WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police say a 28-year-old Dodge City man who was facing a possible first-degree murder charge in a shooting death near a Wichita park is no longer facing those charges and they are searching for another suspect. 

Police said Friday morning that Caesar Hermosillo of Dodge City was arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder and aggravated robbery in the death of 32-year-old Jason Huber of Wichita. 

But police said later Friday that Hermosillo no longer faces those charges. He remains in custody on a pending warrant. Police are now searching for another man in connection to Huber's death. 

Huber was found Wednesday suffering from gunshot wounds near South Riverside Park and he died later at a hospital.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting death, have made an arrest and are asking for help locate a second suspect.

Just after 2 a.m. on Wednesday, officers responded to a welfare check in the 800 block of West Murdock.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Jason Huber of Wichita who had been shot. He was taken to an area hospital for medical treatment where he died.

The investigation revealed&nbsp;28-year-old Caesar Hermosillo of Dodge City and Huber were both at the same nearby business.&nbsp; &nbsp;They left the business, Huber on a bicycle and Hermosillo in a van westbound on Murdock.

 At Murdock and Stackman Drive, Huber was shot and his bicycle was taken.

A second suspect left the business driving a white Buick La Sabre and Huber left on a bicycle both going west on Mudock before he was shot and his bicycle was taken.

If you know the identity of this suspect or know his whereabouts, please call WPD detectives at 316-268-4646 or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Investigators are also working to contact other individuals in this case to learn all the circumstances of what occurred.

Shortly after the shooting occurred, a white minivan drove by the scene traveling north on Stackman Drive and then East on Murdock, according to Davidson.

 Investigators need to speak to the occupants of this vehicle as potential witnesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hermosillo is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated robbery and an outstanding warrant, according to Davidson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630691706666.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Police say a 28-year-old Dodge City man who was facing a possible first-degree murder charge in a shooting death near a Wichita park is no longer facing those charges and they are searching for another suspect. Police said Friday morning that Caesar Hermosillo of Dodge City was arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder and aggravated robbery in the death of 32-year-old Jason Huber of Wichita. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630687658014.png" alt="Hermosillo photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Hermosillo photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>But police said later Friday that Hermosillo no longer faces those charges. He remains in custody on a pending warrant. Police are now searching for another man in connection to Huber's death. Huber was found Wednesday suffering from gunshot wounds near South Riverside Park and he died later at a hospital.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630691827448.png" alt="The suspect's vehicle-photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>The suspect's vehicle-photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting death, have made an arrest and are asking for help locate a second suspect.Just after 2 a.m. on Wednesday, officers responded to a welfare check in the 800 block of West Murdock.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located 32-year-old Jason Huber of Wichita who had been shot. He was taken to an area hospital for medical treatment where he died.The investigation revealed&nbsp;28-year-old Caesar Hermosillo of Dodge City and Huber were both at the same nearby business.&nbsp; &nbsp;They left the business, Huber on a bicycle and Hermosillo in a van westbound on Murdock. At Murdock and Stackman Drive, Huber was shot and his bicycle was taken.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630691706666.png" alt="This suspect was at the same nearby business as Huber before the shooting, according to Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>This suspect was at the same nearby business as Huber before the shooting, according to Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>A second suspect left the business driving a white Buick La Sabre and Huber left on a bicycle both going west on Mudock before he was shot and his bicycle was taken.If you know the identity of this suspect or know his whereabouts, please call WPD detectives at 316-268-4646 or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.Investigators are also working to contact other individuals in this case to learn all the circumstances of what occurred.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630680289015.png" alt="Police are looking for those in this vehicle -photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Police are looking for those in this vehicle -photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>Shortly after the shooting occurred, a white minivan drove by the scene traveling north on Stackman Drive and then East on Murdock, according to Davidson. Investigators need to speak to the occupants of this vehicle as potential witnesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Hermosillo is being held on requested charges of first-degree murder, aggravated robbery and an outstanding warrant, according to Davidson.

UPDATE: Search continues for suspect in fatal Kan. shooting

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating several recent vehicle burglaries and stolen credit cards being used from the burglaries have made an arrest.

On Wednesday, police identified 54-year-old Glen Moler as a suspect and located him at his home, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

Investigators arrested him and recovered a stolen vehicle and other stolen items. Those stolen items were returned to their owners.&nbsp;

Moler is being held on requested charges of criminal use of a financial card, six counts of burglary, three counts of theft, one count of auto theft, one count of theft of a firearm and&nbsp; two counts of attempted burglary.

 Moler has been arrested and convicted 19 times for burglary, theft, DUI and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He had been out of prison since July.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630664216838.png" alt="Moler has 19 previous convictions for burglary, theft, DUI and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dpt. of Corrections-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Moler has 19 previous convictions for burglary, theft, DUI and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Dpt. of Corrections-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating several recent vehicle burglaries and stolen credit cards being used from the burglaries have made an arrest.On Wednesday, police identified 54-year-old Glen Moler as a suspect and located him at his home, according to Officer Charley Davidson.Investigators arrested him and recovered a stolen vehicle and other stolen items. Those stolen items were returned to their owners.&nbsp;Moler is being held on requested charges of criminal use of a financial card, six counts of burglary, three counts of theft, one count of auto theft, one count of theft of a firearm and&nbsp; two counts of attempted burglary. Moler has been arrested and convicted 19 times for burglary, theft, DUI and criminal damage to property, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He had been out of prison since July.

Kan. man with 19 previous convictions jailed for burglary

RENO COUNTY—Authorities investigating a double-homicide in Reno County have charged 37-year-old Kyle Hardwick&nbsp;with two counts of premeditated first degree murder and one count of theft.

Police in Maize arrested Hardwick Wednesday. He made his first appearance in the case Thursday morning. He’s being held on a bond of $2-million and is scheduled to return to court on Sept. 9. 

The case has been sealed by Judge Daniel Gilligan at this time. Authorities have not released names of the victims.

On Friday, the Reno County Sheriff's department listed Hardwick as a person of interest in the case after two bodies were discovered on a property in eastern Reno County.

Deputies were sent to that location for a check welfare call. While searching the property, deputies believed they found the missing person, so they got a warrant to search the entire property and found a second man dead.

The murder charges against Hardwick carry a life sentence without parole for 50 years.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630599777911.png" alt="Hardwick photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Hardwick photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RENO COUNTY—Authorities investigating a double-homicide in Reno County have charged 37-year-old Kyle Hardwick&nbsp;with two counts of premeditated first degree murder and one count of theft.Police in Maize arrested Hardwick Wednesday. He made his first appearance in the case Thursday morning. He’s being held on a bond of $2-million and is scheduled to return to court on Sept. 9. The case has been sealed by Judge Daniel Gilligan at this time. Authorities have not released names of the victims.On Friday, the Reno County Sheriff's department listed Hardwick as a person of interest in the case after two bodies were discovered on a property in eastern Reno County.Deputies were sent to that location for a check welfare call. While searching the property, deputies believed they found the missing person, so they got a warrant to search the entire property and found a second man dead.The murder charges against Hardwick carry a life sentence without parole for 50 years.&nbsp;

Suspect in Kan. double homicide charged with murder, theft

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that critically injured a man.

Just after 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to the 1300 Block of SW Huntoon Street in Topeka in reference to a shooting that had just occurred, according to Lt. Edward Stanley.

