MOSCOW (AP) — More than four months after she was arrested at a Moscow airport for cannabis possession, a Russian court has set the start date for the criminal trial of the American basketball star Brittney Griner for July 1. 

The Phoenix Mercury star could remain in Russian custody until late autumn as the court extended her detention for a fourth time. 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. On Monday, the court in the Moscow suburb of Khimki extended Griner’s detention for another six months.

MOSCOW (AP) — More than four months after she was arrested at a Moscow airport for cannabis possession, American basketball star Brittney Griner is to appear in court Monday for a preliminary hearing ahead of her trial.

The Phoenix Mercury star, considered in some polls to be the United States’ most gifted female athlete, 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.

The trial date has not been announced, but is expected soon; Griner was recently ordered to remain in pretrial detention until July 2. The hearing in the court of the Moscow suburb of Khimki is to address procedural issues.

Griner’s detention and trial come at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. She was arrested at Moscow’s 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 wrongfully detained and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.

That move has drawn additional attention to Griner’s case, with supporters encouraging 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 could be traded in tandem with Paul Whelan, 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) — More than four months after she was arrested at a Moscow airport for cannabis possession, a Russian court has set the start date for the criminal trial of the American basketball star Brittney Griner for July 1. The Phoenix Mercury star could remain in Russian custody until late autumn as the court extended her detention for a fourth time. 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. On Monday, the court in the Moscow suburb of Khimki extended Griner’s detention for another six months.--------MOSCOW (AP) — More than four months after she was arrested at a Moscow airport for cannabis possession, American basketball star Brittney Griner is to appear in court Monday for a preliminary hearing ahead of her trial.The Phoenix Mercury star, considered in some polls to be the United States’ most gifted female athlete, 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.The trial date has not been announced, but is expected soon; Griner was recently ordered to remain in pretrial detention until July 2. The hearing in the court of the Moscow suburb of Khimki is to address procedural issues.Griner’s detention and trial come at an extraordinarily low point in Moscow-Washington relations. She was arrested at Moscow’s 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 wrongfully detained and shifted oversight of her case to its special presidential envoy for hostage affairs — effectively the U.S. government’s chief negotiator.That move has drawn additional attention to Griner’s case, with supporters encouraging 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 could be traded in tandem with Paul Whelan, 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.

Russian court extends former Big-12 star Griner's detention again

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a drug bust at a motel

On Wednesday, Wichita Police Department (WPD) Patrol East Community Police Officers were conducting drug interdiction activities in the 300 block of S. Webb Road when they conducted a traffic stop on an individual leaving a hotel in that area, according to a media release.

The driver, a 36-year-old man from Haysville, was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and three handguns. Officers learned that the man was staying in the hotel, and significant traffic was observed at the room he was staying in. 

The officers applied for, and were granted, a search warrant which resulted in the seizure of approximately 6 pounds of methamphetamine, 1,000 percocet pills which area a generic oxycodone, 100 ecstasy pills, an additional firearm and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. Police have not reported the suspect's name or an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656104010957.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with a drug bust at a motelOn Wednesday, Wichita Police Department (WPD) Patrol East Community Police Officers were conducting drug interdiction activities in the 300 block of S. Webb Road when they conducted a traffic stop on an individual leaving a hotel in that area, according to a media release.The driver, a 36-year-old man from Haysville, was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and three handguns. Officers learned that the man was staying in the hotel, and significant traffic was observed at the room he was staying in. The officers applied for, and were granted, a search warrant which resulted in the seizure of approximately 6 pounds of methamphetamine, 1,000 percocet pills which area a generic oxycodone, 100 ecstasy pills, an additional firearm and numerous items of drug paraphernalia. Police have not reported the suspect's name or an arrest.

Police seize 1000 generic oxycodone pills at Kansas motel

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

Just after 1:30 a.m. June 22, police were dispatched to the 1200 block of NE Winfield Avenue in Topeka on the report of an attempted aggravated robbery, according to Lt. Edward Stanley.

Shortly after this occurred, officers located the suspect vehicle and detained several individuals believed to be involved in the incident. These individuals were transported to the Law Enforcement center to speak with Detectives.

As a result of the investigation, 20-year-old Quadream Williams and 20-year-old Cody Cooper both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656016695647.png" alt="Williams-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Williams-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a robbery and have two suspects in custody.Just after 1:30 a.m. June 22, police were dispatched to the 1200 block of NE Winfield Avenue in Topeka on the report of an attempted aggravated robbery, according to Lt. Edward Stanley.Shortly after this occurred, officers located the suspect vehicle and detained several individuals believed to be involved in the incident. These individuals were transported to the Law Enforcement center to speak with Detectives.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656016836472.png" alt="Cooper photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Cooper photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result of the investigation, 20-year-old Quadream Williams and 20-year-old Cody Cooper both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a requested charge of Aggravated Robbery.

Police: Two Kansas men jailed after robbery investigation 

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Law enforcement made two arrests Friday afternoon after they say two armed subjects entered a Hutchinson business.

Hutchinson police say a call came in at 3:21 p.m. Friday about two armed subjects at the Adams Street Auto Repair at 528 N. Adams.

The police identified the men as 48-year-old Kevin D. Shipman and 19-year-old Jesse D. Shipman.

Law enforcement closed off the area streets as they took both men in for one suspected count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. They are both still in the Reno County Correctional Facility. No one was hurt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656104194598.jpeg" alt="Police on the scene of the Friday afternoon arrest" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Friday afternoon arrest</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Law enforcement made two arrests Friday afternoon after they say two armed subjects entered a Hutchinson business.Hutchinson police say a call came in at 3:21 p.m. Friday about two armed subjects at the Adams Street Auto Repair at 528 N. Adams.The police identified the men as 48-year-old Kevin D. Shipman and 19-year-old Jesse D. Shipman.Law enforcement closed off the area streets as they took both men in for one suspected count of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. They are both still in the Reno County Correctional Facility. No one was hurt.

Police take armed suspects at business in Hutchinson into custody

DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations after a two month investigation.

Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, members of the Dickinson County Sheriff's Drug Enforcement unit with the assistance of Abilene Police executed a search warrant at a home in the 700 Block of NW Tenth Street in Abilene, according to a media release.

Officers found a large quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, opiates and drug paraphernalia.

Officers arrested 49-year-old Mark St. Pierre and 49-year-old Sara Duncan at a home in the 700 Block of NW Eighth Street in Abilene.

Duncan is being held on requested charges of meth distribution within 1000 feet of a school. St. Pierre is being held on a requested charge of conspiracy to distribute meth. Both are also facing multiple additional requested drug charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656031464504.png" alt="St. Pierre-photo Dickinson County." />
 <figcaption>St. Pierre-photo Dickinson County.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations after a two month investigation.Just after 6p.m. Wednesday, members of the Dickinson County Sheriff's Drug Enforcement unit with the assistance of Abilene Police executed a search warrant at a home in the 700 Block of NW Tenth Street in Abilene, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656031524803.png" alt="Duncan-photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Duncan-photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers found a large quantity of methamphetamine, marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms, opiates and drug paraphernalia.Officers arrested 49-year-old Mark St. Pierre and 49-year-old Sara Duncan at a home in the 700 Block of NW Eighth Street in Abilene.Duncan is being held on requested charges of meth distribution within 1000 feet of a school. St. Pierre is being held on a requested charge of conspiracy to distribute meth. Both are also facing multiple additional requested drug charges.

2 accused of distribution after drugs found at Abilene home

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged auto theft.

