KANSAS CITY (AP) — The family of a Black man who was shot and killed by a white Kansas City police officer in 2020 is suing the officer and the Board of Police Commissioners for at least $10 million.

The federal lawsuit filed Thursday by Donnie Sanders' family accuses the officer, Blayne Newton, of using excessive force when he shot Sanders on March 12, 2020. It also accuses the board, which oversees the Kansas City Police Department, of not properly training or disciplining officers in the use of deadly force, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article259293804.html#storylink=cpy">reported</a>.

Leslie Foreman, a spokeswoman for the police, said the department does not comment on pending litigation.

Sanders' death is one of the prominent cases in Kansas City involving Black people cited by civil rights activists when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/police-michael-brown-police-reform-kansas-city-kansas-cbde7742a8a40470fa3a66bcc64e2c85">pushing for changes&nbsp;</a>to the Police Department.

Newton shot Sanders, 47, three times after he followed Sanders’ vehicle into an alley. Sanders parked the vehicle and ran, with Newton chasing him, police have said.

Police dashcam video records Newton yelling commands at Sanders to stop and show his hands but the video does not capture the shooting. Kansas City police were not wearing body cameras at the time but have since begun doing so.

Newton told investigators he believed he saw a gun in Sanders’ hand. No weapon was found; investigators said Sanders had only a cellphone in his jacket pocket.

Two witnesses reported they saw Newton walking backward while yelling commands as Sanders approached with his arm extended.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, citing an investigation by Kansas City police and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, determined last year that the witnesses' statements collaborated Newton's account that he shot Sanders because he was afraid for his life.

Newton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-shootings-police-kansas-5b9815563f469d477c43ddc5186113db">was not charged</a>&nbsp;and returned to work as a patrol officer.

He underwent another review after witnesses said he put his knee on the back of a Black woman who was on the ground during an arrest — another case that sparked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-kansas-city-kansas-archive-05e0c8aadf22e1f2739d8f45c6baf148">protests</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647096242213.png" alt="Police on the scene of the March 2020 shooting investigation -photo courtesy KSHB TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the March 2020 shooting investigation -photo courtesy KSHB TV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — The family of a Black man who was shot and killed by a white Kansas City police officer in 2020 is suing the officer and the Board of Police Commissioners for at least $10 million.The federal lawsuit filed Thursday by Donnie Sanders' family accuses the officer, Blayne Newton, of using excessive force when he shot Sanders on March 12, 2020. It also accuses the board, which oversees the Kansas City Police Department, of not properly training or disciplining officers in the use of deadly force, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article259293804.html#storylink=cpy">reported</a>.Leslie Foreman, a spokeswoman for the police, said the department does not comment on pending litigation.Sanders' death is one of the prominent cases in Kansas City involving Black people cited by civil rights activists when&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/police-michael-brown-police-reform-kansas-city-kansas-cbde7742a8a40470fa3a66bcc64e2c85">pushing for changes&nbsp;</a>to the Police Department.Newton shot Sanders, 47, three times after he followed Sanders’ vehicle into an alley. Sanders parked the vehicle and ran, with Newton chasing him, police have said.Police dashcam video records Newton yelling commands at Sanders to stop and show his hands but the video does not capture the shooting. Kansas City police were not wearing body cameras at the time but have since begun doing so.Newton told investigators he believed he saw a gun in Sanders’ hand. No weapon was found; investigators said Sanders had only a cellphone in his jacket pocket.Two witnesses reported they saw Newton walking backward while yelling commands as Sanders approached with his arm extended.Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, citing an investigation by Kansas City police and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, determined last year that the witnesses' statements collaborated Newton's account that he shot Sanders because he was afraid for his life.Newton&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-shootings-police-kansas-5b9815563f469d477c43ddc5186113db">was not charged</a>&nbsp;and returned to work as a patrol officer.He underwent another review after witnesses said he put his knee on the back of a Black woman who was on the ground during an arrest — another case that sparked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-kansas-city-kansas-archive-05e0c8aadf22e1f2739d8f45c6baf148">protests</a>.

Family of Black man shot by Kansas City police sues for $10M

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after allegedly stealing from a business on Wednesday.

Just before 8:15 a.m., the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting that a suspicious person was in the process of taking items from a business in the 1000 block of SE 45th Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The business owners were also on scene and attempted to detain the suspect. 

During the event, the suspect entered a vehicle and drove it towards the business owners, striking them with the vehicle.

Deputies responded to the call and arrested 24-year-old Colton G. Miller&nbsp; of Topeka, who was still at the scene. No serious injuries were reported.

Miller was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated battery, theft and criminal damage to property, according to Christian.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646911156968.png" alt="Miller-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Miller-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after allegedly stealing from a business on Wednesday.Just before 8:15 a.m., the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call reporting that a suspicious person was in the process of taking items from a business in the 1000 block of SE 45th Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The business owners were also on scene and attempted to detain the suspect. During the event, the suspect entered a vehicle and drove it towards the business owners, striking them with the vehicle.Deputies responded to the call and arrested 24-year-old Colton G. Miller&nbsp; of Topeka, who was still at the scene. No serious injuries were reported.Miller was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated battery, theft and criminal damage to property, according to Christian.

Sheriff: Theft suspect attempted to run over Kan. business owners 

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Salina man who went to the Saline County Jail to visit a friend Thursday afternoon ended up in jail.

Just after 1:30p.m. Thursday, Anthony Harris, 59, of Salina, went to the Saline County Jail to visit a friend, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan. While he was there, the corrections officers learned that Harris had an outstanding warrant.

When the corrections officers went out to the jail lobby to arrest him, Harris allegedly threw a marijuana pipe in the trash, according to Soldan.

Additionally, when Harris was taken back to the booking area, he allegedly tossed a baggie of marijuana onto the floor. Corrections officers also allegedly found a baggie of methamphetamine among Harris' possessions.

In addition to the warrant, Harris is being held on requested charges of Trafficking contraband, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Possession of drug paraphernalia

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647009607152.png" alt="Harris photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Harris photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina man who went to the Saline County Jail to visit a friend Thursday afternoon ended up in jail.Just after 1:30p.m. Thursday, Anthony Harris, 59, of Salina, went to the Saline County Jail to visit a friend, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan. While he was there, the corrections officers learned that Harris had an outstanding warrant.When the corrections officers went out to the jail lobby to arrest him, Harris allegedly threw a marijuana pipe in the trash, according to Soldan.Additionally, when Harris was taken back to the booking area, he allegedly tossed a baggie of marijuana onto the floor. Corrections officers also allegedly found a baggie of methamphetamine among Harris' possessions.In addition to the warrant, Harris is being held on requested charges of Trafficking contraband, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana and Possession of drug paraphernalia

Sheriff: Kansas man arrested while visiting friend in jail 

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A year-long investigation resulted in the arrests of 26 people in an alleged conspiracy to distribute drugs in Jackson County, federal prosecutors said.

Federal prosecutors said more than 200 federal and Kansas City-area police officers worked together to arrested the defendants on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Officers seized 27 firearms, more than 1,800 rounds of ammunition, 11.1 kilograms of marijuana, 300 grams of cocaine, other illegal drugs, and $35,000 in cash, according to a news release.

