BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the October 27, shooting death of 22-year-old Chase Anderson in Hoisington.

Just after 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Hoisington Police arrested&nbsp; 32-year-old Adam M. Sullivan of Hoisington, on requested charges of involuntary manslaughter connected to the shooting, according to a media release from the KBI.

Sullivan was already in custody at the Barton County Jail when he was arrested for the new charge.

Just after 3a.m. Oct. 27, the Hoisington Police Department received a 911 call reporting a shooting at 405 E. 2nd&nbsp;St. in Hoisington.

When officers arrived they located Anderson suffering from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; EMS arrived and attempted life-saving measures. A short time later Anderson was pronounced dead.

Preliminary information revealed that Anderson was shot in the chest with a handgun. His acquaintance, 32-year-old Adam Sullivan, of Hoisington, was also in the residence at the time of the shooting. Officers arrested him for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Barton County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1636039970228.png" alt="Sullivan-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Sullivan-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the October 27, shooting death of 22-year-old Chase Anderson in Hoisington.Just after 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Hoisington Police arrested&nbsp; 32-year-old Adam M. Sullivan of Hoisington, on requested charges of involuntary manslaughter connected to the shooting, according to a media release from the KBI.Sullivan was already in custody at the Barton County Jail when he was arrested for the new charge.Just after 3a.m. Oct. 27, the Hoisington Police Department received a 911 call reporting a shooting at 405 E. 2nd&nbsp;St. in Hoisington.When officers arrived they located Anderson suffering from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; EMS arrived and attempted life-saving measures. A short time later Anderson was pronounced dead.Preliminary information revealed that Anderson was shot in the chest with a handgun. His acquaintance, 32-year-old Adam Sullivan, of Hoisington, was also in the residence at the time of the shooting. Officers arrested him for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked into the Barton County Jail.

Kan. man accused of involuntary manslaughter in fatal shooting

PAWNEE COUNTY—Sheriffs from across Kansas sent a letter to Governor Laura Kelly this week saying "the operations and management at Larned State Hospital have reached a crisis level," after sexual predator John Colt escaped in June. 

Colt was being held in the sexual predator program when he escaped by posing as a doctor and walking out of the hospital. He was arrested in Utah in September. Three hospital employees have been charged in connection to Colt's escape.

Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir provided the letter sent to the governor:

I am writing on behalf of myself and several other duly elected and sworn Sheriffs who have signed this letter. It is our experience that the operations and management at Larned State Hospital have reached a crisis level.    Over the last several years, the leadership has created a culture that has become a quagmire of red tape and bureaucracy.  This places the public at risk and obstructs law enforcement.  We have three main areas of concern.

We wish to call to your attention the escape of John Colt and at least two other individuals. Mr. Colt was considered a violent and dangerous sexual predator. He escaped from the “Sexual Predator Treatment Program” located on the Larned campus.  The administrators of this program failed to contact law enforcement for more than five hours after it was evident there was a problem.  Colt was later arrested in Utah in September. 

Furthermore, when Sheriff King of Pawnee County attempted to investigate the escape, the administrative staff refused to assist, compelling Sheriff King to obtain and execute several search warrants simply to obtain video and documents relating to the escape. At one point, KDADS's legal department suggested getting a protective order against the Sheriff! During Sheriff King’s investigation, three employees were arrested for aiding John Colt in his escape.  It is now clear why the administration did not want Sheriff King investigating the incident. 

After Mr. Colt’s escape, there were two subsequent escapes, one occurring in Hutchinson the other occurring in the City of Larned. Both individuals were captured by local law enforcement in a very short period of time. Three escapes in a matter of months are unacceptable.

Recently, an individual was taken into protective custody in Barton County. The person was obviously in a mental crisis. He was hallucinating, standing in the middle of a rural highway yelling at nonexistent people. The subject was taken into protective custody and evaluated as well as medically screened. It was unclear if the individual was living in his car. 

However, his driver’s license showed an address in a city in northeastern Kansas. Because he was outside of the Larned “catchment area,” my office was advised we must transport him to the Osawatomie facility because Larned was “almost full”. Osawatomie is more than 200 miles from Barton County, Larned State Hospital is 30 miles. This is absurd. Only after repeated calls to the superintendent at Larned did they accepted the patient.  I was advised by the superintendent the patient would most likely be transported Osawatomie by LSH staff. It was pointed out if this person was in my custody because of criminal charges Larned would have accepted them.  This is just one more example of red tape and bureaucracy.

There are a couple of other incidents you should be aware of. Recently, I had an inmate charged with a very serious crime who became extremely violent and self-abusive to the point of smashing their face into cement walls in a holding cell. The inmate was removed, restrained, and evaluated. Mental health professionals completed the proper paperwork to admit the individual to the state hospital at Larned. This was on a Friday afternoon. Due to “no available beds” the inmate was not transported to Larned State Hospital until late Sunday morning. During the waiting period before admission, the inmate had to be restrained. Any time this individual was released from the restraints (restroom, eating, etc.) she became violent, and several officers were required to once again prevent harm to the inmate.

Sheriff Bill Carr from Ford County experienced a situation in which a patient was medically cleared for admission to the state hospital at Larned three times.  He still met resistance from the staff at the state hospital at Larned. An inmate had become very violent and was in a mental crisis. He had also claimed to have eaten some foreign objects. The inmate was medically screened before leaving Dodge City. The inmate then stated he had eaten more foreign objects while in the transport van. The inmate was again examined at the hospital in Larned and sent on the Great Bend to be scoped. No foreign objects were found at any of the medical care facilities. During transportation, the inmate managed to kick out a rear window in one patrol car and damage the headliner, radar, and emergency lighting in another. Upon arrival at the state hospital, the inmate told a security guard he had eaten glass. The security officer opted to refuse the inmate even though Sheriff King and Sheriff Carr were both present explaining that this had not happened. After a prolonged conversation, Sheriff King contemplated arresting the security guards for obstruction of a law enforcement officer. Once again, the superintendent was called, and the patient was accepted by Larned.  At a later date, the patient was transported to the hospital in Larned by one LSH staff member.  The patient was one of the above-mentioned escapees.

There are numerous incidents in which law enforcement agencies have had to sit with citizens who are in a mental health crisis in lobbies or briefing rooms at sheriff’s offices and police departments for hours or days.  This is a dis-service to Kansans in need of help.

The anecdotal evidence could fill volumes. Almost every law enforcement agency in Western Kansas continues to have problems with services at the state hospital. As Sheriffs, we understand issues concerning staffing and Covid 19 related problems. We are faced with the same issues every day in our county jails. That said, we will continue to do our job. Larned State Hospital must also.