Just after 6:30p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for theft, criminal trespass, and interference with LEO in the 1100 block of Westport Dr. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;

A 22-year-old woman reported a 36-year-old woman entered her car in the Taco Bell parking lot, locked herself inside and attempted to drive away in an attempt to steal the vehicle.

The estimated total loss associated with this case was approximately $13,000. 

The car was returned to its owner after police arrested Andrea Freeman, 36, of Manhattan in connection on requested charges of theft, criminal trespass, and interference with LEO. Freeman remains jailed on a total bond of $6,000, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655993882814.png" alt="Taco Bell on Westport Drive in Manhattan -Google image" />
 <figcaption>Taco Bell on Westport Drive in Manhattan -Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged auto theft.Just after 6:30p.m. Wednesday, officers filed a report for theft, criminal trespass, and interference with LEO in the 1100 block of Westport Dr. in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;A 22-year-old woman reported a 36-year-old woman entered her car in the Taco Bell parking lot, locked herself inside and attempted to drive away in an attempt to steal the vehicle.The estimated total loss associated with this case was approximately $13,000. The car was returned to its owner after police arrested Andrea Freeman, 36, of Manhattan in connection on requested charges of theft, criminal trespass, and interference with LEO. Freeman remains jailed on a total bond of $6,000, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Woman attempts to steal car from restaurant parking lot

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after he ran from an accident.

Just before 2p.m. June 19, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to a two vehicle accident in the 2800 block of NW 75 Highway, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.

Callers stated that one of the drivers had fled the scene on foot. The suspect was then seen by witnesses entering a building of a business in the 2900 block of NW Button Road. 

Deputies arrived in the area and located the suspect across the street from the business.

Deputies arrested 25-year-old Kamren E. Brake of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, and interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655813997687.png" alt="Brake-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Brake-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple charges after he ran from an accident.Just before 2p.m. June 19, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded to a two vehicle accident in the 2800 block of NW 75 Highway, according to Deputy Shayna Anderson.Callers stated that one of the drivers had fled the scene on foot. The suspect was then seen by witnesses entering a building of a business in the 2900 block of NW Button Road. Deputies arrived in the area and located the suspect across the street from the business.Deputies arrested 25-year-old Kamren E. Brake of Topeka and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of aggravated burglary, criminal trespass, and interference with law enforcement.

Kan. burglary suspect arrested after he runs from crash 

KANSAS CITY (AP) —In her first week on the job at a Philadelphia abortion clinic, Amanda Kifferly was taught how to search for bombs. About a year later, protesters blocked the entrances and exits of the The Women’s Centers, at one point pulling Kifferly into something resembling a mosh pit, where they surrounded her and shoved her around.

And on the night of last winter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-united-states-mississippi-65751e1b9ca7d34f1458ffe9729f82b2">arguments</a>&nbsp;before the U.S. Supreme Court in a case that could end the nationwide right to abortion, people gathered outside a clinic in New Jersey with lawn chairs, a cooler and a flaming torch — a sight that brought to mind lynchings and other horrors of the country’s racist past, says Kifferly, who now serves as vice president for abortion access.

Such scenes have become familiar for providers and patients across the country over the decades since the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling legalizing abortion. At times the violence has been far more severe, including bombings, arson and murders — from the 1993 killing of Dr. David Gunn outside a Florida abortion clinic to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-trials-courts-colorado-denver-26f0712e558032c99384262adb7aed4f">2015 fatal shooting</a>&nbsp;of three people inside a Colorado Planned Parenthood.

Now providers and some in law enforcement worry what will come next. They’re preparing for an increase in violence once the Supreme Court rules, saying there has historically been a spike when the issue of abortion gets widespread public attention, such as after a state approves new restrictions. If the decision ends Roe v. Wade — as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-draft-opinion-07439f9fc4542f1500ab78dfd34036b1">leaked draft opinion</a>&nbsp;indicates may happen — they also anticipate protests, harassment and other violence to be more concentrated and intensify in states where abortion remains legal.

“We know from experience, it’s not like the people protesting clinics in banned states just pack up and go home,” said Melissa Fowler, chief program officer for the National Abortion Federation.

The group and the hundreds of abortion clinics it represents have been on “heightened alert” since the opinion leaked, Fowler said. The organization has staff who specialize in security on call around the clock. They go out to clinics to do drills with employees and volunteers on scenarios such as bomb threats or active shooters and advise them on things like where to position security cameras. They also conduct safety assessments at the homes of physicians, monitor online threats and consult with local law enforcement.

In some places, local police are working with clinics to try to tamp down the potential for violence. In Jacksonville, Florida, the sheriff’s office said last month they would station an officer outside the clinic, and police in Little Rock, Arkansas, installed a camera atop a crane near an abortion clinic that has been the site of protests, hoping to deter bad actors.

Immediately following the leak and for days afterward, police in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, initiated extra patrols around The Women’s Center location, Kifferly said.

But the relationship between clinics and local police isn’t always a positive one, and clinics must weigh whether having a heavy police presence will frighten patients, Fowler said. In Kifferly’s experience, how well clinics and police departments work together varies by city and state. She recalled asking an officer for help as she was assaulted outside the Philadelphia clinic, and the officer responding that she should “call 911.”

NAF, which collects monthly data from its over 500 members on harassment and violence, reported a spike in incidents in 2020, the most recent year for which the group has published data. The number of death threats or threats of harm and of assault and battery both increased by more than double, and providers reported more than 24,000 incidents of hate email or internet harassment.

Abortion providers reported an uptick after Donald Trump became president, and “extremists felt like it was OK for them not to be in the shadows,” Fowler said. The coronavirus pandemic seemed to exacerbate things, Kifferly said, and in all four states where The Women’s Centers operates — New Jersey, Connecticut, Georgia and Pennsylvania — “we were besieged by protesters” angry that abortion clinics were open while their churches or businesses were closed.

Abortion opponents also have been targets of violence, and say they’ve also seen an increase in incidents since the draft opinion leaked, though the FBI in a 2020 memo described the incidents as historically “rare.”

Shortly after the draft opinion became public, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-violence-government-and-politics-8f3a2a7146594a6275250b54be776f85">Department of Homeland Security’s</a>&nbsp;Office of Intelligence and Analysis said the draft had made extremist violence — by people on either side of the issue — more likely.

Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America said there were more than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-wisconsin-vandalism-83ef112cf20dcf511cf09dfd5241e1c1">40 incidents</a>&nbsp;of violence, intimidation and vandalism at pregnancy centers and churches in recent weeks.

In early June, a man with a gun, knife, zip ties and other items was arrested near&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-brett-kavanaugh-district-of-columbia-maryland-government-and-politics-179d18e7f933b3decbaddb542ceb0b29">Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s</a>&nbsp;home in the middle of the night. He told police he wanted to kill the justice because he was upset about the draft opinion as well as the fatal mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.

The court is expected to issue its ruling in the coming days or weeks.

As for what might occur next for abortion providers, much focus has been on how to provide care to people seeking it, should abortion be banned in more states. But Fowler said another concern is also front of mind: “We also need to focus on safety.”