At the scene, officers&nbsp;found an man suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries. Police have not reported an arrest or released the victim's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630579814551.png" alt="Police on the scene of the Wednesday evening investigation -photo courtesy WIBW-TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the Wednesday evening investigation -photo courtesy WIBW-TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that critically injured a man.Just after 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to the 1300 Block of SW Huntoon Street in Topeka in reference to a shooting that had just occurred, according to Lt. Edward Stanley.At the scene, officers&nbsp;found an man suffering from gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital with life threatening injuries. Police have not reported an arrest or released the victim's name.

Police: Kansas man critically injured in shooting

PRATT COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a standoff situation at the American Inn, 1336 East First Street in Pratt, according to a media release.

Police made an arrest after the Pratt County Sheriff Office SRT Team made entry to the room and safely apprehend the suspect.&nbsp;

John Michael Goodson, 33, is in custody on requested charges of criminal damage to&nbsp; property, criminal use of a weapon by a felon and unlawful discharge of a weapon in the city limits, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

There were no injuries during the standoff or arrest, according to Pratt Police. Authorities released no additional details early Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/9/1630578464096.png" alt="Goodson photo Pratt Co." />
 <figcaption>Goodson photo Pratt Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PRATT COUNTY— Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after a standoff situation at the American Inn, 1336 East First Street in Pratt, according to a media release.Police made an arrest after the Pratt County Sheriff Office SRT Team made entry to the room and safely apprehend the suspect.&nbsp;John Michael Goodson, 33, is in custody on requested charges of criminal damage to&nbsp; property, criminal use of a weapon by a felon and unlawful discharge of a weapon in the city limits, according to online jail records.&nbsp;There were no injuries during the standoff or arrest, according to Pratt Police. Authorities released no additional details early Thursday.

Police: Man in custody after standoff at Kansas motel

FORD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating another school threat this week in Dodge City.

On Wednesday, the Dodge City High School Resource Officer (SRO) was given information that a student made a threat that he was, “going to shoot up the band practice room,” at the high school, according to a media release from Dodge City Police.

Multiple students heard the threat and reported it to school staff. The student has been arrested for the alleged crime of criminal threat, and a case will be filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.

This is one of several threats and arrests under investigation at USD 443 over the past week, according to police.

FORD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating another school threat this week in Dodge City.On Wednesday, the Dodge City High School Resource Officer (SRO) was given information that a student made a threat that he was, “going to shoot up the band practice room,” at the high school, according to a media release from Dodge City Police.Multiple students heard the threat and reported it to school staff. The student has been arrested for the alleged crime of criminal threat, and a case will be filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.This is one of several threats and arrests under investigation at USD 443 over the past week, according to police.

Police make another arrest for threat at Kan. high school

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the August 25 fatal hit-and-run crash made his first court appearance Tuesday.

Jesus Manuel Olave, Jr.,&nbsp;31 of Wichita, was charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident and for no valid driver’s license, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

At 11:30 p.m. August 25, police were dispatched to a fatal accident at the intersection of 47th Street South and South Hydraulic Avenue in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

The investigation revealed a black SUV was&nbsp; eastbound on 47th Street South. The SUV then turned north onto Hydraulic Avenue and struck a westbound 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by&nbsp;37-year-old Kenneth M. Ballinger of Derby.

EMS pronounced Ballinger dead at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV later identified as Olave, Jr., fled the scene.&nbsp; According to Sedgwick County booking records, police arrested and <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18705970">booked him into</a> jail on the evening of August 26.

&nbsp;His next scheduled court appearance is September 16.&nbsp; He remains <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18705970">in jail on a $250,000 bond,</a> according to the district attorney.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident that fatally injured&nbsp;37-year-old Kenneth M. Ballinger of Derby.

At approximately 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to a fatal accident at the intersection of 47th Street South and South Hydraulic Avenue, according to Officer Charley Davidson.

The investigation revealed a black SUV was&nbsp; eastbound on 47th Street South. The SUV then turned north onto Hydraulic Avenue and struck a westbound 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Ballinger.

He died from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV fled the scene. Police have not located the driver.&nbsp; The SUV may have damage to the front right corner.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact WPD detectives at 316-268-4407, See Something Say Something at 316 519-2282 or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630068308246.png" alt="Olave Jr. photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Olave Jr. photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the August 25 fatal hit-and-run crash made his first court appearance Tuesday.Jesus Manuel Olave, Jr.,&nbsp;31 of Wichita, was charged with felony leaving the scene of an accident and for no valid driver’s license, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.At 11:30 p.m. August 25, police were dispatched to a fatal accident at the intersection of 47th Street South and South Hydraulic Avenue in Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.The investigation revealed a black SUV was&nbsp; eastbound on 47th Street South. The SUV then turned north onto Hydraulic Avenue and struck a westbound 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by&nbsp;37-year-old Kenneth M. Ballinger of Derby.EMS pronounced Ballinger dead at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV later identified as Olave, Jr., fled the scene.&nbsp; According to Sedgwick County booking records, police arrested and <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18705970">booked him into</a> jail on the evening of August 26.&nbsp;His next scheduled court appearance is September 16.&nbsp; He remains <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18705970">in jail on a $250,000 bond,</a> according to the district attorney.----------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident that fatally injured&nbsp;37-year-old Kenneth M. Ballinger of Derby.At approximately 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to a fatal accident at the intersection of 47th Street South and South Hydraulic Avenue, according to Officer Charley Davidson.The investigation revealed a black SUV was&nbsp; eastbound on 47th Street South. The SUV then turned north onto Hydraulic Avenue and struck a westbound 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Ballinger.He died from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV fled the scene. Police have not located the driver.&nbsp; The SUV may have damage to the front right corner.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact WPD detectives at 316-268-4407, See Something Say Something at 316 519-2282 or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Police: Kan. man charged in fatal hit-and-run had no license

FORD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating threats allegedly made by students in Dodge City.

Just after 3:30p.m. Monday, the Dodge City High School Resource Officer (SRO) was made aware of a potential threat to the school, according to a media release from police.

The SRO began investigating an alleged Snapchat message sent to other students telling them not to go to school Monday.&nbsp; The message came in a thread where the subject was about the previous threat made to the school on August 27. 

The students did the right thing and alerted school authorities. Since there were no described threats to the school or students, two students were charged with disorderly conduct, and a case will be filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.

While investigating the threat to the school, the same high school SRO was approached by high school staff at approximately 9:00a.m. to inform him of another threat made on Monday at the high school. 

It is alleged that a 15-year-old student told other students that he would be “the next school shooter.” He indicated that two other students would be first and second on his list. He then held his hand up in the form of a gun and pointed at one of the students after indicating that he had a gun in his backpack. This student was located off-campus and arrested for felony criminal threat. A case will be filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.

FORD COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating threats allegedly made by students in Dodge City.Just after 3:30p.m. Monday, the Dodge City High School Resource Officer (SRO) was made aware of a potential threat to the school, according to a media release from police.The SRO began investigating an alleged Snapchat message sent to other students telling them not to go to school Monday.&nbsp; The message came in a thread where the subject was about the previous threat made to the school on August 27. The students did the right thing and alerted school authorities. Since there were no described threats to the school or students, two students were charged with disorderly conduct, and a case will be filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.While investigating the threat to the school, the same high school SRO was approached by high school staff at approximately 9:00a.m. to inform him of another threat made on Monday at the high school. It is alleged that a 15-year-old student told other students that he would be “the next school shooter.” He indicated that two other students would be first and second on his list. He then held his hand up in the form of a gun and pointed at one of the students after indicating that he had a gun in his backpack. This student was located off-campus and arrested for felony criminal threat. A case will be filed with the Ford County Attorney’s Office.

