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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police: Kan. man crashed  SUV he drove without permission

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police find heroin, cocaine and guns at Kansas home

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buprenorphine and other treatments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fentanyl test strips and naloxone supplies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas lags other states on steps to help fight opioid deaths

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

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

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

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

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

75-year-old KC-area man accused of being fake police officer

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

Just before noon Friday,&nbsp;&nbsp;deputies served an Osage County arrest warrant in the 300 block of North 3rd Street in Quenemo, according to sheriff Chris Wells.

Deputies arrested 57-year-old Chris W. Fine of Quenemo and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility for the warrant.

After arriving at the jail facility, suspected methamphetamine was in Fine’s possession. Fine was booked into jail on the warrant. He also faced requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646451957138.png" alt="Fine-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Fine-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges.Just before noon Friday,&nbsp;&nbsp;deputies served an Osage County arrest warrant in the 300 block of North 3rd Street in Quenemo, according to sheriff Chris Wells.Deputies arrested 57-year-old Chris W. Fine of Quenemo and transported him to the Osage County Jail Facility for the warrant.After arriving at the jail facility, suspected methamphetamine was in Fine’s possession. Fine was booked into jail on the warrant. He also faced requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

Kansas deputies found meth while booking suspect into jail

WNBA All-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wnba.com/player/brittney-griner/">Brittney Griner</a> was arrested last month at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities said a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges. Griner was a three time Big 12 player of the year 2011, 2012, and 2013 at Baylor.

The Russian Customs Service said Saturday that the cartridges were identified as containing oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The customs service identified the person arrested as a player for the U.S. women’s team and did not specify the date of her arrest. Russian media reported the player was Griner, and her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, did not dispute those reports.

“We are aware of the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia and are in close contact with her, her legal representation in Russia, her family, her teams, and the WNBA and NBA,” Kagawa Colas said Saturday. “As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are not able to comment further on the specifics of her case but can confirm that as we work to get her home, her mental and physical health remain our primary concern.”

On Saturday, the State Department issued a “do not travel” advisory for Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine and urged all U.S. citizens to depart immediately, citing factors including “the potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials” and “the Embassy’s limited ability to assist” Americans in Russia.

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

More than a dozen WNBA players were playing in Russia and Ukraine this winter, including league MVP Jonquel Jones and Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley of the champion Chicago Sky. The WNBA confirmed Saturday that all players besides Griner had left both countries.

The 31-year-old Griner has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star.

“Brittney Griner has the WNBA’s full support and our main priority is her swift and safe return to the United States,” the league said in a statement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646510097872.png" alt="Griner photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury" />
 <figcaption>Griner photo courtesy Phoenix Mercury</figcaption>
 </figure>By DOUG FEINBERG, Associated PressWNBA All-Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wnba.com/player/brittney-griner/">Brittney Griner</a> was arrested last month at a Moscow airport after Russian authorities said a search of her luggage revealed vape cartridges. Griner was a three time Big 12 player of the year 2011, 2012, and 2013 at Baylor.The Russian Customs Service said Saturday that the cartridges were identified as containing oil derived from cannabis, which could carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The customs service identified the person arrested as a player for the U.S. women’s team and did not specify the date of her arrest. Russian media reported the player was Griner, and her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, did not dispute those reports.“We are aware of the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia and are in close contact with her, her legal representation in Russia, her family, her teams, and the WNBA and NBA,” Kagawa Colas said Saturday. “As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are not able to comment further on the specifics of her case but can confirm that as we work to get her home, her mental and physical health remain our primary concern.”On Saturday, the State Department issued a “do not travel” advisory for Russia because of its invasion of Ukraine and urged all U.S. citizens to depart immediately, citing factors including “the potential for harassment against U.S. citizens by Russian government security officials” and “the Embassy’s limited ability to assist” Americans in Russia.Griner, who plays for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, has played in Russia for the last seven years in the winter, earning over $1 million per season — more than quadruple her WNBA salary. She last played for her Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg on Jan. 29 before the league took a two-week break in early February for the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournaments.More than a dozen WNBA players were playing in Russia and Ukraine this winter, including league MVP Jonquel Jones and Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley of the champion Chicago Sky. The WNBA confirmed Saturday that all players besides Griner had left both countries.The 31-year-old Griner has won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S., a WNBA championship with the Mercury and a national championship at Baylor. She is a seven-time All-Star.“Brittney Griner has the WNBA’s full support and our main priority is her swift and safe return to the United States,” the league said in a statement.

