MORRIS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man wanted on a felony warrant.

Just after 5p.m. July 3, police saw 32-year-old Jonathan Heller in the 10 Block of Main Street in Council Grove, according to a media release.

Officers responded quickly to arrest him on requested charges of battery of a law enforcement officer, criminal damage to property, felony interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct.

After Heller’s arrest, investigators collected new information and obtained a search warrant for his home.&nbsp; Heller faces additional drug charges, according to police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657124150331.png" alt="Heller is being held in Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Heller is being held in Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MORRIS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man wanted on a felony warrant.Just after 5p.m. July 3, police saw 32-year-old Jonathan Heller in the 10 Block of Main Street in Council Grove, according to a media release.Officers responded quickly to arrest him on requested charges of battery of a law enforcement officer, criminal damage to property, felony interference with law enforcement and disorderly conduct.After Heller’s arrest, investigators collected new information and obtained a search warrant for his home.&nbsp; Heller faces additional drug charges, according to police.

Police capture Kansas man wanted on federal arrest warrant


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Louisville, Kentucky Metro police are investigating after a family from Reno County was struck by a vehicle in Downtown Louisville on Tuesday night. 

Nickerson High basketball player Ava Jones, her parents Amy and Trey and another juvenile were struck. Ava is in serious but stable condition, the parents are in critical condition and the other family member was treated for minor injuries.

According to information from the Louisville Police Department, just before 8 p.m. in the area of 2nd Street &amp; East Market Street a motorist, later identified as 33-year-old Michael Hurley of Lexington, Ind. struck the Jones family, who were pedestrians.

Jones and her family were in Louisville for an AAU basketball tournament with Wheat State Elite. Jones just signed with the University of Iowa basketball program over the weekend.

At the time of the accident, Hurley was heading east on Market and attempted to make a left turn onto 2nd Street when his car is said to have crossed on to the sidewalk and hit the family.

Hurley is accused of assault connected with the accident and the arrest report says drugs were involved. 

According to the complaint, he told officers at the scene he had taken Hydrocodone and "was so tired that he could not make the turn".&nbsp; The complaint also said his eyes were "pinpoint and droopy".

Blood was drawn for testing and Hurley did not have his driver's license.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657124106997.jpeg" alt="Michael Hurley-photo Louisville Police" />
 <figcaption>Michael Hurley-photo Louisville Police</figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Louisville, Kentucky Metro police are investigating after a family from Reno County was struck by a vehicle in Downtown Louisville on Tuesday night. Nickerson High basketball player Ava Jones, her parents Amy and Trey and another juvenile were struck. Ava is in serious but stable condition, the parents are in critical condition and the other family member was treated for minor injuries.According to information from the Louisville Police Department, just before 8 p.m. in the area of 2nd Street &amp; East Market Street a motorist, later identified as 33-year-old Michael Hurley of Lexington, Ind. struck the Jones family, who were pedestrians.Jones and her family were in Louisville for an AAU basketball tournament with Wheat State Elite. Jones just signed with the University of Iowa basketball program over the weekend.At the time of the accident, Hurley was heading east on Market and attempted to make a left turn onto 2nd Street when his car is said to have crossed on to the sidewalk and hit the family.Hurley is accused of assault connected with the accident and the arrest report says drugs were involved. According to the complaint, he told officers at the scene he had taken Hydrocodone and "was so tired that he could not make the turn".&nbsp; The complaint also said his eyes were "pinpoint and droopy".Blood was drawn for testing and Hurley did not have his driver's license.

Police: Kansas family injured after hit by car in Kentucky 

ATCHISON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a vehicle theft that led to a high-speed chase.

Just after&nbsp;10:30 a.m. Tuesday, police in Atchison, Kansas, were notified that a stolen 2012 Ford 250 two-tone brown truck, which had been reported stolen to the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Department on Monday, was headed towards the city of Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

A Kansas Highway Patrol trooper reported he was in pursuit of this stolen truck southwest of Atchison. This pursuit continued west of Atchison and eventually the trooper lost sight of the fleeing truck.

Authorities later saw the vehicle near 17th and Country Club Road.&nbsp; The truck went southbound on 17th Street, across Main Street to Chestnut Street, left the roadway and struck a residence in the 1700 block Chestnut, according to Wilson.

The truck continued to 18th and Main, traveled west on Main, came back into Atchison headed eastbound on Main Street, struck a moving vehicle at 14th and Main and a second moving vehicle at 10th and Main. The truck continued to 4th and U.S. 59 where it crossed the Amelia Earhart bridge into Missouri.

Police recovered the truck later on Monday on Old Highway Road adjacent to Highway 45, just south of Sugar Lake.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Atchison Police Department and the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Department have a joint investigation underway as leads are being followed in an attempt to make an arrest.

ATCHISON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a vehicle theft that led to a high-speed chase.Just after&nbsp;10:30 a.m. Tuesday, police in Atchison, Kansas, were notified that a stolen 2012 Ford 250 two-tone brown truck, which had been reported stolen to the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Department on Monday, was headed towards the city of Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.A Kansas Highway Patrol trooper reported he was in pursuit of this stolen truck southwest of Atchison. This pursuit continued west of Atchison and eventually the trooper lost sight of the fleeing truck.Authorities later saw the vehicle near 17th and Country Club Road.&nbsp; The truck went southbound on 17th Street, across Main Street to Chestnut Street, left the roadway and struck a residence in the 1700 block Chestnut, according to Wilson.The truck continued to 18th and Main, traveled west on Main, came back into Atchison headed eastbound on Main Street, struck a moving vehicle at 14th and Main and a second moving vehicle at 10th and Main. The truck continued to 4th and U.S. 59 where it crossed the Amelia Earhart bridge into Missouri.Police recovered the truck later on Monday on Old Highway Road adjacent to Highway 45, just south of Sugar Lake.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Atchison Police Department and the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Department have a joint investigation underway as leads are being followed in an attempt to make an arrest.

Police search for suspect, recover stolen truck after 2-state chase 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for their involvement in a weekend murder.

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

At the scene, first responders found 42-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">David Baeza</a>&nbsp;of Wichita on the side of the road suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Colonel Brian White with the sheriff's department. EMS transported Baeza to an area hospital for treatment.

During an additional search of the rural property, deputies found a man and woman deceased in the backyard of a residence the 4300 block of South Rock Road. They died from apparent gunshot wounds.

While processing the scene, investigators found 43-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18714449">Joseph Ponse Jr. </a>&nbsp;of Wichita. Deputies booked him on requested charges of first degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections arrest and detain order, according to White.

After he was released from the hospital and interviewed, deputies booked<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">&nbsp;Baeza</a>&nbsp;on requested charges of first-degree murder.