KANSAS CITY (AP) —In her first week on the job at a Philadelphia abortion clinic, Amanda Kifferly was taught how to search for bombs. About a year later, protesters blocked the entrances and exits of the The Women’s Centers, at one point pulling Kifferly into something resembling a mosh pit, where they surrounded her and shoved her around.And on the night of last winter’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-united-states-mississippi-65751e1b9ca7d34f1458ffe9729f82b2">arguments</a>&nbsp;before the U.S. Supreme Court in a case that could end the nationwide right to abortion, people gathered outside a clinic in New Jersey with lawn chairs, a cooler and a flaming torch — a sight that brought to mind lynchings and other horrors of the country’s racist past, says Kifferly, who now serves as vice president for abortion access.Such scenes have become familiar for providers and patients across the country over the decades since the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling legalizing abortion. At times the violence has been far more severe, including bombings, arson and murders — from the 1993 killing of Dr. David Gunn outside a Florida abortion clinic to the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shootings-trials-courts-colorado-denver-26f0712e558032c99384262adb7aed4f">2015 fatal shooting</a>&nbsp;of three people inside a Colorado Planned Parenthood.Now providers and some in law enforcement worry what will come next. They’re preparing for an increase in violence once the Supreme Court rules, saying there has historically been a spike when the issue of abortion gets widespread public attention, such as after a state approves new restrictions. If the decision ends Roe v. Wade — as a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-abortion-draft-opinion-07439f9fc4542f1500ab78dfd34036b1">leaked draft opinion</a>&nbsp;indicates may happen — they also anticipate protests, harassment and other violence to be more concentrated and intensify in states where abortion remains legal.“We know from experience, it’s not like the people protesting clinics in banned states just pack up and go home,” said Melissa Fowler, chief program officer for the National Abortion Federation.The group and the hundreds of abortion clinics it represents have been on “heightened alert” since the opinion leaked, Fowler said. The organization has staff who specialize in security on call around the clock. They go out to clinics to do drills with employees and volunteers on scenarios such as bomb threats or active shooters and advise them on things like where to position security cameras. They also conduct safety assessments at the homes of physicians, monitor online threats and consult with local law enforcement.In some places, local police are working with clinics to try to tamp down the potential for violence. In Jacksonville, Florida, the sheriff’s office said last month they would station an officer outside the clinic, and police in Little Rock, Arkansas, installed a camera atop a crane near an abortion clinic that has been the site of protests, hoping to deter bad actors.Immediately following the leak and for days afterward, police in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, initiated extra patrols around The Women’s Center location, Kifferly said.But the relationship between clinics and local police isn’t always a positive one, and clinics must weigh whether having a heavy police presence will frighten patients, Fowler said. In Kifferly’s experience, how well clinics and police departments work together varies by city and state. She recalled asking an officer for help as she was assaulted outside the Philadelphia clinic, and the officer responding that she should “call 911.”NAF, which collects monthly data from its over 500 members on harassment and violence, reported a spike in incidents in 2020, the most recent year for which the group has published data. The number of death threats or threats of harm and of assault and battery both increased by more than double, and providers reported more than 24,000 incidents of hate email or internet harassment.Abortion providers reported an uptick after Donald Trump became president, and “extremists felt like it was OK for them not to be in the shadows,” Fowler said. The coronavirus pandemic seemed to exacerbate things, Kifferly said, and in all four states where The Women’s Centers operates — New Jersey, Connecticut, Georgia and Pennsylvania — “we were besieged by protesters” angry that abortion clinics were open while their churches or businesses were closed.Abortion opponents also have been targets of violence, and say they’ve also seen an increase in incidents since the draft opinion leaked, though the FBI in a 2020 memo described the incidents as historically “rare.”Shortly after the draft opinion became public, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-violence-government-and-politics-8f3a2a7146594a6275250b54be776f85">Department of Homeland Security’s</a>&nbsp;Office of Intelligence and Analysis said the draft had made extremist violence — by people on either side of the issue — more likely.Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America said there were more than&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-us-supreme-court-health-wisconsin-vandalism-83ef112cf20dcf511cf09dfd5241e1c1">40 incidents</a>&nbsp;of violence, intimidation and vandalism at pregnancy centers and churches in recent weeks.In early June, a man with a gun, knife, zip ties and other items was arrested near&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-brett-kavanaugh-district-of-columbia-maryland-government-and-politics-179d18e7f933b3decbaddb542ceb0b29">Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s</a>&nbsp;home in the middle of the night. He told police he wanted to kill the justice because he was upset about the draft opinion as well as the fatal mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.The court is expected to issue its ruling in the coming days or weeks.As for what might occur next for abortion providers, much focus has been on how to provide care to people seeking it, should abortion be banned in more states. But Fowler said another concern is also front of mind: “We also need to focus on safety.”

'Heightened alert': Abortion providers brace for ruling

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

Just after 6:30a.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy was dispatched to a report of a disabled motorist at milepost 160 on Interstate 35, according to Sheriff Chris Wells.

 While on scene, the deputy found illegal narcotics were located in possession of a passenger of the vehicle identified as Kimberly A. Mayer, 39, of Gilbert, Arizona.

The deputy transported her to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, trafficking in contraband into a correctional facility, and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to Wells.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655838322456.png" alt="Mayer-photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Mayer-photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after an unusual arrest.Just after 6:30a.m. Monday, a sheriff's deputy was dispatched to a report of a disabled motorist at milepost 160 on Interstate 35, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. While on scene, the deputy found illegal narcotics were located in possession of a passenger of the vehicle identified as Kimberly A. Mayer, 39, of Gilbert, Arizona.The deputy transported her to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, trafficking in contraband into a correctional facility, and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to Wells.

Kan. deputy finds illegal drugs while helping with disabled vehicle

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A former teacher at a private Christian school in Wichita has pleaded guilty to one count of having sexual relations with a student under 16 and faces prison time when he's sentenced later this summer. 

Police arrested Matthew McFarren, who had been a high school teacher and assistant soccer coach at Trinity Academy in Wichita, early last year. Police began investigating after receiving a tip that McFarren, now 43, was in a relationship with a 16-year-old student. 

McFarren was fired from the K-12 school soon after he was arrested in March 2021. Television station KSN reports that McFarren is set to be sentenced on Aug. 5.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Kansas teacher for possible sexual relations with a student have made an arrest.

Earlier this month, police in Wichita were notified of the sexual relationship between 41-year-old Matthew McFarren, a teacher and coach at Trinity Academy,&nbsp;12345 E. 21st Street, in Wichita and a 16-year-old student, according to officer Charley Davidson.

On Saturday, police arrested McFarren on a requested charges of Unlawful Sexual Relations in violation of K.S.A. 21-5512.&nbsp;

Dr. Kneeland Brown, president of Trinity Academy, said in a media release the school is devastated at the news but cooperating with the investigation. "This alleged behavior runs directly counter to the school beliefs and values."

Two weeks ago, the school fired McFarren for a violation of expectations and school policy, according to the release.

&nbsp;The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616444824202.png" alt="McFarren-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>McFarren-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A former teacher at a private Christian school in Wichita has pleaded guilty to one count of having sexual relations with a student under 16 and faces prison time when he's sentenced later this summer. Police arrested Matthew McFarren, who had been a high school teacher and assistant soccer coach at Trinity Academy in Wichita, early last year. Police began investigating after receiving a tip that McFarren, now 43, was in a relationship with a 16-year-old student. McFarren was fired from the K-12 school soon after he was arrested in March 2021. Television station KSN reports that McFarren is set to be sentenced on Aug. 5.---------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Kansas teacher for possible sexual relations with a student have made an arrest.Earlier this month, police in Wichita were notified of the sexual relationship between 41-year-old Matthew McFarren, a teacher and coach at Trinity Academy,&nbsp;12345 E. 21st Street, in Wichita and a 16-year-old student, according to officer Charley Davidson.On Saturday, police arrested McFarren on a requested charges of Unlawful Sexual Relations in violation of K.S.A. 21-5512.&nbsp;Dr. Kneeland Brown, president of Trinity Academy, said in a media release the school is devastated at the news but cooperating with the investigation. "This alleged behavior runs directly counter to the school beliefs and values."Two weeks ago, the school fired McFarren for a violation of expectations and school policy, according to the release.&nbsp;The case has been presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office, according to Davidson.

