BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; information from two separate sources that controlled substances were being smuggled into the Barton County Jail have made arrests, according to Barton County&nbsp; Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

After detectives launched an investigation, they placed a civilian employee under surveillance. It appears the inmates involved were inmate workers or “trustees." Inmate workers have been allowed to assist with various functions around the jail and in the community, including picking up groceries at local businesses for the jail. An inmate worker was allowed to accompany the jail cook on these errands. 

During the course of the investigation, detectives learned that the employee and the inmate worker had stopped at a residence in the 500 block of Odell in Great Bend while going to get groceries. The inmate exited the vehicle and contacted a person at the residence.

The inmate worker was identified as Hernan Montez, 30 of Great Bend. He was being held on a contempt of court charge, according to Bellendir. At that point, detectives placed the residence on Odell Street under surveillance. 

When the trustee and the employee returned to the jail, the trustee was searched and suspected methamphetamine was discovered. Detectives began the process of obtaining a search warrant for the address on Odell.&nbsp;

While waiting for a search warrant, a vehicle left the residence, and a traffic stop was conducted. During the stop, the suspect became combative, striking two officers and fled on foot from a location near 6th Street and Odell.

The suspect, identified as Reynaldo Martinez, 35, Great Bend, ran back into the house that was under surveillance. Deputies pursued Martinez inside and after a short struggle he was taken into custody. After the search warrant was obtained for drugs for the same residence, deputies found more than a pound of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of approximately $30,000.

During the investigation, detectives obtained information that the civilian employee, Tammy Batt, 45 of Russell, had been involved in an intimate relationship with one of the prisoners.

Tammy Batt was arrested on requested charges of traffic in contraband in a correctional institution and unlawful sexual relations. Batt was arrested and booked. She has since posted a $50,000 bond.

Reynaldo Martinez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp, two counts battery of a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest and trafficking contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $300,000.

Hernan Montez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking in contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $50,000.

Two shifts of officers were called in to assist with the operations. This included a complete search of the jail. Based on the findings, it is believed none of the drugs reached general population. It appears the incident was confined to the inmate worker section of the jail, according to Bellendir.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644461607.jpeg" alt="photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating&nbsp; information from two separate sources that controlled substances were being smuggled into the Barton County Jail have made arrests, according to Barton County&nbsp; Sheriff Brian Bellendir.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644568229.jpeg" alt="Tammy Batt photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Tammy Batt photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>After detectives launched an investigation, they placed a civilian employee under surveillance. It appears the inmates involved were inmate workers or “trustees." Inmate workers have been allowed to assist with various functions around the jail and in the community, including picking up groceries at local businesses for the jail. An inmate worker was allowed to accompany the jail cook on these errands. During the course of the investigation, detectives learned that the employee and the inmate worker had stopped at a residence in the 500 block of Odell in Great Bend while going to get groceries. The inmate exited the vehicle and contacted a person at the residence.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644524765.jpeg" alt="Hernan Montez-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Hernan Montez-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The inmate worker was identified as Hernan Montez, 30 of Great Bend. He was being held on a contempt of court charge, according to Bellendir. At that point, detectives placed the residence on Odell Street under surveillance. When the trustee and the employee returned to the jail, the trustee was searched and suspected methamphetamine was discovered. Detectives began the process of obtaining a search warrant for the address on Odell.&nbsp;While waiting for a search warrant, a vehicle left the residence, and a traffic stop was conducted. During the stop, the suspect became combative, striking two officers and fled on foot from a location near 6th Street and Odell.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644548045.jpeg" alt="Reynaldo Martinez" />
 <figcaption>Reynaldo Martinez</figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect, identified as Reynaldo Martinez, 35, Great Bend, ran back into the house that was under surveillance. Deputies pursued Martinez inside and after a short struggle he was taken into custody. After the search warrant was obtained for drugs for the same residence, deputies found more than a pound of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of approximately $30,000.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645644568229.jpeg" alt="Tammy Batt photo Barton CO." />
 <figcaption>Tammy Batt photo Barton CO.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the investigation, detectives obtained information that the civilian employee, Tammy Batt, 45 of Russell, had been involved in an intimate relationship with one of the prisoners.Tammy Batt was arrested on requested charges of traffic in contraband in a correctional institution and unlawful sexual relations. Batt was arrested and booked. She has since posted a $50,000 bond.Reynaldo Martinez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp, two counts battery of a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest and trafficking contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $300,000.Hernan Montez was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking in contraband in a correctional institution. Bond is set at $50,000.Two shifts of officers were called in to assist with the operations. This included a complete search of the jail. Based on the findings, it is believed none of the drugs reached general population. It appears the incident was confined to the inmate worker section of the jail, according to Bellendir.

Sheriff: Employee smuggled drugs to inmate lover at Barton Co. jail

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and after asking the public for help to locate a vehicle have made an arrest.

On Tuesday night,&nbsp;deputies were able to gather information that led to the arrest of 50-year-old James R. Cunningham of Alma, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies located Cunningham at his residence and he was taken into custody without incident.&nbsp; He remains jailed on requested charges of failure to stop at an accident resulting in great bodily harm and failure to stop at accident causing injury or damage over $1000.

Just before 2p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle versus a bicycle accident in the 5500 block of SW Burlingame Road. 

The driver of the vehicle fled the scene southbound after striking the bicyclist.&nbsp;The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response with non-life-threatening injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645637662654.png" alt="Cunningham-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Cunningham-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit-and-run accident and after asking the public for help to locate a vehicle have made an arrest.On Tuesday night,&nbsp;deputies were able to gather information that led to the arrest of 50-year-old James R. Cunningham of Alma, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645568563830.png" alt="Security camera image of Cunningham's vehicle after the crash-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff." />
 <figcaption>Security camera image of Cunningham's vehicle after the crash-photo Shawnee Co. Sheriff.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies located Cunningham at his residence and he was taken into custody without incident.&nbsp; He remains jailed on requested charges of failure to stop at an accident resulting in great bodily harm and failure to stop at accident causing injury or damage over $1000.Just before 2p.m. Monday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call regarding a vehicle versus a bicycle accident in the 5500 block of SW Burlingame Road. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene southbound after striking the bicyclist.&nbsp;The bicyclist was transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response with non-life-threatening injuries.-----

Sheriff: Man from Alma jailed for hit-and-run of Kan. bicyclist 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Shawnee County authorities have charged a Topeka West High School student who was the subject of protests from other students with 11 sex-related crimes. 