Investigators still have individuals they want to interview in connection with the case, according to White. "This was not a random act and drug activity is believed involved."&nbsp;

The names of the victims have not been released. They did not live at the location where they were killed.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657051599579.png" alt="Ponse-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Ponse-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for their involvement in a weekend murder.Just after 5 a.m. Saturday, sheriff's deputies were sent to a shooting call in the 4400 block of south Rock Road in rural Sedgwick County, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656781809875.png" alt="Rock Road was closed during the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Rock Road was closed during the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>At the scene, first responders found 42-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">David Baeza</a>&nbsp;of Wichita on the side of the road suffering from gunshot wounds, according to Colonel Brian White with the sheriff's department. EMS transported Baeza to an area hospital for treatment.During an additional search of the rural property, deputies found a man and woman deceased in the backyard of a residence the 4300 block of South Rock Road. They died from apparent gunshot wounds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657051675461.png" alt="Baeza-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Baeza-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>While processing the scene, investigators found 43-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18714449">Joseph Ponse Jr. </a>&nbsp;of Wichita. Deputies booked him on requested charges of first degree murder and a Kansas Department of Corrections arrest and detain order, according to White.After he was released from the hospital and interviewed, deputies booked<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20076411">&nbsp;Baeza</a>&nbsp;on requested charges of first-degree murder. Investigators still have individuals they want to interview in connection with the case, according to White. "This was not a random act and drug activity is believed involved."&nbsp;The names of the victims have not been released. They did not live at the location where they were killed.&nbsp;

Suspect in Kansas double murder moved from hospital to jail

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINA —A Kansas man who accidentally&nbsp; shot himself was later arrested.

Just after 7:30p.m. July 2, police were dispatched to the Village Inn, 453 S. Broadway in Salina for the report of shots fired in the parking lot, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.

When they arrived, they encountered Oscar Zamarron, 41, of Salina, who had a gunshot wound on his left wrist. During the investigation, officers determined that Zamarron had accidentally discharged the gun.

Hanus said Zamarron was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, where he was treated and released. Officers also discovered that Zamarron was not legally able to possess a firearm, so he was arrested on the following requested charges of Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Criminal use of a weapon, Unlawful discharge of a firearm, Disorderly conduct

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656853456976.jpeg" alt="Oscar Zamarron-photo&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Oscar Zamarron-photo&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINA —A Kansas man who accidentally&nbsp; shot himself was later arrested.Just after 7:30p.m. July 2, police were dispatched to the Village Inn, 453 S. Broadway in Salina for the report of shots fired in the parking lot, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.When they arrived, they encountered Oscar Zamarron, 41, of Salina, who had a gunshot wound on his left wrist. During the investigation, officers determined that Zamarron had accidentally discharged the gun.Hanus said Zamarron was transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center, where he was treated and released. Officers also discovered that Zamarron was not legally able to possess a firearm, so he was arrested on the following requested charges of Criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Criminal use of a weapon, Unlawful discharge of a firearm, Disorderly conduct

Police arrest Kansas man who accidentally shot himself 

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an auto theft and have a suspect in custody.

Just before 3:30p.m. July 1, police responded to the Fulton Convenience store, 601 East Fulton Street in Garden City, where a Dodge Grand Caravan had just been taken from the property, according to a media release.

A Finney County sheriff's deputy located the van near U.S. 83 and East Schulman Avenue and attempted a traffic stop. The driver identified as 39-year-old Richard Johnston, refused to stop.

A police officer located near U.S. 83 and East Spruce Street and the Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in the pursuit and it continued south into Haskell County.&nbsp; Ultimately the chase ended along Haskell County Road 140 where Johnston was arrested without further incident.

He is being held on requested charges of theft, flee and elude and interference with law enforcement. There were no injuries reported during or after the chase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656793583763.png" alt="Johnston-photo Finne County" />
 <figcaption>Johnston-photo Finne County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an auto theft and have a suspect in custody.Just before 3:30p.m. July 1, police responded to the Fulton Convenience store, 601 East Fulton Street in Garden City, where a Dodge Grand Caravan had just been taken from the property, according to a media release.A Finney County sheriff's deputy located the van near U.S. 83 and East Schulman Avenue and attempted a traffic stop. The driver identified as 39-year-old Richard Johnston, refused to stop.A police officer located near U.S. 83 and East Spruce Street and the Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in the pursuit and it continued south into Haskell County.&nbsp; Ultimately the chase ended along Haskell County Road 140 where Johnston was arrested without further incident.He is being held on requested charges of theft, flee and elude and interference with law enforcement. There were no injuries reported during or after the chase.

SW Kan. man arrested after high-speed chase in stolen van

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

On June 30, the El Dorado Police Department, executed a search warrant on a home in El Dorado as part of an investigation reported by way of a cyber tip, received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), alleging the sexual exploitation of children through the use of electronic devices, according to a media release.

This search warrant led to the arrest of 29-year-old Adam Mefford of El Dorado, and charges have been filed through the Butler County District Court. 

The El Dorado Police Department is now an affiliate with the Internet Crimes Against Children task force. This will greatly benefit the community in addressing this particular heinous crime. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656711351129.png" alt="Mefford" />
 <figcaption>Mefford</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged child sex crimes.On June 30, the El Dorado Police Department, executed a search warrant on a home in El Dorado as part of an investigation reported by way of a cyber tip, received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), alleging the sexual exploitation of children through the use of electronic devices, according to a media release.This search warrant led to the arrest of 29-year-old Adam Mefford of El Dorado, and charges have been filed through the Butler County District Court. The El Dorado Police Department is now an affiliate with the Internet Crimes Against Children task force. This will greatly benefit the community in addressing this particular heinous crime.

Cyber tip leads to arrest of Kan. man for alleged child sex crimes

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A local government in Kansas has agreed to pay $12.5 million to a man and his mother after he spent 23 years in prison for a double murder he did not commit.

The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, approved the settlement Thursday and said in a statement Friday that it admits no guilt in the wrongful conviction and two life sentences of Lamonte McIntyre in the mid 1990s.

McIntyre was 17 in 1994 when he was arrested in Kansas City for the shooting deaths of 21-year-old Doniel Quinn and 34-year-old Donald Ewing.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f0aeacf5fd0e4297a8d7b0ca4cda363e">McIntyre was freed in 2017</a>&nbsp;after a local prosecutor asked the court to vacate his convictions and drop all charges, calling his case an example of “manifest injustice.” Prosecutors presented no physical evidence tying McIntyre to the killings and their case largely hinged on testimony that was allegedly coerced.

The following year, McIntyre and his mother sued the unified government and former Kansas City, Kansas, police detective Roger Golubski, who they have accused, along with other police, of framing McIntyre for the killings. Their lawsuit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-kansas-city-kansas-7b4c4af7410f67d20fd19cb2e9235aad">sought up to $123 million</a>&nbsp;in damages.

McIntyre and his mother have said Golubski coerced her into sex and then framed her teenage son for the double homicide because she rejected the detective’s later sexual advances. They also allege Golubski abused dozens of Black women for years and many officers were aware of his conduct.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/police-kansas-city-kansas-4d005737c9046b7d65363a6e82f93493">Federal authorities are investigating Golubski,</a>&nbsp;and the Kansas City, Kansas, police department revealed last October that it had been responding to subpoenas from the FBI since 2019 involving allegations against Golubski.

Golubski has denied the allegations. His attorney, Morgan Roach of Kansas City, did not immediately return phone messages left Friday at his office and on his cellphone seeking comment.

Thursday's settlement also resolves the lawsuit against Golubski, said attorney Cheryl Pilate, who represents McIntyre and his mother.

