revived.Chris Mann, a Democrat campaigning for Kansas Attorney General, said 
his time as a police officer and prosecutor taught him how daunting it 
can be for victims to come forward, especially if they are a child. With
 the statute of limitations in place, he said, the opportunity for many 
to seek justice is limited.“We must not put an expiration date on justice. We must not put an 
expiration date on protecting our children from violent sexual 
predators,” Mann said. “This type of crime can rock a family to its core
 and rob survivors of their future. We cannot turn a blind eye just 
because it happened too far in the past.”Another bill the group pushed for, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2021_22/measures/sb75/">Senate Bill 75</a>,
 would add duly ordained ministers to the list of positions required to 
report abuse and neglect of children. A minister who suspects abuse or 
neglect based on penitential communication would not be required to 
violate penitential privilege.Susan Lenore, a victim of clergy childhood sexual abuse, said the 
bill was one step in a long road to justice and accountability for the 
many survivors of clergy abuse.“How do I find the right words for describing what happened to me in 
church and school when I was 10 and 12 years old?” she said. “Words like
 ‘terrorized,’ ‘rape,’ ‘sexually abused’ or ‘violent sexual predator,’ 
and I believe the most important word is ‘silence’ — to be silenced and 
shamed by what happened, to be silenced and never to speak about what 
happened.”

Survivors of child sex abuse call for end to Kan. statute of limitations

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting at Towne East Mall on Friday have identified the 14-year-old victim as&nbsp;Trenjvious Hutton of Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch.

Just after 5:30 p.m. on Friday, officers responded to a shooting at Towne East Mall, 7700 E Kellogg Drive in Wichita.

 Upon arrival, officers entered the mall and located Hutton inside who had been shot. He was pronounced deceased on scene.

The investigation revealed, Hutton was involved in a physical altercation with several individuals known to him stemming from an ongoing dispute. During the altercation a 16-year-old suspect pulled out a handgun and fired multiple shots, striking Hutton. The suspect then fled on foot.

Witnesses provided officers with a description of the suspect which allowed arriving officers to quickly locate him in the area and make an arrest, according to Ditch.

 A 17-year-old boy with the suspect was detained, questioned, and released. Additionally, officers have recovered two handguns during the investigation.

The 16-year-old shooting suspect is being held on a requested charge of 2nd-degree murder, according to Ditch.

"Any death stemming from a shooting is traumatic for our community,” said Wichita Police Chief Lem Moore said. “Especially when it involves one of our youths at a very busy shopping area. Wichita Police will be proactively providing extra resources at this shopping area to ensure safety of patrons and employees.”

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have two suspects in custody.

Just before 5:30p.m. Friday, police were dispatched what was originally believed to be an active shooter at Towne East Mall, 7700 East Kellog in Wichita according to Officer Chad Ditch.

As officers arrived on scene, there was a mass exodus of people from the mall. As officers entered the lower level of the mall, they located a 14-year-old boy with several gunshot wounds. He was later pronounced deceased, according to Ditch.

Police later learned there was an altercation between several juveniles. One of the juveniles brandished a firearm and shot the victim several times.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A short time later, police located two suspect in the area. Officers took a 17-year-old and a 16-year-old into custody, according to Ditch.

Police released no additional details including the victim's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647654687490.png" alt="Police were dispatched to what was originally believed to be an active shooter -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police were dispatched to what was originally believed to be an active shooter -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting at Towne East Mall on Friday have identified the 14-year-old victim as&nbsp;Trenjvious Hutton of Wichita, according to Officer Chad Ditch.Just after 5:30 p.m. on Friday, officers responded to a shooting at Towne East Mall, 7700 E Kellogg Drive in Wichita. Upon arrival, officers entered the mall and located Hutton inside who had been shot. He was pronounced deceased on scene.The investigation revealed, Hutton was involved in a physical altercation with several individuals known to him stemming from an ongoing dispute. During the altercation a 16-year-old suspect pulled out a handgun and fired multiple shots, striking Hutton. The suspect then fled on foot.Witnesses provided officers with a description of the suspect which allowed arriving officers to quickly locate him in the area and make an arrest, according to Ditch. A 17-year-old boy with the suspect was detained, questioned, and released. Additionally, officers have recovered two handguns during the investigation.The 16-year-old shooting suspect is being held on a requested charge of 2nd-degree murder, according to Ditch."Any death stemming from a shooting is traumatic for our community,” said Wichita Police Chief Lem Moore said. “Especially when it involves one of our youths at a very busy shopping area. Wichita Police will be proactively providing extra resources at this shopping area to ensure safety of patrons and employees.”-----------SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have two suspects in custody.Just before 5:30p.m. Friday, police were dispatched what was originally believed to be an active shooter at Towne East Mall, 7700 East Kellog in Wichita according to Officer Chad Ditch.As officers arrived on scene, there was a mass exodus of people from the mall. As officers entered the lower level of the mall, they located a 14-year-old boy with several gunshot wounds. He was later pronounced deceased, according to Ditch.Police later learned there was an altercation between several juveniles. One of the juveniles brandished a firearm and shot the victim several times.&nbsp;&nbsp;A short time later, police located two suspect in the area. Officers took a 17-year-old and a 16-year-old into custody, according to Ditch.Police released no additional details including the victim's name.