Interpretation of policies and procedure begins at the top. There appears to be a culture at the state hospital that resists the admission of patients. Further, we have found these issues are exasperated on weekends. Leadership and accountability are key to the culture of any organization. Under the current regime at the Larned State Hospital, it is our opinion that the public is in danger and there is a continued disservice to those who are mentally ill. Therefore, we must firmly insist on a change of leadership at the administrative level at Larned State Hospital.  Your prompt attention in this matter would be greatly appreciated. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1625086515798.png" alt="John Colt as seen in security camera images during his escape in June." />
 <figcaption>John Colt as seen in security camera images during his escape in June.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY—Sheriffs from across Kansas sent a letter to Governor Laura Kelly this week saying "the operations and management at Larned State Hospital have reached a crisis level," after sexual predator John Colt escaped in June. Colt was being held in the sexual predator program when he escaped by posing as a doctor and walking out of the hospital. He was arrested in Utah in September. Three hospital employees have been charged in connection to Colt's escape.Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir provided the letter sent to the governor:I am writing on behalf of myself and several other duly elected and sworn Sheriffs who have signed this letter. It is our experience that the operations and management at Larned State Hospital have reached a crisis level. Over the last several years, the leadership has created a culture that has become a quagmire of red tape and bureaucracy. This places the public at risk and obstructs law enforcement. We have three main areas of concern.EscapesWe wish to call to your attention the escape of John Colt and at least two other individuals. Mr. Colt was considered a violent and dangerous sexual predator. He escaped from the “Sexual Predator Treatment Program” located on the Larned campus. The administrators of this program failed to contact law enforcement for more than five hours after it was evident there was a problem. Colt was later arrested in Utah in September. Furthermore, when Sheriff King of Pawnee County attempted to investigate the escape, the administrative staff refused to assist, compelling Sheriff King to obtain and execute several search warrants simply to obtain video and documents relating to the escape. At one point, KDADS's legal department suggested getting a protective order against the Sheriff! During Sheriff King’s investigation, three employees were arrested for aiding John Colt in his escape. It is now clear why the administration did not want Sheriff King investigating the incident. After Mr. Colt’s escape, there were two subsequent escapes, one occurring in Hutchinson the other occurring in the City of Larned. Both individuals were captured by local law enforcement in a very short period of time. Three escapes in a matter of months are unacceptable.KDADS “Catchment Area”Recently, an individual was taken into protective custody in Barton County. The person was obviously in a mental crisis. He was hallucinating, standing in the middle of a rural highway yelling at nonexistent people. The subject was taken into protective custody and evaluated as well as medically screened. It was unclear if the individual was living in his car. However, his driver’s license showed an address in a city in northeastern Kansas. Because he was outside of the Larned “catchment area,” my office was advised we must transport him to the Osawatomie facility because Larned was “almost full”. Osawatomie is more than 200 miles from Barton County, Larned State Hospital is 30 miles. This is absurd. Only after repeated calls to the superintendent at Larned did they accepted the patient. I was advised by the superintendent the patient would most likely be transported Osawatomie by LSH staff. It was pointed out if this person was in my custody because of criminal charges Larned would have accepted them. This is just one more example of red tape and bureaucracy.Refusal of patientsThere are a couple of other incidents you should be aware of. Recently, I had an inmate charged with a very serious crime who became extremely violent and self-abusive to the point of smashing their face into cement walls in a holding cell. The inmate was removed, restrained, and evaluated. Mental health professionals completed the proper paperwork to admit the individual to the state hospital at Larned. This was on a Friday afternoon. Due to “no available beds” the inmate was not transported to Larned State Hospital until late Sunday morning. During the waiting period before admission, the inmate had to be restrained. Any time this individual was released from the restraints (restroom, eating, etc.) she became violent, and several officers were required to once again prevent harm to the inmate.Sheriff Bill Carr from Ford County experienced a situation in which a patient was medically cleared for admission to the state hospital at Larned three times. He still met resistance from the staff at the state hospital at Larned. An inmate had become very violent and was in a mental crisis. He had also claimed to have eaten some foreign objects. The inmate was medically screened before leaving Dodge City. The inmate then stated he had eaten more foreign objects while in the transport van. The inmate was again examined at the hospital in Larned and sent on the Great Bend to be scoped. No foreign objects were found at any of the medical care facilities. During transportation, the inmate managed to kick out a rear window in one patrol car and damage the headliner, radar, and emergency lighting in another. Upon arrival at the state hospital, the inmate told a security guard he had eaten glass. The security officer opted to refuse the inmate even though Sheriff King and Sheriff Carr were both present explaining that this had not happened. After a prolonged conversation, Sheriff King contemplated arresting the security guards for obstruction of a law enforcement officer. Once again, the superintendent was called, and the patient was accepted by Larned. At a later date, the patient was transported to the hospital in Larned by one LSH staff member. The patient was one of the above-mentioned escapees.There are numerous incidents in which law enforcement agencies have had to sit with citizens who are in a mental health crisis in lobbies or briefing rooms at sheriff’s offices and police departments for hours or days. This is a dis-service to Kansans in need of help.The anecdotal evidence could fill volumes. Almost every law enforcement agency in Western Kansas continues to have problems with services at the state hospital. As Sheriffs, we understand issues concerning staffing and Covid 19 related problems. We are faced with the same issues every day in our county jails. That said, we will continue to do our job. Larned State Hospital must also.Interpretation of policies and procedure begins at the top. There appears to be a culture at the state hospital that resists the admission of patients. Further, we have found these issues are exasperated on weekends. Leadership and accountability are key to the culture of any organization. Under the current regime at the Larned State Hospital, it is our opinion that the public is in danger and there is a continued disservice to those who are mentally ill. Therefore, we must firmly insist on a change of leadership at the administrative level at Larned State Hospital. Your prompt attention in this matter would be greatly appreciated.

Sheriffs ask Gov. for changes at Kan. state hospital following escape

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest.

On October 2, police were dispatched to a disturbance with shots fired near 8th and Fillmore in Topeka, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson.

 Officers arrived and met with several people in the area and located one subject with an obvious gunshot wound. Through the investigation, a suspect was identified as Quaton Grover, 43 of Topeka.

Just after 3:00 p.m, Tuesday, with the assistance of the United State's Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Grover was located and eventually taken into custody in the 2600 block of SE Adams. 

&nbsp;Grover was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Criminal Discharge of a Firearm stemming from the October 2nd shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635940058125.png" alt="Grover photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Grover photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have made an arrest.On October 2, police were dispatched to a disturbance with shots fired near 8th and Fillmore in Topeka, according to Lt. Kelvin Johnson. Officers arrived and met with several people in the area and located one subject with an obvious gunshot wound. Through the investigation, a suspect was identified as Quaton Grover, 43 of Topeka.Just after 3:00 p.m, Tuesday, with the assistance of the United State's Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Grover was located and eventually taken into custody in the 2600 block of SE Adams. &nbsp;Grover was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, and Criminal Discharge of a Firearm stemming from the October 2nd shooting.

U.S. Marshals help capture Kansas shooting suspect

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man in connection with an alleged assault on a 79-year-old victim.

Just before 9a.m. Monday, police responded to a disturbance at a home in the 700 Block of North 2nd Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Police&nbsp; determined that during the disturbance property was damaged and a 79-year-old was a victim of battery by a family member.

Police located the 24-year-old family member suspect identified as Alexander Kelley outside the residence. When officers confronted Kelley, he was holding a pipe which he swung at officers as he was being arrested.

Police booked him into jail on requested charges of&nbsp; domestic battery, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635865943930.png" alt="Kelley photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Kelley photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man in connection with an alleged assault on a 79-year-old victim.Just before 9a.m. Monday, police responded to a disturbance at a home in the 700 Block of North 2nd Street in Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Police&nbsp; determined that during the disturbance property was damaged and a 79-year-old was a victim of battery by a family member.Police located the 24-year-old family member suspect identified as Alexander Kelley outside the residence. When officers confronted Kelley, he was holding a pipe which he swung at officers as he was being arrested.Police booked him into jail on requested charges of&nbsp; domestic battery, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.&nbsp;

Police: Kansas man swung pipe at officer during arrest

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Halloween accident arrested 23-year-old Caleb Leivian of Wichita.

Just after 9p.m. Sunday, police working in the area of Douglas and Broadview were alerted by a citizen that someone had been hit by a car, according to Officer Trevor Macey.

Police located a &nbsp;4-year-old boy who had been struck by a westbound vehicle on Douglas.&nbsp;EMS and Fire Department personnel responded to treat the child, who was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been released.

Officers learned that the child was trick-or-treating in the area and had gone into the street where he was struck by the vehicle. 