The federal indictment alleges the defendants conspired since Jan. 28, 2019, to distribute drugs in Jackson County. They operated mostly in east Kansas City.

In addition to the conspiracy charge, some defendants are charged in 16 drug-trafficking counts and 57 counts of illegally using a telephone to facilitate the conspiracy.

Court documents also allege some of the suspects were armed and were violent, including that some were involved in a shooting that injured three people on April 17, 2021, in Kansas City's Westport entertainment area.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A year-long investigation resulted in the arrests of 26 people in an alleged conspiracy to distribute drugs in Jackson County, federal prosecutors said.Federal prosecutors said more than 200 federal and Kansas City-area police officers worked together to arrested the defendants on Tuesday and Wednesday.Officers seized 27 firearms, more than 1,800 rounds of ammunition, 11.1 kilograms of marijuana, 300 grams of cocaine, other illegal drugs, and $35,000 in cash, according to a news release.The federal indictment alleges the defendants conspired since Jan. 28, 2019, to distribute drugs in Jackson County. They operated mostly in east Kansas City.In addition to the conspiracy charge, some defendants are charged in 16 drug-trafficking counts and 57 counts of illegally using a telephone to facilitate the conspiracy.Court documents also allege some of the suspects were armed and were violent, including that some were involved in a shooting that injured three people on April 17, 2021, in Kansas City's Westport entertainment area.

Police arrest 26 in Kansas City-area drug bust

KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City man has been sentenced in federal court for the armed robbery of a female Z-Trip driver whom he shot approximately 26 times with a rifle from the back seat, according to the United State's Attorney.

Derron D. Nevels, 21, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs on Wednesday, March 9, to 13 years in federal prison without parole.

On Aug. 27, 2021, Nevels pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and one count of discharging a firearm during a violent crime.

Nevels was picked up by a Z-Trip driver on Wabash Avenue in Kansas City, Mo., on the evening of Dec. 4, 2018. The Z-Trip taxi in which the crime was committed is equipped with interior and exterior cameras. The cameras show Nevels getting into the rear passenger seat at approximately 8 p.m. The Z-Trip driver took him to Benton Avenue in Kansas City, Mo.

When they arrived at the destination, they waited in the vehicle for somebody to bring out the fare. When a second suspect approached the vehicle, Nevels held a Smith and Wesson Military &amp; Police .22-caliber rifle up to the victim’s head and demanded she give him everything. The victim attempted to explain that Nevels was being recorded, to which Nevels responded, “I don’t care; give me everything.” Nevels also appeared to be taking a photo or video with his cell phone.

The victim turned toward the back seat and grabbed onto the rifle, and a struggle ensued. The second suspect hit the victim in the face, then reached around the driver’s seat and began striking the victim in the back and the back of the victim’s head. The victim released Nevels’ rifle and then Nevels leaned back in his seat, chambered a live round, and opened fire on the victim from close range.&nbsp; Nevels fired approximately 26 times into the victim.&nbsp; Nevels and his accomplice then ran from the scene.

About 10 minutes later, Nevels and another suspect returned to the victim’s vehicle to retrieve a cell phone Nevels had left behind when he fled from the scene of the earlier robbery and assault. Nevels can be heard on the Z-Trip vehicle’s video asking the victim if she is okay.&nbsp; The victim indicates she has been shot. Nevels asked the victim if she had called the police. He got into the rear driver’s side of the taxi and picked up the cell phone, then left the scene.

When police officers arrived, the victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. According to court documents, she continues to suffer from her serious and debilitating injuries inflicted by Nevels.

Investigators used cell phone and Facebook data to identify Nevels and the distinctive rifle he used in the robbery. On Dec. 10, 2018, Nevels was seen getting onto a bus near Prospect Avenue and Swope Parkway. Nevels was arrested when he got off the bus at 11th Street and Grand Avenue. Nevels was carrying the loaded rifle hidden in his waistband with the barrel going down his right pant leg. The rifle was later positively identified as the weapon used to shoot the Z-Trip driver during the robbery.

Co-defendants Bailee Anna Maria Prieto, 21, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Melani Yitzel Collazo Jimenez, also known as “Mel,” 24, of Kansas City, Mo., have each pleaded guilty to being accessories after the fact to the robbery. Prieto was sentenced on Nov. 23, 2021, to three years in federal prison without parole. Jimenez was sentenced on Nov. 18, 2021, to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.

Prieto used or allowed her phone to be used to order the Z-Trip that was robbed. Prieto disposed of her phone after the robbery to avoid the police searching it.

Jimenez went to the scene to help Nevels retrieve his telephone from the Z-Trip where he left it after the robbery and shooting. Jimenez provided her apartment for Nevels, Prieto, and others to stay the night after the robbery.

Neither Prieto nor Jimenez reported anything to law enforcement. The two of them communicated with and were associated with Nevels and others, before, during, and after the robbery and shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630102827276.png" alt="Nevels-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Nevels-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY– A Kansas City man has been sentenced in federal court for the armed robbery of a female Z-Trip driver whom he shot approximately 26 times with a rifle from the back seat, according to the United State's Attorney.Derron D. Nevels, 21, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs on Wednesday, March 9, to 13 years in federal prison without parole.On Aug. 27, 2021, Nevels pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and one count of discharging a firearm during a violent crime.Nevels was picked up by a Z-Trip driver on Wabash Avenue in Kansas City, Mo., on the evening of Dec. 4, 2018. The Z-Trip taxi in which the crime was committed is equipped with interior and exterior cameras. The cameras show Nevels getting into the rear passenger seat at approximately 8 p.m. The Z-Trip driver took him to Benton Avenue in Kansas City, Mo.When they arrived at the destination, they waited in the vehicle for somebody to bring out the fare. When a second suspect approached the vehicle, Nevels held a Smith and Wesson Military &amp; Police .22-caliber rifle up to the victim’s head and demanded she give him everything. The victim attempted to explain that Nevels was being recorded, to which Nevels responded, “I don’t care; give me everything.” Nevels also appeared to be taking a photo or video with his cell phone.The victim turned toward the back seat and grabbed onto the rifle, and a struggle ensued. The second suspect hit the victim in the face, then reached around the driver’s seat and began striking the victim in the back and the back of the victim’s head. The victim released Nevels’ rifle and then Nevels leaned back in his seat, chambered a live round, and opened fire on the victim from close range.&nbsp; Nevels fired approximately 26 times into the victim.&nbsp; Nevels and his accomplice then ran from the scene.About 10 minutes later, Nevels and another suspect returned to the victim’s vehicle to retrieve a cell phone Nevels had left behind when he fled from the scene of the earlier robbery and assault. Nevels can be heard on the Z-Trip vehicle’s video asking the victim if she is okay.&nbsp; The victim indicates she has been shot. Nevels asked the victim if she had called the police. He got into the rear driver’s side of the taxi and picked up the cell phone, then left the scene.When police officers arrived, the victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. According to court documents, she continues to suffer from her serious and debilitating injuries inflicted by Nevels.Investigators used cell phone and Facebook data to identify Nevels and the distinctive rifle he used in the robbery. On Dec. 10, 2018, Nevels was seen getting onto a bus near Prospect Avenue and Swope Parkway. Nevels was arrested when he got off the bus at 11th Street and Grand Avenue. Nevels was carrying the loaded rifle hidden in his waistband with the barrel going down his right pant leg. The rifle was later positively identified as the weapon used to shoot the Z-Trip driver during the robbery.Co-defendants Bailee Anna Maria Prieto, 21, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Melani Yitzel Collazo Jimenez, also known as “Mel,” 24, of Kansas City, Mo., have each pleaded guilty to being accessories after the fact to the robbery. Prieto was sentenced on Nov. 23, 2021, to three years in federal prison without parole. Jimenez was sentenced on Nov. 18, 2021, to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.Prieto used or allowed her phone to be used to order the Z-Trip that was robbed. Prieto disposed of her phone after the robbery to avoid the police searching it.Jimenez went to the scene to help Nevels retrieve his telephone from the Z-Trip where he left it after the robbery and shooting. Jimenez provided her apartment for Nevels, Prieto, and others to stay the night after the robbery.Neither Prieto nor Jimenez reported anything to law enforcement. The two of them communicated with and were associated with Nevels and others, before, during, and after the robbery and shooting.

