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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ex-KC officer remains free amid manslaughter appeal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And the investigation also continues.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police find Kansas officer's Taser taken during burglary

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

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

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

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

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

Sheriff: Woman brought large quantity of marijuana to Kansas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sheriff: Kansas man observed using meth while driving

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suspect in attempted Kansas carjacking released on bond

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kansas woman accused of DUI after wrong-way crash

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Man charged in Kansas City Westport-area fatal shooting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Couple jailed after drug bust at Kansas home with children

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

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

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

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

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

Man arrested after long standoff at rural Kansas home

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Police arrest Kansas man for home-invasion burglary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Drug bust leads to arrest of registered Kansas offender

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

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

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

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

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

Police released no suspect information or additional details early Friday.

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

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

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

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

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

RCPD: Manhattan man held on $1 million bond for child sex crimes

HUTCHINSON —Inmate Gabriel Sanchez Jr. has been apprehended after being placed on escape status Friday from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility Minimum Custody South Unit, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Local law enforcement, the Kansas Highway Patrol and KDOC officials collaborated in the search and arrest.

Sanchez is currently serving a sentence for convictions in Reno County for assault and battery of a law enforcement officer and fleeing/eluding local law enforcement.

The escape is currently being investigated.

&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kansas – Kansas Department of Corrections inmate Gabriel Sanchez Jr. has been placed on escape status from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility Minimum Custody South Unit, according to the statement from the KDOC.

Local law enforcement and the Kansas Highway Patrol are aiding in the search.

Sanchez, a 29-year-old while male, has brown&nbsp; hair, brown eyes, is 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 254 pounds.

Anyone with information on Sanches can call the Kansas Department of Corrections at 316-265-5211, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (800) 572-7463 or local law enforcement at 911.

The escape is currently being investigated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645214336468.png" alt="Sanchez-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Sanchez-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON —Inmate Gabriel Sanchez Jr. has been apprehended after being placed on escape status Friday from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility Minimum Custody South Unit, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Local law enforcement, the Kansas Highway Patrol and KDOC officials collaborated in the search and arrest.Sanchez is currently serving a sentence for convictions in Reno County for assault and battery of a law enforcement officer and fleeing/eluding local law enforcement.The escape is currently being investigated.---------&nbsp;TOPEKA, Kansas – Kansas Department of Corrections inmate Gabriel Sanchez Jr. has been placed on escape status from the Hutchinson Correctional Facility Minimum Custody South Unit, according to the statement from the KDOC.Local law enforcement and the Kansas Highway Patrol are aiding in the search.Sanchez, a 29-year-old while male, has brown&nbsp; hair, brown eyes, is 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs 254 pounds.Sanchez is currently serving a sentence for convictions in Reno County for assault and battery of a law enforcement officer and fleeing/eluding local law enforcement.Anyone with information on Sanches can call the Kansas Department of Corrections at 316-265-5211, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation at (800) 572-7463 or local law enforcement at 911.The escape is currently being investigated.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Inmate who escaped Hutch Correctional Facility captured

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The former suburban Minneapolis police officer who said she confused her handgun for her Taser when she fatally shot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-daunte-wright-shootings-police-coronavirus-pandemic-minneapolis-d88c7d626eebcdea975dc249309a4fa5">Daunte Wright</a>&nbsp;was sentenced Friday to two years in prison, a penalty below state guidelines after the judge found mitigating factors warranted a lesser sentence.

Kim Potter was convicted in December of first- and second-degree manslaughter in the April 11 killing of Wright, a 20-year-old Black motorist. She was sentenced only on the more serious charge in accordance with state law.

For someone with no criminal history, such as Potter, the state guidelines on that charge range from slightly more than six years to about 8 1/2 years in prison, with the presumptive sentence being just over seven years.

Prosecutors said the presumptive sentence was proper, but defense attorneys asked for a sentence below the guidelines, including a sentence of probation only.

Judge Regina Chu imposed the sentence after hearing from Wright’s family and Potter.

Wright’s mother said she will never be able to forgive Potter and would only refer to her as “the defendant” because Potter only referred to her 20-year-old son as “the driver” at trial.

“She never once said his name. And for that I’ll never be able to forgive you. And I’ll never be able to forgive you for what you’ve stolen from us,” a tearful Wright said.