District Attorney Mike Kagay says he will ask a judge to charge the student as an adult because of the serious nature of the crimes. The student's name has not been released because he is a juvenile. 

Kagay says the 11 charges involve five alleged victims. Topeka West High School students staged a protest on Sept. 17 because of what they called a lack of response to allegations that the male student had sexually assaulted a female student in July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1631914182570.png" alt="More than 100 students at Topeka West High School held a protest over the school administration's handling of a male student who has been accused of raping a female student last summer.-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>More than 100 students at Topeka West High School held a protest over the school administration's handling of a male student who has been accused of raping a female student last summer.-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Shawnee County authorities have charged a Topeka West High School student who was the subject of protests from other students with 11 sex-related crimes. District Attorney Mike Kagay says he will ask a judge to charge the student as an adult because of the serious nature of the crimes. The student's name has not been released because he is a juvenile. Kagay says the 11 charges involve five alleged victims. Topeka West High School students staged a protest on Sept. 17 because of what they called a lack of response to allegations that the male student had sexually assaulted a female student in July.

Kan. teen, subject of sex assault protest, arrested on 11 counts

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop and arrest.

Just before 11a.m. February 20, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a green 1993 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck in the 900 block of SE 53rd Street in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The windshield was broken and the license plate, that did not belong to that vehicle, had expired in 2015. The driver identified as 40-year-old Joshua W. Banfield of Topeka, also had a suspended driver’s license.

Banfield was taken into custody and remains jailed on requested charges ofmcriminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, failure to provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration not assigned, failure to register vehicle in the State of Kansas, driving with an obstructed windshield and driving with a suspended driver’s license. 

Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645629632030.png" alt="&nbsp;Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after a traffic stop and arrest.Just before 11a.m. February 20, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a green 1993 Chevrolet 1500 pickup truck in the 900 block of SE 53rd Street in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The windshield was broken and the license plate, that did not belong to that vehicle, had expired in 2015. The driver identified as 40-year-old Joshua W. Banfield of Topeka, also had a suspended driver’s license.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645629240135.png" alt="Banfield remain jailed in Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Banfield remain jailed in Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>Banfield was taken into custody and remains jailed on requested charges ofmcriminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, failure to provide proof of insurance, vehicle registration not assigned, failure to register vehicle in the State of Kansas, driving with an obstructed windshield and driving with a suspended driver’s license. Banfied has previous convictions that include aggravated assault, theft, criminal damage to property, criminal possession of a weapon and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. man released from prison in January is in custody on new charges

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon has approved the deployment of 700 unarmed National Guard troops to the nation’s capital as it prepares for trucker convoys that are planning protests against pandemic restrictions beginning next week.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved the request Tuesday from the District of Columbia government and the U.S. Capitol Police, the Pentagon said in a statement Tuesday night.

The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, the Pentagon said. Four hundred Guard members from the District of Columbia Guard will be joined by 300 Guard members from other states, according to the statement.

Guard members will not carry firearms or take part in law enforcement or domestic-surveillance activities, the Pentagon said.

Modeled after recent trucker protests in Canada, separate truck convoys have been planned through online forums with names like the People’s Convoy and the American Truckers Freedom Fund — all with different starting points, departure dates and routes. Some are scheduled to arrive in time for President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address on March 1, though others may arrive afterward.

The convoys follow the recent Canadian truckers’ protest which shut down the busiest U.S. Canadian border crossing and besieged the streets of the capital, Ottawa, for weeks to protest government pandemic restrictions. The multiple blockades were broken up by police last week, with more than 100 arrests.

It remains to be seen if any of the U.S. convoys would seek to actively shut down Washington’s streets, the way their Canadian counterparts did in Ottawa. Some convoy organizers have spoken of plans to briefly roll through the city, then focus on shutting down the Beltway, which encircles the capital.

A statement from the People’s Convoy specifically says the trucks “will NOT be going into DC proper.” That convoy is planning to embark Wednesday from southern California and arrive in D.C. around March 5.

The U.S. convoys seek an immediate lifting of what they say are heavy-handed government pandemic restrictions like mask mandates and vaccine requirements. The American Truckers Freedom Fund website says the group is protesting “the unscientific, unconstitutional overreach of the federal government.”

Vaccines have proven highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infections, especially serious illness and death, and high-quality masks offer strong protection against spreading or contracting the disease. Public sentiment, especially among conservatives, has been shifting against government mandates as the pandemic heads into its third year.

People’s Convoy organizer Mike Landis, in a video testimonial on the group’s website, said the current COVID vaccine “is not proven yet” but supported individual choice on whether to take it or not. Landis said the convoy was open to all vehicles and said the primary goal was to pressure Biden to lift the national state of emergency.

“We want this government to bring back the Constitution,” Landis said. “We do not want to be under a dictatorship communism-style regime, like where we are right now.”

A state of emergency in the U.S. was declared by President Donald Trump in March 2020. Last week, Biden announced his intention to extend it beyond the current March 1 expiration date.

The websites organizing the American trucker convoys directly reference the inspiration of the Canadian movement. A statement on the People’s Convoy website pays homage to “our brave and courageous neighbors to the north — our Canadian brothers and sisters who led the charge.”

Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee said Friday that his department was closely monitoring the shifting information and would be devoting additional police manhours in a rolling state of heightened alert over the next few weeks. In the meantime, he warned D.C. residents to stay alert for unexpected traffic snarls.

“There will be disruptions to traffic, that kind of thing,” Contee said. “I think we need to be very candid with the public about what some of the expectations, based upon what we’ve seen in Ottawa, that we might see here in the District.”

Contee called the Ottawa standoff “an incredible situation — one that we have not seen here in the District of Columbia.”

Contee and Mayor Muriel Bowser memorably predicted unrest several days before the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol Building. They warned residents to stay indoors and called for additional resources, but the Capitol Police and National Guard were still caught unprepared when crowds of Trump supporters overran the building, resulting in several deaths and numerous injuries.

Lingering memories of that debacle have fueled a heightened sense of anxiety and speculation over the coming convoys. But Bowser said she wasn’t yet warning residents to avoid the Capitol area or the National Mall.