SW Kan. high school investigating school threats

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing, have made an arrest and located the alleged murder weapon.

Just after 9:30p.m. Monday, deputies were dispatched to a stabbing in the 5600 block of south 143rd Street East in Wichita, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick.

 When deputies arrived, they located a 48-year-old as Kelly Joe Ralph in the driveway with multiple stab wounds. EMS transported&nbsp; him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

During the investigation, deputies learned there was a physical disturbance between Ralph and and his 32-year-old nephew Douglass R. McGathy over a gun sale, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter. They both lived at the home.

Deputies arrested McGathy and booked him on requested charges of Murder in the second degree.&nbsp; 

On Tuesday, investigators returned to the crime scene and&nbsp; located the knife used in the murder. It was thrown on the roof of the home, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630426752484.png" alt="McGathy-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>McGathy-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal stabbing, have made an arrest and located the alleged murder weapon.Just after 9:30p.m. Monday, deputies were dispatched to a stabbing in the 5600 block of south 143rd Street East in Wichita, according to Lt. Benjamin Blick. When deputies arrived, they located a 48-year-old as Kelly Joe Ralph in the driveway with multiple stab wounds. EMS transported&nbsp; him to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.During the investigation, deputies learned there was a physical disturbance between Ralph and and his 32-year-old nephew Douglass R. McGathy over a gun sale, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff Jeff Easter. They both lived at the home.Deputies arrested McGathy and booked him on requested charges of Murder in the second degree.&nbsp; On Tuesday, investigators returned to the crime scene and&nbsp; located the knife used in the murder. It was thrown on the roof of the home, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.

Sheriff: Deputies find murder weapon on roof of Kan. home

KANSAS CITY —The Missouri Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to halt the October execution of a man convicted of a triple killing who claimed his intellectual disability made him ineligible for the death penalty.

Ernest Lee Johnson, 61, is scheduled to die by injection Oct. 5 at the state prison in Bonne Terre. It would be the first execution in Missouri since convicted killer Walter Barton was put to death in May 2020.

Johnson's attorney, Kansas City public defender Jeremy Weis, said he is still weighing options about what to do next. Weis said Johnson “meets all statutory and clinical definitions” of intellectual disability and has an IQ that in various tests has ranged from 67 to 77. The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits executing intellectually disabled people.

Johnson was convicted of killing 46-year-old Mary Bratcher, 57-year-old Mable Scruggs and 58-year-old Fred Jones during a closing-time robbery of a Casey’s General Store in Columbia in February 1994. Johnson wanted money to buy drugs, authorities said.

All three workers were beaten to death with a claw hammer. Bratcher also was stabbed at least 10 times with a screwdriver and Jones was shot in the face. The bodies were hid in a cooler.

Johnson was arrested after police found a bank bag, stolen money and store receipts at his home.

Johnson had previously asked that his execution be carried out by firing squad. His lawyers argued that Missouri's lethal injection drug, pentobarbital, could trigger seizures. In 2008 Johnson had most, but not all, of a benign brain tumor removed, and a later MRI revealed that up to 20% of his brain tissue was also removed.

But Missouri law does not authorize execution by firing squad and the U.S. Supreme Court in May refused to consider Johnson's appeal. The Missouri Supreme Court, in its decision on Tuesday, also declined to halt the execution based on concerns about the drug.

Johnson has been sentenced to death three times.

He was already on death row in 2001 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that executing the mentally ill was unconstitutionally cruel and a new sentencing hearing was ordered. Johnson was again sentenced to death in 2003. The Missouri Supreme Court tossed that sentence, too. In 2006, Johnson was sentenced to death again.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630442442895.png" alt="Johnson photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Johnson photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —The Missouri Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to halt the October execution of a man convicted of a triple killing who claimed his intellectual disability made him ineligible for the death penalty.Ernest Lee Johnson, 61, is scheduled to die by injection Oct. 5 at the state prison in Bonne Terre. It would be the first execution in Missouri since convicted killer Walter Barton was put to death in May 2020.Johnson's attorney, Kansas City public defender Jeremy Weis, said he is still weighing options about what to do next. Weis said Johnson “meets all statutory and clinical definitions” of intellectual disability and has an IQ that in various tests has ranged from 67 to 77. The Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution prohibits executing intellectually disabled people.Johnson was convicted of killing 46-year-old Mary Bratcher, 57-year-old Mable Scruggs and 58-year-old Fred Jones during a closing-time robbery of a Casey’s General Store in Columbia in February 1994. Johnson wanted money to buy drugs, authorities said.All three workers were beaten to death with a claw hammer. Bratcher also was stabbed at least 10 times with a screwdriver and Jones was shot in the face. The bodies were hid in a cooler.Johnson was arrested after police found a bank bag, stolen money and store receipts at his home.Johnson had previously asked that his execution be carried out by firing squad. His lawyers argued that Missouri's lethal injection drug, pentobarbital, could trigger seizures. In 2008 Johnson had most, but not all, of a benign brain tumor removed, and a later MRI revealed that up to 20% of his brain tissue was also removed.But Missouri law does not authorize execution by firing squad and the U.S. Supreme Court in May refused to consider Johnson's appeal. The Missouri Supreme Court, in its decision on Tuesday, also declined to halt the execution based on concerns about the drug.Johnson has been sentenced to death three times.He was already on death row in 2001 when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that executing the mentally ill was unconstitutionally cruel and a new sentencing hearing was ordered. Johnson was again sentenced to death in 2003. The Missouri Supreme Court tossed that sentence, too. In 2006, Johnson was sentenced to death again.

Court declines to halt triple-killer's execution

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The suspect in the death of a Missouri woman and her daughter last week appears to be trying to disappear and limit the ability to track him, Boone County authorities said.

JT McLean, 45, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Allison Abitz, 43, and her 11-year-old daughter, Jozee. Their bodies were found Aug. 22 at their home south of Columbia.

Evidence indicated Allison Abitz, who was an elementary school teacher in Fulton, was strangled and her daughter was drowned in a bathtub, Boone County authorities said Monday.

McLean was Abitz's longtime boyfriend, according to a probable cause statement. The couple was seen together on the night of Aug. 21 and McLean's vehicle was captured on video leaving the home the next day.

It is unclear how McLean is traveling because all vehicles registered to him have been found, Boone County authorities said. Two phones were found burning at a home were he was known to stay, according to the probable cause statement.

BOONE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a woman and her 11-year-old daughter and searching for a central Missouri man who is charged in the deaths.

Just before 11p.m. August 22, a concerned citizen contacted Boone County officials reporting they had been unable to contact Allison Abitz and her daughter Jozee Abitz, who lived&nbsp; in the 7500 block of Lavender Drive south of Columbia, according to a media release.

Deputies responded to the residence and once inside located Allison, age 43, and her daughter Jozee, age 11, deceased.  

Investigators soon learned that 45-year-old JT McLean was Allison's long-term boyfriend and the investigation revealed he was the last person known to be in contact with them at the residence.