“Lamonte now hopes to put this painful chapter behind him and move forward with his life,” Pilate said in an email. “Lamonte remains deeply committed to the cause of justice, particularly in Wyandotte County, and will continue to be a voice for those who have suffered wrongful convictions or other injustices.”

In 2020, McIntyre was awarded a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/03a51b0fe56481f586ef8e031d2ffc2c">certificate of innocence</a>&nbsp;and $1.5 million from Kansas after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/5f6cd02cf633461eb20338733a76d398?utm_medium=AP&amp;utm_source=Twitter&amp;utm_campaign=SocialFlow">the state attorney general's office initially fought his compensation claim</a>. McIntyre now lives in Arizona.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583330843112.png" alt="Lamont McIntyre photo by Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Lamont McIntyre photo by Stephen Koranda / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A local government in Kansas has agreed to pay $12.5 million to a man and his mother after he spent 23 years in prison for a double murder he did not commit.The Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, approved the settlement Thursday and said in a statement Friday that it admits no guilt in the wrongful conviction and two life sentences of Lamonte McIntyre in the mid 1990s.McIntyre was 17 in 1994 when he was arrested in Kansas City for the shooting deaths of 21-year-old Doniel Quinn and 34-year-old Donald Ewing.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f0aeacf5fd0e4297a8d7b0ca4cda363e">McIntyre was freed in 2017</a>&nbsp;after a local prosecutor asked the court to vacate his convictions and drop all charges, calling his case an example of “manifest injustice.” Prosecutors presented no physical evidence tying McIntyre to the killings and their case largely hinged on testimony that was allegedly coerced.The following year, McIntyre and his mother sued the unified government and former Kansas City, Kansas, police detective Roger Golubski, who they have accused, along with other police, of framing McIntyre for the killings. Their lawsuit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lawsuits-kansas-city-kansas-7b4c4af7410f67d20fd19cb2e9235aad">sought up to $123 million</a>&nbsp;in damages.McIntyre and his mother have said Golubski coerced her into sex and then framed her teenage son for the double homicide because she rejected the detective’s later sexual advances. They also allege Golubski abused dozens of Black women for years and many officers were aware of his conduct.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/police-kansas-city-kansas-4d005737c9046b7d65363a6e82f93493">Federal authorities are investigating Golubski,</a>&nbsp;and the Kansas City, Kansas, police department revealed last October that it had been responding to subpoenas from the FBI since 2019 involving allegations against Golubski.Golubski has denied the allegations. His attorney, Morgan Roach of Kansas City, did not immediately return phone messages left Friday at his office and on his cellphone seeking comment.Thursday's settlement also resolves the lawsuit against Golubski, said attorney Cheryl Pilate, who represents McIntyre and his mother.“Lamonte now hopes to put this painful chapter behind him and move forward with his life,” Pilate said in an email. “Lamonte remains deeply committed to the cause of justice, particularly in Wyandotte County, and will continue to be a voice for those who have suffered wrongful convictions or other injustices.”In 2020, McIntyre was awarded a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/03a51b0fe56481f586ef8e031d2ffc2c">certificate of innocence</a>&nbsp;and $1.5 million from Kansas after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/5f6cd02cf633461eb20338733a76d398?utm_medium=AP&amp;utm_source=Twitter&amp;utm_campaign=SocialFlow">the state attorney general's office initially fought his compensation claim</a>. McIntyre now lives in Arizona.

Kansas wrongful conviction lawsuit reaches $12.5M settlement

LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple charges following a four county Kansas chase and standoff.

Just before 6:30a.m. June 25, a Lyon County Deputies performed a traffic stop on Interstate 35 near County Road R1 northbound, on a white Ford Expedition. As deputies were attempting to arrest the driver later identified as 39- year-old Rebecca Estrada of New Mexico she resisted and a vehicle a pursuit ensued, according to Sheriff's Sergeant Zachary Shafer.

The pursuit continued through Coffey, Osage, and Franklin counties. The pursuit ended at the Love’s Truck Stop in Ottawa, Kansas.

After a three-and-a-half-hour stand-off the Ottawa Police and Franklin County deputies took Estrada into custody. She remains jailed on requested charges of Aggravated Battery on Law Enforcement, Aggravated Assault on Law Enforcement, and other traffic charges, according to Shafer.&nbsp;

She also faces charges of Felony Flee and Elude and numerous traffic offenses in Lyon.County. She is due in court on in Franklin County on July 7.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656511133748.png" alt="Estrada-photo Franklin County" />
 <figcaption>Estrada-photo Franklin County</figcaption>
 </figure>LYON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple charges following a four county Kansas chase and standoff.Just before 6:30a.m. June 25, a Lyon County Deputies performed a traffic stop on Interstate 35 near County Road R1 northbound, on a white Ford Expedition. As deputies were attempting to arrest the driver later identified as 39- year-old Rebecca Estrada of New Mexico she resisted and a vehicle a pursuit ensued, according to Sheriff's Sergeant Zachary Shafer.The pursuit continued through Coffey, Osage, and Franklin counties. The pursuit ended at the Love’s Truck Stop in Ottawa, Kansas.After a three-and-a-half-hour stand-off the Ottawa Police and Franklin County deputies took Estrada into custody. She remains jailed on requested charges of Aggravated Battery on Law Enforcement, Aggravated Assault on Law Enforcement, and other traffic charges, according to Shafer.&nbsp;She also faces charges of Felony Flee and Elude and numerous traffic offenses in Lyon.County. She is due in court on in Franklin County on July 7.___

Woman remains jailed after 4 county Kan. chase, 3-hour standoff

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.

Just before 7p.m. June 27, police conducted a traffic stop on a Ford Taurus in the 1200 Block of Hattie Street in Garden City, according to a media release.

The traffic stop led to the Finney County Drug Task Force to serve a search warrant on the vehicle. During the investigation, officers located over a pound of meth and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; They also arrested the driver 30-year-old Vicente Martinez on requested charges of drug distribution, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, interference with law enforcement and an illegal registration, according to police.

Martinez has three previous convictions for aggravated battery, for criminal damage to property and drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656679200187.png" alt="Martinez-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Martinez-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.Just before 7p.m. June 27, police conducted a traffic stop on a Ford Taurus in the 1200 Block of Hattie Street in Garden City, according to a media release.The traffic stop led to the Finney County Drug Task Force to serve a search warrant on the vehicle. During the investigation, officers located over a pound of meth and drug paraphernalia.&nbsp; They also arrested the driver 30-year-old Vicente Martinez on requested charges of drug distribution, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, interference with law enforcement and an illegal registration, according to police.Martinez has three previous convictions for aggravated battery, for criminal damage to property and drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

SW Kansas deputies found over a pound of meth

MCPHERSON COUNTY—The Kansas Department of Health has&nbsp;<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">suspended the license of the Daycare</a>&nbsp;in McPherson following an arrest of the&nbsp;<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">daycare provider</a> for alleged child endangerment.&nbsp;

Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of young children and a dog found unsupervised in someone’s backyard near a pool, according to Police Captain&nbsp;Mark Brinck.

When officers arrived, they found four children between the ages of 2 and 5-years-old in the area. Officers determined the children had left a daycare in the 700 Block of East Kansas Avenue and walked to this area.