“A police officer who was supposed to serve and protect so much took so much away from us ... My life and my world will never ever be the same again,” she said, adding later: “Daunte Demetrius Wright, I will continue to fight in your name until driving while black is no longer a death sentence.”

Wright was killed after Brooklyn Center officers pulled him over for having expired license tags and an air freshener hanging from his rearview mirror. The shooting, which came in the midst of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/derek-chauvin-convicted-george-floyd-killing-d93d1f9fc61a5261e179240dc16924dc">Derek Chauvin’s trial on murder charges</a>&nbsp;in George Floyd’s killing, sparked several days of demonstrations outside the Brooklyn Center police station marked by tear gas and clashes between protesters and police.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-daunte-wright-shootings-minnesota-minneapolis-arrests-ea3f946497f367662842bb08c1b8e242">Potter</a>&nbsp;was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kim-potter-guilty-manslaughter-death-of-daunte-wright-43e70645189bf61be64fc00534adf388">convicted in December of first- and second-degree manslaughter</a>&nbsp;in the April 11 killing. She’ll be sentenced only on the most serious charge of first-degree manslaughter, which carries a presumptive penalty of just over seven years in prison.

Prosecutor Matt Frank said Friday that he believed the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-daunte-wright-minnesota-minneapolis-bf13b1c196cb3badbc453c6083810beb">presumptive sentence is appropriate</a>, given the loss of life and Potter’s culpable negligence.

“His life mattered, and that life was taken,” Frank said. “His name is Daunte Wright. We have to say his name. He was not just a driver. He was a living human being. A life.”

Defense attorney Paul Engh told the judge that Wright’s death was “beyond tragic for everybody involved.” But, he added: “This was an unintentional crime. It was an accident. It was a mistake.”

Engh held up a box displaying what he said were among “thousands” of letters and cards of support for Potter.

“People took the time to write her,” Engh said. “This is unheard of for a defendant. I dare say no one in this room has ever seen anything like this.”

He urged the judge to sentence Potter to probation, saying sentencing guidelines are often not followed because they are too high for many defendants, including first-time offenders. He said Potter would be willing to meet with Wright’s family and to speak to police officers about Taser mixups.

If Potter is not sentenced to probation, then she should get a lower-than-usual sentence because Wright was the aggressor, Engh said. The testimony of other officers on the scene showed it was a dangerous situation because Wright was attempting to drive away, he said.

“This was an aggressive act. I don’t know how it couldn’t be an aggressive act,” said Engh, who also said Potter had the right to defend other officers and that she never should have been charged with first-degree manslaughter.

Evidence at Potter’s trial showed officers learned he had an outstanding warrant for a weapons possession charge and they tried to arrest him when he pulled away. Video showed Potter shouted several times that she was going to use her Taser on Wright, but she had her gun in her hand and fired one shot into his chest.

Potter has been at the state’s women’s prison in Shakopee since the guilty verdict. Her attorney said Friday that her mental and physical health has declined because she is isolated for her safety.

“If you send her to prison, you will harm her,” Engh said. “We are not in the business of harming defendants.”

Potter was also expected to make a statement.

Wright’s father and siblings earlier addressed the court to speak of their loss.

The mother of Wright’s son, Chyna Whitaker, said Friday that Wright would never have a chance to play ball with his son, or see him go to school.

“My son shouldn’t have to wear a ‘rest in peace’ shirt of his dad,” Whitaker said.

For someone with no criminal history, such as Potter, the state sentencing guidelines for first-degree manslaughter call for a penalty ranging from slightly more than six years to about 8 1/2 years in prison, with the presumptive sentence being just over seven years.