Police ID 14-year-old shot and killed at Wichita Towne East Mall

ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a chase and crash in Hays.

Just before 5p.m. Friday, police responded to a robbery at All the Rage Studios, 2707 Vine Street in Hays, according to a media release.

 It was reported that a black male with dreadlocks and a face mask came into the business with his hand stuffed into a bag and demanded the money from the business. 

An employee handed the man the money and the male suspect left the area driving a black SUV with a Texas tag. &nbsp;

Other law enforcement started looking for the suspect’s vehicle and information was given out to the surrounding jurisdictions on the robbery suspect and his vehicle.

 The Russell Police Department located a black Toyota 4 Runner SUV with a Texas license plate in the McDonald’s drive-thru. From running the license plate, officers were able to determine the vehicle was reported stolen out of Colorado.

The suspect vehicle fled from officers, and a pursuit was initiated that headed west bound on Interstate 70 with speeds exceeding 100 mph.&nbsp; Numerous attempts to deploy stop stick tire deflation devices were attempted but were unsuccessful. 

The suspect drove down the west bound off ramp at the 159 exit and drove onto Vine Street in Hays.

 The suspect continued south on Vine Street after driving through the roundabout at the off-ramp exit. 

As the suspect’s vehicle exited the second roundabout just south of interstate on Vine Street, the vehicle started driving south in the northbound lane, directly into oncoming traffic. Hays Police Officers interceded and stopped the suspect vehicle from continuing into oncoming traffic. 

Three police vehicles were damaged along with the suspect’s stolen vehicle. The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Irving Wozanee Brooks III from Jacksonville, Florida. 

Brooks was arrested and taken to the Ellis County Jail. One officer was injured and taken to the hospital with minor injuries. 

Traffic on north Vine Street was blocked and congested to one lane for a lengthy period, causing traffic to be diverted onto interstate for a while as emergency responders worked to remove the damaged vehicles and debris from the roadway.

Irving W. Brooks III is currently being held in the Ellis County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647653621461.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a chase and crash in Hays.Just before 5p.m. Friday, police responded to a robbery at All the Rage Studios, 2707 Vine Street in Hays, according to a media release. It was reported that a black male with dreadlocks and a face mask came into the business with his hand stuffed into a bag and demanded the money from the business. An employee handed the man the money and the male suspect left the area driving a black SUV with a Texas tag. &nbsp;Other law enforcement started looking for the suspect’s vehicle and information was given out to the surrounding jurisdictions on the robbery suspect and his vehicle.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647653478281.jpeg" alt="Photos by James Bell" />
 <figcaption>Photos by James Bell</figcaption>
 </figure> The Russell Police Department located a black Toyota 4 Runner SUV with a Texas license plate in the McDonald’s drive-thru. From running the license plate, officers were able to determine the vehicle was reported stolen out of Colorado.The suspect vehicle fled from officers, and a pursuit was initiated that headed west bound on Interstate 70 with speeds exceeding 100 mph.&nbsp; Numerous attempts to deploy stop stick tire deflation devices were attempted but were unsuccessful. The suspect drove down the west bound off ramp at the 159 exit and drove onto Vine Street in Hays.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647653659036.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure> The suspect continued south on Vine Street after driving through the roundabout at the off-ramp exit. As the suspect’s vehicle exited the second roundabout just south of interstate on Vine Street, the vehicle started driving south in the northbound lane, directly into oncoming traffic. Hays Police Officers interceded and stopped the suspect vehicle from continuing into oncoming traffic. Three police vehicles were damaged along with the suspect’s stolen vehicle. The suspect was identified as 31-year-old Irving Wozanee Brooks III from Jacksonville, Florida. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647653727062.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Brooks was arrested and taken to the Ellis County Jail. One officer was injured and taken to the hospital with minor injuries. Traffic on north Vine Street was blocked and congested to one lane for a lengthy period, causing traffic to be diverted onto interstate for a while as emergency responders worked to remove the damaged vehicles and debris from the roadway.Irving W. Brooks III is currently being held in the Ellis County Jail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647653832353.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Armed robbery suspect caught after chase, crash in Hays

MOSCOW (AP) —The United States stepped up its push Friday for consular access to Brittney Griner, the WNBA star who is detained in Russia on allegations of drug smuggling, as a member of a Russian state-backed prison monitoring group said Griner was faring well behind bars.