The driver, identified as Leivian, was arrested on scene after an investigation revealed signs of impairment. He was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Battery; DUI Causing great bodily harm, DUI; 2nd&nbsp;conviction, No proof of insurance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. The case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;

A family member established a<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-and-healing-for-kimanis-family?utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer"> GoFundMe page</a> to assist with the expenses.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635799076053.png" alt="Leivian-photo Sedgwick Co. Jail&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Leivian-photo Sedgwick Co. Jail&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Halloween accident arrested 23-year-old Caleb Leivian of Wichita.Just after 9p.m. Sunday, police working in the area of Douglas and Broadview were alerted by a citizen that someone had been hit by a car, according to Officer Trevor Macey.Police located a &nbsp;4-year-old boy who had been struck by a westbound vehicle on Douglas.&nbsp;EMS and Fire Department personnel responded to treat the child, who was transported to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. He has since been released.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635863352628.png" alt="Photo courtesy GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers learned that the child was trick-or-treating in the area and had gone into the street where he was struck by the vehicle. The driver, identified as Leivian, was arrested on scene after an investigation revealed signs of impairment. He was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Battery; DUI Causing great bodily harm, DUI; 2nd&nbsp;conviction, No proof of insurance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. The case will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office.&nbsp;A family member established a<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-and-healing-for-kimanis-family?utm_campaign=p_cf+share-flow-1&amp;utm_medium=copy_link&amp;utm_source=customer"> GoFundMe page</a> to assist with the expenses.

Kan. boy hit by alleged drunk driver while trick-or-treating is home

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the  improper release of an inmate from the Sedgwick County Jail that occurred just before 9a.m. on Monday, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

Jamarcius Quayshaun Fisher, 30, was incarcerated as a pre-trail detainee on charges of Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property.&nbsp; Authorities issued a warrant for Fisher’s arrest and took him into custody again just after 5p.m. Tuesday, according to Blick.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the&nbsp; improper release of an inmate from the Sedgwick County Jail that occurred just before 9a.m. on Monday, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

Jamarcius Quayshaun Fisher, 30, was incarcerated as a pre-trail detainee on charges of Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property. A warrant for Fisher’s arrest has been issued.

Fisher was last known to live in the Wichita area. He is 5-foot-7 and weighs approximately 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.

If you know of Fisher’s whereabouts please call 911.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635890630290.png" alt="Fisher has previous convictions for burglary and theft, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections-photo Sedgwick Count" />
 <figcaption>Fisher has previous convictions for burglary and theft, according to the Kan. Dept. of Corrections-photo Sedgwick Count</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the improper release of an inmate from the Sedgwick County Jail that occurred just before 9a.m. on Monday, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.Jamarcius Quayshaun Fisher, 30, was incarcerated as a pre-trail detainee on charges of Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property.&nbsp; Authorities issued a warrant for Fisher’s arrest and took him into custody again just after 5p.m. Tuesday, according to Blick.------------------------SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the&nbsp; improper release of an inmate from the Sedgwick County Jail that occurred just before 9a.m. on Monday, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.Jamarcius Quayshaun Fisher, 30, was incarcerated as a pre-trail detainee on charges of Aggravated Burglary, Domestic Battery and Criminal Damage to Property. A warrant for Fisher’s arrest has been issued.Fisher was last known to live in the Wichita area. He is 5-foot-7 and weighs approximately 160 pounds with black hair and brown eyes.If you know of Fisher’s whereabouts please call 911.

Kan. burglary suspect mistakenly released from jail, captured

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused of leaving the scene of a fatal crash and fire will make a court appearance Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp; An arraignment hearing is scheduled for 43-year-old Russell W. Polk, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just after 11:30p.m. on March 31, 2020, 911 dispatch was notified about a vehicle on fire, at approximately 7500 W. 101st&nbsp;Street North, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter.&nbsp;

Sheriff's deputies arrived along with the Sedgwick County Fire Department and observed a Dodge truck on its side fully engulfed in flames.&nbsp; After the fire was extinguished, first responders located the body of a woman in the pickup. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

The preliminary investigation into the accident indicated the truck was originally southbound on Ridge Road. It entered the field on the west side of Ridge, struck the ditch on 101st&nbsp;Street North and the driver lost control. The truck rolled into the south ditch.&nbsp;

The following day, deputies arrested Polk and booked him in the Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility for 2nd Degree Murder, according to Easter. Authorities believe Polk was driving at the time of the crash and that the victim was still alive when Polk fled the scene.&nbsp;

Polk remains jailed on a bond of $100,000, <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=37055">according to online jail records.</a>&nbsp; He has numerous DUI and related driving convictions along with a conviction for criminal threat, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585864808889.png" alt="Polk&nbsp; has numerous DUI and related driving convictions along with a conviction for criminal threat, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Polk&nbsp; has numerous DUI and related driving convictions along with a conviction for criminal threat, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A man accused of leaving the scene of a fatal crash and fire will make a court appearance Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp; An arraignment hearing is scheduled for 43-year-old Russell W. Polk, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Just after 11:30p.m. on March 31, 2020, 911 dispatch was notified about a vehicle on fire, at approximately 7500 W. 101st&nbsp;Street North, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter.&nbsp;Sheriff's deputies arrived along with the Sedgwick County Fire Department and observed a Dodge truck on its side fully engulfed in flames.&nbsp; After the fire was extinguished, first responders located the body of a woman in the pickup. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;The preliminary investigation into the accident indicated the truck was originally southbound on Ridge Road. It entered the field on the west side of Ridge, struck the ditch on 101st&nbsp;Street North and the driver lost control. The truck rolled into the south ditch.&nbsp;The following day, deputies arrested Polk and booked him in the Sedgwick County Adult Detention Facility for 2nd Degree Murder, according to Easter. Authorities believe Polk was driving at the time of the crash and that the victim was still alive when Polk fled the scene.&nbsp;Polk remains jailed on a bond of $100,000, <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=37055">according to online jail records.</a>&nbsp; He has numerous DUI and related driving convictions along with a conviction for criminal threat, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kan. man who fled fatal crash, fire set for arraignment hearing

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — A freshman Kansas lawmaker who has acknowledged past abuses against girls and young women was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation Monday after he was charged with domestic battery in a disturbance involving his brother at his grandfather’s home.

Magistrate Judge James Phelan said Democratic state Rep. Aaron Coleman of Kansas City could be freed on a personal recognizance bond, without putting up a deposit or collateral. The hearing was held via Zoom and Coleman didn’t appear because he is receiving medical care. No information was provided about his health status and Coleman’s attorney, David Bell, didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking details.

Overland Park police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-congress-d8716ccabd233448ea77860d6b97b419">arrested the 21-year-old Saturday evening</a>.

Bell entered a plea of not guilty. He said the allegations involved two family members at the home of Coleman’s grandfather, Ronald Tomberlin.

Tomberlin and Coleman’s brother, both spoke on the call and said they weren’t afraid of the lawmaker.

“Judge, I have spoken to his mother and we are going to seek help for Mr. Coleman to help him with some of the issues that he is facing,” Bell said.

Phelan set his next court appearance for Dec. 22 and gave Coleman 21 days to undergo a mental health evaluation and follow the recommendations of a mental health specialist.

Coleman’s grandmother, Marsha Tomberlin, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/crime/2021/11/01/kansas-rep-aaron-coleman-arrest-misdemeanor-domestic-battery-charge-argument-family-member/6234078001/" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;</a>that the dispute was over “religious beliefs.” She said Coleman also accused his brother of stealing his phone to call the police. No further details were provided.

The Associated Press filed records requests for the probable cause affidavit, but it wasn’t immediately available. The police incident report provided no details about what the dispute was over and the grandmother’s phone number wasn’t listed.

It wasn’t immediately clear what consequences Coleman might face in the House.

“Given what little we know about the situation, I am concerned for everyone involved,” Speaker of the House, Ron Ryckman said in a weekend statement. “I know that law enforcement will thoroughly investigate and assess the situation so that we can take appropriate action.”

House Democratic Leader Tom Sawyer issued a statement urging Coleman to resign and calling his arrest “extremely disturbing.”

After he was elected last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-congress-d8716ccabd233448ea77860d6b97b419">Coleman received a written reprimand&nbsp;</a>from a legislative committee about his conduct before taking office. The House committee’s investigation of Coleman followed accusations of abusive behavior toward girls and young women. He acknowledged some of the behavior on social media and said he had been a troubled teenager.

Earlier this month, Coleman was also banned from the Kansas Department of Labor’s offices because the agency’s director said Coleman had tried to improperly gain entry to the department’s main office through a secured employee entry and berated a security officer.