Kansas City man sentenced for shooting Z-trip driver 26 times

SALINA —A German man who was determined to get the woman he wanted was arrested in Salina Wednesday night on multiple charges including criminal threat and stalking.

An 18-year-old Saline County woman met Falk Meier Berndt, 22, of Hanover, Germany, online, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan.

From her perspective, there was no relationship and she expressed that, but according to Soldan, Meier Berndt had other plans.

Meier Berndt flew to the United States and during the past week had been in Saline County trying to find the local woman. 

Meier Berndt had a list of things to do while he was in Saline County, Soldan said. He went to the woman's church. He also went to her work place at a time she happened to be there. Meier Berndt allegedly told the woman that he was going to kill her 22-year-old boyfriend, marry her, and have children with her, Soldan said.

The woman's father reported the work place incident to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. Deputies also received additional information from the woman. 

Deputies located Meier Berndt at a local motel and arrested him on&nbsp; requested charges of.Criminal threat, Stalking and Harassment by telecommunication device, according to Soldan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646932758221.png" alt="Meier Berndt photo Saline County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Meier Berndt photo Saline County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINA —A German man who was determined to get the woman he wanted was arrested in Salina Wednesday night on multiple charges including criminal threat and stalking.An 18-year-old Saline County woman met Falk Meier Berndt, 22, of Hanover, Germany, online, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan.From her perspective, there was no relationship and she expressed that, but according to Soldan, Meier Berndt had other plans.Meier Berndt flew to the United States and during the past week had been in Saline County trying to find the local woman. Meier Berndt had a list of things to do while he was in Saline County, Soldan said. He went to the woman's church. He also went to her work place at a time she happened to be there. Meier Berndt allegedly told the woman that he was going to kill her 22-year-old boyfriend, marry her, and have children with her, Soldan said.The woman's father reported the work place incident to the Saline County Sheriff's Office. Deputies also received additional information from the woman. Deputies located Meier Berndt at a local motel and arrested him on&nbsp; requested charges of.Criminal threat, Stalking and Harassment by telecommunication device, according to Soldan.

Online love interest ends with German man in Kansas jail

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A judge in Las Vegas postponed until next month a hearing in an assault case involving two NFL players and two other men accused of severely beating a man at a Las Vegas Strip nightclub the weekend of the Pro Bowl.

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara, Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Chris Lammons and two other defendants — Darrin Young and Percy Harris — did not have to appear in court in person Tuesday while a prosecutor acknowledged that video evidence and witness statements are still being provided to their attorneys.

Justice of the Peace Harmony Letizia reset the hearing for April 25.

Kamara played in the Feb. 6 Pro Bowl game before he was arrested. Lammons turned himself in several days later. Young and Harris were arrested Feb. 14. Each faces felony charges of battery causing substantial bodily harm and conspiracy to commit battery.

Young’s attorney, John Spilotro, said defense lawyers also were awaiting evidence relating to statements the men allegedly made in a limousine while returning to their hotels following the 6:30 a.m. Feb. 5 attack at an elevator of the rooftop Drai’s nightclub.

Police have said surveillance video shows the alleged victim stepped toward the elevator with the four men and several other people, Kamara put his hand on the man’s chest to stop him, the man pushed Kamara’s hand away and Lammons punched the man.

More punches followed, the man fell unconscious on the floor and the defendants allegedly stomped on his face, chest and legs, police said, leaving him with facial fractures and injuries to his head, knees and arms.

Lammons’ attorney, Ross Goodman, has acknowledged that police allege his client threw the first punch.

Attorneys for all four men say they intend to plead not guilty.

Kamara, 26, is one of the top running backs in the NFL. He rushed for more than 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He was picked for his fifth Pro Bowl in five seasons.

Lammons, 26, signed with three NFL teams in 2018 — the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins — before signing with the Chiefs in 2019. He won a Super Bowl ring with the Chiefs in 2020.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645182338453.png" alt="Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Chris Lammons-photo Las Vegas Police" />
 <figcaption>Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Chris Lammons-photo Las Vegas Police</figcaption>
 </figure>LAS VEGAS (AP) — A judge in Las Vegas postponed until next month a hearing in an assault case involving two NFL players and two other men accused of severely beating a man at a Las Vegas Strip nightclub the weekend of the Pro Bowl.New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara, Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Chris Lammons and two other defendants — Darrin Young and Percy Harris — did not have to appear in court in person Tuesday while a prosecutor acknowledged that video evidence and witness statements are still being provided to their attorneys.Justice of the Peace Harmony Letizia reset the hearing for April 25.Kamara played in the Feb. 6 Pro Bowl game before he was arrested. Lammons turned himself in several days later. Young and Harris were arrested Feb. 14. Each faces felony charges of battery causing substantial bodily harm and conspiracy to commit battery.Young’s attorney, John Spilotro, said defense lawyers also were awaiting evidence relating to statements the men allegedly made in a limousine while returning to their hotels following the 6:30 a.m. Feb. 5 attack at an elevator of the rooftop Drai’s nightclub.Police have said surveillance video shows the alleged victim stepped toward the elevator with the four men and several other people, Kamara put his hand on the man’s chest to stop him, the man pushed Kamara’s hand away and Lammons punched the man.More punches followed, the man fell unconscious on the floor and the defendants allegedly stomped on his face, chest and legs, police said, leaving him with facial fractures and injuries to his head, knees and arms.Lammons’ attorney, Ross Goodman, has acknowledged that police allege his client threw the first punch.Attorneys for all four men say they intend to plead not guilty.Kamara, 26, is one of the top running backs in the NFL. He rushed for more than 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He was picked for his fifth Pro Bowl in five seasons.Lammons, 26, signed with three NFL teams in 2018 — the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins — before signing with the Chiefs in 2019. He won a Super Bowl ring with the Chiefs in 2020.

Court date reset for Chiefs cornerback in strip club assault case

LINN COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a Kansas man&nbsp; evening for alleged terrorism and criminal threat.

Just after 4 p.m. on Wednesday, authorities arrested Albert C. Hinds, 67, of Pleasanton at the Food Fair Super Market in Mound City, Kansas.