Ekaterina Kalugina told The Associated Press on Friday that she visited Griner on Monday at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-arrest-extended-d769f6dfe03a3b55f23ef24960dae787">pretrial detention facility outside of Moscow</a>&nbsp;where she’s being held and spoke to her with the help of a cellmate who speaks Russian and English and served as an interpreter.

“Her physical condition is fine, she’s holding up fine, and I’d even say that she is fairly calm and isn’t anxious,” Kalugina said of the Phoenix Mercury star and former 3-time Big 12 Player of the year, whose legal ordeal comes amid tension between Russia and the U.S. over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-united-nations-europe-antony-blinken-c3310a12490a0cf2e06f5f389e22e3a6">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine</a>.

The United States stepped up its push Friday for consular access to Brittney Griner, the WNBA star who is detained in Russia on allegations of drug smuggling, as a member of a Russian state-backed prison monitoring group said Griner was faring well behind bars.

“Her physical condition is fine, she’s holding up fine, and I’d even say that she is fairly calm and isn’t anxious,” Kalugina said of the Phoenix Mercury star, whose legal ordeal comes amid tension between Russia and the U.S. over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-united-nations-europe-antony-blinken-c3310a12490a0cf2e06f5f389e22e3a6">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine</a>.

Kalugina said Griner is being held at the facility where an Israeli woman, Naama Issachar, spent time before Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/122f4edecc8fa71d30b060ef2fa81a62">pardoned her in 2020</a>. Russian authorities said they found hashish in Issachar’s luggage while she was transferring between flights in Moscow en route from India to Israel, at the same airport where Griner was detained. Issachar was convicted and sentenced to 7 1/2 years in prison before she was freed after spending nine months behind bars.

Griner’s legal team has been quietly seeking her release and has declined to speak out about the case since her arrest was made public earlier this month.

Of the thousands of U.S. citizens arrested and jailed in prisons abroad, a small subset are designated by the U.S. government as wrongfully detained — a category that affords their cases an extra level of government attention and places them under the auspices of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the State Department. The U.S. government has not yet put Griner’s case in that category.

Griner is not the only American detained in Russia. Marine veteran Trevor Reed was sentenced to nine years in prison in 2020 on charges alleging that he assaulted police officers in Moscow. And Michigan corporate security executive Paul Whelan is serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges that his family and the U.S. government have said are false. U.S. officials have publicly called for Moscow to release them.

<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 United States stepped up its push Friday for consular access to Brittney Griner, the WNBA star who is detained in Russia on allegations of drug smuggling, as a member of a Russian state-backed prison monitoring group said Griner was faring well behind bars.Ekaterina Kalugina told The Associated Press on Friday that she visited Griner on Monday at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-arrest-extended-d769f6dfe03a3b55f23ef24960dae787">pretrial detention facility outside of Moscow</a>&nbsp;where she’s being held and spoke to her with the help of a cellmate who speaks Russian and English and served as an interpreter.“Her physical condition is fine, she’s holding up fine, and I’d even say that she is fairly calm and isn’t anxious,” Kalugina said of the Phoenix Mercury star and former 3-time Big 12 Player of the year, whose legal ordeal comes amid tension between Russia and the U.S. over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-united-nations-europe-antony-blinken-c3310a12490a0cf2e06f5f389e22e3a6">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine</a>.The United States stepped up its push Friday for consular access to Brittney Griner, the WNBA star who is detained in Russia on allegations of drug smuggling, as a member of a Russian state-backed prison monitoring group said Griner was faring well behind bars.Ekaterina Kalugina told The Associated Press on Friday that she visited Griner on Monday at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/brittney-griner-russia-arrest-extended-d769f6dfe03a3b55f23ef24960dae787">pretrial detention facility outside of Moscow</a>&nbsp;where she’s being held and spoke to her with the help of a cellmate who speaks Russian and English and served as an interpreter.“Her physical condition is fine, she’s holding up fine, and I’d even say that she is fairly calm and isn’t anxious,” Kalugina said of the Phoenix Mercury star, whose legal ordeal comes amid tension between Russia and the U.S. over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kyiv-united-nations-europe-antony-blinken-c3310a12490a0cf2e06f5f389e22e3a6">Russia’s invasion of Ukraine</a>.Kalugina said Griner is being held at the facility where an Israeli woman, Naama Issachar, spent time before Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/122f4edecc8fa71d30b060ef2fa81a62">pardoned her in 2020</a>. Russian authorities said they found hashish in Issachar’s luggage while she was transferring between flights in Moscow en route from India to Israel, at the same airport where Griner was detained. Issachar was convicted and sentenced to 7 1/2 years in prison before she was freed after spending nine months behind bars.Griner’s legal team has been quietly seeking her release and has declined to speak out about the case since her arrest was made public earlier this month.Of the thousands of U.S. citizens arrested and jailed in prisons abroad, a small subset are designated by the U.S. government as wrongfully detained — a category that affords their cases an extra level of government attention and places them under the auspices of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs at the State Department. The U.S. government has not yet put Griner’s case in that category.Griner is not the only American detained in Russia. Marine veteran Trevor Reed was sentenced to nine years in prison in 2020 on charges alleging that he assaulted police officers in Moscow. And Michigan corporate security executive Paul Whelan is serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges that his family and the U.S. government have said are false. U.S. officials have publicly called for Moscow to release them.