In Minnesota, it’s presumed that inmates who show good behavior will serve two-thirds of their sentence in prison and the rest on supervised release, commonly known as parole. That means if Potter gets the roughly seven-year presumptive sentence, she would serve about four years and nine months in custody, with the rest on parole.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640352112509.png" alt="Potter's booking photo shows her smiling following her conviction in December 2021-photo&nbsp; Hennepin County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Potter's booking photo shows her smiling following her conviction in December 2021-photo&nbsp; Hennepin County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The former suburban Minneapolis police officer who said she confused her handgun for her Taser when she fatally shot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-daunte-wright-shootings-police-coronavirus-pandemic-minneapolis-d88c7d626eebcdea975dc249309a4fa5">Daunte Wright</a>&nbsp;was sentenced Friday to two years in prison, a penalty below state guidelines after the judge found mitigating factors warranted a lesser sentence.Kim Potter was convicted in December of first- and second-degree manslaughter in the April 11 killing of Wright, a 20-year-old Black motorist. She was sentenced only on the more serious charge in accordance with state law.For someone with no criminal history, such as Potter, the state guidelines on that charge range from slightly more than six years to about 8 1/2 years in prison, with the presumptive sentence being just over seven years.Prosecutors said the presumptive sentence was proper, but defense attorneys asked for a sentence below the guidelines, including a sentence of probation only.Judge Regina Chu imposed the sentence after hearing from Wright’s family and Potter.Wright’s mother said she will never be able to forgive Potter and would only refer to her as “the defendant” because Potter only referred to her 20-year-old son as “the driver” at trial.“She never once said his name. And for that I’ll never be able to forgive you. And I’ll never be able to forgive you for what you’ve stolen from us,” a tearful Wright said.“A police officer who was supposed to serve and protect so much took so much away from us ... My life and my world will never ever be the same again,” she said, adding later: “Daunte Demetrius Wright, I will continue to fight in your name until driving while black is no longer a death sentence.”Wright was killed after Brooklyn Center officers pulled him over for having expired license tags and an air freshener hanging from his rearview mirror. The shooting, which came in the midst of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/derek-chauvin-convicted-george-floyd-killing-d93d1f9fc61a5261e179240dc16924dc">Derek Chauvin’s trial on murder charges</a>&nbsp;in George Floyd’s killing, sparked several days of demonstrations outside the Brooklyn Center police station marked by tear gas and clashes between protesters and police.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-daunte-wright-shootings-minnesota-minneapolis-arrests-ea3f946497f367662842bb08c1b8e242">Potter</a>&nbsp;was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kim-potter-guilty-manslaughter-death-of-daunte-wright-43e70645189bf61be64fc00534adf388">convicted in December of first- and second-degree manslaughter</a>&nbsp;in the April 11 killing. She’ll be sentenced only on the most serious charge of first-degree manslaughter, which carries a presumptive penalty of just over seven years in prison.Prosecutor Matt Frank said Friday that he believed the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/death-of-daunte-wright-minnesota-minneapolis-bf13b1c196cb3badbc453c6083810beb">presumptive sentence is appropriate</a>, given the loss of life and Potter’s culpable negligence.“His life mattered, and that life was taken,” Frank said. “His name is Daunte Wright. We have to say his name. He was not just a driver. He was a living human being. A life.”Defense attorney Paul Engh told the judge that Wright’s death was “beyond tragic for everybody involved.” But, he added: “This was an unintentional crime. It was an accident. It was a mistake.”Engh held up a box displaying what he said were among “thousands” of letters and cards of support for Potter.“People took the time to write her,” Engh said. “This is unheard of for a defendant. I dare say no one in this room has ever seen anything like this.”He urged the judge to sentence Potter to probation, saying sentencing guidelines are often not followed because they are too high for many defendants, including first-time offenders. He said Potter would be willing to meet with Wright’s family and to speak to police officers about Taser mixups.If Potter is not sentenced to probation, then she should get a lower-than-usual sentence because Wright was the aggressor, Engh said. The testimony of other officers on the scene showed it was a dangerous situation because Wright was attempting to drive away, he said.“This was an aggressive act. I don’t know how it couldn’t be an aggressive act,” said Engh, who also said Potter had the right to defend other officers and that she never should have been charged with first-degree manslaughter.Evidence at Potter’s trial showed officers learned he had an outstanding warrant for a weapons possession charge and they tried to arrest him when he pulled away. Video showed Potter shouted several times that she was going to use her Taser on Wright, but she had her gun in her hand and fired one shot into his chest.Potter has been at the state’s women’s prison in Shakopee since the guilty verdict. Her attorney said Friday that her mental and physical health has declined because she is isolated for her safety.“If you send her to prison, you will harm her,” Engh said. “We are not in the business of harming defendants.”Potter was also expected to make a statement.Wright’s father and siblings earlier addressed the court to speak of their loss.The mother of Wright’s son, Chyna Whitaker, said Friday that Wright would never have a chance to play ball with his son, or see him go to school.“My son shouldn’t have to wear a ‘rest in peace’ shirt of his dad,” Whitaker said.For someone with no criminal history, such as Potter, the state sentencing guidelines for first-degree manslaughter call for a penalty ranging from slightly more than six years to about 8 1/2 years in prison, with the presumptive sentence being just over seven years.In Minnesota, it’s presumed that inmates who show good behavior will serve two-thirds of their sentence in prison and the rest on supervised release, commonly known as parole. That means if Potter gets the roughly seven-year presumptive sentence, she would serve about four years and nine months in custody, with the rest on parole.