At that time, Coleman said he was trying to help constituents deal with the state’s unemployment system.

Coleman&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Aaron4KS37/status/1454440954153160704" target="_blank">tweeted&nbsp;</a>before his arrest Saturday that he had been isolated from other students while in grade schools, leaving him “traumatized as well as several years behind in my social skills.”

“This deficiency,” he wrote, “makes it difficult to express to the world the love that I hold in my tender heart. It makes it even harder to form and maintain meaningful relationships, including romantic relationships.”

He didn’t immediately respond to a text message from The Associated Press seeking comment.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A first-year Kansas lawmaker, who was reprimanded by his colleagues for abusive conduct before taking office, has been arrested on suspicion of domestic battery. 

Democratic state Rep. Aaron Coleman of Kansas City was arrested Saturday evening and Johnson County Jail records show he remains in custody Sunday afternoon.

The 21-year-old's arrest comes eight months after he received a written warning from a legislative committee about conduct before taking office that included abusive behavior toward young woman and girls.

 House Democratic leader Tom Sawyer says Coleman's constituents and the State of Kansas would be better served if he were to resign and get the help he badly needs.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Aaron Coleman in his Saturday night booking photo from Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Aaron Coleman in his Saturday night booking photo from Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — A freshman Kansas lawmaker who has acknowledged past abuses against girls and young women was ordered to undergo a mental health evaluation Monday after he was charged with domestic battery in a disturbance involving his brother at his grandfather’s home.Magistrate Judge James Phelan said Democratic state Rep. Aaron Coleman of Kansas City could be freed on a personal recognizance bond, without putting up a deposit or collateral. The hearing was held via Zoom and Coleman didn’t appear because he is receiving medical care. No information was provided about his health status and Coleman’s attorney, David Bell, didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking details.Overland Park police&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-congress-d8716ccabd233448ea77860d6b97b419">arrested the 21-year-old Saturday evening</a>.Bell entered a plea of not guilty. He said the allegations involved two family members at the home of Coleman’s grandfather, Ronald Tomberlin.Tomberlin and Coleman’s brother, both spoke on the call and said they weren’t afraid of the lawmaker.“Judge, I have spoken to his mother and we are going to seek help for Mr. Coleman to help him with some of the issues that he is facing,” Bell said.Phelan set his next court appearance for Dec. 22 and gave Coleman 21 days to undergo a mental health evaluation and follow the recommendations of a mental health specialist.Coleman’s grandmother, Marsha Tomberlin, told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/crime/2021/11/01/kansas-rep-aaron-coleman-arrest-misdemeanor-domestic-battery-charge-argument-family-member/6234078001/" target="_blank">The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;</a>that the dispute was over “religious beliefs.” She said Coleman also accused his brother of stealing his phone to call the police. No further details were provided.The Associated Press filed records requests for the probable cause affidavit, but it wasn’t immediately available. The police incident report provided no details about what the dispute was over and the grandmother’s phone number wasn’t listed.It wasn’t immediately clear what consequences Coleman might face in the House.“Given what little we know about the situation, I am concerned for everyone involved,” Speaker of the House, Ron Ryckman said in a weekend statement. “I know that law enforcement will thoroughly investigate and assess the situation so that we can take appropriate action.”House Democratic Leader Tom Sawyer issued a statement urging Coleman to resign and calling his arrest “extremely disturbing.”After he was elected last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/crime-arrests-kansas-city-kansas-congress-d8716ccabd233448ea77860d6b97b419">Coleman received a written reprimand&nbsp;</a>from a legislative committee about his conduct before taking office. The House committee’s investigation of Coleman followed accusations of abusive behavior toward girls and young women. He acknowledged some of the behavior on social media and said he had been a troubled teenager.Earlier this month, Coleman was also banned from the Kansas Department of Labor’s offices because the agency’s director said Coleman had tried to improperly gain entry to the department’s main office through a secured employee entry and berated a security officer.At that time, Coleman said he was trying to help constituents deal with the state’s unemployment system.Coleman&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/Aaron4KS37/status/1454440954153160704" target="_blank">tweeted&nbsp;</a>before his arrest Saturday that he had been isolated from other students while in grade schools, leaving him “traumatized as well as several years behind in my social skills.”“This deficiency,” he wrote, “makes it difficult to express to the world the love that I hold in my tender heart. It makes it even harder to form and maintain meaningful relationships, including romantic relationships.”He didn’t immediately respond to a text message from The Associated Press seeking comment.___OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A first-year Kansas lawmaker, who was reprimanded by his colleagues for abusive conduct before taking office, has been arrested on suspicion of domestic battery. Democratic state Rep. Aaron Coleman of Kansas City was arrested Saturday evening and Johnson County Jail records show he remains in custody Sunday afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635710410061.png" alt="Image courtesy Johnson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Johnson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>The 21-year-old's arrest comes eight months after he received a written warning from a legislative committee about conduct before taking office that included abusive behavior toward young woman and girls.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RELEASE: House Democratic Leader Responds to Representative’s Arrest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/p340E5QDAU">pic.twitter.com/p340E5QDAU</a>&mdash; Kansas House Democrats (@KSHouseDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHouseDems/status/1454872735516086272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> House Democratic leader Tom Sawyer says Coleman's constituents and the State of Kansas would be better served if he were to resign and get the help he badly needs.

Judge orders mental exam for Kan. lawmaker after battery charge 

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged computer crime and have made an arrest.

On Friday, police arrested 32-year-0ld&nbsp;Tyler D. Chalfant of Atchison. 

He is being held on requested charges of unlawful use of a financial card, computer crimes and theft in connection to the fraudulent use of a financial card at two businesses on October 21, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Chalfant also charged with criminal trespass at 314 Santa Fe in Atchison. He remains in custody. Chafant has has been jailed in Atchison County ten times since 2013, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635784623624.png" alt="Chalfant photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Chalfant photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged computer crime and have made an arrest.On Friday, police arrested 32-year-0ld&nbsp;Tyler D. Chalfant of Atchison. He is being held on requested charges of unlawful use of a financial card, computer crimes and theft in connection to the fraudulent use of a financial card at two businesses on October 21, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Chalfant also charged with criminal trespass at 314 Santa Fe in Atchison. He remains in custody. Chafant has has been jailed in Atchison County ten times since 2013, according to online jail records.

Police: Kan. man accused of fraudulent use of credit card

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A 17-year-old Wichita boy was killed over the weekend in a shooting. 

Wichita Police said the shooting was reported around 7 p.m. Saturday near Kellogg and Seneca streets.&nbsp; Officers found Diego Benitez dead with multiple gunshot wounds. 

Investigators believe drugs were part of the motive for Saturday’s shooting but they didn’t provide many details about what happened. No arrests had been reported as of Sunday afternoon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635780633481.png" alt="Police at the scene of the shooting investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the shooting investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A 17-year-old Wichita boy was killed over the weekend in a shooting. Wichita Police said the shooting was reported around 7 p.m. Saturday near Kellogg and Seneca streets.&nbsp; Officers found Diego Benitez dead with multiple gunshot wounds. Investigators believe drugs were part of the motive for Saturday’s shooting but they didn’t provide many details about what happened. No arrests had been reported as of Sunday afternoon.

Police ID 17-year-old Kan. boy who died in weekend shooting

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges after a weekend incident&nbsp;

Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, sheriff's were first alerted to the report of a driver southbound in the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 81 north of Interstate 70, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan.

By the time deputies located the red 2010 Toyota Camry, it was southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 135 near the State Street exit. Deputies were able to successfully deploy stopsticks near the W. Crawford Street exit, and the car came to a stop just south of that exit.