Teacher at Kan. church school admits sex with teen student 

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

Just after 3p.m. Monday, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop at 341st and K-31 Highway, near Melvern, for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, the deputy located illegal narcotics.

The driver of the vehicle, Julie D. Davis, 42, of Brooklyn, Michigan, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to Wells.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655768157866.png" alt="Davis-photo Osage County" />
 <figcaption>Davis-photo Osage County</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after an arrest.Just after 3p.m. Monday, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop at 341st and K-31 Highway, near Melvern, for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. During the stop, the deputy located illegal narcotics.The driver of the vehicle, Julie D. Davis, 42, of Brooklyn, Michigan, was taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of drug paraphernalia, according to Wells.

Michigan woman accused of meth distribution in Kansas

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

Just after midnight early Tuesday, police conducted a&nbsp;traffic stop on Highway 56 near Ridge Road for a vehicle traveling over the posted speed limit, according to a social media report.

While speaking with the driver, later identified as 37-year-old Joshua Bradley of Downs, he indicated the presence of marijuana in his vehicle. 

 A subsequent search led to the location of 14.3 grams of methamphetamine, 7.3 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. 

The officer arrested Bradley on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, no drug tax stamp, no proof of liabliity insurance and speed over posted maximum.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655833173409.png" alt="Bradley-photo Marion County" />
 <figcaption>Bradley-photo Marion County</figcaption>
 </figure>MARION COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.Just after midnight early Tuesday, police conducted a&nbsp;traffic stop on Highway 56 near Ridge Road for a vehicle traveling over the posted speed limit, according to a social media report.While speaking with the driver, later identified as 37-year-old Joshua Bradley of Downs, he indicated the presence of marijuana in his vehicle. A subsequent search led to the location of 14.3 grams of methamphetamine, 7.3 grams of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. The officer arrested Bradley on requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, no drug tax stamp, no proof of liabliity insurance and speed over posted maximum.

Police: Kansas driver speeding with pot, meth in vehicle

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement and school distrct authorities are investigating an alleged school threat.

Just before 8a.m. Monday, USD 501 Topeka Public Schools police contacted Topeka officers of a&nbsp; reported school threat via social media, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

Topeka Police detectives responded and met with 501 Police to obtain further details. Further investigation identified a person of interest who was located and brought to the Law Enforcement Center for interview.

Officers then arrested 23-year-old Isaac Dallen of Topeka on a requested charge of Aggravated Criminal Threat

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655805665009.png" alt="Dallen-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Dallen-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement and school distrct authorities are investigating an alleged school threat.Just before 8a.m. Monday, USD 501 Topeka Public Schools police contacted Topeka officers of a&nbsp; reported school threat via social media, according to Police Lt. Donna Eubanks.Topeka Police detectives responded and met with 501 Police to obtain further details. Further investigation identified a person of interest who was located and brought to the Law Enforcement Center for interview.Officers then arrested 23-year-old Isaac Dallen of Topeka on a requested charge of Aggravated Criminal Threat

Man accused of online threat against Kansas school 

WASHINGTON (AP) — Facebook on Monday removed a campaign video by Republican Missouri U.S. Senate candidate Eric Greitens that shows him brandishing a shotgun and declaring that he’s hunting RINOs, or Republicans In Name Only.

In the ad, Greitens, a former Missouri governor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-campaigns-missouri-jefferson-city-criminal-investigations-2457c44f0ef44394895af26cb0857814">who resigned in disgrace</a>&nbsp;in 2018, is flanked by a tactical unit outside a home on a tree-lined street as he whispers, “The RINO feeds on corruption and is marked by the stripes of cowardice,” using a term popularized by former President Donald Trump and his allies to deride moderate or establishment Republicans.

The armed tactical team breaks through the front door and throws what appear to be flash-bang grenades inside. Greitens enters an empty living room through the smoke and says: “Join the MAGA crew. Get a RINO hunting permit. There’s no bagging limit, no tagging limit and it doesn’t expire until we save our country.”

Facebook said the video was removed “for violating our policies prohibiting violence and incitement.” Twitter said Greitens’ post violated its rules about abusive behavior but said it was leaving it up because it was in the “public’s interest” for the tweet to be viewable. The company’s move prevented the post from being shared any further.

The video comes at a time of renewed focus on violence in politics following fatal mass shootings and threats to government officials. Two weeks ago, a man carrying a gun, a knife and zip ties was arrested near Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s house after threatening to kill the justice. Around the same time, a gunman killed a retired county judge in Wisconsin before fatally shooting himself, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-gretchen-whitmer-michigan-wisconsin-shootings-0c6e4877dfe366eda990e2f401ab74ef">he had a list</a>&nbsp;that included the names of Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers.

On Sunday, Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, one of two Republicans serving on the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, said he recently received a letter at his home threatening “to execute me, as well as my wife and 5-month-old child.”

Greitens is among the Republican candidates in a highly competitive Aug. 2 primary to fill the seat being vacated by retiring GOP Sen. Roy Blunt. The provocative new ad appeared as Greitens looks to improve his standing in the polls, jolt lackluster fundraising and move past graphic allegations of domestic abuse made in a sworn affidavit filed by his ex-wife in March in their child custody case.

Sheena Greitens has alleged that Eric Greitens was physically abusive to her and one of their sons, while demonstrating such “unstable and coercive behavior” that steps were taken to limit his access to firearms, court documents state.

The former governor has vehemently denied the allegations, but they’ve dogged him on the campaign trail. He resigned in 2018 amid criminal investigations and after he was accused of having an extramarital affair with his hairdresser and taking a compromising photo of her to keep her from talking about it.

Helen Wade, Sheena Greitens’ lawyer, told The Kansas City Star that she would “absolutely” use the new campaign video in the couple’s court case.

“This is over the line,” Wade told the newspaper while indicating she would file court papers to make the video an exhibit in the case. Wade did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.

Republican Caleb Rowden, majority leader of the Missouri state Senate, tweeted: “We have been in contact with the Missouri Highway Patrol and hope that former Gov. Greitens finds the help he needs. Anyone with multiple accusations of abuse toward women and children should probably steer clear of this rhetoric.”

Other candidates in the Senate race also condemned the video.

Republican state Sen. Dave Schatz called it “completely irresponsible.”

“That’s why I’m running. It’s time to restore sanity and reject this nonsense. Missouri deserves better,” Schatz said in a tweet.

Democratic Senate candidate Lucas Kunce tweeted that “terrorists, child abusers, and criminals” like Greitens “shouldn’t even be able to get a weapon.”

“Help me beat this guy in November, and I’ll keep our families safe from criminals like him,” Kunce said.

The Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, which has endorsed state Attorney General Eric Schmitt in the Republican Senate race, denounced Greitens’ video, saying it shows that Greitens “does not possess the sound judgment necessary” to represent the state and that “he has learned nothing from the legal problems” that preceded his resignation as governor.

Greitens’ campaign dismissed the outrage that erupted over the new ad.

“If anyone doesn’t get the metaphor, they are either lying or dumb,” campaign manager Dylan Johnson said in statement.