During the investigation, probable cause was developed to believe that McLean murdered Allison and Jozee.  Currently, the motive for the murder of these victims is unknown.

On Wednesday the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney charged McLean with two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree.  A warrant for the arrest of McLean was then issued in the 13th Judicial Circuit Boone County, Missouri.  McLean’s bond for these charges was set at $1,000,000.00 cash only. 

JT McLean previously changed his name and has been known to go by the names of John McLean, Steven Nagy, and Steven McLean. 

He is described as a white male with a fair complexion, is approximately 5-foot 9 and weighs approximately 210 pounds with&nbsp; green eyes and brown hair.  McLean was last known to have grown his hair out; however, he has been known to shave his head bald in the past.

He was last known to reside on County Road 355, Fulton, Missouri.  McLean, who is an over the road truck driver by trade, has ties to Las Vegas, Nevada; Chicago, Illinois; St. Peter, Minnesota; Columbia, Missouri and Fulton, Missouri

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of McLean or this investigation is asked to contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office or call 911

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629988465629.png" alt="McLean -photo Boone Co." />
 <figcaption>McLean -photo Boone Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — The suspect in the death of a Missouri woman and her daughter last week appears to be trying to disappear and limit the ability to track him, Boone County authorities said.JT McLean, 45, is charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Allison Abitz, 43, and her 11-year-old daughter, Jozee. Their bodies were found Aug. 22 at their home south of Columbia.Evidence indicated Allison Abitz, who was an elementary school teacher in Fulton, was strangled and her daughter was drowned in a bathtub, Boone County authorities said Monday.McLean was Abitz's longtime boyfriend, according to a probable cause statement. The couple was seen together on the night of Aug. 21 and McLean's vehicle was captured on video leaving the home the next day.It is unclear how McLean is traveling because all vehicles registered to him have been found, Boone County authorities said. Two phones were found burning at a home were he was known to stay, according to the probable cause statement.----------BOONE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of a woman and her 11-year-old daughter and searching for a central Missouri man who is charged in the deaths.Just before 11p.m. August 22, a concerned citizen contacted Boone County officials reporting they had been unable to contact Allison Abitz and her daughter Jozee Abitz, who lived&nbsp; in the 7500 block of Lavender Drive south of Columbia, according to a media release.Deputies responded to the residence and once inside located Allison, age 43, and her daughter Jozee, age 11, deceased. Investigators soon learned that 45-year-old JT McLean was Allison's long-term boyfriend and the investigation revealed he was the last person known to be in contact with them at the residence.During the investigation, probable cause was developed to believe that McLean murdered Allison and Jozee. Currently, the motive for the murder of these victims is unknown.On Wednesday the Boone County Prosecuting Attorney charged McLean with two counts of Murder in the 1st Degree. A warrant for the arrest of McLean was then issued in the 13th Judicial Circuit Boone County, Missouri. McLean’s bond for these charges was set at $1,000,000.00 cash only. JT McLean previously changed his name and has been known to go by the names of John McLean, Steven Nagy, and Steven McLean. He is described as a white male with a fair complexion, is approximately 5-foot 9 and weighs approximately 210 pounds with&nbsp; green eyes and brown hair. McLean was last known to have grown his hair out; however, he has been known to shave his head bald in the past.He was last known to reside on County Road 355, Fulton, Missouri. McLean, who is an over the road truck driver by trade, has ties to Las Vegas, Nevada; Chicago, Illinois; St. Peter, Minnesota; Columbia, Missouri and Fulton, MissouriAnyone with information regarding the whereabouts of McLean or this investigation is asked to contact the Boone County Sheriff’s Office or call 911

Suspect in death of woman, daughter still on the run

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A prosecutor has filed a motion asking a judge to exonerate a man who has been imprisoned for four decades&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-06e726b7ef07be53ba7bdb6088282548">for a triple murder that she and many others do not believe he committed.</a>

The motion, filed Saturday and made public Monday, stems from a new law that gives local prosecutors the authority to ask judges to exonerate prisoners they believe are innocent.

“Most of us have heard the famous quotation that ‘injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,’" Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said in a written statement. “Kevin Strickland stands as our own example of what happens when a system set to be just, just gets it terribly wrong."

Attorney General Eric Schmitt's office&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-b9748da3015f827cc009cc10cfb2478d">has argued in a court motion that Strickland is guilty</a>. Gov. Mike Parson, who could pardon Strickland, has said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-fdaee252ca0799b16da00a276d1bf6fb">he's not convinced that Strickland is innocent</a>.

Members of the team that prosecuted Strickland, federal prosecutors in the Western District of Missouri, Jackson County’s presiding judge, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-kansas-city-d37ccea2df5ffd264e3f8a17b41cb3a9">some Republican members of Missouri Legislature</a>&nbsp;have all said Strickland should be released.

Strickland, of Kansas City, was 18 when he was arrested in the April 25, 1978, deaths of Larry Ingram, 21; John Walker, 20; and Sherrie Black, 22, during a home invasion. The motion said that at the time, he was a “hot-headed teenager" and “made cocky and sarcastic comments that aroused police suspicion."

But he has maintained his innocence since his arrest. Jurors in his first trial were unable to reach a verdict. Strickland, who is Black, was convicted the second time by an all-white jury.

Cynthia Douglas was wounded but pretended to be dead, and the case against Strickland rested largely on her identifying Strickland as the killer. But she retracted her statement before she died in 2015, sending an email to the Midwest Innocence Project in 2009 that said: “I am seeking info on how to help someone that was wrongfully accused, this incident happened back in 1978, I was the only eyewitness and things were not clear back then, but now I know more and would like to help this person if I can."

Her family also has signed affidavits saying Douglas wanted Strickland released from prison. The motion said that one longtime family friend said in an affidavit that Douglas told everyone that “the detectives told her what to say.”

The motion further said that three of the four actual perpetrators said that Strickland was not involved in the homicides, and two of them identified another person. The motion also said that a fingerprint found on the murder weapon was not Strickland's.

“The evidence of Strickland’s innocence is clear and convincing." the motion said, adding that the “evidence that supported Strickland’s conviction has been undermined, and no reliable evidence of guilt remains."

Assistant Attorney General Andrew Clarke argued in a motion filed in July that Strickland was given a fair trial in 1979 and had offered Douglas money the day of the killings to keep “her mouth shut." He also said Douglas’ alleged recantation can't be verified and noted she did not sign any affidavits about her changed beliefs while she was alive.

The Missouri Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-courts-c38ba2572f5286b69602ee832e248efe">declined</a>&nbsp;to hear Strickland's case in June. An evidentiary hearing scheduled in DeKalb County, where Strickland is imprisoned, was dropped Aug. 18 so Strickland's attorneys could focus their efforts in Jackson County.

The new law also could spur action on the other side of Missouri.

Lamar Johnson has spent 26 years in prison for a murder he says he didn’t commit. Johnson was convicted in the 1994 killing of 25-year-old Marcus Boyd in an alleged drug dispute in St. Louis.

St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, a Democrat, believes Johnson was wrongly convicted and sought a new trial. The Missouri Supreme Court ruled against her in March, even while noting that the case was “not about whether Johnson is innocent and did not receive a constitutionally fair trial.”

Instead, Schmitt’s office argued successfully that Gardner lacked authority to seek a new trial so many years after the case was adjudicated.