Officers contacted 47-year-old Tracy Barr and another child in the 700 Block of East Kansas Avenue. According to online records Barr is the owner and program<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d"> director for&nbsp;Golden Explorers,</a> 722 East Kansas Avenue, a Licensed Day Care Home in McPherson with a maximum capacity of 10 children.

 Officers took the children into protective custody and later released them to their parents or guardians. 

Officers arrested Barr on requested charges of Aggravated Endangering a Child and Driving Under the Influence, according to the release.

(<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacilityFindings.aspx?vn=1anlkfdkEy3LXT4y%2f0Pwn8noWE6KKLBIy7x24OeT5mWHQBhXLLQyq4uNKTq%2bjXfF60Lp5RJoijRpqpecC0J8EcTdPtK4NMxV3q4dNYRqH%2b7N4pS67WBHZg%3d%3d">Click here to read the</a> May 2022 KDHE Survey results for Golden Explorers Daycare)

Barr was booked into the McPherson County Jail and her bond was set at $13,750.00.&nbsp; On Thursday afternoon, the Kansas Department of Health has <a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">suspended the license of the Daycare.</a>

The McPherson Police Department referred this incident to the Kansas Department of Children and Families and the McPherson County Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656613239408.png" alt="Barr-photo McPherson Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Barr-photo McPherson Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY—The Kansas Department of Health has&nbsp;<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">suspended the license of the Daycare</a>&nbsp;in McPherson following an arrest of the&nbsp;<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">daycare provider</a> for alleged child endangerment.&nbsp;Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of young children and a dog found unsupervised in someone’s backyard near a pool, according to Police Captain&nbsp;Mark Brinck.When officers arrived, they found four children between the ages of 2 and 5-years-old in the area. Officers determined the children had left a daycare in the 700 Block of East Kansas Avenue and walked to this area.Officers contacted 47-year-old Tracy Barr and another child in the 700 Block of East Kansas Avenue. According to online records Barr is the owner and program<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d"> director for&nbsp;Golden Explorers,</a> 722 East Kansas Avenue, a Licensed Day Care Home in McPherson with a maximum capacity of 10 children. Officers took the children into protective custody and later released them to their parents or guardians. Officers arrested Barr on requested charges of Aggravated Endangering a Child and Driving Under the Influence, according to the release.(<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacilityFindings.aspx?vn=1anlkfdkEy3LXT4y%2f0Pwn8noWE6KKLBIy7x24OeT5mWHQBhXLLQyq4uNKTq%2bjXfF60Lp5RJoijRpqpecC0J8EcTdPtK4NMxV3q4dNYRqH%2b7N4pS67WBHZg%3d%3d">Click here to read the</a> May 2022 KDHE Survey results for Golden Explorers Daycare)Barr was booked into the McPherson County Jail and her bond was set at $13,750.00.&nbsp; On Thursday afternoon, the Kansas Department of Health has <a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">suspended the license of the Daycare.</a>The McPherson Police Department referred this incident to the Kansas Department of Children and Families and the McPherson County Attorney’s Office.

Kansas daycare license suspended after owner arrested

RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on drug allegations after a traffic stop.

On June 29, the Hutchinson Police Department Special Operations Division with the assistance of the Reno County Drug Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle after observing an alleged traffic violation, according to a media release.

 A search of the vehicle turned up over 121 grams of meth, 55 grams of marijuana, 142 pills, and a handgun. All were seized from the vehicle. The pills are suspected to be counterfeit Oxycodone M30’s containing fentanyl.&nbsp;

Police arrested 30-year-old Matthew Demoura on requested charges of possession of meth, oxycodone and marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of Xanax and criminal possession of a firearm.

Demoura has numerous previous convictions that include for theft, evading a road block, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement and drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. His being held on a bond of $135,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656698838039.png" alt="photo Hutchinson Police" />
 <figcaption>photo Hutchinson Police</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on drug allegations after a traffic stop.On June 29, the Hutchinson Police Department Special Operations Division with the assistance of the Reno County Drug Unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle after observing an alleged traffic violation, according to a media release. A search of the vehicle turned up over 121 grams of meth, 55 grams of marijuana, 142 pills, and a handgun. All were seized from the vehicle. The pills are suspected to be counterfeit Oxycodone M30’s containing fentanyl.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656687678435.jpeg" alt="Matthew Demoura-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Matthew Demoura-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police arrested 30-year-old Matthew Demoura on requested charges of possession of meth, oxycodone and marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of Xanax and criminal possession of a firearm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656698952355.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Demoura has numerous previous convictions that include for theft, evading a road block, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement and drug possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. His being held on a bond of $135,000.

Kan. felon caught with counterfeit oxycodone containing fentanyl

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have suspects in custody.

Just after 3p.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a robbery in the 3000 Block of Bainbridge Circle in Lawrence, according to police spokesperson Laura McCabe.

At the scene, police found a woman, her 2-year-old son and another man who was not present when the crime occurred.

The woman told police the suspects were armed with at least one handgun and robbed her at gunpoint of money, other items and fled to a nearby vehicle.&nbsp;

Officers were able to locate the suspect vehicle in north Lawrence and conducted surveillance on the home for several hours. Officers then detained three individuals as they left the residence at different times.

One vehicle stop was conducted without incident. The other resulted in a pursuit of approximately four blocks where the suspect's vehicle was disabled by a Douglas County Sheriff's Deputy who utilized a Tactical Vehicle Intervention near 7th and Maple.

Hours later, officers conducted a search warrant at the home they were surveilling. There were no injuries during the robbery, arrests or search warrant execution. Police did not release names of the suspects.

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have suspects in custody.Just after 3p.m. Thursday, police responded to report of a robbery in the 3000 Block of Bainbridge Circle in Lawrence, according to police spokesperson Laura McCabe.At the scene, police found a woman, her 2-year-old son and another man who was not present when the crime occurred.The woman told police the suspects were armed with at least one handgun and robbed her at gunpoint of money, other items and fled to a nearby vehicle.&nbsp;Officers were able to locate the suspect vehicle in north Lawrence and conducted surveillance on the home for several hours. Officers then detained three individuals as they left the residence at different times.One vehicle stop was conducted without incident. The other resulted in a pursuit of approximately four blocks where the suspect's vehicle was disabled by a Douglas County Sheriff's Deputy who utilized a Tactical Vehicle Intervention near 7th and Maple.Hours later, officers conducted a search warrant at the home they were surveilling. There were no injuries during the robbery, arrests or search warrant execution. Police did not release names of the suspects.

Police: 3 jailed for armed robbery of Kan. woman, 2-year-old

CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man who fled an arrest in Arkansas and was captured and hospitalized after a pursuit by officers in Kansas.

On Thursday afternoon, the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office was notified that the Elk County Sheriff's Office was southbound on Kansas 99 Highway in pursuit of a stolen Kawasaki motorcycle, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The suspect later identified as 37-year-old J.D. Comstock of Little Rock, Arkansas, was believed to have fled from Greenwood and Elk County Officers, stolen multiple vehicles and was reported as possibly armed and dangerous. Pursuing officers lost sight of the suspect near the Elk/Chautauqua County line.