Soldan said the driver, Monica Befort, 32, of Salina, was arrested on the requested charge of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635688385630.jpeg" alt="Befort -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Befort -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman on multiple charges after a weekend incident&nbsp;Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, sheriff's were first alerted to the report of a driver southbound in the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 81 north of Interstate 70, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan.By the time deputies located the red 2010 Toyota Camry, it was southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate 135 near the State Street exit. Deputies were able to successfully deploy stopsticks near the W. Crawford Street exit, and the car came to a stop just south of that exit.Soldan said the driver, Monica Befort, 32, of Salina, was arrested on the requested charge of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Sheriff: Kan. woman was northbound in southbound lanes of highway

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two teenagers in connection with a home robbery on Halloween.

Just after 11:00 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 200 block of SW Gage on a report of a robbery that had just occurred, according to Police Lt. Kelvin Johnson.

The victim indicated the suspects knocked on his door and when he opened it, they forced their way in and began to strike him. The two suspects stole items from the residence and left.

The two suspects were known to the victim and identified. Officers conducted follow up and later located the suspects at their residence in the 3200 block of SW California in Topeka were they were taken into custody and a search warrant was served. 

Both suspects were 15-year-olds and were booked into juvenile department of corrections.

The first was arrested on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and battery on a law enforcement officer. The second teen is being held on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, and criminal damage, according to Johnson.

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two teenagers in connection with a home robbery on Halloween.Just after 11:00 a.m. Sunday, police were dispatched to the 200 block of SW Gage on a report of a robbery that had just occurred, according to Police Lt. Kelvin Johnson.The victim indicated the suspects knocked on his door and when he opened it, they forced their way in and began to strike him. The two suspects stole items from the residence and left.The two suspects were known to the victim and identified. Officers conducted follow up and later located the suspects at their residence in the 3200 block of SW California in Topeka were they were taken into custody and a search warrant was served. Both suspects were 15-year-olds and were booked into juvenile department of corrections.The first was arrested on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, criminal damage, and battery on a law enforcement officer. The second teen is being held on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated burglary, and criminal damage, according to Johnson.

Trick or Treat: 15-year-olds jailed for Kansas robbery

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused in the drive-by shooting at a home in Wichita that critically injured an 11-year-old girl&nbsp;is scheduled to return to court Monday ahead of preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick Co. District Attorney's office.

Byron Purcell, 25 of Wichita, is charged with criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated battery, and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On Oct. 14., police arrested <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18777609">Purcell</a>.&nbsp;He is accused of being the gunman in a shooting that happened early Oct. 12 in a Wichita neighborhood in which bullets hit a house.

Police say an<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/victim-of-shooting-family-needs-help?member=14541373&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=more&amp;utm_source=customer">&nbsp;11-year-old girl </a>was in the house and asleep in her bed when she was hit by the gunfire. She was taken to a hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Police say four other people in the home at the time of the shooting were not injured.

Purcell remains jailed on a $250,000 bond, according to the district attorney's office.

Since Nov. 2017 Purcell was in one of several Kansas prisons following three convictions for aggravated  robbery. The state also reported Purcell had over  two dozen disciplinary violation during his time in prison. He was released in June, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634298594579.png" alt="Purcell photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Purcell photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused in the drive-by shooting at a home in Wichita that critically injured an 11-year-old girl&nbsp;is scheduled to return to court Monday ahead of preliminary hearing, according to the Sedgwick Co. District Attorney's office.Byron Purcell, 25 of Wichita, is charged with criminal discharge of a firearm, aggravated battery, and criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634162750977.png" alt="Image of the suspect vehicle driving by the home Oct. 12-Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Image of the suspect vehicle driving by the home Oct. 12-Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>On Oct. 14., police arrested <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18777609">Purcell</a>.&nbsp;He is accused of being the gunman in a shooting that happened early Oct. 12 in a Wichita neighborhood in which bullets hit a house.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634171148198.png" alt="A cousin established a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/victim-of-shooting-family-needs-help?member=14541373&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=more&amp;utm_source=customer">GoFundMe page </a>to help the girl's family with medical expenses.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>A cousin established a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/victim-of-shooting-family-needs-help?member=14541373&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=more&amp;utm_source=customer">GoFundMe page </a>to help the girl's family with medical expenses.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure> Police say an<a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/victim-of-shooting-family-needs-help?member=14541373&amp;sharetype=teams&amp;utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=more&amp;utm_source=customer">&nbsp;11-year-old girl </a>was in the house and asleep in her bed when she was hit by the gunfire. She was taken to a hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Police say four other people in the home at the time of the shooting were not injured.Purcell remains jailed on a $250,000 bond, according to the district attorney's office.Since Nov. 2017 Purcell was in one of several Kansas prisons following three convictions for aggravated robbery. The state also reported Purcell had over two dozen disciplinary violation during his time in prison. He was released in June, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.---------

Suspect in shooting that injured Kan. girl due back in court

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

Just beforee 3a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 100 block of SW Western in Topeka in reference a residential robbery to an individual that had just occurred, according to. Police Lt. Kelvin Johnson. 

Officers met with the victim and were able to get possible identification of the three suspects who were involved. The suspect’s vehicle was later located parked behind a residence in the 1000 block of NW Jackson in Topeka.

As officers were dealing with the vehicle the three suspects came out of a residence and were taken into custody and brought to the Law Enforcement Center for interviews. At the conclusion of the interviews police arrested Derek Devlin, 37 of Topeka, on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and Theft

Todd Devlin, 55, of Topeka, was arrested on on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery and Theft. The third individual was arrested on an outstanding arrest warrant. Police did not release that suspect's name.

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a residential robbery and have suspects in custody.Just beforee 3a.m. Saturday, police were dispatched to the 100 block of SW Western in Topeka in reference a residential robbery to an individual that had just occurred, according to. Police Lt. Kelvin Johnson. Officers met with the victim and were able to get possible identification of the three suspects who were involved. The suspect’s vehicle was later located parked behind a residence in the 1000 block of NW Jackson in Topeka.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635627703537.png" alt="Derek Devlin photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Derek Devlin photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As officers were dealing with the vehicle the three suspects came out of a residence and were taken into custody and brought to the Law Enforcement Center for interviews. At the conclusion of the interviews police arrested Derek Devlin, 37 of Topeka, on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Assault, and TheftTodd Devlin, 55, of Topeka, was arrested on on requested charges of Aggravated Robbery and Theft. The third individual was arrested on an outstanding arrest warrant. Police did not release that suspect's name.

Police arrest 2 suspects for robbery at Kansas home

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/11/1635804497310.png" alt="Coleman-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Coleman-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A first-year Kansas lawmaker, who was reprimanded by his colleagues for abusive conduct before taking office, has been arrested on suspicion of domestic battery. Democratic state Rep. Aaron Coleman of Kansas City was arrested Saturday evening and Johnson County Jail records show he remains in custody Sunday afternoon.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635710410061.png" alt="Image courtesy Johnson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Johnson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>The 21-year-old's arrest comes eight months after he received a written warning from a legislative committee about conduct before taking office that included abusive behavior toward young woman and girls.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RELEASE: House Democratic Leader Responds to Representative’s Arrest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/p340E5QDAU">pic.twitter.com/p340E5QDAU</a>&mdash; Kansas House Democrats (@KSHouseDems) <a href="https://twitter.com/KSHouseDems/status/1454872735516086272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div> House Democratic leader Tom Sawyer says Coleman's constituents and the State of Kansas would be better served if he were to resign and get the help he badly needs.

Kansas lawmaker arrested on domestic violence charge

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

At 5:30 a.m. Saturday, police were working a call in the 1700 block of SW Clay in Topeka when they saw a disturbance in the 1800 block of SW Clay, according to Police Lt. Kelvin Johnson.

As the officers were approaching the disturbance, they heard gun shots&nbsp; saw people running. Two individuals were detained and found to be the victims of an aggravated assault.

Information led them to a residence on that block where the suspect had run back into. Police surrounded the house and they called the suspect out where he was eventually taken into custody.