The charges allege that in December of 2021 Hinds made threatening statements toward banking personnel and law enforcement officers prompting a temporary shutdown of the Linn County Courthouse.&nbsp;

The Linn County Rural Fire Department also assisted during the arrest. Following his arrest Hinds was booked into the Linn County Jail. He was then transferred to the Bourbon County Jail, according to the KBI.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646873527110.png" alt="Hinds-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Hinds-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>LINN COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Linn County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a Kansas man&nbsp; evening for alleged terrorism and criminal threat.Just after 4 p.m. on Wednesday, authorities arrested Albert C. Hinds, 67, of Pleasanton at the Food Fair Super Market in Mound City, Kansas.The charges allege that in December of 2021 Hinds made threatening statements toward banking personnel and law enforcement officers prompting a temporary shutdown of the Linn County Courthouse.&nbsp;The Linn County Rural Fire Department also assisted during the arrest. Following his arrest Hinds was booked into the Linn County Jail. He was then transferred to the Bourbon County Jail, according to the KBI.

KBI: Kan. man arrested for alleged terrorism and criminal threat

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just before 2 a.m. Tuesday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a gold 1994 Ford Explorer near SE 29th Street and SE Minnesota Avenue for failing to stop at a stop sign, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The driver 32-year-old Anthony K. Herrera of Topeka, had a suspended driver’s license and warrants for his arrest out of the City of Topeka and Jefferson County. During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located.

Herrera was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for his warrants and on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a suspended driver’s license, vehicle registration violations, no liability insurance and failure to stop at a stop sign, according to Christian.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646774849455.png" alt="Herrera-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Herrera-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just before 2 a.m. Tuesday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a gold 1994 Ford Explorer near SE 29th Street and SE Minnesota Avenue for failing to stop at a stop sign, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.The driver 32-year-old Anthony K. Herrera of Topeka, had a suspended driver’s license and warrants for his arrest out of the City of Topeka and Jefferson County. During the investigation, illegal narcotics were located.Herrera was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for his warrants and on requested charges of possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving with a suspended driver’s license, vehicle registration violations, no liability insurance and failure to stop at a stop sign, according to Christian.

Sheriff: Kansas deputies found cocaine during traffic stop

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating an auto theft with a baby in the vehicle have arrested 51-year-old Kevin Robertson of Wichita. Police asked the public for help to locate the Kansas felon in connection with the case.&nbsp;Robertson’s picture was posted on social media with a request for citizens to call.

Just after 3p.m. on March 1, two off-duty Wichita Police officers were working at a business in the 500 block of East Pawnee, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; They were contacted by a woman who reported her grey Pontiac Grand Prix being stolen from the parking lot and her 11-month-old child being in the vehicle.

Officers quickly responded and began circulating.&nbsp; Officers located the vehicle abandoned in a parking lot in the 1400 block of South Emporia.&nbsp; The child was also inside, unharmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Through the investigation, police learned of Robertson’s involvement in the theft.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On March 4th, officers were conducting extensive follow-up work to locate Robertson. They learned that he was possibly at a residence in the 200 block of S. Poplar.

Robertson was contacted at the residence by officers and taken into custody. A woman identified as 44- year-old Karri Cowling of Wichita, was also contacted at the residence and arrested for obstructing apprehension of a felon.

Robertson is being held on requested charges of aggravated endangering a child and theft.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has over twenty previous convictions that include theft, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, DUI, criminal threat, obstruction aggravated failure to appear and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646764667930.png" alt="Robertson has over twenty previous convictions that include theft, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, DUI, criminal threat, obstruction aggravated failure to appear and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Robertson has over twenty previous convictions that include theft, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, DUI, criminal threat, obstruction aggravated failure to appear and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating an auto theft with a baby in the vehicle have arrested 51-year-old Kevin Robertson of Wichita. Police asked the public for help to locate the Kansas felon in connection with the case.&nbsp;Robertson’s picture was posted on social media with a request for citizens to call.Just after 3p.m. on March 1, two off-duty Wichita Police officers were working at a business in the 500 block of East Pawnee, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; They were contacted by a woman who reported her grey Pontiac Grand Prix being stolen from the parking lot and her 11-month-old child being in the vehicle.Officers quickly responded and began circulating.&nbsp; Officers located the vehicle abandoned in a parking lot in the 1400 block of South Emporia.&nbsp; The child was also inside, unharmed.&nbsp;&nbsp;Through the investigation, police learned of Robertson’s involvement in the theft.&nbsp;&nbsp;On March 4th, officers were conducting extensive follow-up work to locate Robertson. They learned that he was possibly at a residence in the 200 block of S. Poplar.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646766395938.png" alt="Cowling photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Cowling photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Robertson was contacted at the residence by officers and taken into custody. A woman identified as 44- year-old Karri Cowling of Wichita, was also contacted at the residence and arrested for obstructing apprehension of a felon.Robertson is being held on requested charges of aggravated endangering a child and theft.&nbsp;&nbsp;He has over twenty previous convictions that include theft, aggravated burglary, aggravated battery, DUI, criminal threat, obstruction aggravated failure to appear and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Police: Woman hid Kan. felon who stole car with baby inside 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that fatally injured 21-year-old Gabriel Njoroge of Wichita.

Just after 5p.m. Monday, police responded to a shooting call at the apartments in the 700 block of North Broadway in Wichita, according to Office Charley Davidson.

&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located Njorogea who had been shot.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp; Also contacted was a 70-year-old man believed to be involved.

The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between the 70-year-old man and Njoroge outside of the apartments.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Njoroge threatened the man and came towards him armed with a box knife. &nbsp;Being in fear for his safety, the 70-year-old shot Njoroge, according to Davidson. Police released no additional details and did not report an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646754046890.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that fatally injured 21-year-old Gabriel Njoroge of Wichita.Just after 5p.m. Monday, police responded to a shooting call at the apartments in the 700 block of North Broadway in Wichita, according to Office Charley Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located Njorogea who had been shot.&nbsp; He was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp; Also contacted was a 70-year-old man believed to be involved.The investigation revealed a disturbance occurred between the 70-year-old man and Njoroge outside of the apartments.&nbsp; During the disturbance, Njoroge threatened the man and came towards him armed with a box knife. &nbsp;Being in fear for his safety, the 70-year-old shot Njoroge, according to Davidson. Police released no additional details and did not report an arrest.

Police: Kan. man killed after threatening 70-year-old with box knife

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a weekend accident involving a vehicle he was not authorized to drive.

Just before 1.a.m. Saturday, police attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevy Tahoe in the 200 Block of Main Street in Garden City, according to a media release. The SUV continued eastbound at a high rate of speed.

Officers later found the SUV driving recklessly in the 900 Block of 3rd Street. Officers in the area also located an unoccupied GEO Metro with extensive damage. Witnesses said the SUV struck the SUV and fled.

Police later found the Tahoe unoccupied in the area. It had front end damage and suspected marijuana inside. Police also learned 20-year-old Cipriano Garcia was driving the SUV. He did not have permission to drive the vehicle, according to police.