“We’re not at a point to give specific instructions to residents just yet. We will,” Bowser said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645615380398.png" alt="The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, according to the Pentagon.-photo courtesy WJLA TV" />
 <figcaption>The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, according to the Pentagon.-photo courtesy WJLA TV</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon has approved the deployment of 700 unarmed National Guard troops to the nation’s capital as it prepares for trucker convoys that are planning protests against pandemic restrictions beginning next week.Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved the request Tuesday from the District of Columbia government and the U.S. Capitol Police, the Pentagon said in a statement Tuesday night.The troops would be used to assist with traffic control during demonstrations expected in the city in the coming days, the Pentagon said. Four hundred Guard members from the District of Columbia Guard will be joined by 300 Guard members from other states, according to the statement.Guard members will not carry firearms or take part in law enforcement or domestic-surveillance activities, the Pentagon said.Modeled after recent trucker protests in Canada, separate truck convoys have been planned through online forums with names like the People’s Convoy and the American Truckers Freedom Fund — all with different starting points, departure dates and routes. Some are scheduled to arrive in time for President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address on March 1, though others may arrive afterward.The convoys follow the recent Canadian truckers’ protest which shut down the busiest U.S. Canadian border crossing and besieged the streets of the capital, Ottawa, for weeks to protest government pandemic restrictions. The multiple blockades were broken up by police last week, with more than 100 arrests.It remains to be seen if any of the U.S. convoys would seek to actively shut down Washington’s streets, the way their Canadian counterparts did in Ottawa. Some convoy organizers have spoken of plans to briefly roll through the city, then focus on shutting down the Beltway, which encircles the capital.A statement from the People’s Convoy specifically says the trucks “will NOT be going into DC proper.” That convoy is planning to embark Wednesday from southern California and arrive in D.C. around March 5.The U.S. convoys seek an immediate lifting of what they say are heavy-handed government pandemic restrictions like mask mandates and vaccine requirements. The American Truckers Freedom Fund website says the group is protesting “the unscientific, unconstitutional overreach of the federal government.”Vaccines have proven highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infections, especially serious illness and death, and high-quality masks offer strong protection against spreading or contracting the disease. Public sentiment, especially among conservatives, has been shifting against government mandates as the pandemic heads into its third year.People’s Convoy organizer Mike Landis, in a video testimonial on the group’s website, said the current COVID vaccine “is not proven yet” but supported individual choice on whether to take it or not. Landis said the convoy was open to all vehicles and said the primary goal was to pressure Biden to lift the national state of emergency.“We want this government to bring back the Constitution,” Landis said. “We do not want to be under a dictatorship communism-style regime, like where we are right now.”A state of emergency in the U.S. was declared by President Donald Trump in March 2020. Last week, Biden announced his intention to extend it beyond the current March 1 expiration date.The websites organizing the American trucker convoys directly reference the inspiration of the Canadian movement. A statement on the People’s Convoy website pays homage to “our brave and courageous neighbors to the north — our Canadian brothers and sisters who led the charge.”Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert Contee said Friday that his department was closely monitoring the shifting information and would be devoting additional police manhours in a rolling state of heightened alert over the next few weeks. In the meantime, he warned D.C. residents to stay alert for unexpected traffic snarls.“There will be disruptions to traffic, that kind of thing,” Contee said. “I think we need to be very candid with the public about what some of the expectations, based upon what we’ve seen in Ottawa, that we might see here in the District.”Contee called the Ottawa standoff “an incredible situation — one that we have not seen here in the District of Columbia.”Contee and Mayor Muriel Bowser memorably predicted unrest several days before the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the Capitol Building. They warned residents to stay indoors and called for additional resources, but the Capitol Police and National Guard were still caught unprepared when crowds of Trump supporters overran the building, resulting in several deaths and numerous injuries.Lingering memories of that debacle have fueled a heightened sense of anxiety and speculation over the coming convoys. But Bowser said she wasn’t yet warning residents to avoid the Capitol area or the National Mall.“We’re not at a point to give specific instructions to residents just yet. We will,” Bowser said.

Pentagon deploys National Guard ahead trucker convoys in DC

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City detective convicted of fatally shooting a Black man will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled that Eric DeValkenaere, who is white, can stay out of prison during the appeal of his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal</a>&nbsp;action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb.

DeValkenaere’s attorney, Molly Hastings argued at an earlier hearing that he should be allowed to remain out of prison during his appeals because he is not a flight risk and the judge found “no evidence of malice” in DeValkenaere’s conduct.

Youngs, who convicted the former detective in a bench trial in November, said in a hearing in January that he had never in 13 years on the bench allowed a defendant to remain free on bond after they were convicted.

But in his ruling Tuesday, Youngs said “the defendant’s incarceration without bond or other conditions that I might impose on him is not necessary to ensure his appearance at future proceedings,” KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/crime/kcpd-detective-who-killed-cameron-lamb-will-be-granted-bond-on-appeal" target="_blank">reported</a>.

DeValkenaere has remained free on $30,000 bond since he was convicted.

DeValkenaere is schedule to be sentenced March 4. Youngs’ ruling means the former detective will not be jailed immediately but would serve whatever sentence the judge imposes if his appeal fails. He faces up to four years in prison on the manslaughter charge and at least three years for armed criminal action.

Lamb was shot while backing a pickup truck into his garage on Dec. 3, 2019, after chasing his girlfriend’s convertible in a stolen pickup truck.

DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">testified at his trial</a>&nbsp;in November that he fired after he saw Lamb point a gun at his partner, Troy Schwalm.

Prosecutors argued police did not have a legal reason to be on the property and had staged the shooting scene to support their claims that Lamb was armed.

When he convicted DeValkenaere, Youngs said the officers violated Lamb’s constitutional rights because they had no probable cause to believe he had committed a crime, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He did not address the allegations that evidence had been planted.

