KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a deadly knife attack in Kansas City have identified the victim as 54-year-old Tyrone Bates,&nbsp;according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

Just after 3a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of Admiral on a reported knife attack, according Gonzalez.

Upon arrival, responding officers were flagged down by a man advising someone had been attacked and needed help. Officers located a victim, later identified as Bates, lying in an apartment complex parking lot unresponsive and suffering from multiple apparent stab wounds. 

EMS responded to the scene and declared the victim deceased. Preliminary investigation is believed this occurred as the result of an argument. Police have not reported an arrest or possible suspect details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753373395409.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating a deadly knife attack in Kansas City have identified the victim as 54-year-old Tyrone Bates,&nbsp;according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez.Just after 3a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to the 1300 block of Admiral on a reported knife attack, according Gonzalez.Upon arrival, responding officers were flagged down by a man advising someone had been attacked and needed help. Officers located a victim, later identified as Bates, lying in an apartment complex parking lot unresponsive and suffering from multiple apparent stab wounds. EMS responded to the scene and declared the victim deceased. Preliminary investigation is believed this occurred as the result of an argument. Police have not reported an arrest or possible suspect details.

Man dies after knife attack in KC apartment complex parking lot 

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.

Jeffrey Mickle, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24

Samantha Foster, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753464802773.jpeg" alt="Timothy Cohill, Disorderly conduct; Criminal trespass, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Timothy Cohill, Disorderly conduct; Criminal trespass, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753464991870.jpeg" alt="Margaret Georges, Domestic battery, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Margaret Georges, Domestic battery, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753465045089.jpeg" alt="Dontavia Scott, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Dontavia Scott, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753465077131.jpeg" alt="Cristian Callejas Frausto, Driving under the influence, combination of drugs and alcohol, arrested 07/25" />
 <figcaption>Cristian Callejas Frausto, Driving under the influence, combination of drugs and alcohol, arrested 07/25</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Jeffrey Mickle, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24Samantha Foster, Failure to appear, arrested 07/24Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos July 25

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — A man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-gunshots-florida-f62f8378d3a8ce7b2e99d6a8fb40aba9">trying to assassinate</a>&nbsp;President Donald Trump last year in South Florida can represent himself during his trial, a federal judge ruled Thursday.

U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon signed off on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-routh-assassination-attempt-ukraine-suspicions-florida-530098c668f283d8a38eb5dd5570f1b2">Ryan Routh’s</a>&nbsp;request but said court-appointed attorneys need to remain as standby counsel. Earlier in the week, the federal public defenders had asked to be taken off the case, saying Routh had refused repeated attempts to meet with them.

Routh said during the hearing that his attorneys were diligent, but they didn’t listen to him and were afraid of him.

“How are they supposed to represent me and say I’m not a dangerous person when they don’t believe that?” Routh said.

Routh, 59, is scheduled to stand trial in September, a year after prosecutors say a U.S. Secret Service agent thwarted his attempt to shoot Trump as he played golf. Routh has pleaded not guilty to charges of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fbi-assassination-attempt-indictment-b4c956e1a126e4acfb3c4eae0c06ddb1">attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate</a>, assaulting a federal officer and several firearm violations.

Reiterating her message from a July 10 hearing, Cannon told Routh that she doesn’t intend to delay the Sept. 8 start date of his trial, even if she lets him represent himself. She also once again told Routh that she believes it’s a bad idea for Routh to represent himself.

Routh, who said he completed two years of college after earning his GED certificate, told Cannon that he understands the potential challenges and would be ready for trial.

Cannon said Thursday that she decided to hold the second hearing after receiving a June 29 letter from Routh that did not arrive at the courthouse until after that hearing. In that letter, Routh said he and his attorneys were “a million miles apart” and that they were refusing to answer his questions. He also wrote that he could be used in a prisoner exchange with Iran, China, North Korea or Russia.

“I could die being of some use and save all this court mess, but no one acts; perhaps you have the power to trade me away,” Routh wrote.