Police ultimately found Garcia and arrested him on requested charges that include flee and elude, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana and for not reporting the accident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646673114844.png" alt="Garcia-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Garcia-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a weekend accident involving a vehicle he was not authorized to drive.Just before 1.a.m. Saturday, police attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevy Tahoe in the 200 Block of Main Street in Garden City, according to a media release. The SUV continued eastbound at a high rate of speed.Officers later found the SUV driving recklessly in the 900 Block of 3rd Street. Officers in the area also located an unoccupied GEO Metro with extensive damage. Witnesses said the SUV struck the SUV and fled.Police later found the Tahoe unoccupied in the area. It had front end damage and suspected marijuana inside. Police also learned 20-year-old Cipriano Garcia was driving the SUV. He did not have permission to drive the vehicle, according to police.Police ultimately found Garcia and arrested him on requested charges that include flee and elude, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana and for not reporting the accident.

Police: Kan. man crashed  SUV he drove without permission

SHAWNEE COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for allegedly stealing more than two dozen parking meters from downtown Topeka,

On Monday, police arressted 32-year-old suspect identified according to online jail records as David Allen Brookens II of Topeka.

Officers had been investigating the theft last week of 26 coin-operated parking meters. Around midnight Monday, a caller told police they saw someone walking with a shopping cart in an area of downtown and possibly stealing meters. Officers arrived and arrested Brookens.&nbsp;

He was in possession of several recently-stolen meters. He is jailed without bond on requested charges of&nbsp;Theft $25,000 &lt;$100,000 Coin-Operated Machine or Device, Aggravated Criminal Damage,&nbsp;Theft Lost or Mislaid; Coin Operated Machine; $1,000 to $25,000

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646680647513.png" alt="Brookens-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Brookens-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for allegedly stealing more than two dozen parking meters from downtown Topeka,On Monday, police arressted 32-year-old suspect identified according to online jail records as David Allen Brookens II of Topeka.Officers had been investigating the theft last week of 26 coin-operated parking meters. Around midnight Monday, a caller told police they saw someone walking with a shopping cart in an area of downtown and possibly stealing meters. Officers arrived and arrested Brookens.&nbsp;He was in possession of several recently-stolen meters. He is jailed without bond on requested charges of&nbsp;Theft $25,000 &lt;$100,000 Coin-Operated Machine or Device, Aggravated Criminal Damage,&nbsp;Theft Lost or Mislaid; Coin Operated Machine; $1,000 to $25,000

Kan. man accused of stealing 26 coin-operated parking meters

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting and vehicle crash have arrested a suspect identified as 19-year-<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069507">old James Lamount Lowe, </a>according to Officer Trevor Macy.

accident have identified 21-year-old Amill Williams and 20-year-old Alonzo Montgomery, both of Wichita, as the victims, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

Just after 1:30 a.m. February 21, 911 dispatch received several check shot calls between Harry and Lincoln along George Washington Boulevard in Wichita, according to Macy.

 When officers checked the area, they located a tan Ford Fusion crash at Lincoln and George Washington Blvd. A 22-year-old woman had been ejected from the vehicle and was transported to an area hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

The two additional occupants&nbsp;identified 21-year-old Amill Williams and 20-year-old Alonzo Montgomery,  were pronounced deceased at the scene.

Officers located evidence of a shooting in the area. The investigation revealed that the three occupants of of the Ford Fusion were being followed by an unknown vehicle. Occupants of the unknown vehicle began firing shots at them.&nbsp;None of the victims appear to have been struck by the gunfire. 

Police <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069507">arrested Lowe </a>in connection with the crime. He is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated assault, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana and criminal possession of a firearm.

It is believed at this time that drugs were involved, according to Macy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646661376648.png" alt="Lowe-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Lowe-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal shooting and vehicle crash have arrested a suspect identified as 19-year-<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069507">old James Lamount Lowe, </a>according to Officer Trevor Macy.accident have identified 21-year-old Amill Williams and 20-year-old Alonzo Montgomery, both of Wichita, as the victims, according to Officer Trevor Macy.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645465620879.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation-photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 1:30 a.m. February 21, 911 dispatch received several check shot calls between Harry and Lincoln along George Washington Boulevard in Wichita, according to Macy. When officers checked the area, they located a tan Ford Fusion crash at Lincoln and George Washington Blvd. A 22-year-old woman had been ejected from the vehicle and was transported to an area hospital for treatment of serious injuries.The two additional occupants&nbsp;identified 21-year-old Amill Williams and 20-year-old Alonzo Montgomery, were pronounced deceased at the scene.Officers located evidence of a shooting in the area. The investigation revealed that the three occupants of of the Ford Fusion were being followed by an unknown vehicle. Occupants of the unknown vehicle began firing shots at them.&nbsp;None of the victims appear to have been struck by the gunfire. Police <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20069507">arrested Lowe </a>in connection with the crime. He is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated assault, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana and criminal possession of a firearm.It is believed at this time that drugs were involved, according to Macy.

Police: Suspect fired shots at vehicle ahead of fatal Kan. crash

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

On February 4, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 300 Block SW Tyler Street in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation,&nbsp;according to Lt. Ronnie Connell.&nbsp;

Officers located heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.

As a result, officers arrested Marcus Knight, 66 years of age, was transported him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Manufacturing controlled substance, Use/possess w/intent to use drug para, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent of distribution, Possession of marijuana, Distribution of opiate/opium/narcotics, Distribution of heroin, Possession of stimulant, Criminal possession of a weapon by felon, Possession of stolen property Unlawful distribution of a controlled substance using a communication facility, according to Connell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646512174835.png" alt="Knight-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Knight-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an arrest.On February 4, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 300 Block SW Tyler Street in Topeka related to an ongoing investigation,&nbsp;according to Lt. Ronnie Connell.&nbsp;Officers located heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.As a result, officers arrested Marcus Knight, 66 years of age, was transported him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of&nbsp;Manufacturing controlled substance, Use/possess w/intent to use drug para, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent of distribution, Possession of marijuana, Distribution of opiate/opium/narcotics, Distribution of heroin, Possession of stimulant, Criminal possession of a weapon by felon, Possession of stolen property Unlawful distribution of a controlled substance using a communication facility, according to Connell.

Police find heroin, cocaine and guns at Kansas home

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent weekend altercation n Manhattan.

Just before 7p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault, criminal damage to property and criminal threat against LEO in the 6000 block of Tuttle Terrace in Manhattan. according to the Riley County Police Department Activity report.

A 51-year-old woman and a 62-year-old man reported a 67-year-old male suspect threatened the woman victim with a tire iron and damaged a pair of glasses and an ashtray. 

Wayne Pinick, 67, of Manhattan was arrested in connection on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated assault and criminal damage to property. Pinick is confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $7,000.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent weekend altercation n Manhattan.Just before 7p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report for aggravated assault, criminal damage to property and criminal threat against LEO in the 6000 block of Tuttle Terrace in Manhattan. according to the Riley County Police Department Activity report.A 51-year-old woman and a 62-year-old man reported a 67-year-old male suspect threatened the woman victim with a tire iron and damaged a pair of glasses and an ashtray. Wayne Pinick, 67, of Manhattan was arrested in connection on requested charges of&nbsp; aggravated assault and criminal damage to property. Pinick is confined in the Riley County Jail with a total bond of $7,000.

RCPD: 67-year-old threatened woman with a tire iron

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Louisiana’s Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments on whether the man who killed a former NFL player in a road rage incident in 2016 can be tried again for murder after his conviction on a lesser charge was overturned.