DeVlakenaere was suspended from the police force after his conviction and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-2af535a9a637024a23b3530c1c20cc2e">left the force in January.</a>&nbsp;Police have not said if he was fired, resigned or retired.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592994941014.png" alt="DeValkenaere photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>DeValkenaere photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City detective convicted of fatally shooting a Black man will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed, a judge ruled Tuesday.Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled that Eric DeValkenaere, who is white, can stay out of prison during the appeal of his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">conviction for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal</a>&nbsp;action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb.DeValkenaere’s attorney, Molly Hastings argued at an earlier hearing that he should be allowed to remain out of prison during his appeals because he is not a flight risk and the judge found “no evidence of malice” in DeValkenaere’s conduct.Youngs, who convicted the former detective in a bench trial in November, said in a hearing in January that he had never in 13 years on the bench allowed a defendant to remain free on bond after they were convicted.But in his ruling Tuesday, Youngs said “the defendant’s incarceration without bond or other conditions that I might impose on him is not necessary to ensure his appearance at future proceedings,” KSHB-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kshb.com/news/crime/kcpd-detective-who-killed-cameron-lamb-will-be-granted-bond-on-appeal" target="_blank">reported</a>.DeValkenaere has remained free on $30,000 bond since he was convicted.DeValkenaere is schedule to be sentenced March 4. Youngs’ ruling means the former detective will not be jailed immediately but would serve whatever sentence the judge imposes if his appeal fails. He faces up to four years in prison on the manslaughter charge and at least three years for armed criminal action.Lamb was shot while backing a pickup truck into his garage on Dec. 3, 2019, after chasing his girlfriend’s convertible in a stolen pickup truck.DeValkenaere&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">testified at his trial</a>&nbsp;in November that he fired after he saw Lamb point a gun at his partner, Troy Schwalm.Prosecutors argued police did not have a legal reason to be on the property and had staged the shooting scene to support their claims that Lamb was armed.When he convicted DeValkenaere, Youngs said the officers violated Lamb’s constitutional rights because they had no probable cause to believe he had committed a crime, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He did not address the allegations that evidence had been planted.DeVlakenaere was suspended from the police force after his conviction and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-2af535a9a637024a23b3530c1c20cc2e">left the force in January.</a>&nbsp;Police have not said if he was fired, resigned or retired.

Ex-KC officer remains free amid manslaughter appeal

HAYS —A recent fight between two men in Hays, led to the discovery of stolen property taken from area storage units and the subsequent arrest of both.

After initially being called for a disturbance between 29-year-0ld Richard Kody Lyon and 44-year-old Alvino Damian Almerez, police learned Almerez had threatened Lyon with a machete, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.

"While investigating that crime, the patrol officers and detectives uncovered they had also been committing storage unit break-ins," he said.

Lyon was arrested on suspicion of burglary, theft and criminal damage to property.

Almerez was arrested on suspicion of burglary, theft and criminal damage to property and aggravated assault.

While a portion of the recovered property has been returned to owners, Scheibler said some is still with the department.

"If you haven't checked your storage unit lately, please check it and if you are missing property, please give us a detailed list," he said.

Those reports can be directed to Hays Police Department Detective Dave Gillan from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday at (785) 625-1030.

"He will need a good description of your stolen property to cross-check with the recovered property to see if it has been located," an announcement from the department said. "Serial numbers, model numbers and brand names along with good descriptions of the missing item will be important to give to Detective Gillan, along with when your storage unit was broken into and the location of your storage unit."

While the work continues to get the stolen property back into the hands of owners, Schiebler praised the work of the officers.

"(It was) a really good job by the patrol officers investigating the initial report, but also that began to expand off into other criminal activity and they were able to follow up on those also," he said.

And the investigation also continues.&nbsp;

"We suspect there may be other people involved, so if anybody has any information they should contact Detective Gillan," Scheibler said.

While the men are currently detained in the Ellis County jail, he said, they are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645568379240.png" alt="Lyon-photo Ellis County" />
 <figcaption>Lyon-photo Ellis County</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostHAYS —A recent fight between two men in Hays, led to the discovery of stolen property taken from area storage units and the subsequent arrest of both.After initially being called for a disturbance between 29-year-0ld Richard Kody Lyon and 44-year-old Alvino Damian Almerez, police learned Almerez had threatened Lyon with a machete, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler."While investigating that crime, the patrol officers and detectives uncovered they had also been committing storage unit break-ins," he said.Lyon was arrested on suspicion of burglary, theft and criminal damage to property.Almerez was arrested on suspicion of burglary, theft and criminal damage to property and aggravated assault.While a portion of the recovered property has been returned to owners, Scheibler said some is still with the department."If you haven't checked your storage unit lately, please check it and if you are missing property, please give us a detailed list," he said.Those reports can be directed to Hays Police Department Detective Dave Gillan from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday at (785) 625-1030."He will need a good description of your stolen property to cross-check with the recovered property to see if it has been located," an announcement from the department said. "Serial numbers, model numbers and brand names along with good descriptions of the missing item will be important to give to Detective Gillan, along with when your storage unit was broken into and the location of your storage unit."While the work continues to get the stolen property back into the hands of owners, Schiebler praised the work of the officers."(It was) a really good job by the patrol officers investigating the initial report, but also that began to expand off into other criminal activity and they were able to follow up on those also," he said.And the investigation also continues.&nbsp;"We suspect there may be other people involved, so if anybody has any information they should contact Detective Gillan," Scheibler said.While the men are currently detained in the Ellis County jail, he said, they are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Police: Kan. man's threat with a machete led to stolen property

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a weekend incident at a Kansas home.

Just before 2a.m. February 20, police were dispatched to the north part of Garden City for a battery-in-progress, according to a media release.

Officers met with a woman who alleged a physical altercation had occurred between her and a man known to her. 

The investigation revealed that the woman and the man, identified as 31-year-old Victor Roman Viurquez&nbsp; of Garden City got into an argument, and Viurquez told the woman to leave the residence. 

As the woman attempted to leave, Viurquez allegedly became upset and forcefully removed a bracelet from the woman, injuring her wrist and preventing her from leaving. Viurquez also allegedly broke the woman’s phone and damaged the windshield of her vehicle.

Officers attempted to speak with Viurquez, but he refused to exit his residence and surrender to police. The Garden City/Finney County SWAT team responded to the area to assist. After nearly 6 hours, Victor surrendered to police and was taken into custody without incident. 