A short time later Chautauqua County Officers located Comstock traveling southbound on Road 14 and another pursuit was initiated. The suspect fled south to U.S. 166 Highway, five miles west of Sedan, at times going off the roadway and then fled westbound for a short distance before striking a 2022 Ram 3500 driven by Kevin Viana, 23, of Livingston, Texas.

Comstock sustained several serious injuries and pursuing officers rendered aid until Sedan EMS arrived to transport him to Wesley Medical Center.

On June 20,&nbsp; investigators in Baxter County Arkansas served a search warrant at 5647 Highway 5 South looking for stolen property.  Investigators arrested Comstock, but he fled on foot.  A deputy gave chase, but fell and was injured. 

 A canine team from the North Central Unit of the Arkansas Dpt. of Corrections at Calico Rock tracked Comstock to a residence on Old Tracy Road, where it was discovered he had stolen a blue Honda SUV from that residence. Deputies later found that vehicle abandoned in Fulton County, according to the Sheriff's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1656673043865.png" alt="Comstock-photo Baxter County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Comstock-photo Baxter County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man who fled an arrest in Arkansas and was captured and hospitalized after a pursuit by officers in Kansas.On Thursday afternoon, the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office was notified that the Elk County Sheriff's Office was southbound on Kansas 99 Highway in pursuit of a stolen Kawasaki motorcycle, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.The suspect later identified as 37-year-old J.D. Comstock of Little Rock, Arkansas, was believed to have fled from Greenwood and Elk County Officers, stolen multiple vehicles and was reported as possibly armed and dangerous. Pursuing officers lost sight of the suspect near the Elk/Chautauqua County line.A short time later Chautauqua County Officers located Comstock traveling southbound on Road 14 and another pursuit was initiated. The suspect fled south to U.S. 166 Highway, five miles west of Sedan, at times going off the roadway and then fled westbound for a short distance before striking a 2022 Ram 3500 driven by Kevin Viana, 23, of Livingston, Texas.Comstock sustained several serious injuries and pursuing officers rendered aid until Sedan EMS arrived to transport him to Wesley Medical Center.On June 20,&nbsp; investigators in Baxter County Arkansas served a search warrant at 5647 Highway 5 South looking for stolen property. Investigators arrested Comstock, but he fled on foot. A deputy gave chase, but fell and was injured. A canine team from the North Central Unit of the Arkansas Dpt. of Corrections at Calico Rock tracked Comstock to a residence on Old Tracy Road, where it was discovered he had stolen a blue Honda SUV from that residence. Deputies later found that vehicle abandoned in Fulton County, according to the Sheriff's office.

Suspect wanted in Arkansas injured after crash during Kan. chase

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a high speed chase.

On June 29, sheriff's deputies received a report of a possible intoxicated driver in black Kia northbound on U.S. 75 Highway in northern Shawnee County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Shortly, after the report, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a 2008 black Kia Sorento northbound on U.S. 75 in southern Jackson County allegedly traveling at speeds in excess of 100 mph. 

 Eventually, a pursuit ensued and the vehicle headed westbound on 158th Road.  The pursuit headed south near L. Road as the suspect vehicle continued to evade law enforcement driving through yards at an area apartment complex. 

 The pursuit ended on Buffalo Drive where the suspect was taken into custody.  Lucas Michael Kitchkommie, 42, of Mayetta was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for on requested charges of aggravated assault on law enforcement, reckless driving, fleeing and eluding law enforcement, driving under the influence, driving while suspended, criminal littering, and interference with law enforcement. The PBPN Police and the Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with this incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656603798898.png" alt="Kitchkommie-photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Kitchkommie-photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after a high speed chase.On June 29, sheriff's deputies received a report of a possible intoxicated driver in black Kia northbound on U.S. 75 Highway in northern Shawnee County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Shortly, after the report, a Jackson County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a 2008 black Kia Sorento northbound on U.S. 75 in southern Jackson County allegedly traveling at speeds in excess of 100 mph. Eventually, a pursuit ensued and the vehicle headed westbound on 158th Road. The pursuit headed south near L. Road as the suspect vehicle continued to evade law enforcement driving through yards at an area apartment complex. The pursuit ended on Buffalo Drive where the suspect was taken into custody. Lucas Michael Kitchkommie, 42, of Mayetta was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for on requested charges of aggravated assault on law enforcement, reckless driving, fleeing and eluding law enforcement, driving under the influence, driving while suspended, criminal littering, and interference with law enforcement. The PBPN Police and the Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with this incident.

Sheriff: Kansas man jailed after 100 mile per hour chase

MOSCOW (AP) — American basketball star Brittney Griner went on trial Friday, 4 1/2 months after her arrest on charges of possessing cannabis oil while returning to play for a Russian team, in a case that unfolded amid tense relations between Moscow and Washington.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-entertainment-sports-wnba-all-star-game-brittney-griner-365e3b770d10b0e79dacb91922b512cd">Phoenix Mercury center</a>&nbsp;and two-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist was arrested in February at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport after police said she was carrying vape canisters with cannabis oil. She could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.

Griner, 31, was escorted into the courtroom in the Moscow suburb of Khimki while handcuffed and wearing a Jimi Hendrix T-shirt. At a closed-door&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-entertainment-politics-sports-brittney-griner-e855442ad005104a3eed495438ca03ed">preliminary hearing</a>&nbsp;Monday, her detention was extended for another six months, to Dec. 20.

Two witnesses were questioned by the prosecution: an airport customs official, who spoke in open court, and an unidentified witness in a closed session. according to the state news agency RIA-Novosti. The trial was then adjourned, it said, when two other witnesses did not show up, and the next session was set for July 7..

Alexander Boykov, an attorney for Griner, told reporters outside court that “I wouldn’t want to talk on the specifics of the case and on the charges and to comment on our position on it because it’s too early for it.”

Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in U.S. courts, acquittals can be overturned.

Her case comes at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. Griner was arrested less than a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, which aggravated already high tensions between the two countries. The U.S. then imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow, and Russia denounced the U.S. for sending weapons to Ukraine.

Elizabeth Rood, U.S. charge d’affaires in Moscow, was in court and said she spoke with Griner, who “is doing as well as can be expected in these difficult circumstances.”

“The Russian Federation has wrongfully detained Brittney Griner,” Rood said. “The practice of wrongful detention is unacceptable wherever it occurs and is a threat to the safety of everyone traveling, working, and living abroad.”

She said the U.S. government, from its highest levels, "is working hard to bring Brittney and all wrongfully detained U.S. nationals home safely.”

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday denied politics played a role in Griner's detention and prosecution.

“The facts are that the famous athlete was detained in possession of prohibited medication containing narcotic substances,” Peskov told reporters. “In view of what I've said, it can’t be politically motivated," he added.

Griner’s supporters had kept a low profile in hopes of a quiet resolution until May, when the State Department reclassified her as wrongfully detained and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-entertainment-sports-only-on-ap-brittney-griner-eab2338c18eab0fe600507eb6eb68093">Griner’s wife, Cherelle</a>, has urged President Joe Biden to secure her release, calling her “a political pawn.”