US demands Russia allow access to detained basketball star

By ARIANA FIGUEROA <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/03/17/most-hbcu-bomb-threats-may-be-coming-from-one-juvenile-fbi-official-tells-congress/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — A top FBI official 
told members of a U.S. House panel on Thursday that the agency believes a
 single juvenile is behind most of the bomb threats made to more than 30
 Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Ryan Young, executive assistant director of the Intelligence Branch 
at the FBI, said that the bomb threats made to HBCUs and historically 
Black churches are the agency’s top priority.

“We’ve treated this as domestic terrorism,” he said. “It’s meant to inflict harm within the African American population.”

Under questioning from Republican Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, 
Young said that the FBI believes that a majority of the bomb threats are
 from one juvenile, but declined to give any more information.

Higgins asked if it is correct that the FBI has identified one 
juvenile behind the threats. Young said “that is consistent with the 
message we’ve shared with both law enforcement and the Historically 
Black Colleges.”

The exchange came during a hearing of the House Oversight Committee, 
as lawmakers grilled officials from law enforcement agencies about why 
those making bomb threats made against Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities have not been caught.

“As the investigation is ongoing, I know that the FBI cannot answer 
any questions about the status of these specific cases,” said Rep. Jamie
 Raskin, a Maryland Democrat and chair of the&nbsp;Subcommittee on Civil 
Rights and Civil Liberties.

“But I would like to know how the FBI is coordinating with HBCUs and 
communities of color to address the terrifying rise in hate crimes and 
white supremacy in the U.S.”

This year alone, 36 HBCUs have been targeted with bomb threats. The House and Senate on a bipartisan vote&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marylandmatters.org/2022/03/08/u-s-house-condemns-bomb-threats-made-against-hbcus/">passed</a>&nbsp;
 a resolution condemning the bomb threats made to HBCUs and several 
congressional hearings on the threats to minority institutions have been
 held.

Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis temporarily closed its campus on Feb. 1 <a target="_blank" href="https://news.stlpublicradio.org/education/2022-02-01/harris-stowe-state-university-shuts-down-campus-following-bomb-threats-to-it-and-other-hbcus">after receiving a bomb threat</a>.

Leaders of faith organizations and HBCUs&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marylandmatters.org/2022/02/17/u-s-house-hearing-on-extremism-toward-minorities-turns-into-defund-the-police-debate/">detailed</a>&nbsp;to
 the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland 
Security how their institutions and places of worship have been roiled 
by bomb threats and extremism.

Higgins said it was unacceptable that the FBI and Department of Justice have not made an arrest.

“The impact of the bomb threats, when you look at (the) historical 
aspect, that’s a level of fear that we should absolutely investigate in 
the most aggressive way possible,” he said.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/six-juveniles-identified-fbi-persons-interests-bomb-threats-historical-rcna14591">A February report from NBC&nbsp;</a>said
 the FBI was looking at a group of six juveniles as “persons of 
interest” in the threats. That report said the juveniles were “tech 
savvy” and able to disguise the source of the threats.

Students from HBCUs also testified before lawmakers on the impact of dealing with bomb threats.

Emmanuel Ukot, the president of the Student Government Association at
 Xavier University of Louisiana, said many classmates were anxious 
following the bomb threats in February.

“Our HBCUs are spaces where we are the majority, where we are valued,
 and where we are expected to excel,” Ukot said. “These attacks robbed 
us of that freedom and ease that HBCUs have historically provided to 
Black students.”

Another student,&nbsp;Devan Vilfrard, from&nbsp;Florida A&amp;M University in 
Tallahassee, said in his opening statement to lawmakers that “racial 
violence towards HBCUs is a multi-generational occurrence that 
profoundly impacts the Black community.”

“HBCUs should continue to be federally supported and protected as we 
endeavor to remove this ongoing tradition of bombing and bomb threats 
for HBCU students of the future,” he said.

Rep. Shontel Brown, an Ohio Democrat, said that the threats were also
 an attack on the mental health of faculty, students and staff, as a 
majority of the threats were made in February during Black History 
Month.

“HBCUs are building the next generation of Black leaders and Congress
 must continue to recognize their contributions in the most important 
way possible by affording the support, the infrastructure and the 
investment to keep them and our future leaders safe and secure,” Brown 
said.