The suspect was identified as Jerome C. Vetaw, 42 of Topeka. Police arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Assault,&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, according to Johnson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635627435322.png" alt="Vetaw photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Vetaw photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting and have a suspect in custody.At 5:30 a.m. Saturday, police were working a call in the 1700 block of SW Clay in Topeka when they saw a disturbance in the 1800 block of SW Clay, according to Police Lt. Kelvin Johnson.As the officers were approaching the disturbance, they heard gun shots&nbsp; saw people running. Two individuals were detained and found to be the victims of an aggravated assault.Information led them to a residence on that block where the suspect had run back into. Police surrounded the house and they called the suspect out where he was eventually taken into custody.The suspect was identified as Jerome C. Vetaw, 42 of Topeka. Police arrested and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated Assault,&nbsp;&nbsp;Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Sell, according to Johnson.

Police catch suspect in Kan. drug deal shooting

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident during a high speed chase just before 11a.m. Friday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Kia Optima driven by&nbsp; Justin Allen Frostad, 28, Neodesha, was&nbsp;eastbound on County Road 3875 approximately two miles east of U.S. 75.&nbsp;

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Department was in pursuit of the vehicle. Frostad lost control of the Kia after crossing railroad tracks. The KIA veered off the road to the north, rolled and came to rest on its top in a field north of the road.

&nbsp;Frostad was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Webb and Rodrick Chapel.

EMS transported a passenger identified as Shania Marie Parks, 20, South Coffeyville, to a hospital in Tulsa. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635554367409.png" alt="Justin Frostad had previous felony convictions for counterfeiting, aggravated endangering a child and for drugs, according to the Kan. Department of Corrections. Photo from an earlier arrest in Montgomery Co." />
 <figcaption>Justin Frostad had previous felony convictions for counterfeiting, aggravated endangering a child and for drugs, according to the Kan. Department of Corrections. Photo from an earlier arrest in Montgomery Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident during a high speed chase just before 11a.m. Friday in Montgomery County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Kia Optima driven by&nbsp; Justin Allen Frostad, 28, Neodesha, was&nbsp;eastbound on County Road 3875 approximately two miles east of U.S. 75.&nbsp;The Montgomery County Sheriff's Department was in pursuit of the vehicle. Frostad lost control of the Kia after crossing railroad tracks. The KIA veered off the road to the north, rolled and came to rest on its top in a field north of the road.&nbsp;Frostad was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to&nbsp;Webb and Rodrick Chapel.EMS transported a passenger identified as Shania Marie Parks, 20, South Coffeyville, to a hospital in Tulsa. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kan. man dead after rollover crash during high speed chase

PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a northwest Kansas man on child sex allegations.

On October 26, deputies arrested David C. Alexander, 19, Norton, at a residence in Agra following an investigation into an alleged rape that had been reported the previous week, according to the Phillips Co. Sheriff.

Alexander was arrested on requested charges of rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child 14 to 16 years of age, blackmail, sexual exploitation of a child, fondling a child, distribution of marijuana, and aggravated intimidation of a witness/victim, the department said. He is being held on a $250,000 bond.

During his detention, Alexander allegedly attacked a deputy, leading to additional requested charges of&nbsp;aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and attempted aggravated escape from custody.

"The deputy received minor injuries and Alexander was transferred to a more secure facility," the department said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635531460731.jpeg" alt="Alexander is being held in Rooks Co." />
 <figcaption>Alexander is being held in Rooks Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PHILLIPS COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a northwest Kansas man on child sex allegations.On October 26, deputies arrested David C. Alexander, 19, Norton, at a residence in Agra following an investigation into an alleged rape that had been reported the previous week, according to the Phillips Co. Sheriff.Alexander was arrested on requested charges of rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child 14 to 16 years of age, blackmail, sexual exploitation of a child, fondling a child, distribution of marijuana, and aggravated intimidation of a witness/victim, the department said. He is being held on a $250,000 bond.During his detention, Alexander allegedly attacked a deputy, leading to additional requested charges of&nbsp;aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and attempted aggravated escape from custody."The deputy received minor injuries and Alexander was transferred to a more secure facility," the department said.

 Sheriff: Kan. child rape suspect also attacked detention deputy

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating theft from a store in Atchison have made an arrest.

On Wednesday, police arrested 40-year-old Carl D. Griffin, Jr., 40, St. Joseph, on a District Court warrant for theft in connection to the theft of two chainsaws from the Hardware Store, 609 Commercial, on August 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635432687395.png" alt="Griffin photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Griffin photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating theft from a store in Atchison have made an arrest.On Wednesday, police arrested 40-year-old Carl D. Griffin, Jr., 40, St. Joseph, on a District Court warrant for theft in connection to the theft of two chainsaws from the Hardware Store, 609 Commercial, on August 31.He remains in custody.

Missouri man jailed in Kansas for chainsaw thefts

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A 44-year-old man was sentenced to more than 13 years in prison for a crash that killed longtime Wichita radio host Don Hall. Ray Watkins was sentenced Friday for involuntary manslaughter. 

Police said Watkins ran a red light and hit Hall's car in April 2020. Evidence during Watkins' trial showed he had a blood alcohol content more than two times the legal limit at the time of the crash. 

Hall worked for more than 45 years in radio in Wichita. He was also the longtime arena announcer for Wichita State University basketball.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The jury trial of a man charged in a fatal DUI crash that killed a longtime radio host and Wichita State basketball announcer is underway, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Ray Watkins, 44, is charged with involuntary manslaughter&nbsp;while driving under the influence in the April 29, 2020 crash that killed&nbsp; 70-year-old Don Hall.

 Police said they believe Watkins ran a red light before the crash. He had minor injuries, but Hall died at the scene. Watkins was originally arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder.

An affidavit released in the case against Watkins said he had a 0.243 blood alcohol on the day of the crash.. The legal limit in Kansas is 0.08.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588158119316.png" alt="First responders at the accident scene -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the accident scene -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — A 44-year-old man was sentenced to more than 13 years in prison for a crash that killed longtime Wichita radio host Don Hall. Ray Watkins was sentenced Friday for involuntary manslaughter. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588182421819.png" alt="Watkins photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Watkins photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Police said Watkins ran a red light and hit Hall's car in April 2020. Evidence during Watkins' trial showed he had a blood alcohol content more than two times the legal limit at the time of the crash. Hall worked for more than 45 years in radio in Wichita. He was also the longtime arena announcer for Wichita State University basketball.-----SEDGWICK COUNTY —The jury trial of a man charged in a fatal DUI crash that killed a longtime radio host and Wichita State basketball announcer is underway, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Ray Watkins, 44, is charged with involuntary manslaughter&nbsp;while driving under the influence in the April 29, 2020 crash that killed&nbsp; 70-year-old Don Hall. Police said they believe Watkins ran a red light before the crash. He had minor injuries, but Hall died at the scene. Watkins was originally arrested on suspicion of second-degree murder.An affidavit released in the case against Watkins said he had a 0.243 blood alcohol on the day of the crash.. The legal limit in Kansas is 0.08.

Man sentenced for DUI crash that killed Kansas radio host

NEMAHA COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested the man who was shot by law enforcement officers during an incident outside his residence in Sabetha.

Just before 5 p.m. Thursday, KBI agents arrested Kelly J. Hall, 38, of Sabetha, for aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer. Hall had been receiving medical treatment at Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka, and was arrested as he was released from the hospital.

Just before 8 p.m. Oct. 20, the Sabetha Police Department and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a man who was threatening suicide, according to the KBI.

When officers arrived at 319 N. 9th Street in Sabetha, they tried to convince Hall to come outside so they could verify his welfare. He would not exit the house, so they attempted to communicate with him over their public announcement (PA) system.

During the incident officers heard several pops coming from inside the residence. Attempts to communicate continued until Hall stepped outside the front door holding an air-powered nail gun. Officers and deputies ordered him to drop the nail gun. Hall began firing nails in the direction of officers. A deputy from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and an officer from the Sabetha Police Department fired rounds at Hall, striking him. Shots were fired at around 9:45 p.m.