Officer who pulled gun instead of Taser gets lesser prison sentence

DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities arrested a wanted Kansas felon who ran from a traffic stop in June.

On Thursday evening, a Sheriff’s Deputy, aware the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department held an outstanding arrest warrant for 47-year-old Scott Lambert Leister of Chapman, conducted surveillance on his residence, according to Sheriff Jerry Davis.

Shortly before 6:00 p.m. the deputy observed Leister leave the property and travel north on Oat Road in a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck. As the deputy was attempting to catch up to Leister, Leister fled traveling north on Oat Road to 2700 Avenue. 

Leister turned east onto 2700 Avenue to Paint Road, then traveled south on Paint road to 2600 Avenue and west on 2600 Avenue, turning south onto Oat Road and returned to his residence. 

Leister turned into a field access road at 2710 Oat Road and continued to flee into the pasture east of his residence. The Deputy lost sight of the truck and when he caught up to the truck, Leister had already fled the truck on foot. 

Additional units from the Sheriff’s Department, Chapman Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) responded to the area and established a perimeter to contain Leister on the property.

The Sheriff’s Department K-9 was on scene and two additional K-9 units from the KHP arrived some time later. The Sheriff’s Department requested air assistance from the KHP and a helicopter responded from Topeka. The Sheriff’s Office drone unit was also deployed.

Just before 8:30 p.m. the KHP helicopter located a heat signature on the property behind a residence in the 1700 block of Old-40 Highway. The Sheriff’s Office drone responded to the area and maintained surveillance of the area until officers searching on the ground were able to access the area. 

A KHP K-9 team searched the area and located Leister hiding underneath a cedar tree. K-9 announcements were given but Leister refused to comply, Leister was subsequently bit by the K-9 and taken into custody.

Dickinson County Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and examined Leister’s injuries. The Sheriff’s Department transported Leister to Abilene Memorial Hospital to be treated for his injuries prior to taking him to the Dickinson County Detention Facility.

Leister was arrested on an outstanding Dickinson County bond revocation warrant, on original felony charges including possession of opiates, burglary and criminal possession of a firearm. The bond amount on that warrant is $5,000.00.

Leister had an outstanding Geary County warrant for failure to appear on felony fleeing and eluding and two counts of child endangerment. The bond amount on that warrant is $10,000.00.