She asked Michelle Asha Cooper, the acting assistant secretary for 
postsecondary education at the U.S. Department of Education, what the 
agency is doing to help HBCUs address the mental health impact of the 
bomb threats.

Cooper said that HBCUs who have received bomb threats get immediately
 contacted by the Department of Education so the agency can understand 
how to best serve those institutions. Cooper added that the agency is 
working on guidance on how HBCUs can tap into pandemic relief funds to 
address mental health needs.

The chair of the House Oversight Committee, Rep.&nbsp;Carolyn B. Maloney, a
 New York Democrat, asked Young if he believed these threats were being 
made by foreign actors.

Young said that the FBI had found no evidence of foreign influence in
 the bomb threats, but added that “there is an understanding that people
 online are radicalizing a lot more.”

He added that the agency has seen a rise in hate crimes not only 
toward the African American community, but other minority communities 
and places of worship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647552407908.png" alt="Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis temporarily closed its campus on Feb. 1 after receiving a bomb threat (photo courtesy of Harris-Stowe State)." />
 <figcaption>Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis temporarily closed its campus on Feb. 1 after receiving a bomb threat (photo courtesy of Harris-Stowe State).</figcaption>
 </figure>By ARIANA FIGUEROA <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2022/03/17/most-hbcu-bomb-threats-may-be-coming-from-one-juvenile-fbi-official-tells-congress/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — A top FBI official 
told members of a U.S. House panel on Thursday that the agency believes a
 single juvenile is behind most of the bomb threats made to more than 30
 Historically Black Colleges and Universities.Ryan Young, executive assistant director of the Intelligence Branch 
at the FBI, said that the bomb threats made to HBCUs and historically 
Black churches are the agency’s top priority.“We’ve treated this as domestic terrorism,” he said. “It’s meant to inflict harm within the African American population.”Under questioning from Republican Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, 
Young said that the FBI believes that a majority of the bomb threats are
 from one juvenile, but declined to give any more information.Higgins asked if it is correct that the FBI has identified one 
juvenile behind the threats. Young said “that is consistent with the 
message we’ve shared with both law enforcement and the Historically 
Black Colleges.”The exchange came during a hearing of the House Oversight Committee, 
as lawmakers grilled officials from law enforcement agencies about why 
those making bomb threats made against Historically Black Colleges and 
Universities have not been caught.“As the investigation is ongoing, I know that the FBI cannot answer 
any questions about the status of these specific cases,” said Rep. Jamie
 Raskin, a Maryland Democrat and chair of the&nbsp;Subcommittee on Civil 
Rights and Civil Liberties.“But I would like to know how the FBI is coordinating with HBCUs and 
communities of color to address the terrifying rise in hate crimes and 
white supremacy in the U.S.”This year alone, 36 HBCUs have been targeted with bomb threats. The House and Senate on a bipartisan vote&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marylandmatters.org/2022/03/08/u-s-house-condemns-bomb-threats-made-against-hbcus/">passed</a>&nbsp;
 a resolution condemning the bomb threats made to HBCUs and several 
congressional hearings on the threats to minority institutions have been
 held.Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis temporarily closed its campus on Feb. 1 <a target="_blank" href="https://news.stlpublicradio.org/education/2022-02-01/harris-stowe-state-university-shuts-down-campus-following-bomb-threats-to-it-and-other-hbcus">after receiving a bomb threat</a>.Leaders of faith organizations and HBCUs&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.marylandmatters.org/2022/02/17/u-s-house-hearing-on-extremism-toward-minorities-turns-into-defund-the-police-debate/">detailed</a>&nbsp;to
 the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland 
Security how their institutions and places of worship have been roiled 
by bomb threats and extremism.Higgins said it was unacceptable that the FBI and Department of Justice have not made an arrest.“The impact of the bomb threats, when you look at (the) historical 
aspect, that’s a level of fear that we should absolutely investigate in 
the most aggressive way possible,” he said.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/six-juveniles-identified-fbi-persons-interests-bomb-threats-historical-rcna14591">A February report from NBC&nbsp;</a>said
 the FBI was looking at a group of six juveniles as “persons of 
interest” in the threats. That report said the juveniles were “tech 
savvy” and able to disguise the source of the threats.<h2>Student anxiety</h2>Students from HBCUs also testified before lawmakers on the impact of dealing with bomb threats.Emmanuel Ukot, the president of the Student Government Association at
 Xavier University of Louisiana, said many classmates were anxious 
following the bomb threats in February.“Our HBCUs are spaces where we are the majority, where we are valued,
 and where we are expected to excel,” Ukot said. “These attacks robbed 
us of that freedom and ease that HBCUs have historically provided to 
Black students.”Another student,&nbsp;Devan Vilfrard, from&nbsp;Florida A&amp;M University in 
Tallahassee, said in his opening statement to lawmakers that “racial 
violence towards HBCUs is a multi-generational occurrence that 
profoundly impacts the Black community.”“HBCUs should continue to be federally supported and protected as we 
endeavor to remove this ongoing tradition of bombing and bomb threats 
for HBCU students of the future,” he said.Rep. Shontel Brown, an Ohio Democrat, said that the threats were also
 an attack on the mental health of faculty, students and staff, as a 
majority of the threats were made in February during Black History 
Month.“HBCUs are building the next generation of Black leaders and Congress
 must continue to recognize their contributions in the most important 
way possible by affording the support, the infrastructure and the 
investment to keep them and our future leaders safe and secure,” Brown 
said.She asked Michelle Asha Cooper, the acting assistant secretary for 
postsecondary education at the U.S. Department of Education, what the 
agency is doing to help HBCUs address the mental health impact of the 
bomb threats.Cooper said that HBCUs who have received bomb threats get immediately
 contacted by the Department of Education so the agency can understand 
how to best serve those institutions. Cooper added that the agency is 
working on guidance on how HBCUs can tap into pandemic relief funds to 
address mental health needs.The chair of the House Oversight Committee, Rep.&nbsp;Carolyn B. Maloney, a
 New York Democrat, asked Young if he believed these threats were being 
made by foreign actors.Young said that the FBI had found no evidence of foreign influence in
 the bomb threats, but added that “there is an understanding that people
 online are radicalizing a lot more.”He added that the agency has seen a rise in hate crimes not only 
toward the African American community, but other minority communities 
and places of worship.