“It was good to see her in some of those images, but it’s tough. Every time’s a reminder that their teammate, their friend, is wrongfully imprisoned in another country,” Phoenix Mercury coach Vanessa Nygaard said Monday.

The coach hoped that Biden would "take the steps to ensure she comes home.”

Griner’s supporters have encouraged a prisoner swap like the one in April that brought home Marine veteran Trevor Reed in exchange for a Russian pilot convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy.

Russian news media have repeatedly raised speculation that she could be swapped for Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, nicknamed “the Merchant of Death,” who is serving a 25-year sentence on conviction of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and providing aid to a terrorist organization.

Russia has agitated for Bout’s release for years. But the wide discrepancy between Griner’s case — which involves alleged possession of vape cartridges containing cannabis oil — and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to the U.S.

Others have suggested that she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sports-paul-whelan-government-and-politics-537c7eb77baee6f0342dbde07c184763">could be traded in tandem with Paul Whelan</a>, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence on an espionage conviction that the United States has repeatedly described as a setup.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, when asked Sunday on CNN whether a joint swap of Griner and Whelan for Bout was being considered, sidestepped the question.

“As a general proposition ... I have got no higher priority than making sure that Americans who are being illegally detained in one way or another around the world come home,” he said. But he said he could not comment “in any detail on what we’re doing, except to say this is an absolute priority.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) — American basketball star Brittney Griner went on trial Friday, 4 1/2 months after her arrest on charges of possessing cannabis oil while returning to play for a Russian team, in a case that unfolded amid tense relations between Moscow and Washington.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-entertainment-sports-wnba-all-star-game-brittney-griner-365e3b770d10b0e79dacb91922b512cd">Phoenix Mercury center</a>&nbsp;and two-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist was arrested in February at Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport after police said she was carrying vape canisters with cannabis oil. She could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of large-scale transportation of drugs.Griner, 31, was escorted into the courtroom in the Moscow suburb of Khimki while handcuffed and wearing a Jimi Hendrix T-shirt. At a closed-door&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-entertainment-politics-sports-brittney-griner-e855442ad005104a3eed495438ca03ed">preliminary hearing</a>&nbsp;Monday, her detention was extended for another six months, to Dec. 20.Two witnesses were questioned by the prosecution: an airport customs official, who spoke in open court, and an unidentified witness in a closed session. according to the state news agency RIA-Novosti. The trial was then adjourned, it said, when two other witnesses did not show up, and the next session was set for July 7..Alexander Boykov, an attorney for Griner, told reporters outside court that “I wouldn’t want to talk on the specifics of the case and on the charges and to comment on our position on it because it’s too early for it.”Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in U.S. courts, acquittals can be overturned.Her case comes at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. Griner was arrested less than a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, which aggravated already high tensions between the two countries. The U.S. then imposed sweeping sanctions on Moscow, and Russia denounced the U.S. for sending weapons to Ukraine.Elizabeth Rood, U.S. charge d’affaires in Moscow, was in court and said she spoke with Griner, who “is doing as well as can be expected in these difficult circumstances.”“The Russian Federation has wrongfully detained Brittney Griner,” Rood said. “The practice of wrongful detention is unacceptable wherever it occurs and is a threat to the safety of everyone traveling, working, and living abroad.”She said the U.S. government, from its highest levels, "is working hard to bring Brittney and all wrongfully detained U.S. nationals home safely.”Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday denied politics played a role in Griner's detention and prosecution.“The facts are that the famous athlete was detained in possession of prohibited medication containing narcotic substances,” Peskov told reporters. “In view of what I've said, it can’t be politically motivated," he added.Griner’s supporters had kept a low profile in hopes of a quiet resolution until May, when the State Department reclassified her as wrongfully detained and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-entertainment-sports-only-on-ap-brittney-griner-eab2338c18eab0fe600507eb6eb68093">Griner’s wife, Cherelle</a>, has urged President Joe Biden to secure her release, calling her “a political pawn.”“It was good to see her in some of those images, but it’s tough. Every time’s a reminder that their teammate, their friend, is wrongfully imprisoned in another country,” Phoenix Mercury coach Vanessa Nygaard said Monday.The coach hoped that Biden would "take the steps to ensure she comes home.”Griner’s supporters have encouraged a prisoner swap like the one in April that brought home Marine veteran Trevor Reed in exchange for a Russian pilot convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy.Russian news media have repeatedly raised speculation that she could be swapped for Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, nicknamed “the Merchant of Death,” who is serving a 25-year sentence on conviction of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and providing aid to a terrorist organization.Russia has agitated for Bout’s release for years. But the wide discrepancy between Griner’s case — which involves alleged possession of vape cartridges containing cannabis oil — and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to the U.S.Others have suggested that she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sports-paul-whelan-government-and-politics-537c7eb77baee6f0342dbde07c184763">could be traded in tandem with Paul Whelan</a>, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence on an espionage conviction that the United States has repeatedly described as a setup.U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, when asked Sunday on CNN whether a joint swap of Griner and Whelan for Bout was being considered, sidestepped the question.“As a general proposition ... I have got no higher priority than making sure that Americans who are being illegally detained in one way or another around the world come home,” he said. But he said he could not comment “in any detail on what we’re doing, except to say this is an absolute priority.”

Former Big 12 star Griner's trial begins in Russian court

MORRIS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an early morning traffic stop.

Just before 2a.m. Thursday, deputies stopped a suspicious vehicle near U.S. 77 at mile marker 142, according to a media release.

Deputies found illegal drugs in the vehicle and arrested 56-year-old Thomas Fleeker of Council Grove on requested charges of criminal use of explosives, meth distribution, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a felon, criminal use of a weapon and related traffic violations.

MORRIS COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after an early morning traffic stop.Just before 2a.m. Thursday, deputies stopped a suspicious vehicle near U.S. 77 at mile marker 142, according to a media release.Deputies found illegal drugs in the vehicle and arrested 56-year-old Thomas Fleeker of Council Grove on requested charges of criminal use of explosives, meth distribution, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, possession of a firearm by a felon, criminal use of a weapon and related traffic violations.

Kansas man jailed for alleged criminal use of explosives

MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a <a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">daycare provider</a> for alleged child endangerment.&nbsp;

The McPherson Police Department has referred this incident to the Kansas Department of Children and Families and the McPherson County Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656613239408.png" alt="Barr-photo McPherson Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Barr-photo McPherson Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a <a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">daycare provider</a> for alleged child endangerment.&nbsp;Just before 11a.m. Wednesday, police responded to report of young children and a dog found unsupervised in someone’s backyard near a pool, according to Police Captain&nbsp;Mark Brinck.When officers arrived, they found four children between the ages of 2 and 5-years-old in the area. Officers determined the children had left a daycare in the 700 Block of East Kansas Avenue and walked to this area.Officers contacted 47-year-old Tracy Barr and another child in the 700 Block of East Kansas Avenue. According to online records Barr is the owner and program<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d"> director for&nbsp;Golden Explorers,</a> 722 East Kansas Avenue, a Licensed Day Care Home in McPherson with a maximum capacity of 10 children. Officers took the children into protective custody and later released them to their parents or guardians. Officers arrested Barr on requested charges of Aggravated Endangering a Child and Driving Under the Influence, according to the release.(<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacilityFindings.aspx?vn=1anlkfdkEy3LXT4y%2f0Pwn8noWE6KKLBIy7x24OeT5mWHQBhXLLQyq4uNKTq%2bjXfF60Lp5RJoijRpqpecC0J8EcTdPtK4NMxV3q4dNYRqH%2b7N4pS67WBHZg%3d%3d">Click here to read the</a> May 2022 KDHE Survey results for Golden Explorers Daycare)Barr was booked into the McPherson County Jail and her bond was set at $13,750.00.&nbsp; On Thursday afternoon, the Kansas Department of Health has <a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/OIDS/OIDS_ViewFacility.aspx?facilitysearch=pQ6%2fNNqOehPH%2fyl06ro2NaFtvgxEoDQrWI0c72s04Bc5b1cSYNv2vffzR%2bnLzsdQefZnslPgIsI%3d">suspended the license of the Daycare.</a>The McPherson Police Department has referred this incident to the Kansas Department of Children and Families and the McPherson County Attorney’s Office.