Leister had an outstanding Saline County warrant for failure to appear on theft and criminal damage to property charges. There was no bond on that warrant, it was body only.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645204034099.jpeg" alt="Leister has previous convictions that include forgery, burglary, theft, endangering a child, aggravated failure to appear, fleeing or attempt to elude law enforcement and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Leister has previous convictions that include forgery, burglary, theft, endangering a child, aggravated failure to appear, fleeing or attempt to elude law enforcement and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities arrested a wanted Kansas felon who ran from a traffic stop in June.On Thursday evening, a Sheriff’s Deputy, aware the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department held an outstanding arrest warrant for 47-year-old Scott Lambert Leister of Chapman, conducted surveillance on his residence, according to Sheriff Jerry Davis.Shortly before 6:00 p.m. the deputy observed Leister leave the property and travel north on Oat Road in a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck. As the deputy was attempting to catch up to Leister, Leister fled traveling north on Oat Road to 2700 Avenue. Leister turned east onto 2700 Avenue to Paint Road, then traveled south on Paint road to 2600 Avenue and west on 2600 Avenue, turning south onto Oat Road and returned to his residence. Leister turned into a field access road at 2710 Oat Road and continued to flee into the pasture east of his residence. The Deputy lost sight of the truck and when he caught up to the truck, Leister had already fled the truck on foot. Additional units from the Sheriff’s Department, Chapman Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) responded to the area and established a perimeter to contain Leister on the property.The Sheriff’s Department K-9 was on scene and two additional K-9 units from the KHP arrived some time later. The Sheriff’s Department requested air assistance from the KHP and a helicopter responded from Topeka. The Sheriff’s Office drone unit was also deployed.Just before 8:30 p.m. the KHP helicopter located a heat signature on the property behind a residence in the 1700 block of Old-40 Highway. The Sheriff’s Office drone responded to the area and maintained surveillance of the area until officers searching on the ground were able to access the area. A KHP K-9 team searched the area and located Leister hiding underneath a cedar tree. K-9 announcements were given but Leister refused to comply, Leister was subsequently bit by the K-9 and taken into custody.Dickinson County Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and examined Leister’s injuries. The Sheriff’s Department transported Leister to Abilene Memorial Hospital to be treated for his injuries prior to taking him to the Dickinson County Detention Facility.Leister was arrested on an outstanding Dickinson County bond revocation warrant, on original felony charges including possession of opiates, burglary and criminal possession of a firearm. The bond amount on that warrant is $5,000.00.Leister had an outstanding Geary County warrant for failure to appear on felony fleeing and eluding and two counts of child endangerment. The bond amount on that warrant is $10,000.00.Leister had an outstanding Saline County warrant for failure to appear on theft and criminal damage to property charges. There was no bond on that warrant, it was body only.In addition to the outstanding warrants the Sheriff’s Office is requesting additional charges of attempting to flee and elude and felony obstruction.Leister has previous convictions that include forgery, burglary, theft, endangering a child, aggravated failure to appear, fleeing or attempt to elude law enforcement and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.---------DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities arrested a wanted Kansas felon who ran from a traffic stop in June.On Thursday evening, a Sheriff’s Deputy, aware the Dickinson County Sheriff's Department held an outstanding arrest warrant for 47-year-old Scott Lambert Leister of Chapman, conducted surveillance on his residence, according to Sheriff Jerry Davis.Shortly before 6:00 p.m. the deputy observed Leister leave the property and travel north on Oat Road in a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck. As the deputy was attempting to catch up to Leister, Leister fled traveling north on Oat Road to 2700 Avenue. Leister turned east onto 2700 Avenue to Paint Road, then traveled south on Paint road to 2600 Avenue and west on 2600 Avenue, turning south onto Oat Road and returned to his residence. Leister turned into a field access road at 2710 Oat Road and continued to flee into the pasture east of his residence. The Deputy lost sight of the truck and when he caught up to the truck, Leister had already fled the truck on foot. Additional units from the Sheriff’s Department, Chapman Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) responded to the area and established a perimeter to contain Leister on the property.The Sheriff’s Department K-9 was on scene and two additional K-9 units from the KHP arrived some time later. The Sheriff’s Department requested air assistance from the KHP and a helicopter responded from Topeka. The Sheriff’s Office drone unit was also deployed.Just before 8:30 p.m. the KHP helicopter located a heat signature on the property behind a residence in the 1700 block of Old-40 Highway. The Sheriff’s Office drone responded to the area and maintained surveillance of the area until officers searching on the ground were able to access the area. A KHP K-9 team searched the area and located Leister hiding underneath a cedar tree. K-9 announcements were given but Leister refused to comply, Leister was subsequently bit by the K-9 and taken into custody.Dickinson County Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and examined Leister’s injuries. The Sheriff’s Department transported Leister to Abilene Memorial Hospital to be treated for his injuries prior to taking him to the Dickinson County Detention Facility.Leister was arrested on an outstanding Dickinson County bond revocation warrant, on original felony charges including possession of opiates, burglary and criminal possession of a firearm. The bond amount on that warrant is $5,000.00.Leister had an outstanding Geary County warrant for failure to appear on felony fleeing and eluding and two counts of child endangerment. The bond amount on that warrant is $10,000.00.Leister had an outstanding Saline County warrant for failure to appear on theft and criminal damage to property charges. There was no bond on that warrant, it was body only.In addition to the outstanding warrants the Sheriff’s Office is requesting additional charges of attempting to flee and elude and felony obstruction.Leister has previous convictions that include forgery, burglary, theft, endangering a child, aggravated failure to appear, fleeing or attempt to elude law enforcement and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.---------