FBI: Most HBCU bomb threats may be coming from one juvenile

BUTLER COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) responded to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon, critically injuring a Leon, Kansas man, according to a media release from the KBI.

Preliminary information indicates that deputies from the Butler County Sheriff’s Office were attempting to serve an arrest warrant on James B. Watts, 53, of Leon. 

Deputies were following Watts’ vehicle when he parked at Vintage Bank at 101 S. Main St., in Leon. They attempted to call Watts out of the vehicle in a controlled manner, but he ignored commands. Watts exited the vehicle armed with a pistol. Deputies continued to give commands for him to drop the gun, but Watts reached the entrance of the bank. When Watts attempted to enter the bank, three deputies fired multiple times toward Watts, striking him several times.

Deputies and EMS rendered first-aid and Watts was transported to a Wichita hospital. After surgery he is in critical, but stable condition.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The KBI will conduct a thorough and independent investigation into this shooting. Once completed the findings will be turned over to the Butler County Attorney for review.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647553641541.png" alt="The Butler County Sheriff’s Office contacted the KBI at approximately 2:20 p.m. requesting assistance investigating the shooting. -photo by Shawn Loging courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>The Butler County Sheriff’s Office contacted the KBI at approximately 2:20 p.m. requesting assistance investigating the shooting. -photo by Shawn Loging courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) responded to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday afternoon, critically injuring a Leon, Kansas man, according to a media release from the KBI.Preliminary information indicates that deputies from the Butler County Sheriff’s Office were attempting to serve an arrest warrant on James B. Watts, 53, of Leon. Deputies were following Watts’ vehicle when he parked at Vintage Bank at 101 S. Main St., in Leon. They attempted to call Watts out of the vehicle in a controlled manner, but he ignored commands. Watts exited the vehicle armed with a pistol. Deputies continued to give commands for him to drop the gun, but Watts reached the entrance of the bank. When Watts attempted to enter the bank, three deputies fired multiple times toward Watts, striking him several times.Deputies and EMS rendered first-aid and Watts was transported to a Wichita hospital. After surgery he is in critical, but stable condition.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The KBI will conduct a thorough and independent investigation into this shooting. Once completed the findings will be turned over to the Butler County Attorney for review.

KBI: Suspect hospitalized after Kansas officer shooting

MOSCOW (AP) —A Moscow court announced it has extended the arrest of WNBA star and former three-time Big 12 player of the year Brittney Griner until May 19, according to the Russian state news agency Tass.

Griner was detained at a Moscow airport in February after Russian authorities said a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges. They were identified as containing oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

“The court granted the request of the investigation and extended the period of detention of the U.S. citizen Griner until May 19,” the court said, according to Tass.

The United States embassy in Moscow did not immediately return calls from The Associated Press seeking comment.

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.