Authorities in the New Orleans suburb of Jefferson Parish originally charged Ronald Gasser with second-degree murder in the shooting of Joe McKnight. A high school football hero at Louisiana’s John Curtis Christian School, McKnight went on to play three seasons for the New York Jets and one with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Instead of murder, the jury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-football-ronald-gasser-football-sports-joe-mcknight-a292a23d5dc641b2a112cbc442a40719">convicted Gasser of manslaughter.</a>&nbsp;But that verdict was later overturned because it came from a non-unanimous jury.

The Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office said the non-unanimous decision for manslaughter should not be treated as an acquittal on the murder charge. Prosecutors wanted another chance to try Gasser for murder.

A state district judge in Gretna ruled, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-sports-entertainment-louisiana-new-orleans-fc99b53937d93ea1957f3aa3399e4267">a state appellate panel agreed&nbsp;</a>in a 2-1 ruling, that trying Gasser again on the murder charge would violate his constitutional protection against double jeopardy.

The state's highest court did not set a date for arguments on the issue.

Witnesses at the 2018 trial said McKnight had been weaving in and out of traffic at high speed before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fba7658e2fde4ad9a26cf2eeb11da9ff">the shooting</a>. But prosecutors argued that Gasser escalated the conflict, following McKnight down an exit that he would not ordinarily have taken.

Gasser’s defense team insisted he fired at McKnight in self-defense.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594910560020.png" alt="Gasser photo Jefferson Parish Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Gasser photo Jefferson Parish Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Louisiana’s Supreme Court has agreed to hear arguments on whether the man who killed a former NFL player in a road rage incident in 2016 can be tried again for murder after his conviction on a lesser charge was overturned.Authorities in the New Orleans suburb of Jefferson Parish originally charged Ronald Gasser with second-degree murder in the shooting of Joe McKnight. A high school football hero at Louisiana’s John Curtis Christian School, McKnight went on to play three seasons for the New York Jets and one with the Kansas City Chiefs.Instead of murder, the jury&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-football-ronald-gasser-football-sports-joe-mcknight-a292a23d5dc641b2a112cbc442a40719">convicted Gasser of manslaughter.</a>&nbsp;But that verdict was later overturned because it came from a non-unanimous jury.The Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office said the non-unanimous decision for manslaughter should not be treated as an acquittal on the murder charge. Prosecutors wanted another chance to try Gasser for murder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594918451537.png" alt="Deputies at the scene of Gasser's 2016 arrest photo courtesy WWL-TV" />
 <figcaption>Deputies at the scene of Gasser's 2016 arrest photo courtesy WWL-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>A state district judge in Gretna ruled, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/nfl-sports-entertainment-louisiana-new-orleans-fc99b53937d93ea1957f3aa3399e4267">a state appellate panel agreed&nbsp;</a>in a 2-1 ruling, that trying Gasser again on the murder charge would violate his constitutional protection against double jeopardy.The state's highest court did not set a date for arguments on the issue.Witnesses at the 2018 trial said McKnight had been weaving in and out of traffic at high speed before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/fba7658e2fde4ad9a26cf2eeb11da9ff">the shooting</a>. But prosecutors argued that Gasser escalated the conflict, following McKnight down an exit that he would not ordinarily have taken.Gasser’s defense team insisted he fired at McKnight in self-defense.

Killer of former KC Chief hopes to avoid 2nd murder charge

By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-03-01/opioids-are-killing-more-people-than-ever-and-kansas-lags-other-states-on-these-steps-to-help">Kansas News Service</a>

In September 2020, Seth Dewey got a phone call at home from someone using drugs.

“They said, ‘Seth, we need Narcan over here right now,’” Dewey said.

The call for <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naloxone" target="_blank">Narcan</a> suggested a life-and-death emergency requiring medicine that can reverse an opioid overdose.

Dewey,
 whose work for the Reno County Health Department in Hutchinson focuses 
on combating drug addiction and overdoses, promised to rush over with 
doses of what’s also known as naloxone to the site where two people 
panicked as they watched life slipping away from a third.

He urged them to call 911, too, but they feared getting arrested.

“So
 I said, ‘Well, listen, then I’m going to call 911,’” he said. “When I 
got there, I ended up having to use three doses of naloxone on this 
individual. … It brought back very slow, labored breathing.”

By 
the time law enforcement officers reached the scene — without any 
naloxone on hand — Dewey had stabilized the man. Medical responders 
arrived later.

For Dewey, that day illustrates the need for policy changes to help more people survive a national surge in opioid overdoses.

Kansas is one of just a few states without <a href="https://www.pdaps.org/datasets/good-samaritan-overdose-laws-1501695153" target="_blank">a good Samaritan law</a> that encourages people to call 911 when witnessing an overdose, by shielding them from prosecution.

Additionally,
 Kansans can’t count on law enforcement officers — who may beat 
ambulances to the scene of an ongoing overdose when every minute counts —
 to carry naloxone.

Across the country, fatal overdoses <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-01-10/dealers-are-spiking-drugs-with-fentanyl-and-killing-even-more-kansans-during-the-pandemic" target="_blank">rocketed in 2020</a>
 to more than 90,000. That record number was driven largely by dealers 
selling drugs laced with potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.

Tallies
 aren’t complete yet for 2021, but provisional counts for the first half
 of the year suggest people died at even greater rates. And <a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2022/overdose-deaths-surged-first-half-2021-underscoring-urgent-need-action?utm_source=alert&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Improving+Health+Care+Quality" target="_blank">Kansas is among a handful of states showing the steepest increases</a>.

Studies show <a href="https://health.wusf.usf.edu/npr-health/2022-01-15/there-is-life-after-addiction-most-people-recover" target="_blank">most people recover</a>
 from drug use disorders, but the process often takes years and involves
 multiple relapses. The widespread practice of mixing fentanyl and <a href="https://news.wosu.org/wksu-stories/2017-05-26/as-fentanyl-spreads-dealers-now-targeting-african-americans" target="_blank">carfentanil</a> into so many drugs today means many people never get that far.

“We’re
 losing too many people due to this old idea that people have to hit 
rock bottom” before becoming sober, Dewey said. “People aren’t getting a
 chance to hit rock bottom, because they’re dying.”

Someone dies of overdose almost every month in <a href="https://reno.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/6e5f01c85f524c08b9aea458926f8fdb" target="_blank">Reno County</a> — often more than one person.

Yet
 Dewey sees signs of change. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office and 
Hutchinson Police Department now train their officers on administering 
naloxone, and make sure they have it available.

A state good Samaritan law could also help, research suggests. The U.S. Government Accountability Office <a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-248" target="_blank">published a report</a> last year documenting evidence that the rate of fatal opioid overdoses improves when states pass such laws.

The
 vast bulk of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and carfentanil are 
smuggled from abroad, and increasingly blended with other substances.

That
 means people sometimes don’t know that the methamphetamine, oxycodone, 
cocaine or other substances they buy illegally contain synthetic opioids
 to make them more potent.

Overdosing is easy. Even minuscule amounts of these substances can kill. Fentanyl is up to <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">50 times</a> more potent than heroin.

This month, <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">a federal commission</a>
 released its report on synthetic opioids, calling the epidemic of 
addiction “one of our most-pressing national security, law enforcement, 
and public health challenges.”