The firestorm enveloping Greitens follows a well-worn playbook that has helped other Republican candidates juice their standing: Make an inflammatory statement or ad, wait for a backlash to develop, then cite the backlash while trying to raise money from grassroots donors online. In Greitens’ case, the actions taken by the social media giants could prove to be a further boon,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-twitter-inc-technology-reno-nevada-d4814871d69a3dba034cafa09af56ea7">tapping into resentment</a>&nbsp;toward large technology companies that increasingly courses through the Republican Party.

Once a swing state, Missouri has become more reliably Republican in recent years. But the Senate race is nonetheless receiving national attention because some in the GOP establishment are anxious that, if Greitens wins the primary, he would be vulnerable against a Democrat in November. With the Senate evenly divided, the GOP can’t afford to lose what would otherwise be a safe seat.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Facebook on Monday removed a campaign video by Republican Missouri U.S. Senate candidate Eric Greitens that shows him brandishing a shotgun and declaring that he’s hunting RINOs, or Republicans In Name Only.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We are sick and tired of the Republicans in Name Only surrendering to Joe Biden &amp; the radical Left. Order your RINO Hunting Permit today! <a href="https://t.co/XLMdJnAzSK">pic.twitter.com/XLMdJnAzSK</a>&mdash; Eric Greitens (@EricGreitens) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricGreitens/status/1538876823978713089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In the ad, Greitens, a former Missouri governor&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-campaigns-missouri-jefferson-city-criminal-investigations-2457c44f0ef44394895af26cb0857814">who resigned in disgrace</a>&nbsp;in 2018, is flanked by a tactical unit outside a home on a tree-lined street as he whispers, “The RINO feeds on corruption and is marked by the stripes of cowardice,” using a term popularized by former President Donald Trump and his allies to deride moderate or establishment Republicans.The armed tactical team breaks through the front door and throws what appear to be flash-bang grenades inside. Greitens enters an empty living room through the smoke and says: “Join the MAGA crew. Get a RINO hunting permit. There’s no bagging limit, no tagging limit and it doesn’t expire until we save our country.”Facebook said the video was removed “for violating our policies prohibiting violence and incitement.” Twitter said Greitens’ post violated its rules about abusive behavior but said it was leaving it up because it was in the “public’s interest” for the tweet to be viewable. The company’s move prevented the post from being shared any further.The video comes at a time of renewed focus on violence in politics following fatal mass shootings and threats to government officials. Two weeks ago, a man carrying a gun, a knife and zip ties was arrested near Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s house after threatening to kill the justice. Around the same time, a gunman killed a retired county judge in Wisconsin before fatally shooting himself, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-gretchen-whitmer-michigan-wisconsin-shootings-0c6e4877dfe366eda990e2f401ab74ef">he had a list</a>&nbsp;that included the names of Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers.On Sunday, Republican Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, one of two Republicans serving on the House committee investigating the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection, said he recently received a letter at his home threatening “to execute me, as well as my wife and 5-month-old child.”Greitens is among the Republican candidates in a highly competitive Aug. 2 primary to fill the seat being vacated by retiring GOP Sen. Roy Blunt. The provocative new ad appeared as Greitens looks to improve his standing in the polls, jolt lackluster fundraising and move past graphic allegations of domestic abuse made in a sworn affidavit filed by his ex-wife in March in their child custody case.Sheena Greitens has alleged that Eric Greitens was physically abusive to her and one of their sons, while demonstrating such “unstable and coercive behavior” that steps were taken to limit his access to firearms, court documents state.The former governor has vehemently denied the allegations, but they’ve dogged him on the campaign trail. He resigned in 2018 amid criminal investigations and after he was accused of having an extramarital affair with his hairdresser and taking a compromising photo of her to keep her from talking about it.Helen Wade, Sheena Greitens’ lawyer, told The Kansas City Star that she would “absolutely” use the new campaign video in the couple’s court case.“This is over the line,” Wade told the newspaper while indicating she would file court papers to make the video an exhibit in the case. Wade did not respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.Republican Caleb Rowden, majority leader of the Missouri state Senate, tweeted: “We have been in contact with the Missouri Highway Patrol and hope that former Gov. Greitens finds the help he needs. Anyone with multiple accusations of abuse toward women and children should probably steer clear of this rhetoric.”Other candidates in the Senate race also condemned the video.Republican state Sen. Dave Schatz called it “completely irresponsible.”“That’s why I’m running. It’s time to restore sanity and reject this nonsense. Missouri deserves better,” Schatz said in a tweet.Democratic Senate candidate Lucas Kunce tweeted that “terrorists, child abusers, and criminals” like Greitens “shouldn’t even be able to get a weapon.”“Help me beat this guy in November, and I’ll keep our families safe from criminals like him,” Kunce said.The Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, which has endorsed state Attorney General Eric Schmitt in the Republican Senate race, denounced Greitens’ video, saying it shows that Greitens “does not possess the sound judgment necessary” to represent the state and that “he has learned nothing from the legal problems” that preceded his resignation as governor.Greitens’ campaign dismissed the outrage that erupted over the new ad.“If anyone doesn’t get the metaphor, they are either lying or dumb,” campaign manager Dylan Johnson said in statement.The firestorm enveloping Greitens follows a well-worn playbook that has helped other Republican candidates juice their standing: Make an inflammatory statement or ad, wait for a backlash to develop, then cite the backlash while trying to raise money from grassroots donors online. In Greitens’ case, the actions taken by the social media giants could prove to be a further boon,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-twitter-inc-technology-reno-nevada-d4814871d69a3dba034cafa09af56ea7">tapping into resentment</a>&nbsp;toward large technology companies that increasingly courses through the Republican Party.Once a swing state, Missouri has become more reliably Republican in recent years. But the Senate race is nonetheless receiving national attention because some in the GOP establishment are anxious that, if Greitens wins the primary, he would be vulnerable against a Democrat in November. With the Senate evenly divided, the GOP can’t afford to lose what would otherwise be a safe seat.

Facebook removes U.S. Senate candidate's 'RINO hunting' video

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting in May in Garden City have a accused a Kansas felon in connection with the crime.

On May 10, police responded to a shooting in the 1400 block of A Street in Garden City, according to a media release. At the scene, police located two individuals with gunshot wounds.&nbsp; EMS transported the victims to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment.

On Friday, police arrested 20-year-old Jalen Paxson in connection with the incident. Paxson was already in custody after Kansas Department of Corrections Agents conducted a home visit with Paxson who was on parole.

During&nbsp; search of the residence, officers found suspected THC, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm. In addition to the requested&nbsp; charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of THC, he is being held on requested charges of Attempted First-Degree Murder, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Criminal Possession of a Firearm.&nbsp;

Paxson has previous convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1654285724238.png" alt="Paxson has previous convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Paxson has previous convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a shooting in May in Garden City have a accused a Kansas felon in connection with the crime.On May 10, police responded to a shooting in the 1400 block of A Street in Garden City, according to a media release. At the scene, police located two individuals with gunshot wounds.&nbsp; EMS transported the victims to St. Catherine Hospital for treatment.On Friday, police arrested 20-year-old Jalen Paxson in connection with the incident. Paxson was already in custody after Kansas Department of Corrections Agents conducted a home visit with Paxson who was on parole.During&nbsp; search of the residence, officers found suspected THC, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm. In addition to the requested&nbsp; charges of&nbsp;&nbsp;Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of THC, he is being held on requested charges of Attempted First-Degree Murder, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Criminal Possession of a Firearm.&nbsp;Paxson has previous convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.-------

SW Kan. parolee in custody accused of attempted murder

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 3a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 700 block of SE Branner Street in Topeka in reference to a shooting, according to Police&nbsp; Lt. Ronnie Connell.