Police found children from Kan. daycare unsupervised near pool

RENO COUNTY — The report of an armed subject led officials to place Nickerson Elementary School, 400 North Nickerson Street, into lockdown Wednesday morning.

&nbsp;The family of 30-year-old Kristopher Gobble phoned law enforcement after they had an altercation with him, according to Steve Lutz of the Reno County Sheriff's Department.

Because Gobble's known address was near the school, law enforcement asked that the building be placed in lockdown. Summer school was in session at the time.

Authorities located Gobble at a friend's house in Nickerson. Law enforcement surrounded the house and communicated with him through a loudspeaker. Gobble eventually gave himself up and the lockdown was lifted after about two hours.

Gobble was taken into custody on requested charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, criminal damage to property, and criminal threat. He is also being detained on a warrant from the Kansas Department of Corrections for a parole violation.

His bond is set at $6,750. He’s scheduled to make a first appearance Thursday morning.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656585162266.png" alt="Gobble has a previous conviction for drug possession, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Gobble has a previous conviction for drug possession, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY — The report of an armed subject led officials to place Nickerson Elementary School, 400 North Nickerson Street, into lockdown Wednesday morning.&nbsp;The family of 30-year-old Kristopher Gobble phoned law enforcement after they had an altercation with him, according to Steve Lutz of the Reno County Sheriff's Department.Because Gobble's known address was near the school, law enforcement asked that the building be placed in lockdown. Summer school was in session at the time.Authorities located Gobble at a friend's house in Nickerson. Law enforcement surrounded the house and communicated with him through a loudspeaker. Gobble eventually gave himself up and the lockdown was lifted after about two hours.Gobble was taken into custody on requested charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, criminal damage to property, and criminal threat. He is also being detained on a warrant from the Kansas Department of Corrections for a parole violation.His bond is set at $6,750. He’s scheduled to make a first appearance Thursday morning.

Kan. school locked down during arrest of wanted suspect

MCPHERSON COUNTY —A former Kansas woman is going to prison for her role in a fatal DUI crash that killed a Kansas couple.

A McPherson County judge sentenced 44-year-old Julie Ann Hunter formerly of Lehigh now Aoka, Minnesota, to to just less than 12-years in prison for two counts of involuntary manslaughter-DUI, according to the McPherson County Attorney's office.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the crash in November of 2019 on Highway 56 involved a 1999 Ford Taurus driven by Hunter and a 2004 Chrysler Pacifica driven by&nbsp;Robert E. Unruh, 88, of Canton.

Unruh and a passenger Mary Lee Unruh, 83, Canton, were pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Hunter to the hospital in McPherson and she was later arrested.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Hunter will be required to serve at least 80 months before becoming eligible for parole, according to the county attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656160789680.png" alt="Hunter-photo McPherson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hunter-photo McPherson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY —A former Kansas woman is going to prison for her role in a fatal DUI crash that killed a Kansas couple.A McPherson County judge sentenced 44-year-old Julie Ann Hunter formerly of Lehigh now Aoka, Minnesota, to to just less than 12-years in prison for two counts of involuntary manslaughter-DUI, according to the McPherson County Attorney's office.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported the crash in November of 2019 on Highway 56 involved a 1999 Ford Taurus driven by Hunter and a 2004 Chrysler Pacifica driven by&nbsp;Robert E. Unruh, 88, of Canton.Unruh and a passenger Mary Lee Unruh, 83, Canton, were pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp;EMS transported&nbsp;Hunter to the hospital in McPherson and she was later arrested.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hunter will be required to serve at least 80 months before becoming eligible for parole, according to the county attorney's office.

Woman sentenced for DUI crash that killed Kansas couple

FRANKLIN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and have made an arrest.

Just after 3p.m. June 25, police responded to report of a stabbing in the 700 Block of West 11th Street in Ottawa, according to a media release.

Officers found 29-year-old Dalton Presley of Ottawa deceased inside the home. He had been stabbed.

Police detained another resident of the home identified as 29-year-old Anthony Alvarado and transported him to the Ottawa Police Department for questioning.

Police later arrested Alvarado on requested charges of 2nd degree murder. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the case, according to the release.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656421632965.png" alt="Alvarado-photo Franklin Co." />
 <figcaption>Alvarado-photo Franklin Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FRANKLIN COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing and have made an arrest.Just after 3p.m. June 25, police responded to report of a stabbing in the 700 Block of West 11th Street in Ottawa, according to a media release.Officers found 29-year-old Dalton Presley of Ottawa deceased inside the home. He had been stabbed.Police detained another resident of the home identified as 29-year-old Anthony Alvarado and transported him to the Ottawa Police Department for questioning.Police later arrested Alvarado on requested charges of 2nd degree murder. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is assisting with the case, according to the release.

Suspect accused of Kansas man's stabbing death

RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged rape in Reno County.

Just after 11:30p.m. Monday sheriff's deputies were dispatched to a residence on the Obee Housing addition east of Hutchinson&nbsp;for a report of Sexual Assault, according to a media release.

With the information given to dispatch, deputies were able to make contact with a suspect identified as 29-year-old Jarrod LaForce whose vehicle had broken down in the area of G Avenue and Obee Road.&nbsp;

Upon further investigation LaForce was arrested on requested charges of DUI, Rape, Aggravated Sodomy and Aggravated Domestic Battery. He remains jailed on a bond of $105,250.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656446498254.png" alt="LaForce-photo Reno County" />
 <figcaption>LaForce-photo Reno County</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an alleged rape in Reno County.Just after 11:30p.m. Monday sheriff's deputies were dispatched to a residence on the Obee Housing addition east of Hutchinson&nbsp;for a report of Sexual Assault, according to a media release.With the information given to dispatch, deputies were able to make contact with a suspect identified as 29-year-old Jarrod LaForce whose vehicle had broken down in the area of G Avenue and Obee Road.&nbsp;Upon further investigation LaForce was arrested on requested charges of DUI, Rape, Aggravated Sodomy and Aggravated Domestic Battery. He remains jailed on a bond of $105,250.