Viurquez is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges for Domestic Battery, Robbery, Criminal Damage and Criminal Restraint.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645549689299.png" alt="Viurquez-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Viurquez-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a weekend incident at a Kansas home.Just before 2a.m. February 20, police were dispatched to the north part of Garden City for a battery-in-progress, according to a media release.Officers met with a woman who alleged a physical altercation had occurred between her and a man known to her. The investigation revealed that the woman and the man, identified as 31-year-old Victor Roman Viurquez&nbsp; of Garden City got into an argument, and Viurquez told the woman to leave the residence. As the woman attempted to leave, Viurquez allegedly became upset and forcefully removed a bracelet from the woman, injuring her wrist and preventing her from leaving. Viurquez also allegedly broke the woman’s phone and damaged the windshield of her vehicle.Officers attempted to speak with Viurquez, but he refused to exit his residence and surrender to police. The Garden City/Finney County SWAT team responded to the area to assist. After nearly 6 hours, Victor surrendered to police and was taken into custody without incident. Viurquez is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges for Domestic Battery, Robbery, Criminal Damage and Criminal Restraint.

Police arrest suspect after 6-hour standoff at SW Kansas home

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINA —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect who was in possession of police property missing since December of 2020.

On Monday night, officers were sent to the 700 block of N. Fourth Street in Salina after report of suspicious activity. Once there, they made contact with Shadd Boese, 47, of Salina, who was in the driver's seat of a Toyota Land Cruiser, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.

Boese had an active warrant from Salina Municipal Court for failure to appear.&nbsp;During a search of the vehicle, officers located an X26P Taser that had been stolen from a police officer during a vehicle burglary in Saline County in December 2020, according to Forrester.

&nbsp;Boese was also in possession of methamphetamine that was without a tax stamp, as well as some narcotic pills.&nbsp;

Boese was arrested on requested charges of Felony possession with intent to distribute, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia, No drug tax stamp and Possession of stolen property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645541262071.png" alt="Shadd Boese. Photo Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Shadd Boese. Photo Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINA —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect who was in possession of police property missing since December of 2020.On Monday night, officers were sent to the 700 block of N. Fourth Street in Salina after report of suspicious activity. Once there, they made contact with Shadd Boese, 47, of Salina, who was in the driver's seat of a Toyota Land Cruiser, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester.Boese had an active warrant from Salina Municipal Court for failure to appear.&nbsp;During a search of the vehicle, officers located an X26P Taser that had been stolen from a police officer during a vehicle burglary in Saline County in December 2020, according to Forrester.&nbsp;Boese was also in possession of methamphetamine that was without a tax stamp, as well as some narcotic pills.&nbsp;Boese was arrested on requested charges of Felony possession with intent to distribute, Possession of methamphetamine, Possession of drug paraphernalia, No drug tax stamp and Possession of stolen property.

Police find Kansas officer's Taser taken during burglary

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for&nbsp;trafficking large quantities of marijuana into Kansas.

On Saturday, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 2013 Dodge Durango for a traffic infraction in the construction zone on U.S. Highway 75 near Netawaka, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Further investigation into the traffic stop led deputies to discover a large quantity of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle. 

 The driver, Kristian Renea Shepherd, 36, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested and is being held in the Jackson County Jail for felony distribution of marijuana, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645385042821.png" alt="Shepherd-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Shepherd-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman for&nbsp;trafficking large quantities of marijuana into Kansas.On Saturday, a sheriff’s deputy stopped a 2013 Dodge Durango for a traffic infraction in the construction zone on U.S. Highway 75 near Netawaka, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse. Further investigation into the traffic stop led deputies to discover a large quantity of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle. The driver, Kristian Renea Shepherd, 36, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested and is being held in the Jackson County Jail for felony distribution of marijuana, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp, according to Morse.

Sheriff: Woman brought large quantity of marijuana to Kansas

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

Just before 11a.m. Friday, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy received a call from a citizen who reported a subject who appeared to be using narcotics while driving, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

Shortly later, the deputy contacted the driver identified as 31-year-old Levi N. Ludwick near Overbrook. 

During the encounter, the deputy located narcotics and arrested Ludwick of Auburn and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

"This was a great example of “if you see something, say something," according to Wells.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645287664443.png" alt="Ludwick-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Ludwick-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after an unusual traffic stop.Just before 11a.m. Friday, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy received a call from a citizen who reported a subject who appeared to be using narcotics while driving, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.Shortly later, the deputy contacted the driver identified as 31-year-old Levi N. Ludwick near Overbrook. During the encounter, the deputy located narcotics and arrested Ludwick of Auburn and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia."This was a great example of “if you see something, say something," according to Wells.

Sheriff: Kansas man observed using meth while driving

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man accused in an attempted carjacking made his first court appearance Friday.

Zachary Province, 38, Haysville, was charged with with 2 counts of flee and attempting to elude an officer and driving while license is suspended. He was released on bond,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just before 11:30 a.m. on February 15, police&nbsp; responded to a carjacking call near Harry and Hillside in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.. On arrival, they contacted a 59-year-old woman who reported two male suspects attempted to rob her of her purse and steal her vehicle. 

She said that one of the suspects produced a handgun and threatened to shoot her. She was able to get away and call 911, and the two men fled the scene in what was described as a dark color Chevy impala. She was also able to give police a tag number for the suspect vehicle.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., police were conducting follow-up when they located the vehicle near Merton and Seneca. Officers attempted to stop the car, but it refused to stop, and a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit continued until the suspect vehicle crashed into a stop sign at 31st and Euclid, where two suspects fled the vehicle on foot. The driver was taken into custody and identified Province. Police did not locate the passenger. The vehicle they were in had been stolen, according to Macy.

Province was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County jail until Friday's hearing. His next court date is February 28, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645065022585.png" alt="Province-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Province-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man accused in an attempted carjacking made his first court appearance Friday.Zachary Province, 38, Haysville, was charged with with 2 counts of flee and attempting to elude an officer and driving while license is suspended. He was released on bond,&nbsp;according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just before 11:30 a.m. on February 15, police&nbsp; responded to a carjacking call near Harry and Hillside in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.. On arrival, they contacted a 59-year-old woman who reported two male suspects attempted to rob her of her purse and steal her vehicle. She said that one of the suspects produced a handgun and threatened to shoot her. She was able to get away and call 911, and the two men fled the scene in what was described as a dark color Chevy impala. She was also able to give police a tag number for the suspect vehicle.At approximately 3:30 p.m., police were conducting follow-up when they located the vehicle near Merton and Seneca. Officers attempted to stop the car, but it refused to stop, and a pursuit was initiated.The pursuit continued until the suspect vehicle crashed into a stop sign at 31st and Euclid, where two suspects fled the vehicle on foot. The driver was taken into custody and identified Province. Police did not locate the passenger. The vehicle they were in had been stolen, according to Macy.Province was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County jail until Friday's hearing. His next court date is February 28, according to the district attorney's office.