Cannon told Routh that she believed the federal public defenders assigned to Routh’s case were excellent attorneys.

“I find no basis to believe that there has been ineffective assistance of counsel,” Cannon said.

The judge also reminded Routh that she will not be able to assist Routh or provide legal advice during the trial.

Cannon also briefly addressed Routh’s suggestion of a prisoner exchange, saying, “I have no power or any opinion of anything you’ve written there.”

On Wednesday, the federal public defender’s office filed a motion for termination of appointment of counsel, saying “the attorney-client relationship is irreconcilably broken.” Attorneys said Routh has refused six attempts to meet with their team, including a scheduled in-person meeting Tuesday morning at the federal detention center in Miami.

“It is clear that Mr. Routh wishes to represent himself, and he is within his Constitutional rights to make such a demand,” the motion said.

Cannon denied their motion on Thursday, explaining that their office was in the best position to prevent delays to the trial.

The U.S. Supreme Court has held that criminal defendants have a right to represent themselves in court proceedings, as long as they can show a judge they are competent to waive their right to be defended by an attorney.

Prosecutors have said Routh methodically plotted to kill Trump for weeks before aiming a rifle through the shrubbery as Trump played golf on Sept. 15 at his West Palm Beach country club. A Secret Service agent spotted Routh before Trump came into view. Officials said Routh aimed his rifle at the agent, who opened fire, causing Routh to drop his weapon and flee without firing a shot.

Law enforcement obtained help from a witness who prosecutors said informed officers that he saw a person fleeing. The witness was then flown in a police helicopter to a nearby interstate where Routh was arrested, and the witnesses confirmed it was the person he had seen, prosecutors have said.

Routh will have his first chance to represent himself on Friday during a scheduled hearing on whether certain evidence and testimony can be used at trial. His former attorneys are expected to be present as standby counsel.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/3/1741357051491.png" alt="Routh booking photo Palm Beach Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Routh booking photo Palm Beach Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>FORT PIERCE, Fla. (AP) — A man charged with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-shooting-gunshots-florida-f62f8378d3a8ce7b2e99d6a8fb40aba9">trying to assassinate</a>&nbsp;President Donald Trump last year in South Florida can represent himself during his trial, a federal judge ruled Thursday.U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon signed off on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-routh-assassination-attempt-ukraine-suspicions-florida-530098c668f283d8a38eb5dd5570f1b2">Ryan Routh’s</a>&nbsp;request but said court-appointed attorneys need to remain as standby counsel. Earlier in the week, the federal public defenders had asked to be taken off the case, saying Routh had refused repeated attempts to meet with them.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/9/1726536262473.png" alt="Routh during his arrest -photo Martin County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Routh during his arrest -photo Martin County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Routh said during the hearing that his attorneys were diligent, but they didn’t listen to him and were afraid of him.“How are they supposed to represent me and say I’m not a dangerous person when they don’t believe that?” Routh said.Routh, 59, is scheduled to stand trial in September, a year after prosecutors say a U.S. Secret Service agent thwarted his attempt to shoot Trump as he played golf. Routh has pleaded not guilty to charges of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-fbi-assassination-attempt-indictment-b4c956e1a126e4acfb3c4eae0c06ddb1">attempting to assassinate a major presidential candidate</a>, assaulting a federal officer and several firearm violations.Reiterating her message from a July 10 hearing, Cannon told Routh that she doesn’t intend to delay the Sept. 8 start date of his trial, even if she lets him represent himself. She also once again told Routh that she believes it’s a bad idea for Routh to represent himself.Routh, who said he completed two years of college after earning his GED certificate, told Cannon that he understands the potential challenges and would be ready for trial.Cannon said Thursday that she decided to hold the second hearing after receiving a June 29 letter from Routh that did not arrive at the courthouse until after that hearing. In that letter, Routh said he and his attorneys were “a million miles apart” and that they were refusing to answer his questions. He also wrote that he could be used in a prisoner exchange with Iran, China, North Korea or Russia.“I could die being of some use and save all this court mess, but no one acts; perhaps you have the power to trade me away,” Routh wrote.Cannon told Routh that she believed the federal public defenders assigned to Routh’s case were excellent attorneys.“I find no basis to believe that there has been ineffective assistance of counsel,” Cannon said.The judge also reminded Routh that she will not be able to assist Routh or provide legal advice during the trial.Cannon also briefly addressed Routh’s suggestion of a prisoner exchange, saying, “I have no power or any opinion of anything you’ve written there.”On Wednesday, the federal public defender’s office filed a motion for termination of appointment of counsel, saying “the attorney-client relationship is irreconcilably broken.” Attorneys said Routh has refused six attempts to meet with their team, including a scheduled in-person meeting Tuesday morning at the federal detention center in Miami.“It is clear that Mr. Routh wishes to represent himself, and he is within his Constitutional rights to make such a demand,” the motion said.Cannon denied their motion on Thursday, explaining that their office was in the best position to prevent delays to the trial.The U.S. Supreme Court has held that criminal defendants have a right to represent themselves in court proceedings, as long as they can show a judge they are competent to waive their right to be defended by an attorney.Prosecutors have said Routh methodically plotted to kill Trump for weeks before aiming a rifle through the shrubbery as Trump played golf on Sept. 15 at his West Palm Beach country club. A Secret Service agent spotted Routh before Trump came into view. Officials said Routh aimed his rifle at the agent, who opened fire, causing Routh to drop his weapon and flee without firing a shot.Law enforcement obtained help from a witness who prosecutors said informed officers that he saw a person fleeing. The witness was then flown in a police helicopter to a nearby interstate where Routh was arrested, and the witnesses confirmed it was the person he had seen, prosecutors have said.Routh will have his first chance to represent himself on Friday during a scheduled hearing on whether certain evidence and testimony can be used at trial. His former attorneys are expected to be present as standby counsel.