Though most people addicted to the 
substances get them illegally, the report traces the rise in demand for 
and trafficking of synthetic opioids directly to <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/richard-sackler-oxycontin-oxycodone-strength-conceal-from-doctors-sealed-testimony" target="_blank">wide-scale addiction to OxyContin</a> prescription opiate painkillers starting in the 1990s.

“The
 overdose crisis in the United States claims more lives each year than 
firearms, suicide, homicide, or motor vehicle crashes,” the report said.
 “We must do more as a nation and a government.”

Better access to 
medical care for opioid addiction won’t stop the drug trafficking, it 
said, but offers one route to saving lives, as the “gold standard” for 
treating opioid use disorders.

Buprenorphine and other treatments

Yet
 experts at the health care research group Commonwealth Fund say only a 
small sliver of people with opioid addiction receive such medical care.

The
 treatment usually involves prescribing one of three medications — 
buprenorphine, methadone or naltrexone — to ease cravings and even block
 the brain’s ability to experience euphoria from drugs like heroin and 
oxycodone.

Sometimes people who want this help struggle to find a 
health care provider and treatment program that they can afford. 
Sometimes they face insurance hurdles.

Meanwhile, access to drug 
treatment behind bars remains spotty at best, even though most 
incarcerated people have substance use disorders.

Despite some 
successful lawsuits, as well as federal legislation, pushing for 
widespread access to this treatment in correctional facilities, most 
people with addiction in prison or jail still don’t receive it.

In Kansas, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-02-16/a-few-kansas-jails-are-finally-allowing-medical-care-for-opioid-addiction" target="_blank">a few jails</a>
 have begun allowing medical care with buprenorphine, methadone or 
naltrexone. Since Crawford County Jail rolled out its program in August 
2020, more than 200 people have signed up for care, and most continued 
their treatment after leaving jail.

A spokeswoman for the state prison system says it allows such treatment, too, though <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/08/10/these-meds-prevent-overdoses-few-federal-prisoners-are-getting-them" target="_blank">the Marshall Project</a>
 — an investigative journalism newsroom focused on criminal justice — 
considers the access to care in Kansas prisons to be limited.

Fentanyl test strips and naloxone supplies

The
 federal commission urges Congress to help local governments across the 
country afford naloxone so that they can equip all first responders with
 it.

And it calls for fentanyl test strip distribution programs and the development of best practices to help guide that work.

The
 strips let people test drugs they buy on the street to see if they’re 
laced with fentanyl, so they can protect themselves against unknowingly 
consuming it.

Kansas overdose prevention programs can’t distribute the test strips because they’re illegal under state law.

Last
 year, the Kansas House passed a bill to change that. The bill is now 
stalled in a Senate committee, which began to hold a hearing on the 
topic and then postponed the matter.

If the test strips become 
legal in Kansas, community groups that help people struggling with 
addiction will be able to use federal grants to buy and distribute 
supplies.

Ngoc Vuong sees the potential to save lives. He coordinates anti-addiction efforts for the <a href="https://www.partnersforwichita.org/safe-streets" target="_blank">Safe Streets program</a> in Wichita. He says part of helping people seek recovery is keeping them safe in the meantime.

That
 could mean distributing or explaining fentanyl test strips at outreach 
events geared toward people living on the street or who use illegal 
drugs or who are trying to stop using them.

“Letting them know 
about fentanyl test strips, how to use them,” Vuong said. “Then also add
 the caveat here that, ‘Whenever you’re ready to seek treatment, we’re 
here to help.’”

Dewey, at the Reno County Health Department, has a
 similar perspective. Building relationships is key, he said. And that 
includes talking to people in crisis about how to use naloxone and 
fentanyl test strips, and making sure they have access.

“Then they’re at least honest with us,” he said. “We want people to be honest with us. ‘Hey, man, I’m struggling with this.’”

Dewey
 speaks from experience. He used illegal drugs in the past, and ended up
 in the county jail. Ultimately he achieved long-term recovery.

“When
 we open up that relationship of trust” with people who use drugs, he 
said, “that’s when we start seeing a full cycle of (approaches) that 
could be used to help people when they’re ready.”