Officers found one victim identified as Alfredo Campa-Vasquez, 28, of Topeka. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

As a result of the investigation police arrested 30-year-old Nancy Cervantes of Topeka and booked her on a requested charge of Reckless 2nd Degree Murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655584843360.png" alt="Cerantes-photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Cerantes-photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting and have a suspect in custody.Just after 3a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 700 block of SE Branner Street in Topeka in reference to a shooting, according to Police&nbsp; Lt. Ronnie Connell.Officers found one victim identified as Alfredo Campa-Vasquez, 28, of Topeka. He was pronounced dead at the scene.As a result of the investigation police arrested 30-year-old Nancy Cervantes of Topeka and booked her on a requested charge of Reckless 2nd Degree Murder.Police released no additional details.

Police: Kansas woman accused of reckless 2nd degree murder

KANSAS CITY (AP) — As the Supreme Court appears on track to overturn the constitutional right to abortion, progressive prosecutors around the U.S. are declaring they won't enforce some of the most restrictive and punitive anti-abortion laws that GOP-led states have waited years to implement.

The move is sure to rankle Republican lawmakers and governors, with about half the states poised to ban abortion if Roe v. Wade — the 1973 decision establishing a constitutional right to abortion — is weakened or overturned. Many of those Republican-led states have abortion clinics nestled in the large metro areas represented by Democratic district attorneys.

Anti-abortion laws in the U.S. largely shy away from explicitly punishing pregnant women and instead tend to target physicians, who could face loss of their medical license and lengthy prison sentences for performing the procedure illegally. But some abortion restrictions would penalize those who assist in an abortion and others could require women who secured the procedure to testify against those who helped her.

Yet enforcement of these laws will fall largely onto the shoulders of district attorneys, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-tampa-tennessee-nashville-787cae9774f5fa36797ce89bb25932a7">wield wide discretion</a>&nbsp;over whom to charge with crimes. Currently, it's not unusual for prosecutors elected in Democratic counties to voice their resistance to bringing charges under various GOP-backed mandates— ranging from voting restrictions, limits on certain protest activity, laws aimed at LGBTQ people, and restrictions on mask requirements throughout the COVID-19 outbreak.

In 2020, more than 70 prosecutors from blue districts around the country publicized that they wouldn’t bring charges under increasingly stringent laws that states have passed against abortion because they “should not and will not criminalize healthcare decisions.”

And so far, a growing number of prosecutors elected in Democratic counties are promising they won’t pursue the criminal charges that have been tucked inside the harshest of abortion restrictions.

Michigan has become a particular battleground over who will enforce the state's abortion laws. Seven Democratic prosecutors there have vowed they won't enforce the state's long-dormant ban on the procedure, while two Republican prosecutors have joined abortion opponents in seeking to overturn the recent suspension of the 1931 statute.

The law, which makes it a crime to assist in an abortion, has had no practical effect for decades since abortion was legalized nationwide.

“Those archaic statutes are unconstitutionally and dangerously vague, leaving open the potential for criminalizing doctors, nurses, anesthetists, health care providers, office receptionists — virtually anyone who either performs or assists in performing these medical procedures. Even the patient herself could face criminal liability under these statutes,” the prosecutors from the Detroit, Lansing, Flint and Ann Arbor areas wrote in a letter.

In GOP-controlled Tennessee, Nashville's Democratic District Attorney Glenn Funk issued a statement just hours after the leaked draft opinion was published in early May. Funk promised he would stand by his previous position not to prosecute medical practitioners who perform an abortion nor any pregnant woman seeking the procedure.

“I am appalled that this assault on a woman’s personal health decisions is in jeopardy. I stand by my prior statement," Funk said, a day before he won the Democratic primary election against two opponents who declined to state whether they would charge doctors.

Funk's longtime resistance to enforcing the state's abortion laws, as well as several others, has already sparked pushback from Tennessee Republican leaders. Late last year, the General Assembly passed a law allowing the attorney general to intervene in local cases — which includes abortion charges. The law permits the state’s legal chief to ask the Tennessee Supreme Court to appoint a temporary prosecutor when the district attorney has “peremptorily and categorically” refused to charge a case.

To date, the attorney general's office says it has not exercised the new law. Meanwhile, the state's top Republican leaders — who oversee every major political office — have remained mum on Funk's defiant stance, and his office has declined to answer follow up questions.

The National Right to Life Committee, which advocates for abortion restrictions, has developed model legislation in the event Roe is overturned that would, among things, authorize state attorneys general to file charges in abortion cases if local prosecutors refuse.

Chief prosecutors who represent some of Texas' most populated counties recently released a joint statement urging elected prosecutors to resist advancing charges that would “criminalize personal healthcare decisions.”

Like Tennessee, Texas is among the 13 states that have so-called trigger laws — measures that would ban most abortions and take effect almost automatically, should the nation’s highest court overturn the Roe. That ruling is expected to be released by late June or early July.

“Many of these enactments have the potential to fuel attempts by some to criminalize patients, medical professionals, healthcare providers, and others who assist in these medical procedures,” the prosecutors wrote, whose reach include Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and parts of Houston.

The statement came just weeks after a Texas woman was arrested after a grand jury indicted her for murder for allegedly causing “the death of an individual ... by self-induced abortion.” Starr County District Attorney Gocha Allen Ramirez quickly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-texas-arrests-8bb3d77d2fe745e12860ff5d4d668cec">moved to dismiss the charges,</a>&nbsp;pointing out the woman hadn't violated any state laws. Still, the incident only further cemented abortion rights advocates' warnings that prosecutors will be key in how anti-abortion laws are exercised on the local level.

Such decisions come as these lawyers must often win elections in order to take over the top prosecutorial role in their community. While many Republican hopefuls have publicly stated their intention to fully enforce the strictest anti-abortion laws, Democratic candidates are hoping their resistance will be enough to woo enough voters in key states.

In Arizona, Democrat Julie Gunningle quickly announced that she would not prioritize prosecuting doctors or pregnant women in her bid to become Maricopa County attorney, which encompasses the metro Phoenix area. Kris Mayes, the only Democrat running for Arizona attorney general, has also promised she wouldn’t prosecute abortion cases in a state that has both a pre-statehood law that makes all abortion illegal and a new law signed by Republican Gov. Doug Ducey that bans abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy. Both seats were previously held by Republicans.

In Missouri, which has just one clinic — based in St. Louis — that provides abortions for the entire state, progressive prosecutors have shied away from issuing public statements promising to defy anti-abortion laws enacted by Republican state lawmakers. Instead, they warn that the state's trigger law will cause a "slippery slope.