It wasn’t clear if Gardner would now seek to overturn the conviction under the new state law. A spokeswoman for Gardner said she wasn’t aware of any immediate pending action.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620695920927.png" alt="Strickland-photo MODOC" />
 <figcaption>Strickland-photo MODOC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A prosecutor has filed a motion asking a judge to exonerate a man who has been imprisoned for four decades&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-06e726b7ef07be53ba7bdb6088282548">for a triple murder that she and many others do not believe he committed.</a>The motion, filed Saturday and made public Monday, stems from a new law that gives local prosecutors the authority to ask judges to exonerate prisoners they believe are innocent.“Most of us have heard the famous quotation that ‘injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,’" Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said in a written statement. “Kevin Strickland stands as our own example of what happens when a system set to be just, just gets it terribly wrong."Attorney General Eric Schmitt's office&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-b9748da3015f827cc009cc10cfb2478d">has argued in a court motion that Strickland is guilty</a>. Gov. Mike Parson, who could pardon Strickland, has said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-fdaee252ca0799b16da00a276d1bf6fb">he's not convinced that Strickland is innocent</a>.Members of the team that prosecuted Strickland, federal prosecutors in the Western District of Missouri, Jackson County’s presiding judge, Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/michael-brown-kansas-city-d37ccea2df5ffd264e3f8a17b41cb3a9">some Republican members of Missouri Legislature</a>&nbsp;have all said Strickland should be released.Strickland, of Kansas City, was 18 when he was arrested in the April 25, 1978, deaths of Larry Ingram, 21; John Walker, 20; and Sherrie Black, 22, during a home invasion. The motion said that at the time, he was a “hot-headed teenager" and “made cocky and sarcastic comments that aroused police suspicion."But he has maintained his innocence since his arrest. Jurors in his first trial were unable to reach a verdict. Strickland, who is Black, was convicted the second time by an all-white jury.Cynthia Douglas was wounded but pretended to be dead, and the case against Strickland rested largely on her identifying Strickland as the killer. But she retracted her statement before she died in 2015, sending an email to the Midwest Innocence Project in 2009 that said: “I am seeking info on how to help someone that was wrongfully accused, this incident happened back in 1978, I was the only eyewitness and things were not clear back then, but now I know more and would like to help this person if I can."Her family also has signed affidavits saying Douglas wanted Strickland released from prison. The motion said that one longtime family friend said in an affidavit that Douglas told everyone that “the detectives told her what to say.”The motion further said that three of the four actual perpetrators said that Strickland was not involved in the homicides, and two of them identified another person. The motion also said that a fingerprint found on the murder weapon was not Strickland's.“The evidence of Strickland’s innocence is clear and convincing." the motion said, adding that the “evidence that supported Strickland’s conviction has been undermined, and no reliable evidence of guilt remains."Assistant Attorney General Andrew Clarke argued in a motion filed in July that Strickland was given a fair trial in 1979 and had offered Douglas money the day of the killings to keep “her mouth shut." He also said Douglas’ alleged recantation can't be verified and noted she did not sign any affidavits about her changed beliefs while she was alive.The Missouri Supreme Court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mo-state-wire-michael-brown-courts-c38ba2572f5286b69602ee832e248efe">declined</a>&nbsp;to hear Strickland's case in June. An evidentiary hearing scheduled in DeKalb County, where Strickland is imprisoned, was dropped Aug. 18 so Strickland's attorneys could focus their efforts in Jackson County.The new law also could spur action on the other side of Missouri.Lamar Johnson has spent 26 years in prison for a murder he says he didn’t commit. Johnson was convicted in the 1994 killing of 25-year-old Marcus Boyd in an alleged drug dispute in St. Louis.St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner, a Democrat, believes Johnson was wrongly convicted and sought a new trial. The Missouri Supreme Court ruled against her in March, even while noting that the case was “not about whether Johnson is innocent and did not receive a constitutionally fair trial.”Instead, Schmitt’s office argued successfully that Gardner lacked authority to seek a new trial so many years after the case was adjudicated.It wasn’t clear if Gardner would now seek to overturn the conviction under the new state law. A spokeswoman for Gardner said she wasn’t aware of any immediate pending action.

Prosecutor files motion to free man for KC triple-murder

KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to the armed robbery of a female Z-Trip driver whom he shot approximately 26 times with a rifle from the back seat, according to the United State's Attorney

Derron D. Nevels, 20, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of robbery and one count of discharging a firearm during a violent crime.

Nevels was picked up by a Z-Trip driver on Wabash Avenue in Kansas City, Mo., on the evening of Dec. 4, 2018. The Z-Trip taxi in which the crime was committed is equipped with interior and exterior cameras. The cameras show Nevels getting into the rear passenger seat at approximately 8 p.m. The Z-Trip driver took him to Benton Avenue in Kansas City, Mo.

When they arrived at the destination, they waited in the vehicle for somebody to bring out the fare. When a second suspect approached the vehicle, Nevels held a Smith and Wesson Military &amp; Police .22-caliber rifle up to the victim’s head and demanded she give him everything. The victim attempted to explain that Nevels was being recorded, to which Nevels responded, “I don’t care; give me everything.” Nevels also appeared to be taking a photo or video with his cell phone.

The victim turned toward the back seat and grabbed onto the rifle, and a struggle ensued. The second suspect hit the victim in the face, then reached around the driver’s seat and began striking the victim in the back and the back of the victim’s head. The victim released Nevels’ rifle and then Nevels leaned back in his seat, chambered a live round, and opened fire on the victim from close range.&nbsp; Nevels fired approximately 26 times into the victim.&nbsp; Nevels and his accomplice then ran from the scene.

About 10 minutes later, Nevels and another suspect returned to the victim’s vehicle to retrieve a cell phone Nevels had left behind when he fled from the scene of the earlier robbery and assault. Nevels can be heard on the Z-Trip vehicle’s video asking the victim if she is okay.&nbsp; The victim indicates she has been shot. Nevels asked the victim if she had called the police. He got into the rear driver’s side of the taxi and picked up the cell phone, then left the scene.

When police officers arrived, the victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. According to court documents, she continues to suffer from her serious and debilitating injuries inflicted by Nevels.

Investigators used cell phone and Facebook data to identify Nevels and the distinctive rifle he used in the robbery. On Dec. 10, 2018, Nevels was seen getting onto a bus near Prospect Avenue and Swope Parkway. Nevels was arrested when he got off the bus at 11th Street and Grand Avenue. Nevels was carrying the loaded rifle hidden in his waistband with the barrel going down his right pant leg. The rifle was later positively identified as the weapon used to shoot the Z-Trip driver during the robbery.

Co-defendants Bailee Anna Maria Prieto, 21, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Melani Yitzel Collazo Jimenez, also known as “Mel,” 23, of Kansas City, Mo., have each pleaded guilty to being accessories after the fact to the robbery.

Prieto used or allowed her phone to be used to order the Z-Trip that was robbed. Prieto disposed of her phone after the robbery to avoid the police searching it.

Jimenez went to the scene to help Nevels retrieve his telephone from the Z-Trip where he left it after the robbery and shooting. Jimenez provided her apartment for Nevels, Prieto, and others to stay the night after the robbery.

Neither Prieto nor Jimenez reported anything to law enforcement. The two of them communicated with and were associated with Nevels and others, before, during, and after the robbery and shooting.