Russia jails 3-time Big 12 player of the year Griner on drug charges

RUSH COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Special Agents made multiple arrests connected to the January 2022 murder of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, according to a media release from the KBI.

Just before 8:30p.m. Friday, Jennifer Page Stipe, 48, and Darin Lee McBee, 58, both of 325 Marla Street in Great Bend, Kan. were arrested. 

Stipe was arrested on a requested charge of first degree murder. McBee was arrested on requested charges that include multiple felonies related to the murder. 

The arrest took place at&nbsp;Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot at 1930 East 17th&nbsp;Ave. in Hutchinson. Authorities also located the missing 2006 GMC Envoy.&nbsp;On Jan. 21, a family member found Leslie Randa deceased in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

The Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;is expected to prosecute the case.

RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office continue their search for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the January 21 homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse.

 The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. 

 The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. 

If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.

A family member found Leslie Randa in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646497053839.png" alt="Stipe is being held in Ford Co." />
 <figcaption>Stipe is being held in Ford Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSH COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) Special Agents made multiple arrests connected to the January 2022 murder of 61-year-old Leslie Randa, according to a media release from the KBI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646497116590.png" alt="McBee photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>McBee photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 8:30p.m. Friday, Jennifer Page Stipe, 48, and Darin Lee McBee, 58, both of 325 Marla Street in Great Bend, Kan. were arrested. Stipe was arrested on a requested charge of first degree murder. McBee was arrested on requested charges that include multiple felonies related to the murder. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643198011225.png" alt="Photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>The arrest took place at&nbsp;Lowe’s Home Improvement parking lot at 1930 East 17th&nbsp;Ave. in Hutchinson. Authorities also located the missing 2006 GMC Envoy.&nbsp;On Jan. 21, a family member found Leslie Randa deceased in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.The Kansas Attorney General&nbsp;is expected to prosecute the case.------------RUSH COUNTY– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and Rush County Sheriff’s Office continue their search for a Black 2006 GMC Envoy in connection with the January 21 homicide of 61-year-old Leslie Randa of La Crosse. The vehicle has Kansas tag 463HAE&nbsp; and front grill guard is chrome. The SUV was observed in Wichita after Randa was killed, and may still be in the Wichita area. If anyone saw this SUV on January 11, or after, please contact the KBI at 1-800-KSCRIME, or the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 785-222-2578.A family member found Leslie Randa in his home, located at 205 E 5th Street in LaCrosse.

KBI: 2 suspects arrested in Kansas homicide investigation

DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on Friday arrested a man who was formerly an officer of the Lawrence Police Department, according to a media release from the agency.

On Nov. 1, 2021, the Lawrence Police Department requested KBI assistance after they received a report that day from a female subject alleging that one of their officers, Jonathan, M. Gardner, 41, of Tonganoxie, had sexually assaulted her while he was on duty. The crime is suspected to have occurred on Jan. 1, 2017.

KBI agents initiated an investigation. The Lawrence Police Department cooperated fully with the case. Soon after Gardner was separated from employment with the Police Department, according to the KBI.

Just after 8a.m. Friday, KBI agents arrested Gardner near the intersection of Smiley Road and Highway 40. The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with the arrest.