Suspect in attempted Kansas carjacking released on bond

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman after a wrong-way crash.

Just before&nbsp;2:30 a.m. Sunday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communication Center received a report of a wrong way driver, a 2008 Nissan Altima, traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 470 near the SW Gage Boulevard exit, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

Deputies responded and located the suspect vehicle just after it struck&nbsp; a 2013 GMC Terrain near the Interstate 70 interchange.

One of the three occupants of the GMC was extricated and transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response (AMR) with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver and sole occupant of the Nissan identified as 25-year-old Myisha D. Holford of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of driving under the influence, driving the wrong direction on a one-way highway and no vehicle liability insurance. The accident is still under investigation, according to Christian.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645446420549.png" alt="Holford-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Holford-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman after a wrong-way crash.Just before&nbsp;2:30 a.m. Sunday, the Shawnee County Emergency Communication Center received a report of a wrong way driver, a 2008 Nissan Altima, traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 470 near the SW Gage Boulevard exit, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.Deputies responded and located the suspect vehicle just after it struck&nbsp; a 2013 GMC Terrain near the Interstate 70 interchange.One of the three occupants of the GMC was extricated and transported to a local hospital by American Medical Response (AMR) with non-life-threatening injuries.The driver and sole occupant of the Nissan identified as 25-year-old Myisha D. Holford of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of driving under the influence, driving the wrong direction on a one-way highway and no vehicle liability insurance. The accident is still under investigation, according to Christian.

Kansas woman accused of DUI after wrong-way crash

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect following a multi-county pursuit in a stolen 1978 Chevy pickup.

Early Saturday, police in Topeka began pursuit of the vehicle in the city of Topeka, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse. A short time later, The Kansas Highway Patrol and Shawnee County Sheriff's Deputies were involved in another pursuit with the same vehicle.

The chase traveled into Pottawatomie County, entered Jackson County on 110 Road around 1:15 a.m. Saturday morning. 

 The pursuit continued eastbound where Jackson County deputies and Hoyt Police deployed stop sticks which deflated three of the four tires. 

 The Chevy truck then struck a Capital Police patrol car head-on west of Hoyt.  A Shawnee County deputy and a Jackson County deputy each attempted to disable the vehicle through a tactical vehicle intervention technique. 

Just before 2a.m., the pickup came to a stop just west of the Jefferson County line on 114th Road.

The driver, Jeffery Eugene Peak, 36, of Topeka, was arrested by Troopers and transported to the Jackson County Jail. There were no injuries reported, according to Morse.&nbsp; He remains jailed on a $100,000.00 bond on requested charges of&nbsp;Flee or attempt to elude, Commission of any felony, Aggravated battery on LEO, Physical contact to state/county/city officer on duty and Possession of stolen property Value $1500 to $25000.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645370447997.png" alt="Peak-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Peak-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect following a multi-county pursuit in a stolen 1978 Chevy pickup.Early Saturday, police in Topeka began pursuit of the vehicle in the city of Topeka, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse. A short time later, The Kansas Highway Patrol and Shawnee County Sheriff's Deputies were involved in another pursuit with the same vehicle.The chase traveled into Pottawatomie County, entered Jackson County on 110 Road around 1:15 a.m. Saturday morning. The pursuit continued eastbound where Jackson County deputies and Hoyt Police deployed stop sticks which deflated three of the four tires. The Chevy truck then struck a Capital Police patrol car head-on west of Hoyt. A Shawnee County deputy and a Jackson County deputy each attempted to disable the vehicle through a tactical vehicle intervention technique. Just before 2a.m., the pickup came to a stop just west of the Jefferson County line on 114th Road.The driver, Jeffery Eugene Peak, 36, of Topeka, was arrested by Troopers and transported to the Jackson County Jail. There were no injuries reported, according to Morse.&nbsp; He remains jailed on a $100,000.00 bond on requested charges of&nbsp;Flee or attempt to elude, Commission of any felony, Aggravated battery on LEO, Physical contact to state/county/city officer on duty and Possession of stolen property Value $1500 to $25000.&nbsp;

Kansas man jailed after chase, head-on crash with patrol car

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of sex crimes over several years arrested 44-year-old Joshua Penabaz of Manhattan on Friday afternoon, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Joshua Penabaz had worked as a school nurse with USD 383. On Sunday RCPD reported "this arrest is not associated with any of his previous employment."

Penabaz is currently being held at the Riley County Jail on a bond of $1 million on requested charges for rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and aggravated criminal sodomy.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of sex crimes over several years arrested 44-year-old Joshua Penabaz of Manhattan on Friday afternoon, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Joshua Penabaz had worked as a school nurse with USD 383. On Sunday RCPD reported "this arrest is not associated with any of his previous employment."Penabaz is currently being held at the Riley County Jail on a bond of $1 million on requested charges for rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and aggravated criminal sodomy.

RCPD: Man's child sex crime arrest not associated with school district work

KANSAS CITY(AP) — A Kansas City man has been charged with first-degree murder and 10 other counts after a shooting in the city's Westport entertainment district left one man dead and two other people injured.

The Jackson County Prosecutor's office announced Thursday that Kershmire Ralls, 21, was charged in the Dec. 6 death of Jabraughn James.

A probable cause affidavit says video shows Ralls following and chasing the three victims, who he saw earlier at a bar. He eventually used an alley, waited for the victims to walk toward him and opened fire, police said.

James fled in a vehicle driven by someone else and was not arrested until Feb. 3 in Raytown. One of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries and the third was shot in the leg.