Under federal statutes, Nevels is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. Prieto and Jimenez are each subject to a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630102827276.png" alt="Nevels photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Nevels photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to the armed robbery of a female Z-Trip driver whom he shot approximately 26 times with a rifle from the back seat, according to the United State's AttorneyDerron D. Nevels, 20, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of robbery and one count of discharging a firearm during a violent crime.Nevels was picked up by a Z-Trip driver on Wabash Avenue in Kansas City, Mo., on the evening of Dec. 4, 2018. The Z-Trip taxi in which the crime was committed is equipped with interior and exterior cameras. The cameras show Nevels getting into the rear passenger seat at approximately 8 p.m. The Z-Trip driver took him to Benton Avenue in Kansas City, Mo.When they arrived at the destination, they waited in the vehicle for somebody to bring out the fare. When a second suspect approached the vehicle, Nevels held a Smith and Wesson Military &amp; Police .22-caliber rifle up to the victim’s head and demanded she give him everything. The victim attempted to explain that Nevels was being recorded, to which Nevels responded, “I don’t care; give me everything.” Nevels also appeared to be taking a photo or video with his cell phone.The victim turned toward the back seat and grabbed onto the rifle, and a struggle ensued. The second suspect hit the victim in the face, then reached around the driver’s seat and began striking the victim in the back and the back of the victim’s head. The victim released Nevels’ rifle and then Nevels leaned back in his seat, chambered a live round, and opened fire on the victim from close range.&nbsp; Nevels fired approximately 26 times into the victim.&nbsp; Nevels and his accomplice then ran from the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630154796249.png" alt="Nevels from his time in the Missouri Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Nevels from his time in the Missouri Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>About 10 minutes later, Nevels and another suspect returned to the victim’s vehicle to retrieve a cell phone Nevels had left behind when he fled from the scene of the earlier robbery and assault. Nevels can be heard on the Z-Trip vehicle’s video asking the victim if she is okay.&nbsp; The victim indicates she has been shot. Nevels asked the victim if she had called the police. He got into the rear driver’s side of the taxi and picked up the cell phone, then left the scene.When police officers arrived, the victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition. According to court documents, she continues to suffer from her serious and debilitating injuries inflicted by Nevels.Investigators used cell phone and Facebook data to identify Nevels and the distinctive rifle he used in the robbery. On Dec. 10, 2018, Nevels was seen getting onto a bus near Prospect Avenue and Swope Parkway. Nevels was arrested when he got off the bus at 11th Street and Grand Avenue. Nevels was carrying the loaded rifle hidden in his waistband with the barrel going down his right pant leg. The rifle was later positively identified as the weapon used to shoot the Z-Trip driver during the robbery.Co-defendants Bailee Anna Maria Prieto, 21, of Kansas City, Kansas, and Melani Yitzel Collazo Jimenez, also known as “Mel,” 23, of Kansas City, Mo., have each pleaded guilty to being accessories after the fact to the robbery.Prieto used or allowed her phone to be used to order the Z-Trip that was robbed. Prieto disposed of her phone after the robbery to avoid the police searching it.Jimenez went to the scene to help Nevels retrieve his telephone from the Z-Trip where he left it after the robbery and shooting. Jimenez provided her apartment for Nevels, Prieto, and others to stay the night after the robbery.Neither Prieto nor Jimenez reported anything to law enforcement. The two of them communicated with and were associated with Nevels and others, before, during, and after the robbery and shooting.Under federal statutes, Nevels is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. Prieto and Jimenez are each subject to a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

Man shot Kansas City taxi driver 26 times

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with a burglary.

On Thursday, police were called to investigate a burglary and criminal damage to property report in the 1100 block of 10th Street in Great Bend that occurred at C &amp; V Home Improvement, according to a media release.

The suspects involved had gained access to the property, damaged several items during the incident and tools and equipment were stolen.

On Friday, during the course of this investigation, detectives and officers obtained and executed a search warrant at 306 Elm Street in Great Bend. During the execution of this search warrant, items of stolen property were recovered and two arrests were made.

Both Eric Ramos, age 36 and Tito Torres, age 37 of Great Bend were arrested on requested charges of burglary, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass and theft.

A second search warrant was obtained and executed at 209 Holland Street in Great Bend where additional stolen property was recovered. Additional search warrants are currently being obtained and executed on vehicles involved in this investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630359348013.png" alt="Ramos photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Ramos photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects in connection with a burglary.On Thursday, police were called to investigate a burglary and criminal damage to property report in the 1100 block of 10th Street in Great Bend that occurred at C &amp; V Home Improvement, according to a media release.The suspects involved had gained access to the property, damaged several items during the incident and tools and equipment were stolen.On Friday, during the course of this investigation, detectives and officers obtained and executed a search warrant at 306 Elm Street in Great Bend. During the execution of this search warrant, items of stolen property were recovered and two arrests were made.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630359368701.png" alt="Torres-photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Torres-photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Both Eric Ramos, age 36 and Tito Torres, age 37 of Great Bend were arrested on requested charges of burglary, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass and theft.A second search warrant was obtained and executed at 209 Holland Street in Great Bend where additional stolen property was recovered. Additional search warrants are currently being obtained and executed on vehicles involved in this investigation.

Police: 2 arrested for Kansas business burglary 

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A man was sentenced to life in prison without parole Monday in the abduction and killing of University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts, three years after she disappeared while out for an evening run.

Judge Joel Yates’ sentence for Cristhian Bahena Rivera was mandatory for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-trials-44cdbcedadeaaa32db3d27ce986984df">first-degree murder&nbsp;</a>conviction in Iowa, which does not have the death penalty. The 27-year-old former farmhand, who testified that he came to the U.S. illegally from Mexico as a teenager, has been jailed since his arrest in August 2018.

Yates pointedly rejected defense claims that others were responsible for the crime.

“Mr. Bahena Rivera, you and you alone forever changed the lives of those who loved Mollie Tibbetts,” he said.

The sentence caps a case that inflamed anger over illegal immigration, fueled fears about violence against solo female runners, and took several noteworthy twists&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-business-273a6b106651b27dc3d0b91966ece58e">during&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trials-mollie-tibbetts-4c57d92b18ff7dce6aecd8d249ae28f6">after&nbsp;</a>Bahena Rivera’s trial in May.

Tibbetts’ mother, Laura Calderwood, addressed Bahena Rivera in a victim impact statement read to the court.

“Mollie was a young woman who simply wanted to go for a quiet run on the evening of July 18 and you chose to violently and sadistically end that life,” she wrote.

Calderwood recalled being told by tearful investigators that her 20-year-old daughter’s body had been found, and racing to inform relatives before they learned the news from the media. The hardest conversation was with Mollie’s grandmother, who was in disbelief that someone “could harm such a beautiful, vibrant young woman so full of promise,” she said.

She said the killing caused Hispanic workers to flee the area in fear, prevented Mollie’s boyfriend from being able to give her the engagement ring he had purchased, and meant her father would never walk his only daughter down the aisle.

“Because of your actions Mr. Rivera, I will never get to see my daughter become a mother,” Calderwood said.

Tibbetts vanished on a rural road outside her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa, population 1,700, while out for a run on July 18, 2018. Family members and co-workers feared something was wrong when Tibbetts did not show up for her summer job at a daycare the next morning.