Griner has played in Russia for the last seven years in the winter, earning over $1 million per season — more than quadruple her WNBA salary. She last played for her Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg on Jan. 29 before the league took a two-week break in early February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments. She was arrested in Moscow upon returning to Russia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="Griner photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>Griner photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) —A Moscow court announced it has extended the arrest of WNBA star and former three-time Big 12 player of the year Brittney Griner until May 19, according to the Russian state news agency Tass.Griner was detained at a Moscow airport in February after Russian authorities said a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges. They were identified as containing oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.“The court granted the request of the investigation and extended the period of detention of the U.S. citizen Griner until May 19,” the court said, according to Tass.The United States embassy in Moscow did not immediately return calls from The Associated Press seeking comment.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.The WNBA season opens May 6.Griner has played in Russia for the last seven years in the winter, earning over $1 million per season — more than quadruple her WNBA salary. She last played for her Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg on Jan. 29 before the league took a two-week break in early February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments. She was arrested in Moscow upon returning to Russia.

Russian court extends arrest of 3-time Big 12 player of the year

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal weekend shooting have made an arrest.

Just before midnight Sunday, police responded to the 200 block of North Walnut Street in Coffeyville after report of a shooting, according to a media release. Officers located a juvenile gunshot victim of Chanute, Kansas. 

EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and they were pronounced deceased.

Police sought one person of interest for questioning.

On Wednesday, police arrested 19-year-old Treyvin Xavier Hayes Smith. He is being held on requested charges from the Montgomery County Attorney’s for Involuntary manslaughter; Recklessly: Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18: Contribute to a child misconduct; Unknown circumstance and&nbsp; Interference with LEO; unknown circumstance; felony: 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647513036564.png" alt="Smith-photo Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Smith-photo Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal weekend shooting have made an arrest.Just before midnight Sunday, police responded to the 200 block of North Walnut Street in Coffeyville after report of a shooting, according to a media release. Officers located a juvenile gunshot victim of Chanute, Kansas. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and they were pronounced deceased.Police sought one person of interest for questioning.On Wednesday, police arrested 19-year-old Treyvin Xavier Hayes Smith. He is being held on requested charges from the Montgomery County Attorney’s for Involuntary manslaughter; Recklessly: Aggravated endangering a child; Reckless situation to child &lt;18: Contribute to a child misconduct; Unknown circumstance and&nbsp; Interference with LEO; unknown circumstance; felony:

Police: Kan. man arrested after child dies in weekend shooting

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after the Kansas City Drug Enforcement Unit intercepted fentanyl brick which could have killed thousands, according to a social media report from KCPD.

Squad members estimate this brick would have been broken down into approximately 10,000 tablets resembling oxycodone.

This fentanyl arrived in Kansas City from California and was headed to Alabama. We believe the markings indicate a shipping destination. Suspects are facing charges.

The DEU intercepts fentanyl or fentanyl-laced pills weekly. It is a dangerous and growing issue nationwide. On Tuesday night,&nbsp;two KCPD officers went to the hospital for a possible fentanyl exposure during an arrest. The officers are fine.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647479097154.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCPD" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating after the Kansas City Drug Enforcement Unit intercepted fentanyl brick which could have killed thousands, according to a social media report from KCPD.Squad members estimate this brick would have been broken down into approximately 10,000 tablets resembling oxycodone.This fentanyl arrived in Kansas City from California and was headed to Alabama. We believe the markings indicate a shipping destination. Suspects are facing charges.The DEU intercepts fentanyl or fentanyl-laced pills weekly. It is a dangerous and growing issue nationwide. On Tuesday night,&nbsp;two KCPD officers went to the hospital for a possible fentanyl exposure during an arrest. The officers are fine.

KCPD: Fentanyl brick from California “could have killed thousands"

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

Just after 4 p.m. Tuesday, detectives with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office arrested 19-year-old Anthony D. Rodriguez of Topeka following an investigation into a sexual offense that took place on March 11, at a residence in southwest Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The victim was a 14-year-old girl. Rodriguez was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of rape.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647457633588.png" alt="Rodriguez-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Rodriguez-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes.Just after 4 p.m. Tuesday, detectives with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office arrested 19-year-old Anthony D. Rodriguez of Topeka following an investigation into a sexual offense that took place on March 11, at a residence in southwest Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.The victim was a 14-year-old girl. Rodriguez was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of rape.

Sheriff: Kansas man accused of rape of 14-year-old 

PAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect following a&nbsp;two-month narcotics investigation in Pawnee County, according to the sheriff's department.

Deputies and Larned police were assisted by ATF and the Wichita Police Department Bomb Squad in seizing multiple firearms, explosives, marijuana and a large quantity of methamphetamine.

One arrest was made on numerous requested charges including distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000' of a school, criminal use of explosives and criminal possession of firearms.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647449462804.jpeg" alt="Photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect following a&nbsp;two-month narcotics investigation in Pawnee County, according to the sheriff's department.Deputies and Larned police were assisted by ATF and the Wichita Police Department Bomb Squad in seizing multiple firearms, explosives, marijuana and a large quantity of methamphetamine.One arrest was made on numerous requested charges including distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000' of a school, criminal use of explosives and criminal possession of firearms.&nbsp;

Sheriff: Explosives, guns and drugs seized at Kansas home

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court Tuesday for his role in a series of armed business robberies in Kansas City and Independence, Mo., according to the United State's Attorney.