Gardner is being held requested charge of one count of rape, 12 counts of unlawful acts concerning computers, and 12 counts of official misconduct. The charges of official misconduct and unlawful acts with computers claim Gardner committed illegal and unauthorized searches of the Kansas Criminal Justice Information System (KCJIS), as well as internal police department public safety systems between 2017 and 2020.

Lawrence Police Chief Lockhart said, “I am appalled by the alleged conduct of Gardner. Those alleged actions are not consistent with the values of the department and, if true, Gardner violated the trust of the community he was sworn to serve. The conduct Gardner is accused of is not tolerated by the department. The department acted swiftly when notified of the allegation and is grateful to the Kansas Bureau of

Investigation for its investigation into this matter. Most importantly, I would like to extend my appreciation to the community member who possessed the courage and bravery to come forward and report this allegation to our agency.”

Gardner was booked into the Leavenworth County Jail and&nbsp; issued a $50,000 bond. He is no longer in custody.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646425128295.png" alt="Gardner-photo Leavenworth County" />
 <figcaption>Gardner-photo Leavenworth County</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY&nbsp;–&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) on Friday arrested a man who was formerly an officer of the Lawrence Police Department, according to a media release from the agency.On Nov. 1, 2021, the Lawrence Police Department requested KBI assistance after they received a report that day from a female subject alleging that one of their officers, Jonathan, M. Gardner, 41, of Tonganoxie, had sexually assaulted her while he was on duty. The crime is suspected to have occurred on Jan. 1, 2017.KBI agents initiated an investigation. The Lawrence Police Department cooperated fully with the case. Soon after Gardner was separated from employment with the Police Department, according to the KBI.Just after 8a.m. Friday, KBI agents arrested Gardner near the intersection of Smiley Road and Highway 40. The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted with the arrest.Gardner is being held requested charge of one count of rape, 12 counts of unlawful acts concerning computers, and 12 counts of official misconduct. The charges of official misconduct and unlawful acts with computers claim Gardner committed illegal and unauthorized searches of the Kansas Criminal Justice Information System (KCJIS), as well as internal police department public safety systems between 2017 and 2020.Lawrence Police Chief Lockhart said, “I am appalled by the alleged conduct of Gardner. Those alleged actions are not consistent with the values of the department and, if true, Gardner violated the trust of the community he was sworn to serve. The conduct Gardner is accused of is not tolerated by the department. The department acted swiftly when notified of the allegation and is grateful to the Kansas Bureau ofInvestigation for its investigation into this matter. Most importantly, I would like to extend my appreciation to the community member who possessed the courage and bravery to come forward and report this allegation to our agency.”Gardner was booked into the Leavenworth County Jail and&nbsp; issued a $50,000 bond. He is no longer in custody.

KBI: Former Kan. officer accused of rape while on duty

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A former Kansas City police detective has been sentenced to six years in prison for fatally shooting a Black man who was backing a pickup truck into a garage in 2019. 

Eric DeValkenaere, who is white, was sentenced Friday afternoon to three years for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and six years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run at the same time. He was convicted in November of killing 26-year-old Cameron Lamb. 

DeValkenaere will not go to prison immediately after his sentencing, however. Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled in February that the former detective will be allowed to remain free while he appeals his conviction. DeValkenaere's attorneys had argued he was not a threat to flee.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City police detective was to be sentenced Friday for the death of a Black man who was shot while backing a pickup truck into a garage but he will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed.

Eric DeValkenaere, 43,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November of second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.

Prosecutors had recommended that Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs sentence DeValkenaere, who is white, to four years for involuntary manslaughter and nine years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run at the same time.

Youngs, who convicted DeValkenaere after a bench trial, ruled in February that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">he could remain free&nbsp;</a>while his conviction is appealed.

DeValkenaere’s attorney, Molly Hastings, argued the former detective was not a flight risk and noted the judge found “no evidence of malice” in DeValkenaere’s conduct.

The judge has said that he had never in 13 years on the bench allowed a defendant to remain free on bond after a conviction. But he said he did not believe it would be necessary to jail the former detective without bond to ensure he appeared at future court proceedings.