Hundreds of volunteers and law enforcement officers searched for weeks but came up empty. Investigators began focusing on Bahena Rivera, who worked under an alias at a nearby dairy farm, after finding a homeowner’s surveillance video that appeared to show his Chevy Malibu repeatedly driving past Tibbetts while she ran.

After a lengthy interrogation, Bahena Rivera led authorities to a cornfield where he had buried Tibbetts’ body under leaves and stalks. Only her bright running shoes were visible. An autopsy found she had been stabbed several times.

Bahena Rivera told investigators that he approached Tibbetts because he found her attractive, and that he fought her after she threatened to call the police. He said he then blacked out and came to as he was driving with her body in his trunk.

Prosecutors suggested Bahena Rivera had a sexual motive, noting Tibbetts was wearing only socks and a sports bra and that her legs were spread when her body was found. They built their case around the surveillance video, his partial confession and DNA evidence of Tibbetts’ blood in his trunk.

“Based upon the facts and circumstances of this case, it is very well deserved,” prosecutor Scott Brown said of the life sentence.

Bahena Rivera’s lawyers argued that his confession was false and coerced, and their client gave surprise testimony at trial sharing a different account. Bahena Rivera testified that two masked men kidnapped him from his trailer at gunpoint, made him drive while they attacked Tibbetts, instructed him on where to dispose of her body, and told him to stay quiet or that his young daughter and ex-girlfriend would be killed.

The defense sought to cast suspicion on several others, including Tibbetts’ boyfriend and a local deputy who lives next to where Tibbetts’ body was found.

Prosecutors called Bahena Rivera’s testimony a work of fiction and a unanimous 12-member jury found him guilty.

But two people immediately came forward to tell police that a 21-year-old man with a history of violence had confessed to them that he had killed Tibbetts. Separately, a woman had told police she was kidnapped after meeting an alleged sex trafficker at a Brooklyn gas station weeks before Tibbetts’ disappearance.

Yates delayed a July sentencing so the defense had time to investigate. Earlier this month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trials-mollie-tibbetts-5d360068d91900e01c9f0146cc716126">he denied Bahena Rivera’s motion</a>&nbsp;for a new trial, saying the new information was unreliable and he saw no reason to overturn the verdict.

The defense plans to appeal. Bahena Rivera and his defense lawyers, Chad and Jennifer Frese, declined to speak at sentencing.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1622236036202.png" alt="Rivera-photo Poweshiek County Jail" />
 <figcaption>Rivera-photo Poweshiek County Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A man was sentenced to life in prison without parole Monday in the abduction and killing of University of Iowa student Mollie Tibbetts, three years after she disappeared while out for an evening run.Judge Joel Yates’ sentence for Cristhian Bahena Rivera was mandatory for a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-trials-44cdbcedadeaaa32db3d27ce986984df">first-degree murder&nbsp;</a>conviction in Iowa, which does not have the death penalty. The 27-year-old former farmhand, who testified that he came to the U.S. illegally from Mexico as a teenager, has been jailed since his arrest in August 2018.Yates pointedly rejected defense claims that others were responsible for the crime.“Mr. Bahena Rivera, you and you alone forever changed the lives of those who loved Mollie Tibbetts,” he said.The sentence caps a case that inflamed anger over illegal immigration, fueled fears about violence against solo female runners, and took several noteworthy twists&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iowa-business-273a6b106651b27dc3d0b91966ece58e">during&nbsp;</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trials-mollie-tibbetts-4c57d92b18ff7dce6aecd8d249ae28f6">after&nbsp;</a>Bahena Rivera’s trial in May.Tibbetts’ mother, Laura Calderwood, addressed Bahena Rivera in a victim impact statement read to the court.“Mollie was a young woman who simply wanted to go for a quiet run on the evening of July 18 and you chose to violently and sadistically end that life,” she wrote.Calderwood recalled being told by tearful investigators that her 20-year-old daughter’s body had been found, and racing to inform relatives before they learned the news from the media. The hardest conversation was with Mollie’s grandmother, who was in disbelief that someone “could harm such a beautiful, vibrant young woman so full of promise,” she said.She said the killing caused Hispanic workers to flee the area in fear, prevented Mollie’s boyfriend from being able to give her the engagement ring he had purchased, and meant her father would never walk his only daughter down the aisle.“Because of your actions Mr. Rivera, I will never get to see my daughter become a mother,” Calderwood said.Tibbetts vanished on a rural road outside her hometown of Brooklyn, Iowa, population 1,700, while out for a run on July 18, 2018. Family members and co-workers feared something was wrong when Tibbetts did not show up for her summer job at a daycare the next morning.Hundreds of volunteers and law enforcement officers searched for weeks but came up empty. Investigators began focusing on Bahena Rivera, who worked under an alias at a nearby dairy farm, after finding a homeowner’s surveillance video that appeared to show his Chevy Malibu repeatedly driving past Tibbetts while she ran.After a lengthy interrogation, Bahena Rivera led authorities to a cornfield where he had buried Tibbetts’ body under leaves and stalks. Only her bright running shoes were visible. An autopsy found she had been stabbed several times.Bahena Rivera told investigators that he approached Tibbetts because he found her attractive, and that he fought her after she threatened to call the police. He said he then blacked out and came to as he was driving with her body in his trunk.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630353202444.png" alt="Mollie Tibbetts" />
 <figcaption>Mollie Tibbetts</figcaption>
 </figure>Prosecutors suggested Bahena Rivera had a sexual motive, noting Tibbetts was wearing only socks and a sports bra and that her legs were spread when her body was found. They built their case around the surveillance video, his partial confession and DNA evidence of Tibbetts’ blood in his trunk.“Based upon the facts and circumstances of this case, it is very well deserved,” prosecutor Scott Brown said of the life sentence.Bahena Rivera’s lawyers argued that his confession was false and coerced, and their client gave surprise testimony at trial sharing a different account. Bahena Rivera testified that two masked men kidnapped him from his trailer at gunpoint, made him drive while they attacked Tibbetts, instructed him on where to dispose of her body, and told him to stay quiet or that his young daughter and ex-girlfriend would be killed.The defense sought to cast suspicion on several others, including Tibbetts’ boyfriend and a local deputy who lives next to where Tibbetts’ body was found.Prosecutors called Bahena Rivera’s testimony a work of fiction and a unanimous 12-member jury found him guilty.But two people immediately came forward to tell police that a 21-year-old man with a history of violence had confessed to them that he had killed Tibbetts. Separately, a woman had told police she was kidnapped after meeting an alleged sex trafficker at a Brooklyn gas station weeks before Tibbetts’ disappearance.Yates delayed a July sentencing so the defense had time to investigate. Earlier this month,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trials-mollie-tibbetts-5d360068d91900e01c9f0146cc716126">he denied Bahena Rivera’s motion</a>&nbsp;for a new trial, saying the new information was unreliable and he saw no reason to overturn the verdict.The defense plans to appeal. Bahena Rivera and his defense lawyers, Chad and Jennifer Frese, declined to speak at sentencing.

Farm laborer sentenced for murder of Iowa runner

NORTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes in Norton County, according to a social media report from the Norton Police Department.

Over the weekend, police arrested 32-year-old Cody Hardy on a Norton County District Court Warrant on four counts of&nbsp; alleged Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, Rape, Aggravated Assault and Aggravated Battery.