If Roe v. Wade is struck down, St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell, a Democrat, said “it’s going to be open season and it’s going to have a disproportionate effect on poor folks — Black and brown but even poor white folks."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634041318695.png" alt="Photo Planned Parenthood" />
 <figcaption>Photo Planned Parenthood</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — As the Supreme Court appears on track to overturn the constitutional right to abortion, progressive prosecutors around the U.S. are declaring they won't enforce some of the most restrictive and punitive anti-abortion laws that GOP-led states have waited years to implement.The move is sure to rankle Republican lawmakers and governors, with about half the states poised to ban abortion if Roe v. Wade — the 1973 decision establishing a constitutional right to abortion — is weakened or overturned. Many of those Republican-led states have abortion clinics nestled in the large metro areas represented by Democratic district attorneys.Anti-abortion laws in the U.S. largely shy away from explicitly punishing pregnant women and instead tend to target physicians, who could face loss of their medical license and lengthy prison sentences for performing the procedure illegally. But some abortion restrictions would penalize those who assist in an abortion and others could require women who secured the procedure to testify against those who helped her.Yet enforcement of these laws will fall largely onto the shoulders of district attorneys, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-tampa-tennessee-nashville-787cae9774f5fa36797ce89bb25932a7">wield wide discretion</a>&nbsp;over whom to charge with crimes. Currently, it's not unusual for prosecutors elected in Democratic counties to voice their resistance to bringing charges under various GOP-backed mandates— ranging from voting restrictions, limits on certain protest activity, laws aimed at LGBTQ people, and restrictions on mask requirements throughout the COVID-19 outbreak.In 2020, more than 70 prosecutors from blue districts around the country publicized that they wouldn’t bring charges under increasingly stringent laws that states have passed against abortion because they “should not and will not criminalize healthcare decisions.”And so far, a growing number of prosecutors elected in Democratic counties are promising they won’t pursue the criminal charges that have been tucked inside the harshest of abortion restrictions.Michigan has become a particular battleground over who will enforce the state's abortion laws. Seven Democratic prosecutors there have vowed they won't enforce the state's long-dormant ban on the procedure, while two Republican prosecutors have joined abortion opponents in seeking to overturn the recent suspension of the 1931 statute.The law, which makes it a crime to assist in an abortion, has had no practical effect for decades since abortion was legalized nationwide.“Those archaic statutes are unconstitutionally and dangerously vague, leaving open the potential for criminalizing doctors, nurses, anesthetists, health care providers, office receptionists — virtually anyone who either performs or assists in performing these medical procedures. Even the patient herself could face criminal liability under these statutes,” the prosecutors from the Detroit, Lansing, Flint and Ann Arbor areas wrote in a letter.In GOP-controlled Tennessee, Nashville's Democratic District Attorney Glenn Funk issued a statement just hours after the leaked draft opinion was published in early May. Funk promised he would stand by his previous position not to prosecute medical practitioners who perform an abortion nor any pregnant woman seeking the procedure.“I am appalled that this assault on a woman’s personal health decisions is in jeopardy. I stand by my prior statement," Funk said, a day before he won the Democratic primary election against two opponents who declined to state whether they would charge doctors.Funk's longtime resistance to enforcing the state's abortion laws, as well as several others, has already sparked pushback from Tennessee Republican leaders. Late last year, the General Assembly passed a law allowing the attorney general to intervene in local cases — which includes abortion charges. The law permits the state’s legal chief to ask the Tennessee Supreme Court to appoint a temporary prosecutor when the district attorney has “peremptorily and categorically” refused to charge a case.To date, the attorney general's office says it has not exercised the new law. Meanwhile, the state's top Republican leaders — who oversee every major political office — have remained mum on Funk's defiant stance, and his office has declined to answer follow up questions.The National Right to Life Committee, which advocates for abortion restrictions, has developed model legislation in the event Roe is overturned that would, among things, authorize state attorneys general to file charges in abortion cases if local prosecutors refuse.Chief prosecutors who represent some of Texas' most populated counties recently released a joint statement urging elected prosecutors to resist advancing charges that would “criminalize personal healthcare decisions.”Like Tennessee, Texas is among the 13 states that have so-called trigger laws — measures that would ban most abortions and take effect almost automatically, should the nation’s highest court overturn the Roe. That ruling is expected to be released by late June or early July.“Many of these enactments have the potential to fuel attempts by some to criminalize patients, medical professionals, healthcare providers, and others who assist in these medical procedures,” the prosecutors wrote, whose reach include Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and parts of Houston.The statement came just weeks after a Texas woman was arrested after a grand jury indicted her for murder for allegedly causing “the death of an individual ... by self-induced abortion.” Starr County District Attorney Gocha Allen Ramirez quickly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-texas-arrests-8bb3d77d2fe745e12860ff5d4d668cec">moved to dismiss the charges,</a>&nbsp;pointing out the woman hadn't violated any state laws. Still, the incident only further cemented abortion rights advocates' warnings that prosecutors will be key in how anti-abortion laws are exercised on the local level.Such decisions come as these lawyers must often win elections in order to take over the top prosecutorial role in their community. While many Republican hopefuls have publicly stated their intention to fully enforce the strictest anti-abortion laws, Democratic candidates are hoping their resistance will be enough to woo enough voters in key states.In Arizona, Democrat Julie Gunningle quickly announced that she would not prioritize prosecuting doctors or pregnant women in her bid to become Maricopa County attorney, which encompasses the metro Phoenix area. Kris Mayes, the only Democrat running for Arizona attorney general, has also promised she wouldn’t prosecute abortion cases in a state that has both a pre-statehood law that makes all abortion illegal and a new law signed by Republican Gov. Doug Ducey that bans abortion after 15 weeks of pregnancy. Both seats were previously held by Republicans.In Missouri, which has just one clinic — based in St. Louis — that provides abortions for the entire state, progressive prosecutors have shied away from issuing public statements promising to defy anti-abortion laws enacted by Republican state lawmakers. Instead, they warn that the state's trigger law will cause a "slippery slope.If Roe v. Wade is struck down, St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell, a Democrat, said “it’s going to be open season and it’s going to have a disproportionate effect on poor folks — Black and brown but even poor white folks."___

If Roe falls, some DAs won't enforce anti-abortion laws

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Four officers won’t face criminal charges for shooting and killing a man armed with a gun who tried to drive through a wildfire evacuation checkpoint near a Northern California marijuana farm last summer, the Siskiyou County district attorney said Tuesday.

Soobleej Kaub Hawj, 35, of Kansas City, Kansas, was driving a pickup truck loaded with guns and 132 pounds of marijuana when he ignored orders to turn west onto a main road at a checkpoint June 24 as a lightning-sparked fire threatened a rural Big Springs area near the Oregon border, District Attorney Kirk Andrus said.

Hawj, who had both amphetamines and methamphetamine in his system, pulled a .45-caliber handgun and pointed it at a law enforcement officer, causing other officers to open fire, Andrus said in a letter to law enforcement agencies explaining his decision, the Sacramento Bee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article262521522.html?ac_cid=DM659273&amp;ac_bid=176585101" target="_blank">reported.</a>

Hawj was struck several times in the head, chest, arms and legs. In addition to the handgun and the marijuana, investigators found another handgun and two loaded assault rifles with large magazines, the letter said.

The shooting sparked accusations that racism played a role in the shooting of Hawj, who was a member of the Hmong ethnic group.

Authorities last year said the Mount Shasta Vista subdivision in the Big Springs area had as many as 6,000 greenhouses illegally growing marijuana, with the farms mostly run by people of Hmong and Chinese descent.

The county has tried to crack down on the illegal grows, in part by prohibiting trucked-in water deliveries to Hmong farmers who run illegal operations.

The growers sued and last fall a federal judge issued a temporary injunction against the ban, saying the practice raises “serious questions” about racial discrimination and leaves the growers without a source of water for drinking, bathing and growing food.

In his letter, however, Andrus said the fire checkpoint wasn’t being used to find marijuana but merely to get people out of an area endangered by the fire. Hawj, however, may have thought he would be stopped and searched, Andrus said.

“He had a cash crop in the back of his truck that he apparently was willing to defend,” Andrus wrote. “He may have had the misapprehension that residents were being funneled into an area where they would be searched for marijuana. He would have been wrong.”