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

DeValkenaere testified during his trial that he shot Lamb as he was backing his pickup truck into a garage where he lived because Lamb pointed a gun at another detective, Troy Schwalm.

The plainclothes detectives had followed Lamb to the property to investigate an earlier report that he had chased his girlfriend in a stolen pickup truck.

Prosecutors alleged a gun found near Lamb's truck after the shooting was planted and the crime scene was staged. They also said the detectives had no reason to be on Lamb's property.

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619745438017.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Dec. 2019 shooting investigation photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Dec. 2019 shooting investigation photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — A former Kansas City police detective has been sentenced to six years in prison for fatally shooting a Black man who was backing a pickup truck into a garage in 2019. Eric DeValkenaere, who is white, was sentenced Friday afternoon to three years for second-degree involuntary manslaughter and six years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run at the same time. He was convicted in November of killing 26-year-old Cameron Lamb. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592994941014.png" alt="-DeValkenaere-photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>-DeValkenaere-photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>DeValkenaere will not go to prison immediately after his sentencing, however. Judge J. Dale Youngs ruled in February that the former detective will be allowed to remain free while he appeals his conviction. DeValkenaere's attorneys had argued he was not a threat to flee.----------KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City police detective was to be sentenced Friday for the death of a Black man who was shot while backing a pickup truck into a garage but he will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed.Eric DeValkenaere, 43,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November of second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.Prosecutors had recommended that Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs sentence DeValkenaere, who is white, to four years for involuntary manslaughter and nine years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run at the same time.Youngs, who convicted DeValkenaere after a bench trial, ruled in February that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">he could remain free&nbsp;</a>while his conviction is appealed.DeValkenaere’s attorney, Molly Hastings, argued the former detective was not a flight risk and noted the judge found “no evidence of malice” in DeValkenaere’s conduct.The judge has said that he had never in 13 years on the bench allowed a defendant to remain free on bond after a conviction. But he said he did not believe it would be necessary to jail the former detective without bond to ensure he appeared at future court proceedings.DeValkenaere has been free on $30,000 bond since he was convicted.DeValkenaere testified during his trial that he shot Lamb as he was backing his pickup truck into a garage where he lived because Lamb pointed a gun at another detective, Troy Schwalm.The plainclothes detectives had followed Lamb to the property to investigate an earlier report that he had chased his girlfriend in a stolen pickup truck.Prosecutors alleged a gun found near Lamb's truck after the shooting was planted and the crime scene was staged. They also said the detectives had no reason to be on Lamb's property.When he convicted DeValkenaere, Youngs said the detectives violated Lamb's constitutional rights because they had no probable cause to believe he had committed a crime, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He did not address the allegations that evidence had been planted.DeVlakenaere was suspended from the police force after his conviction and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-2af535a9a637024a23b3530c1c20cc2e">left the force&nbsp;</a>in January. Police have not said if he was fired, resigned or retired.

Ex-KC detective sentenced for Black man's shooting death

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged&nbsp;domestic battery in Manhattan and have made an arrest.

Just after 8p.m. Thursday, offices filed a report for domestic battery and criminal damage to property in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

A 20-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man reported a 21-year-old suspect threw a cigar at the female victim's face and a 20-year-old suspect threw the male victim's gold teeth inserts, damaging them.

The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,200. Radarius Mack, 21, of Fort Riley was arrested in connection for domestic battery. He is currently confined in the Riley County Jail with a $2,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged&nbsp;domestic battery in Manhattan and have made an arrest.Just after 8p.m. Thursday, offices filed a report for domestic battery and criminal damage to property in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.A 20-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man reported a 21-year-old suspect threw a cigar at the female victim's face and a 20-year-old suspect threw the male victim's gold teeth inserts, damaging them.The estimated total loss associated with this case is approximately $1,200. Radarius Mack, 21, of Fort Riley was arrested in connection for domestic battery. He is currently confined in the Riley County Jail with a $2,000 bond.