Henry Simmons, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 15 years in federal prison without parole.

On Sept. 1, 2021, Simmons pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit robbery and one count of attempted robbery. Co-defendants Vonterrious Humbert, 22, Tremaine Johnson, 23, both of Kansas City, Mo., have also pleaded guilty and been sentenced. Humbert was sentenced on Feb. 24, 2021, to eight years in federal prison without parole. Johnson was sentenced on Sept. 23, 2021, to five years in federal prison without parole.

Simmons, Humbert, and Johnson were arrested on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018, following the early-morning armed robbery of a Phillips 66 convenience store and the attempted robbery of a Taco Bell on N.W. Barry Road in Kansas City.

The conspiracy included eight additional business robberies: five armed robberies of 7-Eleven convenience stores in Independence, Mo., and Kansas City, Mo., in the early morning hours of Nov. 21, 2018, and three armed robberies of a Domino’s Pizza, a 7-Eleven convenience store and a Sinclair convenience store in Kansas City, Mo., during the early morning hours of Nov. 25, 2018.

Law enforcement officials identified a 2003 Dodge Durango SUV as being used in some of the robberies. On Monday, Nov. 26, 2018, law enforcement observed Humbert, Johnson, Simmons and two juveniles traveling in that Dodge Durango SUV to approximately 15 to 20 convenience stores, fast-food restaurants and other businesses that were open late or operated 24 hours a day. Officers believed they were casing the businesses – making repetitive passes by these businesses in a slow, surveillance-like manner, as if examining the businesses for activity and occupants in advance of initiating a robbery.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court Tuesday for his role in a series of armed business robberies in Kansas City and Independence, Mo., according to the United State's Attorney.Henry Simmons, 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 15 years in federal prison without parole.On Sept. 1, 2021, Simmons pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit robbery and one count of attempted robbery. Co-defendants Vonterrious Humbert, 22, Tremaine Johnson, 23, both of Kansas City, Mo., have also pleaded guilty and been sentenced. Humbert was sentenced on Feb. 24, 2021, to eight years in federal prison without parole. Johnson was sentenced on Sept. 23, 2021, to five years in federal prison without parole.Simmons, Humbert, and Johnson were arrested on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018, following the early-morning armed robbery of a Phillips 66 convenience store and the attempted robbery of a Taco Bell on N.W. Barry Road in Kansas City.The conspiracy included eight additional business robberies: five armed robberies of 7-Eleven convenience stores in Independence, Mo., and Kansas City, Mo., in the early morning hours of Nov. 21, 2018, and three armed robberies of a Domino’s Pizza, a 7-Eleven convenience store and a Sinclair convenience store in Kansas City, Mo., during the early morning hours of Nov. 25, 2018.Law enforcement officials identified a 2003 Dodge Durango SUV as being used in some of the robberies. On Monday, Nov. 26, 2018, law enforcement observed Humbert, Johnson, Simmons and two juveniles traveling in that Dodge Durango SUV to approximately 15 to 20 convenience stores, fast-food restaurants and other businesses that were open late or operated 24 hours a day. Officers believed they were casing the businesses – making repetitive passes by these businesses in a slow, surveillance-like manner, as if examining the businesses for activity and occupants in advance of initiating a robbery.At approximately 2:37 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2018, the vehicle arrived at the shopping area at N.W. Barry Road and Ambassador Drive in Kansas City, Mo. The vehicle parked at a nearby apartment complex. Four individuals got out of the vehicle; Humbert and Johnson walked across the street to the Phillips 66 convenience store while Simmons and a juvenile male walked to the Taco Bell.Humbert and Johnson robbed the Phillips 66 store at gunpoint, stealing approximately $400, then ran back across the street toward a wooded area near the apartment complex. Johnson and Humbert were pursued into a strip mall area near the apartment complex. Both were apprehended nearby and were found to have discarded the firearms they possessed at the time of the robbery – a Taurus handgun with a laser sight and an SKS-type 7.62x39mm rifle.As this robbery was occurring, Simmons and the juvenile were attempting to gain entry to the Taco Bell to rob the employees.&nbsp; When officers approached, Simmons and the juvenile ran and discharged two firearms.&nbsp; After they were taken into custody, officers retrieved a loaded Taurus 9mm semi-automatic handgun with a laser sight and a loaded Ruger 9mm semi-automatic handgun.A second juvenile male was identified as the driver and sole occupant of the Dodge Durango SUV at the time of the arrests. Officers searched the vehicle and found a loaded Glock .40-caliber semi-automatic handgun and a jar containing marijuana.