Hardy remains jailed on a $1,000,000.00 bond. Police released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630343227790.png" alt="Hardy-photo Norton County" />
 <figcaption>Hardy-photo Norton County</figcaption>
 </figure>NORTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged sex crimes in Norton County, according to a social media report from the Norton Police Department.Over the weekend, police arrested 32-year-old Cody Hardy on a Norton County District Court Warrant on four counts of&nbsp; alleged Aggravated Criminal Sodomy, Rape, Aggravated Assault and Aggravated Battery.Hardy remains jailed on a $1,000,000.00 bond. Police released no additional details.

Man jailed in NW Kansas for alleged sex crimes

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The trial of a man charged in the murder of another man outside a Wichita night club two years ago begins Monday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

In August of 2018, police <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=303494">arrested now 29-year-old </a>Mario Sandoval two days after the shooting death of&nbsp;24-year-old Austen Wright outside Club Vixens, according to a media release from police.

Sandoval was the second suspect arrest in the case.

Just before 2a.m. August 13, 2018, police&nbsp; responded to a shooting at Club Vixen in the 200 block of West Harry in Wichita, according to Lt. Todd Ojile.

Officers found Wright injured in a parking lot behind the club. Investigators learned a verbal altercation in the parking lot led to the shooting. Three or four men confronted Wright and one from that group of three or four pulled out a handgun and shot him. He was transported to a local hospital where he died.

Ojile initially&nbsp; reported limited cooperation from witnesses in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630341136399.png" alt="Sandoval photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Sandoval photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The trial of a man charged in the murder of another man outside a Wichita night club two years ago begins Monday, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In August of 2018, police <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=303494">arrested now 29-year-old </a>Mario Sandoval two days after the shooting death of&nbsp;24-year-old Austen Wright outside Club Vixens, according to a media release from police.Sandoval was the second suspect arrest in the case.Just before 2a.m. August 13, 2018, police&nbsp; responded to a shooting at Club Vixen in the 200 block of West Harry in Wichita, according to Lt. Todd Ojile.Officers found Wright injured in a parking lot behind the club. Investigators learned a verbal altercation in the parking lot led to the shooting. Three or four men confronted Wright and one from that group of three or four pulled out a handgun and shot him. He was transported to a local hospital where he died.Ojile initially&nbsp; reported limited cooperation from witnesses in the case.

Trial for murder of man outside Kan. nightclub begins

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City man suspected of stealing a car is charged with felony kidnapping because a 2-year-old girl was inside the vehicle. 

Police arrested 38-year-old Truman Brown Friday. He also is charged with tampering with a motor vehicle. Police say 2-year-old Khalecia Richards was inside a Ford Mustang stolen from a gas station around 5:40 p.m. on Aug. 17. 

The child was found safe in Kansas City, Kansas, within a couple of hours. The car was discovered nearby. Brown is jailed on $50,000 cash-only bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630164437933.png" alt="Brown photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A Kansas City man suspected of stealing a car is charged with felony kidnapping because a 2-year-old girl was inside the vehicle. Police arrested 38-year-old Truman Brown Friday. He also is charged with tampering with a motor vehicle. Police say 2-year-old Khalecia Richards was inside a Ford Mustang stolen from a gas station around 5:40 p.m. on Aug. 17. The child was found safe in Kansas City, Kansas, within a couple of hours. The car was discovered nearby. Brown is jailed on $50,000 cash-only bond.

Man accused of kidnapping for taking car with toddler inside

SHAWNEE COUNTY—A man accused of child sex crimes involving two runaway children has been arrested and charged in the case.&nbsp;

Joseph Austin McColgin, 20, has been charged with sexual abuse of two children, according to&nbsp;Shawnee County District Attorney Michael Kagay. The charges nclude rape of a child under 14 by an offender over 18, aggravated criminal sodomy with a child under 14 by an offender over 18, two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child 14-16, criminal sodomy with a child 14-16, aggravated domestic battery and aggravated endangering a child.

In February,&nbsp; Topeka Police Department opened an investigation into allegations that a suspect later identified as McColgin, had engaged in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl that had been reported as a runaway, according to Kagay.

Through the investigation, Kagay said officers found that McColgin had also been involved in a sexual relationship with another runaway for nearly a year when she was 13 and 14 years old. The alleged crimes happened between June of 2020 and April of 2021 at various locations in Topeka.

&nbsp;McColgin is being held on a bond of&nbsp; $250,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for&nbsp;September 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629974706249.png" alt="McColgin photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>McColgin photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—A man accused of child sex crimes involving two runaway children has been arrested and charged in the case.&nbsp;Joseph Austin McColgin, 20, has been charged with sexual abuse of two children, according to&nbsp;Shawnee County District Attorney Michael Kagay. The charges nclude rape of a child under 14 by an offender over 18, aggravated criminal sodomy with a child under 14 by an offender over 18, two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child 14-16, criminal sodomy with a child 14-16, aggravated domestic battery and aggravated endangering a child.In February,&nbsp; Topeka Police Department opened an investigation into allegations that a suspect later identified as McColgin, had engaged in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl that had been reported as a runaway, according to Kagay.Through the investigation, Kagay said officers found that McColgin had also been involved in a sexual relationship with another runaway for nearly a year when she was 13 and 14 years old. The alleged crimes happened between June of 2020 and April of 2021 at various locations in Topeka.&nbsp;McColgin is being held on a bond of&nbsp; $250,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for&nbsp;September 2.

Kan. man charged for sex crimes with runaway children

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hit and run crash have made an arrest.

EMS pronounced Ballinger dead at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV later identified as 31-year-old Jesus Manuel Olave, Jr., fled the scene.&nbsp; According to Sedgwick County booking records, police arrested and <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18705970">booked him into</a> jail Thursday evening&nbsp; on requested charges of Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, Failure to stop at an accident that resulted in death, Failure to yield to approaching vehicle when turning left,&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1630068308246.png" alt="Olave Jr. photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Olave Jr. photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a fatal hit and run crash have made an arrest.At approximately 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to a fatal accident at the intersection of 47th Street South and South Hydraulic Avenue, according to Officer Charley Davidson.The investigation revealed a black SUV was&nbsp; eastbound on 47th Street South. The SUV then turned north onto Hydraulic Avenue and struck a westbound 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by&nbsp;37-year-old Kenneth M. Ballinger of Derby.EMS pronounced Ballinger dead at the scene from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV later identified as 31-year-old Jesus Manuel Olave, Jr., fled the scene.&nbsp; According to Sedgwick County booking records, police arrested and <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18705970">booked him into</a> jail Thursday evening&nbsp; on requested charges of Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, Failure to stop at an accident that resulted in death, Failure to yield to approaching vehicle when turning left,&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident that fatally injured&nbsp;37-year-old Kenneth M. Ballinger of Derby.At approximately 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, officers were dispatched to a fatal accident at the intersection of 47th Street South and South Hydraulic Avenue, according to Officer Charley Davidson.The investigation revealed a black SUV was&nbsp; eastbound on 47th Street South. The SUV then turned north onto Hydraulic Avenue and struck a westbound 2006 Harley Davidson motorcycle driven by Ballinger.He died from his injuries. The driver of the black SUV fled the scene. Police have not located the driver.&nbsp; The SUV may have damage to the front right corner.Anyone with information is encouraged to contact WPD detectives at 316-268-4407, See Something Say Something at 316 519-2282 or Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.