RCPD: Suspects threw gold teeth inserts, cigar at victims

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619745438017.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Dec. 2019 shooting investigation photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Dec. 2019 shooting investigation photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A former Kansas City police detective was to be sentenced Friday for the death of a Black man who was shot while backing a pickup truck into a garage but he will remain free on bond while his conviction is appealed.Eric DeValkenaere, 43,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-race-and-ethnicity-kansas-city-933d3aba9b37c83145fba5818d557c02">was convicted</a>&nbsp;in November of second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in the death of 26-year-old Cameron Lamb on Dec. 3, 2019.Prosecutors had recommended that Jackson County Circuit Court Presiding Judge J. Dale Youngs sentence DeValkenaere, who is white, to four years for involuntary manslaughter and nine years for armed criminal action, with the sentences to run at the same time.Youngs, who convicted DeValkenaere after a bench trial, ruled in February that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-kansas-cdc43324871862f01222a6ca29ef317f">he could remain free&nbsp;</a>while his conviction is appealed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592994941014.png" alt="DeValkenaere-photo KCPD" />
 <figcaption>DeValkenaere-photo KCPD</figcaption>
 </figure>DeValkenaere’s attorney, Molly Hastings, argued the former detective was not a flight risk and noted the judge found “no evidence of malice” in DeValkenaere’s conduct.The judge has said that he had never in 13 years on the bench allowed a defendant to remain free on bond after a conviction. But he said he did not believe it would be necessary to jail the former detective without bond to ensure he appeared at future court proceedings.DeValkenaere has been free on $30,000 bond since he was convicted.DeValkenaere testified during his trial that he shot Lamb as he was backing his pickup truck into a garage where he lived because Lamb pointed a gun at another detective, Troy Schwalm.The plainclothes detectives had followed Lamb to the property to investigate an earlier report that he had chased his girlfriend in a stolen pickup truck.Prosecutors alleged a gun found near Lamb's truck after the shooting was planted and the crime scene was staged. They also said the detectives had no reason to be on Lamb's property.When he convicted DeValkenaere, Youngs said the detectives violated Lamb's constitutional rights because they had no probable cause to believe he had committed a crime, had no warrant for Lamb’s arrest and had no search warrant or consent to be on the property. He did not address the allegations that evidence had been planted.DeVlakenaere was suspended from the police force after his conviction and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-police-shootings-kansas-city-2af535a9a637024a23b3530c1c20cc2e">left the force&nbsp;</a>in January. Police have not said if he was fired, resigned or retired.

Ex-KC detective faces sentencing in Black man's death

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a violent drive by shooting.

On Wednesday, officers received information that 24-year-old Tray Robinson was in Wichita and had active warrants in connection with a&nbsp; drive-by investigation&nbsp;in Topeka where a home was shot over 80 times and a 2-year-old girl was critically injured, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

 Officers located Robinson at a home in the 300 block of North Estelle in Wichita and saw that he was armed with a handgun.  Officers were able to communicate with Robinson and he was arrested without incident.

During the investigation, officers recovered multiple handguns, loaded extended magazines, and ammunition.  The Shawnee County DA’s Office has since charged Robinson with attempted murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646343582999.png" alt="Robinson-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Robinson-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for a violent drive by shooting.On Wednesday, officers received information that 24-year-old Tray Robinson was in Wichita and had active warrants in connection with a&nbsp; drive-by investigation&nbsp;in Topeka where a home was shot over 80 times and a 2-year-old girl was critically injured, according to Officer Trevor Macy. Officers located Robinson at a home in the 300 block of North Estelle in Wichita and saw that he was armed with a handgun. Officers were able to communicate with Robinson and he was arrested without incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646343931666.png" alt="photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>During the investigation, officers recovered multiple handguns, loaded extended magazines, and ammunition. The Shawnee County DA’s Office has since charged Robinson with attempted murder.