Celia 
Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health for the Kansas News Service. 
You can follow her on Twitter @celia_LJ or email her at celia@kcur.org.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646148908877.png" alt="Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3" />
 <figcaption>Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3</figcaption>
 </figure>By CELIA LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-03-01/opioids-are-killing-more-people-than-ever-and-kansas-lags-other-states-on-these-steps-to-help">Kansas News Service</a>In September 2020, Seth Dewey got a phone call at home from someone using drugs.“They said, ‘Seth, we need Narcan over here right now,’” Dewey said.The call for <a href="https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment/medications-counseling-related-conditions/naloxone" target="_blank">Narcan</a> suggested a life-and-death emergency requiring medicine that can reverse an opioid overdose.Dewey,
 whose work for the Reno County Health Department in Hutchinson focuses 
on combating drug addiction and overdoses, promised to rush over with 
doses of what’s also known as naloxone to the site where two people 
panicked as they watched life slipping away from a third.He urged them to call 911, too, but they feared getting arrested.“So
 I said, ‘Well, listen, then I’m going to call 911,’” he said. “When I 
got there, I ended up having to use three doses of naloxone on this 
individual. … It brought back very slow, labored breathing.”By 
the time law enforcement officers reached the scene — without any 
naloxone on hand — Dewey had stabilized the man. Medical responders 
arrived later.For Dewey, that day illustrates the need for policy changes to help more people survive a national surge in opioid overdoses.Kansas is one of just a few states without <a href="https://www.pdaps.org/datasets/good-samaritan-overdose-laws-1501695153" target="_blank">a good Samaritan law</a> that encourages people to call 911 when witnessing an overdose, by shielding them from prosecution.Additionally,
 Kansans can’t count on law enforcement officers — who may beat 
ambulances to the scene of an ongoing overdose when every minute counts —
 to carry naloxone.Across the country, fatal overdoses <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-01-10/dealers-are-spiking-drugs-with-fentanyl-and-killing-even-more-kansans-during-the-pandemic" target="_blank">rocketed in 2020</a>
 to more than 90,000. That record number was driven largely by dealers 
selling drugs laced with potent synthetic opioids such as fentanyl.Tallies
 aren’t complete yet for 2021, but provisional counts for the first half
 of the year suggest people died at even greater rates. And <a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2022/overdose-deaths-surged-first-half-2021-underscoring-urgent-need-action?utm_source=alert&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Improving+Health+Care+Quality" target="_blank">Kansas is among a handful of states showing the steepest increases</a>.Studies show <a href="https://health.wusf.usf.edu/npr-health/2022-01-15/there-is-life-after-addiction-most-people-recover" target="_blank">most people recover</a>
 from drug use disorders, but the process often takes years and involves
 multiple relapses. The widespread practice of mixing fentanyl and <a href="https://news.wosu.org/wksu-stories/2017-05-26/as-fentanyl-spreads-dealers-now-targeting-african-americans" target="_blank">carfentanil</a> into so many drugs today means many people never get that far.“We’re
 losing too many people due to this old idea that people have to hit 
rock bottom” before becoming sober, Dewey said. “People aren’t getting a
 chance to hit rock bottom, because they’re dying.”Someone dies of overdose almost every month in <a href="https://reno.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/6e5f01c85f524c08b9aea458926f8fdb" target="_blank">Reno County</a> — often more than one person.Yet
 Dewey sees signs of change. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office and 
Hutchinson Police Department now train their officers on administering 
naloxone, and make sure they have it available.A state good Samaritan law could also help, research suggests. The U.S. Government Accountability Office <a href="https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-21-248" target="_blank">published a report</a> last year documenting evidence that the rate of fatal opioid overdoses improves when states pass such laws.Deadly synthetic opioidsThe
 vast bulk of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl and carfentanil are 
smuggled from abroad, and increasingly blended with other substances.That
 means people sometimes don’t know that the methamphetamine, oxycodone, 
cocaine or other substances they buy illegally contain synthetic opioids
 to make them more potent.Overdosing is easy. Even minuscule amounts of these substances can kill. Fentanyl is up to <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">50 times</a> more potent than heroin.This month, <a href="https://www.rand.org/content/dam/rand/pubs/external_publications/EP60000/EP68838/RAND_EP68838.pdf" target="_blank">a federal commission</a>
 released its report on synthetic opioids, calling the epidemic of 
addiction “one of our most-pressing national security, law enforcement, 
and public health challenges.”Though most people addicted to the 
substances get them illegally, the report traces the rise in demand for 
and trafficking of synthetic opioids directly to <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/richard-sackler-oxycontin-oxycodone-strength-conceal-from-doctors-sealed-testimony" target="_blank">wide-scale addiction to OxyContin</a> prescription opiate painkillers starting in the 1990s.“The
 overdose crisis in the United States claims more lives each year than 
firearms, suicide, homicide, or motor vehicle crashes,” the report said.
 “We must do more as a nation and a government.”Better access to 
medical care for opioid addiction won’t stop the drug trafficking, it 
said, but offers one route to saving lives, as the “gold standard” for 
treating opioid use disorders.Buprenorphine and other treatmentsYet
 experts at the health care research group Commonwealth Fund say only a 
small sliver of people with opioid addiction receive such medical care.The
 treatment usually involves prescribing one of three medications — 
buprenorphine, methadone or naltrexone — to ease cravings and even block
 the brain’s ability to experience euphoria from drugs like heroin and 
oxycodone.Sometimes people who want this help struggle to find a 
health care provider and treatment program that they can afford. 
Sometimes they face insurance hurdles.Meanwhile, access to drug 
treatment behind bars remains spotty at best, even though most 
incarcerated people have substance use disorders.Despite some 
successful lawsuits, as well as federal legislation, pushing for 
widespread access to this treatment in correctional facilities, most 
people with addiction in prison or jail still don’t receive it.In Kansas, <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-02-16/a-few-kansas-jails-are-finally-allowing-medical-care-for-opioid-addiction" target="_blank">a few jails</a>
 have begun allowing medical care with buprenorphine, methadone or 
naltrexone. Since Crawford County Jail rolled out its program in August 
2020, more than 200 people have signed up for care, and most continued 
their treatment after leaving jail.A spokeswoman for the state prison system says it allows such treatment, too, though <a href="https://www.themarshallproject.org/2021/08/10/these-meds-prevent-overdoses-few-federal-prisoners-are-getting-them" target="_blank">the Marshall Project</a>
 — an investigative journalism newsroom focused on criminal justice — 
considers the access to care in Kansas prisons to be limited.Fentanyl test strips and naloxone suppliesThe
 federal commission urges Congress to help local governments across the 
country afford naloxone so that they can equip all first responders with
 it.And it calls for fentanyl test strip distribution programs and the development of best practices to help guide that work.The
 strips let people test drugs they buy on the street to see if they’re 
laced with fentanyl, so they can protect themselves against unknowingly 
consuming it.Kansas overdose prevention programs can’t distribute the test strips because they’re illegal under state law.Last
 year, the Kansas House passed a bill to change that. The bill is now 
stalled in a Senate committee, which began to hold a hearing on the 
topic and then postponed the matter.If the test strips become 
legal in Kansas, community groups that help people struggling with 
addiction will be able to use federal grants to buy and distribute 
supplies.Ngoc Vuong sees the potential to save lives. He coordinates anti-addiction efforts for the <a href="https://www.partnersforwichita.org/safe-streets" target="_blank">Safe Streets program</a> in Wichita. He says part of helping people seek recovery is keeping them safe in the meantime.That
 could mean distributing or explaining fentanyl test strips at outreach 
events geared toward people living on the street or who use illegal 
drugs or who are trying to stop using them.“Letting them know 
about fentanyl test strips, how to use them,” Vuong said. “Then also add
 the caveat here that, ‘Whenever you’re ready to seek treatment, we’re 
here to help.’”Dewey, at the Reno County Health Department, has a
 similar perspective. Building relationships is key, he said. And that 
includes talking to people in crisis about how to use naloxone and 
fentanyl test strips, and making sure they have access.“Then they’re at least honest with us,” he said. “We want people to be honest with us. ‘Hey, man, I’m struggling with this.’”Dewey
 speaks from experience. He used illegal drugs in the past, and ended up
 in the county jail. Ultimately he achieved long-term recovery.“When
 we open up that relationship of trust” with people who use drugs, he 
said, “that’s when we start seeing a full cycle of (approaches) that 
could be used to help people when they’re ready.”Celia 
Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health for the Kansas News Service. 
You can follow her on Twitter @celia_LJ or email her at celia@kcur.org.

Kansas lags other states on steps to help fight opioid deaths

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 75-year-old Kansas City-area man faces charges for allegedly pretending to be a police officer and pulling over a driver.

<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/2022/03/04/man-charged-with-false-impersonation-law-enforcement-officer-accused-pulling-driver-over/">KCTV-TV</a>&nbsp;reports that the Missouri State Highway Patrol launched an investigation in January after a driver became suspicious after being pulled over. The driver told the patrol that after he passed another vehicle, that driver began following him closely, flashed his headlights and activated emergency lights.

The alleged victim said the man took his driver's license and pretended to run a computer check. The alleged victim noted the license plate identifiers of the vehicle that pulled him over, which led to the arrest.

Investigators say the suspect vehicle had what appeared to be emergency lights mounted in the front grill and a siren speaker. The suspect is not a police officer but worked decades ago for Kansas City police and the highway patrol.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A 75-year-old Kansas City-area man faces charges for allegedly pretending to be a police officer and pulling over a driver.<a href="https://www.kctv5.com/2022/03/04/man-charged-with-false-impersonation-law-enforcement-officer-accused-pulling-driver-over/">KCTV-TV</a>&nbsp;reports that the Missouri State Highway Patrol launched an investigation in January after a driver became suspicious after being pulled over. The driver told the patrol that after he passed another vehicle, that driver began following him closely, flashed his headlights and activated emergency lights.The alleged victim said the man took his driver's license and pretended to run a computer check. The alleged victim noted the license plate identifiers of the vehicle that pulled him over, which led to the arrest.Investigators say the suspect vehicle had what appeared to be emergency lights mounted in the front grill and a siren speaker. The suspect is not a police officer but worked decades ago for Kansas City police and the highway patrol.