Kan. deputies arrest rape suspect after his vehicle breaks down

MOSCOW (AP) — Shackled and looking wary, WNBA star Brittney Griner was ordered to stand trial Friday by a court near Moscow on cannabis possession charges, about 4 1/2 months after her arrest at an airport while returning to play for a Russian team.

The Phoenix Mercury center and two-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist also was ordered to remain in custody for the duration of her criminal trial. Griner could face 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of large-scale transportation of drugs. Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in the U.S., acquittals can be overturned.

At Monday’s closed-door preliminary hearing at the court in the Moscow suburb of Khimki, Griner’s detention was extended for another six months. Photos obtained by The Associated Press showed the 31-year-old in handcuffs and looking straight ahead, unlike a previous court appearance where she kept her head down and covered with a hood.

Her detention and trial come at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. She was arrested at Sheremetyevo Airport less than a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, which aggravated already-high tensions with sweeping sanctions by the United States and Russia’s denunciation of U.S. weapon supplies to Ukraine.

Amid the tensions, Griner’s supporters had taken a low profile in hopes of a quiet resolution, until May, when the State Department reclassified her as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sports-business-phoenix-mercury-united-states-b6aaaeee14b825bd247e2d853a9d708c">wrongfully detained</a>&nbsp;and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.

Griner’s wife, Cherelle, urged President Joe Biden in May to secure her release, calling her “a political pawn.”

Her supporters have encouraged a prisoner swap like the one in April that brought home Marine veteran Trevor Reed in exchange for a Russian pilot convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy.

Russian news media have repeatedly raised speculation that she could be swapped for Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, nicknamed “The Merchant of Death,” who is serving a 25-year sentence on conviction of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and providing aid to a terrorist organization.

Russia has agitated for Bout’s release for years. But the discrepancy between Griner’s case — she allegedly was found in possession of vape cartridges containing cannabis oil — and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to the U.S.

Others have suggested that she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sports-paul-whelan-government-and-politics-537c7eb77baee6f0342dbde07c184763">could be traded in tandem with Paul Whelan</a>, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence on an espionage conviction that the United States has repeatedly described as a set-up.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, asked Sunday on CNN whether a joint swap of Griner and Whelan for Bout was being considered, sidestepped the question.

“As a general proposition ... I have got no higher priority than making sure that Americans who are being illegally detained in one way or another around the world come home,” he said. But “I can’t comment in any detail on what we’re doing, except to say this is an absolute priority.”

Any swap would apparently require Griner to first be convicted and sentenced, then apply for a presidential pardon, Maria Yarmush, a lawyer specializing in international civil affairs, told Kremlin-funded TV channel RT.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>The 31-year-old Griner, one of the most recognizable players in women’s basketball, has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Phoenix Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star and three-time Big 12 Player of the year at Baylor-photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>MOSCOW (AP) — Shackled and looking wary, WNBA star Brittney Griner was ordered to stand trial Friday by a court near Moscow on cannabis possession charges, about 4 1/2 months after her arrest at an airport while returning to play for a Russian team.The Phoenix Mercury center and two-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist also was ordered to remain in custody for the duration of her criminal trial. Griner could face 10 years in prison if convicted on charges of large-scale transportation of drugs. Fewer than 1% of defendants in Russian criminal cases are acquitted, and unlike in the U.S., acquittals can be overturned.At Monday’s closed-door preliminary hearing at the court in the Moscow suburb of Khimki, Griner’s detention was extended for another six months. Photos obtained by The Associated Press showed the 31-year-old in handcuffs and looking straight ahead, unlike a previous court appearance where she kept her head down and covered with a hood.Her detention and trial come at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. She was arrested at Sheremetyevo Airport less than a week before Russia sent troops into Ukraine, which aggravated already-high tensions with sweeping sanctions by the United States and Russia’s denunciation of U.S. weapon supplies to Ukraine.Amid the tensions, Griner’s supporters had taken a low profile in hopes of a quiet resolution, until May, when the State Department reclassified her as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sports-business-phoenix-mercury-united-states-b6aaaeee14b825bd247e2d853a9d708c">wrongfully detained</a>&nbsp;and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.Griner’s wife, Cherelle, urged President Joe Biden in May to secure her release, calling her “a political pawn.”Her supporters have encouraged a prisoner swap like the one in April that brought home Marine veteran Trevor Reed in exchange for a Russian pilot convicted of drug trafficking conspiracy.Russian news media have repeatedly raised speculation that she could be swapped for Russian arms trader Viktor Bout, nicknamed “The Merchant of Death,” who is serving a 25-year sentence on conviction of conspiracy to kill U.S. citizens and providing aid to a terrorist organization.Russia has agitated for Bout’s release for years. But the discrepancy between Griner’s case — she allegedly was found in possession of vape cartridges containing cannabis oil — and Bout’s global dealings in deadly weapons could make such a swap unpalatable to the U.S.Others have suggested that she&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sports-paul-whelan-government-and-politics-537c7eb77baee6f0342dbde07c184763">could be traded in tandem with Paul Whelan</a>, a former Marine and security director serving a 16-year sentence on an espionage conviction that the United States has repeatedly described as a set-up.U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, asked Sunday on CNN whether a joint swap of Griner and Whelan for Bout was being considered, sidestepped the question.“As a general proposition ... I have got no higher priority than making sure that Americans who are being illegally detained in one way or another around the world come home,” he said. But “I can’t comment in any detail on what we’re doing, except to say this is an absolute priority.”Any swap would apparently require Griner to first be convicted and sentenced, then apply for a presidential pardon, Maria Yarmush, a lawyer specializing in international civil affairs, told Kremlin-funded TV channel RT.

Former Big 12 star Brittney Griner ordered to trial in Russia

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a weekend chase across state lines.

Just before 5 a.m. Saturday, officers attempted to stop a pickup truck pulling a trailer in the area of 10th and U.S.59, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; Police were following a tip&nbsp;that the truck was stolen. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656342859008.png" alt="Diblasio-photo Platt County" />
 <figcaption>Diblasio-photo Platt County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a weekend chase across state lines.Just before 5 a.m. Saturday, officers attempted to stop a pickup truck pulling a trailer in the area of 10th and U.S.59, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.&nbsp; Police were following a tip&nbsp;that the truck was stolen. The vehicle fled westbound on U.S.59 and subsequently into the Branchton area and then back to U.S.59 where it went eastbound and into Missouri. At that point an Atchison County sheriff's deputy pursued the vehicle into Missouri. The vehicle continued to flee but returned eastbound and was on the Amelia Earhart bridge when he saw APD patrol cars on the west side of the bridge and turned around on the bridge and was again eastbound on U.S.59. A police officer on the east end of the bridge deployed stop sticks and while doing so the stop stick cord, which the officer was holding, made contact with the fleeing vehicle and trailer and injured the officer's hand. &nbsp;The officer was treated for that injury at an area hospital and released, according to Wilson.The Atchison County Sheriff's deputy continued to pursue the vehicle into Platte County where the vehicle was stopped by Platte County deputies and took the driver identified as 29-year-old Michael Diblasi0, according to online jail records,&nbsp; into custody. He remains jailed without bond.There was a motorcycle on that trailer that had been stolen from the 200 block North 9th Street in Atchison, according to Wilson.