Hall retreated back into the residence. Officers and deputies entered the house and rendered aid to Hall. EMS responded and transported him to the Sabetha Community Hospital. He was later transferred to Stormont Vail in Topeka.

No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635513014441.png" alt="Hall is being held without bond" />
 <figcaption>Hall is being held without bond</figcaption>
 </figure>NEMAHA COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested the man who was shot by law enforcement officers during an incident outside his residence in Sabetha.Just before 5 p.m. Thursday, KBI agents arrested Kelly J. Hall, 38, of Sabetha, for aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer. Hall had been receiving medical treatment at Stormont Vail hospital in Topeka, and was arrested as he was released from the hospital.Just before 8 p.m. Oct. 20, the Sabetha Police Department and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report of a man who was threatening suicide, according to the KBI.When officers arrived at 319 N. 9th Street in Sabetha, they tried to convince Hall to come outside so they could verify his welfare. He would not exit the house, so they attempted to communicate with him over their public announcement (PA) system.During the incident officers heard several pops coming from inside the residence. Attempts to communicate continued until Hall stepped outside the front door holding an air-powered nail gun. Officers and deputies ordered him to drop the nail gun. Hall began firing nails in the direction of officers. A deputy from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office and an officer from the Sabetha Police Department fired rounds at Hall, striking him. Shots were fired at around 9:45 p.m.Hall retreated back into the residence. Officers and deputies entered the house and rendered aid to Hall. EMS responded and transported him to the Sabetha Community Hospital. He was later transferred to Stormont Vail in Topeka.No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

Kan. man who shot nail gun at officers moved from hospital to jail

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A woman is facing a dozen charges, including second-degree murder, after prosecutors said she went on a violent rampage that left one man dead and another woman hospitalized. The Wyandotte County prosecutors office said Alyssa Leanne Arreola began the rampage early Wednesday when she stole a vehicle in Kansas City, Kansas. 

In the next several hours, Arreola allegedly was involved in two hit-and-run crashes, broke into a woman's home and stabbed her, and then fatally shot a man before stealing his car. The stabbing victim remains hospitalized. Authorities have not said what prompted Arreola's actions.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, say they've arrested a woman considered a person of interest in a violent rampage that saw a man fatally shot. Television station KCTV reports that the string of violence began around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, when a woman reportedly stole a vehicle from a store parking lot. 

A few hours later, police say that car was involved in two separate hit-and-run crashes before the woman fled on foot. Police say they then received reports of a woman breaking into an elderly woman's apartment and stabbing the older woman before fleeing. 

About a block away, a man was fatally shot in his driveway and his car stolen. Police say they later found the car with the woman driving it and arrested her.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Late Wednesday afternoon, police recovered the red Hyundai Tucson the suspect was reportedly driving. Officers found it in Kansas City, Missouri. 

A short time later, officers arrested a white female - matching the suspect's description - on unrelated charges. At this time, our detectives consider her a person interest. Officials released no additional details.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.

On Wednesday afternoon, police in Kansas City, Kansas released a photo of a woman who is&nbsp;suspect in a homicide that took place shortly after 1p.m. in the 7900 block of Sandusky.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She is possibly armed and definitely dangerous. She was last seen eastbound on Interstate 70 in red Hyundai Tucson w Kansas Tag 237 NLE

 If you see her or the vehicle call 911.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635501503065.png" alt="Arreola-is being held in Jackson Co. Missouri&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Arreola-is being held in Jackson Co. Missouri&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — A woman is facing a dozen charges, including second-degree murder, after prosecutors said she went on a violent rampage that left one man dead and another woman hospitalized. The Wyandotte County prosecutors office said Alyssa Leanne Arreola began the rampage early Wednesday when she stole a vehicle in Kansas City, Kansas. In the next several hours, Arreola allegedly was involved in two hit-and-run crashes, broke into a woman's home and stabbed her, and then fatally shot a man before stealing his car. The stabbing victim remains hospitalized. Authorities have not said what prompted Arreola's actions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635368127641.png" alt="Security camera images KCK&nbsp; police" />
 <figcaption>Security camera images KCK&nbsp; police</figcaption>
 </figure>------KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, say they've arrested a woman considered a person of interest in a violent rampage that saw a man fatally shot. Television station KCTV reports that the string of violence began around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, when a woman reportedly stole a vehicle from a store parking lot. A few hours later, police say that car was involved in two separate hit-and-run crashes before the woman fled on foot. Police say they then received reports of a woman breaking into an elderly woman's apartment and stabbing the older woman before fleeing. About a block away, a man was fatally shot in his driveway and his car stolen. Police say they later found the car with the woman driving it and arrested her.----------JOHNSON COUNTY—Late Wednesday afternoon, police recovered the red Hyundai Tucson the suspect was reportedly driving. Officers found it in Kansas City, Missouri. A short time later, officers arrested a white female - matching the suspect's description - on unrelated charges. At this time, our detectives consider her a person interest. Officials released no additional details.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635368221797.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>----------JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a homicide and asking the public for help to locate a suspect.On Wednesday afternoon, police in Kansas City, Kansas released a photo of a woman who is&nbsp;suspect in a homicide that took place shortly after 1p.m. in the 7900 block of Sandusky.&nbsp;&nbsp;She is possibly armed and definitely dangerous. She was last seen eastbound on Interstate 70 in red Hyundai Tucson w Kansas Tag 237 NLE If you see her or the vehicle call 911.&nbsp;

Kansas woman charged after violent rampage that left 1 dead

ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.

Just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday police responded to the area of the Oak Hill Cemetery in the 200 block North 17th street in Atchison to investigate a suspicious person with a gun, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

Officers located 26-year-old Chad M. Gorrell, Atchison,&nbsp; who was in possession of a firearm. Officers took him into custody on a requested charge of criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

He has previous convictions for burglary, obstruction, interference with law enforcement and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; He had been out of prison since 2019.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635351163327.png" alt="Gorrell photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Gorrell photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an arrest.Just before 6:30a.m. Wednesday police responded to the area of the Oak Hill Cemetery in the 200 block North 17th street in Atchison to investigate a suspicious person with a gun, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.Officers located 26-year-old Chad M. Gorrell, Atchison,&nbsp; who was in possession of a firearm. Officers took him into custody on a requested charge of criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.He has previous convictions for burglary, obstruction, interference with law enforcement and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp; He had been out of prison since 2019.

Police: Kan. felon was wandering near cemetery with a gun

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Salina woman was arrested late Wednesday afternoon after she was found driving a pickup stolen downtown a few minutes earlier.

A 39-year-old Salina mah walked out of his place of employment in the 300 block of N. Fifth Street at approximately 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and found that his 2005 Chevrolet Colorado had been stolen, according to Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester

A coworker saw a woman get into the pickup and drive away south on N. Fifth Street. The keys were in the pickup, Forrester said.

While officers were on their way, another officer spotted the stolen pickup near the intersection of S. Fifth Street/E. Mulberry Street. The officer stopped the pickup in the 200 block of S. Seventh Street and arrested the driver, Mary Willems, 25, of Salina, on a requested charge of felony theft. She allegedly had $25 in cash from the pickup in her pocket, according to Forrester.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635431077474.jpeg" alt="Willems-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Willems-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Salina woman was arrested late Wednesday afternoon after she was found driving a pickup stolen downtown a few minutes earlier.A 39-year-old Salina mah walked out of his place of employment in the 300 block of N. Fifth Street at approximately 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and found that his 2005 Chevrolet Colorado had been stolen, according to Salina Police Captain Paul ForresterA coworker saw a woman get into the pickup and drive away south on N. Fifth Street. The keys were in the pickup, Forrester said.While officers were on their way, another officer spotted the stolen pickup near the intersection of S. Fifth Street/E. Mulberry Street. The officer stopped the pickup in the 200 block of S. Seventh Street and arrested the driver, Mary Willems, 25, of Salina, on a requested charge of felony theft. She allegedly had $25 in cash from the pickup in her pocket, according to Forrester.