Police: Violent drive-by shooting injured 2-year-old Kan. girl

MANHATTAN, KAN. –&nbsp;A California man has been arrested in connection to a February 2020 shooting near Aggieville, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

Just after 2:30a.m. Feb. 8, police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired in the 1100 block of Laramie Street.

When officers arrived on scene, they found an unoccupied car that had been shot and through further investigation discovered 30-year-old Travell Hairston had fired several rounds at a 27-year-old male victim.

&nbsp;Hairston of Sacramento, Calif., is already confined in the Riley County Jail for domestic battery and failure to appear and was arrested in connection with the shooting Thursday afternoon and is being held on requested charges of attempted first-degree murder.

He is being held on a $500,000 bond for the shooting arrest, resulting in a total bond of $1,115,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1644087068240.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, KAN. –&nbsp;A California man has been arrested in connection to a February 2020 shooting near Aggieville, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.Just after 2:30a.m. Feb. 8, police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired in the 1100 block of Laramie Street.When officers arrived on scene, they found an unoccupied car that had been shot and through further investigation discovered 30-year-old Travell Hairston had fired several rounds at a 27-year-old male victim.&nbsp;Hairston of Sacramento, Calif., is already confined in the Riley County Jail for domestic battery and failure to appear and was arrested in connection with the shooting Thursday afternoon and is being held on requested charges of attempted first-degree murder.He is being held on a $500,000 bond for the shooting arrest, resulting in a total bond of $1,115,000.

RCPD: Suspect accused of February 2020 shooting near Aggieville

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

What a Salina man left behind aided police in his arrest Wednesday night.

Officers were sent to the 700 block of Moundview Avenue shortly before 11 p.m. Wednesday for the report of a vehicle theft, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.

Someone had entered a residence and stolen a key fob for a 2011 Buick four-door car, which was had been stolen from the attached garage of the residence. The fob was valued at $10 and the car at $10,000, Hanus said.

During the investigation, officers canvassed the neighborhood and heard from a neighbor who told them that a homeless man had been in the area. The neighbor, trying to be a good citizen and help someone in need, gave the man and item to help, Hanus said. Police found that particular item in the residence where the key fob was stolen.

Additionally, the neighbor told police that the man had dropped his ID in the neighbor's yard, Hanus said. The ID was turned over to police.

As officers were exiting the area, they saw a 2011 Buick four-door car with its hood up parked in the lot at Hillside Liquor, 1200 E. Crawford Street, Hanus said. Asleep inside was Anthony M. Langhorst, 32, of Salina, whose ID had been found in the neighbor's yard near the scene of the theft, Hanus said.

Langhorst was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated burglary and Felony theft

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646326177815.png" alt="Anthony M. Langhorst-photo&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Anthony M. Langhorst-photo&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostWhat a Salina man left behind aided police in his arrest Wednesday night.Officers were sent to the 700 block of Moundview Avenue shortly before 11 p.m. Wednesday for the report of a vehicle theft, according to Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus.Someone had entered a residence and stolen a key fob for a 2011 Buick four-door car, which was had been stolen from the attached garage of the residence. The fob was valued at $10 and the car at $10,000, Hanus said.During the investigation, officers canvassed the neighborhood and heard from a neighbor who told them that a homeless man had been in the area. The neighbor, trying to be a good citizen and help someone in need, gave the man and item to help, Hanus said. Police found that particular item in the residence where the key fob was stolen.Additionally, the neighbor told police that the man had dropped his ID in the neighbor's yard, Hanus said. The ID was turned over to police.As officers were exiting the area, they saw a 2011 Buick four-door car with its hood up parked in the lot at Hillside Liquor, 1200 E. Crawford Street, Hanus said. Asleep inside was Anthony M. Langhorst, 32, of Salina, whose ID had been found in the neighbor's yard near the scene of the theft, Hanus said.Langhorst was arrested on requested charges of Aggravated burglary and Felony theft