The prosecutor's office said the victims did not appear to know they were in any danger. Ralls already has two felony convictions, including unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. Prosecutors have requested that Ralls be held without bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645141035888.png" alt="Ralls-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Ralls-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — A Kansas City man has been charged with first-degree murder and 10 other counts after a shooting in the city's Westport entertainment district left one man dead and two other people injured.The Jackson County Prosecutor's office announced Thursday that Kershmire Ralls, 21, was charged in the Dec. 6 death of Jabraughn James.A probable cause affidavit says video shows Ralls following and chasing the three victims, who he saw earlier at a bar. He eventually used an alley, waited for the victims to walk toward him and opened fire, police said.James fled in a vehicle driven by someone else and was not arrested until Feb. 3 in Raytown. One of the victims suffered life-threatening injuries and the third was shot in the leg.The prosecutor's office said the victims did not appear to know they were in any danger. Ralls already has two felony convictions, including unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. Prosecutors have requested that Ralls be held without bond.

Man charged in Kansas City Westport-area fatal shooting

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug charges after an investigation.

 On Friday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1300 Block of NE Jefferson in Topeka as part of an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Ronnie Connell.

&nbsp;Officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.

They arrested Robert Adams, 57 and Tammy Wampler, 46, and transported them to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

&nbsp;Adams is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine within 1000’ of a school, Distribution of marijuana within 1000’ of a school, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent of distribution, Aggravated Endangering a Child, Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction and Unlawful distribution of a controlled substance using a communication facility

Wampler was booking on requested charges of&nbsp; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Aggravated Endangering a Child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645286261984.png" alt="Adams-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Adams-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug charges after an investigation. On Friday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1300 Block of NE Jefferson in Topeka as part of an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Ronnie Connell.&nbsp;Officers located methamphetamine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia and firearms.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645286183436.png" alt="Wampler-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Wampler-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>They arrested Robert Adams, 57 and Tammy Wampler, 46, and transported them to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.&nbsp;Adams is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Distribution of methamphetamine within 1000’ of a school, Distribution of marijuana within 1000’ of a school, Possession of drug paraphernalia with intent of distribution, Aggravated Endangering a Child, Unlawful to acquire proceeds from drug transaction and Unlawful distribution of a controlled substance using a communication facilityWampler was booking on requested charges of&nbsp; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Aggravated Endangering a Child.

Couple jailed after drug bust at Kansas home with children

&nbsp;MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after an overnight standoff in McPherson County.&nbsp;

Just after 1a.m. Sunday, sheriff's deputies responded on an ongoing domestic situation in the 1000 Block of 6th Avenue in rural McPherson County, according to Sheriff Jerry Montagne.

The suspect identified as 39-year-old Justin St John was armed with a rifle and had made threats of violence. Just after 2a.m. the McPherson County Special Response Team was asked to help resolve the situation. Negotiators reached St. John by phone and communicated with him for approximately 30 minutes.&nbsp;

At 4:30a.m., members of the Special Response team took St. John into custody and booked him on requested charges of aggravated assault and criminal threat, according to Montagne.&nbsp; Authorities will forward a report to the county attorney.&nbsp; St. John was no longer in custody Sunday afternoon, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645396530287.png" alt="St. John-photo McPherson Co." />
 <figcaption>St. John-photo McPherson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after an overnight standoff in McPherson County.&nbsp;Just after 1a.m. Sunday, sheriff's deputies responded on an ongoing domestic situation in the 1000 Block of 6th Avenue in rural McPherson County, according to Sheriff Jerry Montagne.The suspect identified as 39-year-old Justin St John was armed with a rifle and had made threats of violence. Just after 2a.m. the McPherson County Special Response Team was asked to help resolve the situation. Negotiators reached St. John by phone and communicated with him for approximately 30 minutes.&nbsp;At 4:30a.m., members of the Special Response team took St. John into custody and booked him on requested charges of aggravated assault and criminal threat, according to Montagne.&nbsp; Authorities will forward a report to the county attorney.&nbsp; St. John was no longer in custody Sunday afternoon, according to online jail records.

Man arrested after long standoff at rural Kansas home

JACKSON COUNTY —A jury on February 16, convicted a 28-year-old Kansas City man in connection with the April 5, 2019, fatal shooting of Deontae Campbell, 17, near 63rd and Paseo in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

The jury convicted Tracy D. French, of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, an A Felony, Involuntary Manslaughter and two counts of Armed Criminal Action. French will be sentenced at a future hearing.

According to court records, police responded on April 5, 2019, to the area of 63rd and the Paseo regarding a shooting. They found a 17-year-old victim who was driving a vehicle and another 17-year-old victim in the passenger's seat of the vehicle. 

The passenger said they had just left the Landing Mall area when the defendant began shooting at their car. The driver was hit and lost control of the vehicle. The passenger attempted to control it but the vehicle struck a building. Surveillance video showed the defendant getting out of a vehicle, raising his hand as if he was pointing a gun. Then the victims' vehicle is shown crashing into the building. The defendant's DNA was found on a cellphone recovered at the crime scene. In May, when police went to arrest the defendant, he attempted to flee on foot.

Assistant Jackson County Prosecutors Ben Cox and Caitlin Brock prosecuted the case on behalf of the state of Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645140946609.png" alt="French-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>French-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —A jury on February 16, convicted a 28-year-old Kansas City man in connection with the April 5, 2019, fatal shooting of Deontae Campbell, 17, near 63rd and Paseo in Kansas City, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.The jury convicted Tracy D. French, of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, an A Felony, Involuntary Manslaughter and two counts of Armed Criminal Action. French will be sentenced at a future hearing.According to court records, police responded on April 5, 2019, to the area of 63rd and the Paseo regarding a shooting. They found a 17-year-old victim who was driving a vehicle and another 17-year-old victim in the passenger's seat of the vehicle. The passenger said they had just left the Landing Mall area when the defendant began shooting at their car. The driver was hit and lost control of the vehicle. The passenger attempted to control it but the vehicle struck a building. Surveillance video showed the defendant getting out of a vehicle, raising his hand as if he was pointing a gun. Then the victims' vehicle is shown crashing into the building. The defendant's DNA was found on a cellphone recovered at the crime scene. In May, when police went to arrest the defendant, he attempted to flee on foot.Assistant Jackson County Prosecutors Ben Cox and Caitlin Brock prosecuted the case on behalf of the state of Missouri.

KC murder suspect's DNA found on cell phone at crime scene

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home-invasion burglary and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a burglary in progress at a residence in the 1000 block North 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

A 59 year old resident was inside the home at the time of the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officers arrived and located a suspect identified as 25-year-old Jarvis Grace leaving the residence. 

After a brief struggle he was taken into custody. An investigation determined that the suspect was acquainted with the resident and had previously been banned from the property, according to Wilson.