Police: Woman took Kansas man's pickup and cash

By SUZANNE PEREZ, JIM MCLEAN and BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-27/your-local-kansas-elections-are-getting-taken-over-by-bruising-dc-style-politics">Kansas News Service</a>

WICHITA — The notion of low-key elections in Kansas 
during odd-numbered years — largely spared the attack campaigns, 
mysterious money and blue-versus-red rancor — now feels so quaint.

Instead,
 school board races carry talking points about race and mask orders that
 would feel at home on Fox News or MSNBC. In one city in central Kansas,
 residents find themselves in an emotional battle over how much power 
local officials should have in the midst of a public health crisis. And 
voters in the state’s capital find one candidate on the ballot for city 
council with ties to a white supremacist group linked to the Jan. 6 
siege of the U.S. Capitol.

So now people running for local office —
 jobs where it can often prove hard to recruit volunteers to serve, much
 less withstand public attack — find themselves in increasingly 
partisan-like contests settled by an ever more polarized electorate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635433578405.png" alt="The race for four seats on the Wichita school board has become a battle between the incumbents and a slate of challengers recruited by the county Republican Party. Suzanne Perez / Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>The race for four seats on the Wichita school board has become a battle between the incumbents and a slate of challengers recruited by the county Republican Party. Suzanne Perez / Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>By SUZANNE PEREZ, JIM MCLEAN and BLAISE MESA <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-27/your-local-kansas-elections-are-getting-taken-over-by-bruising-dc-style-politics">Kansas News Service</a>WICHITA — The notion of low-key elections in Kansas 
during odd-numbered years — largely spared the attack campaigns, 
mysterious money and blue-versus-red rancor — now feels so quaint.Instead,
 school board races carry talking points about race and mask orders that
 would feel at home on Fox News or MSNBC. In one city in central Kansas,
 residents find themselves in an emotional battle over how much power 
local officials should have in the midst of a public health crisis. And 
voters in the state’s capital find one candidate on the ballot for city 
council with ties to a white supremacist group linked to the Jan. 6 
siege of the U.S. Capitol.So now people running for local office —
 jobs where it can often prove hard to recruit volunteers to serve, much
 less withstand public attack — find themselves in increasingly 
partisan-like contests settled by an ever more polarized electorate.School
 board meetings across Kansas have become a battleground for protests 
about mask mandates, critical race theory and other issues.That 
means races for hundreds of school board seats — usually low-interest, 
low-turnout affairs — draw more attention than usual this year.The <a href="https://1776projectpac.com/" target="_blank">Project 1776 PAC</a>, a New York-based political action committee, is backing dozens of candidates in seven states, including Kansas. The group has <a href="https://1776projectpac.com/endorsed-candidates/" target="_blank">endorsed 10 candidates</a> for school board races in Shawnee Mission, Blue Valley, Olathe and Lansing.Project 1776 opposes the teaching of critical race theory or anything related to the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/08/14/magazine/1619-america-slavery.html" target="_blank">1619 Project</a>,
 a New York Times initiative that aims to reframe American history by 
focusing on the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black 
Americans.In Wichita, the state’s largest school district has <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-10-19/your-guide-to-the-2021-wichita-school-board-elections" target="_blank">four seats up for grabs</a> — a board majority — on Tuesday.Incumbents
 have faced criticism for more than a year over COVID-19 protocols, 
including decisions to start last school year with <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/education/2020-08-20/wichita-school-board-votes-to-start-middle-and-high-school-students-remotely" target="_blank">remote-only classes for secondary students</a> and to require <a href="https://www.kmuw.org/2021-08-23/wichita-boe-votes-to-mandate-masks-for-students-employees" target="_blank">masks in schools</a>.They’re facing a slate of challengers recruited and endorsed by the Sedgwick County Republican Party who oppose mask mandates.Both
 the incumbents and challengers in Wichita are campaigning as a group, 
which is unusual for school board races, and both are getting support 
from larger organizations.A campaign flier for the incumbents was paid for by the <a href="https://bluestemkansas.com/" target="_blank">Bluestem Fund PAC</a>, which gets contributions from the National Education Association and other unions.During
 a recent gathering at a parking lot in east Wichita, Republican state 
Rep. Patrick Penn rallied the challengers and their supporters. He said 
Kansas school districts will get more than $8 billion in federal funding
 for COVID relief, and they’re spending it on the wrong things.“What
 kind of stuff am I talking about? I’m talking about critical race 
theory,” Penn said. “I’m talking about anything that can be associated 
with depression, anti-bullying — they call it social-emotional learning.
 That’s what the school board wants to push out there.”Judith Deedy, executive director of <a href="https://gameonforkansasschools.com/" target="_blank">Game On For Kansas Schools</a>, says she’s troubled by the shift toward partisan elections all over the state.“There’s
 a lot of anger and frustration, particularly with COVID, and so the 
more traditional school board members are maybe more susceptible to 
being picked off right now,” she said.“It’s misguided anger or 
misdirected anger at the people who’ve been in there and having to make 
some really difficult decisions.”<h2>Salina showdown</h2>In
 Salina, a town of about 50,000 in the middle of the state, an effort to
 limit the emergency powers of the city commission is sparking heated 
debate.A group of residents angered by a mask mandate and 
restrictions imposed on businesses during the height of the pandemic 
mounted a petition drive over the summer to get the question on the Nov.
 2 ballot.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1635433656199.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“This is about a lot of citizens that feel like the government overreached,” said Kevin Korb, the leader of the group —<a href="https://salinafreedom.com/" target="_blank"> Salina Freedom </a>— during a recent<a href="https://www.ksal.com/ballot-question-debate-on-ksal/" target="_blank"> discussion of the issue </a>on Salina radio station KSAL.“The city commissioners are there to represent us,” he said, “not rule over us like kings.”A rival group, <a href="https://salinansforfacts.org/" target="_blank">Salinans for Facts,</a> is spearheading an effort to defeat the measure. It includes <a href="https://www.ksal.com/opinion-former-commissioners-mayors-urge-no-vote/" target="_blank">several former mayors and commissioners</a> who argue the proposed ordinance would usurp the home-rule powers granted the city in the Kansas Constitution.“This
 isn’t about freedom,” said former Commissioner Jon Blanchard on the 
KSAL broadcast. “This is about how we best respond to public 
emergencies.”Passage of the ordinance, Blanchard said, would tie the city’s hands when dealing with future health crises.“I fail to see how that makes anybody more free and it certainly does not make people safer,” he said.A
 court challenge could prevent the ordinance from taking effect even if 
voters approve it. Saline County District Court Judge Paul Hickman has 
heard arguments in the case earlier this month but is waiting until 
after the election to issue a ruling.<h2>Controversial candidate</h2>A candidate in Topeka’s city council race has deep-rooted connections to the Proud Boys.Canada
 labeled the Proud Boys as a terrorist organization, and the group 
fundraised legal defense funds for people arrested in the Capitol 
insurrection.Joel Campbell, who says he left the group, was a 
third-degree member with a tattoo professing his allegiance to the 
group. He is running against incumbent Neil Dobler for Topeka’s a 
district city council seat.Campbell was previously investigated 
by the state’s highway patrol for threats against Gov. Laura Kelly. In a
 now-deleted video he, without evidence, linked Kelly to running a child
 trafficking ring out of a pizza shop in Salina.“(Kelly) is 
wearing the red shoes,” Campbell said in the video. “They are literally 
throwing this (expletive) in our face. … The leader of Kansas, 
(expletive) Kansas’ governor, is in on this (expletive).”Campbell’s social media also follows a “super straight" account.A
 TikTok user coined the term super straight after saying they didn't 
want to date transgender people. The post then gained popularity and 
became closely tied with transphobic posts. It has since been banned 
from the social media app TikTok because it is “associated with hateful 
behavior.”The
 Kansas News Service is a collaboration of KCUR, Kansas Public Radio, 
KMUW and High Plains Public Radio focused on health, the social 
determinants of health and their connection to public policy.