Hawj also had an arrest warrant out of Mesa County, Colorado, where he was wanted for marijuana and firearms felonies, the newspaper said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655307316932.png" alt="The truck was loaded with guns and 132 pounds of marijuana-photo courtesy Siskiyou County District Attorney's Office" />
 <figcaption>The truck was loaded with guns and 132 pounds of marijuana-photo courtesy Siskiyou County District Attorney's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Four officers won’t face criminal charges for shooting and killing a man armed with a gun who tried to drive through a wildfire evacuation checkpoint near a Northern California marijuana farm last summer, the Siskiyou County district attorney said Tuesday.Soobleej Kaub Hawj, 35, of Kansas City, Kansas, was driving a pickup truck loaded with guns and 132 pounds of marijuana when he ignored orders to turn west onto a main road at a checkpoint June 24 as a lightning-sparked fire threatened a rural Big Springs area near the Oregon border, District Attorney Kirk Andrus said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655307259383.png" alt="Hawj, who had both amphetamines and methamphetamine in his system, pulled a .45-caliber handgun and pointed it at a law enforcement officer, causing other officers to open fire-photo courtesy Siskiyou County District Attorney's Office" />
 <figcaption>Hawj, who had both amphetamines and methamphetamine in his system, pulled a .45-caliber handgun and pointed it at a law enforcement officer, causing other officers to open fire-photo courtesy Siskiyou County District Attorney's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>The blaze forced thousands to flee.Hawj, who had both amphetamines and methamphetamine in his system, pulled a .45-caliber handgun and pointed it at a law enforcement officer, causing other officers to open fire, Andrus said in a letter to law enforcement agencies explaining his decision, the Sacramento Bee&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/article262521522.html?ac_cid=DM659273&amp;ac_bid=176585101" target="_blank">reported.</a>Hawj was struck several times in the head, chest, arms and legs. In addition to the handgun and the marijuana, investigators found another handgun and two loaded assault rifles with large magazines, the letter said.The shooting sparked accusations that racism played a role in the shooting of Hawj, who was a member of the Hmong ethnic group.Authorities last year said the Mount Shasta Vista subdivision in the Big Springs area had as many as 6,000 greenhouses illegally growing marijuana, with the farms mostly run by people of Hmong and Chinese descent.The county has tried to crack down on the illegal grows, in part by prohibiting trucked-in water deliveries to Hmong farmers who run illegal operations.The growers sued and last fall a federal judge issued a temporary injunction against the ban, saying the practice raises “serious questions” about racial discrimination and leaves the growers without a source of water for drinking, bathing and growing food.In his letter, however, Andrus said the fire checkpoint wasn’t being used to find marijuana but merely to get people out of an area endangered by the fire. Hawj, however, may have thought he would be stopped and searched, Andrus said.“He had a cash crop in the back of his truck that he apparently was willing to defend,” Andrus wrote. “He may have had the misapprehension that residents were being funneled into an area where they would be searched for marijuana. He would have been wrong.”Hawj also had an arrest warrant out of Mesa County, Colorado, where he was wanted for marijuana and firearms felonies, the newspaper said.

Officers won't be charged for Kan. man's death at fire checkpoint

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have two suspects in custody.

During the nighttime hours of Thursday, multiple thefts from motor vehicles and a theft of a motor vehicle occurred at residences in the 6000 block of SW Pointe Drive in Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

The suspects took thousands of dollars’ worth of items including a 2014 Lincoln MKX SUV, cash, personal items and financial cards.

During the investigation, photos and videos were obtained from the neighborhood and local businesses where stolen financial cards were used.&nbsp; Officials positively identified two individuals. 

On Tuesday, police arrested 25-year-old Aaron M. Griffith of Topeka in the 2400 block of SW Hillcrest Road. Griffith was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of conspiracy, identity theft, burglary to a vehicle, theft, criminal damage and criminal use of a financial charge.&nbsp;

Later that day, deputies arrested 27-year-old Halie N. Clinton of Topeka&nbsp; near SW 61st Street and SW Urish Road during a hit and run accident investigation.

Clinton had a warrant for her arrest. Clinton was later booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of conspiracy to commit burglary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655387582173.png" alt="Griffith-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Griffith-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have two suspects in custody.During the nighttime hours of Thursday, multiple thefts from motor vehicles and a theft of a motor vehicle occurred at residences in the 6000 block of SW Pointe Drive in Shawnee County, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.The suspects took thousands of dollars’ worth of items including a 2014 Lincoln MKX SUV, cash, personal items and financial cards.During the investigation, photos and videos were obtained from the neighborhood and local businesses where stolen financial cards were used.&nbsp; Officials positively identified two individuals. On Tuesday, police arrested 25-year-old Aaron M. Griffith of Topeka in the 2400 block of SW Hillcrest Road. Griffith was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of conspiracy, identity theft, burglary to a vehicle, theft, criminal damage and criminal use of a financial charge.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655387493473.png" alt="Clinton-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Clinton-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Later that day, deputies arrested 27-year-old Halie N. Clinton of Topeka&nbsp; near SW 61st Street and SW Urish Road during a hit and run accident investigation.Clinton had a warrant for her arrest. Clinton was later booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of conspiracy to commit burglary.

Sheriff: Kan. burglary suspects took cash, financial cards and SUV

On the evening hours on June 16th and June 17th, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Agency and the County Attorney’s Office, conducted a directed enforcement operation within Geary County.

During the 16 hour operation 17 arrests were made. The operation totaled 11 drug cases, 9 of which were for methamphetamine, fentanyl and/or “Dirty 30” pills (fentanyl-laced opioid pills). The operation recovered 1 stolen firearm; had a Driving Under the Influence arrest and cleared 6 active arrest warrants.

On the evening hours on June 16th and June 17th, the Geary County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Agency and the County Attorney’s Office, conducted a directed enforcement operation within Geary County.During the 16 hour operation 17 arrests were made. The operation totaled 11 drug cases, 9 of which were for methamphetamine, fentanyl and/or “Dirty 30” pills (fentanyl-laced opioid pills). The operation recovered 1 stolen firearm; had a Driving Under the Influence arrest and cleared 6 active arrest warrants.

Sheriff's Department conducts enforcement operation

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities arrested a Montgomery, Alabama man&nbsp; Thursday afternoon on Interstate 70 west of Salina after more than 27 pounds of marijuana and marijuana products were found in the rental vehicle he was driving.

Just before 3p.m., a deputy stopped an eastbound 2021 Chrysler Voyager on Interstate 70 just west of Halstead Road for an alleged traffic violation, according to Sheriff's Captain Jim Hughes

During a search of the vehicle, the deputy located 18 packages of raw marijuana weighing a total of 15.45 pounds. Additionally, 11.6 pounds of THC wax and THC edibles were located in the vehicle, Hughes said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655479246400.jpeg" alt="Willie Boswell-photo Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Willie Boswell-photo Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostSALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities arrested a Montgomery, Alabama man&nbsp; Thursday afternoon on Interstate 70 west of Salina after more than 27 pounds of marijuana and marijuana products were found in the rental vehicle he was driving.Just before 3p.m., a deputy stopped an eastbound 2021 Chrysler Voyager on Interstate 70 just west of Halstead Road for an alleged traffic violation, according to Sheriff's Captain Jim HughesDuring a search of the vehicle, the deputy located 18 packages of raw marijuana weighing a total of 15.45 pounds. Additionally, 11.6 pounds of THC wax and THC edibles were located in the vehicle, Hughes said.Deputies also found a set of brass knuckles near the driver's seatDeputies arrested the driver of the rental vehicle, Willie Boswell, 49, of Montgomery, Ala., on requested charges of Possession of marijuana with intent to distribution, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Criminal use of a weapon and Failure to signal a lane change.Four others in the vehicle were not arrested, according to Hughes.