 The suspect had forced entry into the residence through a door and was attempting to steal a television when officers arrived and took him into custody. The homeowner was not injured.

Grace is being held on requested charges of aggravated burglary, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, and interference with law enforcement, according to Wilson.

On Feb. 7, police arrested Grace for alleged criminal damage to property and in December of 2020 he was jailed on requested charges of domestic battery, according to online jail records. He had a previous burglary arrest in 2018.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645114740493.png" alt="Grace-photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Grace-photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a home-invasion burglary and have a suspect in custody.Just after 3:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a burglary in progress at a residence in the 1000 block North 10th Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.A 59 year old resident was inside the home at the time of the incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;Officers arrived and located a suspect identified as 25-year-old Jarvis Grace leaving the residence. After a brief struggle he was taken into custody. An investigation determined that the suspect was acquainted with the resident and had previously been banned from the property, according to Wilson. The suspect had forced entry into the residence through a door and was attempting to steal a television when officers arrived and took him into custody. The homeowner was not injured.Grace is being held on requested charges of aggravated burglary, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, and interference with law enforcement, according to Wilson.On Feb. 7, police arrested Grace for alleged criminal damage to property and in December of 2020 he was jailed on requested charges of domestic battery, according to online jail records. He had a previous burglary arrest in 2018.

Police arrest Kansas man for home-invasion burglary

PAWNEE COUNTY —Two suspects arrested following a Monday night traffic stop in&nbsp; Pawnee County and a follow up search warrant made their first appearance in court Thursday, according to Pawnee Co. Attorney Doug McNett.

During the 10:45p.m. Monday traffic stop, a K9 was deployed&nbsp; with positive indication, deputies were able to locate 4 ounces of Meth, 1.9 grams of mushrooms, and drug paraphernalia, according to Sheriff Scott King. They also arrested&nbsp;Jennifer Ann Welcher, 41 of Hoisington.

This investigation paved way for a search warrant Tuesday morning, resulting in the arrest of&nbsp; Kelvin Stacy Minor, 57 of Larned on requested charges of distribution, possession, and multiple offender registration violations, according to King.

Welcher and Minor appeared in custody Thursday morning in the Pawnee County District Court before Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell for Felony First Appearances.

Welch is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute over 100 grams, Felony Drug Paraphernalia suitable to distribute a controlled substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Psilocyn Mushrooms, and&nbsp; Misdemeanor Drug Paraphernalia suitable to ingest a controlled substance.

Minor is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute over 100 grams, Violation of the Offender Registration Act (3rd Offense), and&nbsp; Unlawful Receipt of Proceeds from the Distribution of a Controlled Substance.

Preliminary Hearing have been scheduled for March 3, 2022. Both defendants are being held in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff in lieu of $100,000 cash or surety bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645145627837.png" alt="Minor has been a registered drug offender since 2010, according to the KBI -photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Minor has been a registered drug offender since 2010, according to the KBI -photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY —Two suspects arrested following a Monday night traffic stop in&nbsp; Pawnee County and a follow up search warrant made their first appearance in court Thursday, according to Pawnee Co. Attorney Doug McNett.During the 10:45p.m. Monday traffic stop, a K9 was deployed&nbsp; with positive indication, deputies were able to locate 4 ounces of Meth, 1.9 grams of mushrooms, and drug paraphernalia, according to Sheriff Scott King. They also arrested&nbsp;Jennifer Ann Welcher, 41 of Hoisington.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645151413636.png" alt="Photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Pawnee Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>This investigation paved way for a search warrant Tuesday morning, resulting in the arrest of&nbsp; Kelvin Stacy Minor, 57 of Larned on requested charges of distribution, possession, and multiple offender registration violations, according to King.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645145600205.png" alt="Welcher photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Welcher photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Welcher and Minor appeared in custody Thursday morning in the Pawnee County District Court before Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell for Felony First Appearances.Welch is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute over 100 grams, Felony Drug Paraphernalia suitable to distribute a controlled substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Psilocyn Mushrooms, and&nbsp; Misdemeanor Drug Paraphernalia suitable to ingest a controlled substance.Minor is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute over 100 grams, Violation of the Offender Registration Act (3rd Offense), and&nbsp; Unlawful Receipt of Proceeds from the Distribution of a Controlled Substance.Preliminary Hearing have been scheduled for March 3, 2022. Both defendants are being held in the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff in lieu of $100,000 cash or surety bond.

Drug bust leads to arrest of registered Kansas offender

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a double homicide in Kansas City, Kansas involving two 14-year-olds have identified the victims as&nbsp;Samuel Guess and Antonio Johnson. 

Just before 1a.m. Friday police responded to an apartment at 2200 Birch Drive between Silver City Park and Argentine Middle School where they found two juveniles dead of apparent gunshot wounds, according to a media release.

Police released no suspect information and are asking the public for tips that might lead to an arrest.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a double homicide in Kansas City, Kansas.

Just before 1a.m. Friday police responded to an apartment at 2200 Birch Drive where they found two juveniles dead of apparent gunshot wounds inside a residence, according to a media release.

Police released no suspect information or additional details early Friday.

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a double homicide in Kansas City, Kansas involving two 14-year-olds have identified the victims as&nbsp;Samuel Guess and Antonio Johnson. Just before 1a.m. Friday police responded to an apartment at 2200 Birch Drive between Silver City Park and Argentine Middle School where they found two juveniles dead of apparent gunshot wounds, according to a media release.Police released no suspect information and are asking the public for tips that might lead to an arrest.---------JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a double homicide in Kansas City, Kansas.Just before 1a.m. Friday police responded to an apartment at 2200 Birch Drive where they found two juveniles dead of apparent gunshot wounds inside a residence, according to a media release.Police released no suspect information or additional details early Friday.

Police ID two 14-year-olds found dead at Kansas home

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of sex crimes over several years and have a suspect in custody.

On Friday afternoon, police arrested 44-year-old Joshua Penabaz of Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

MANHATTAN—Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of sex crimes over several years and have a suspect in custody.On Friday afternoon, police arrested 44-year-old Joshua Penabaz of Manhattan, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Penabaz is currently being held at the Riley County Jail on a bond of $1 million on requested charges for rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and aggravated criminal sodomy.