Judge issues new ruling at request of Trump would-be assassin

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a July 15, homicide have made an arrest.

Just before 7p.m. July 15, police&nbsp;were patrolling near the Central Park Community Center,&nbsp;1534 SW Clay Street, Topeka, when they located a suspicious vehicle. 

Further investigation of the vehicle led to the discovery of a deceased man later identified as 72-year-old Terry Keller, according to Assistant Topeka Police Chief Mike Cross. The following day police indicated Keller's death was a homicide.

&nbsp;As the result of a digital canvas of the neighborhood, police have identified a person of interest. On Wednesday, police arrested Wisdom Curls, 24 of Topeka and transferred him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree;&nbsp;Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated Robbery and Criminal possession of a weapon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753373968639.png" alt="Curls photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Curls photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a July 15, homicide have made an arrest.Just before 7p.m. July 15, police&nbsp;were patrolling near the Central Park Community Center,&nbsp;1534 SW Clay Street, Topeka, when they located a suspicious vehicle. Further investigation of the vehicle led to the discovery of a deceased man later identified as 72-year-old Terry Keller, according to Assistant Topeka Police Chief Mike Cross. The following day police indicated Keller's death was a homicide.&nbsp;As the result of a digital canvas of the neighborhood, police have identified a person of interest. On Wednesday, police arrested Wisdom Curls, 24 of Topeka and transferred him to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Murder in the 1st degree;&nbsp;Intentional and premeditated, Aggravated Robbery and Criminal possession of a weapon.

Police: 72-year-old  killed in Kansas armed robbery

BOURBON COUNTY&nbsp;–The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Fort Scott Police Department arrested a Fort Scott man for alleged child sex crimes.

&nbsp;Just after&nbsp; 1 p.m. on Wednesday, KBI agents and the Fort Scott Police Department arrested 24-year-old Micheal Olkowski, of Fort Scott. Olkowski on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child and aggravated internet trading in child pornography after a search warrant was conducted at 920 W. Park Avenue in Fort Scott, according to a media release from the KBI.

The KBI Child Victims Unit began investigating after multiple cyber tips were received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in July.

Following the arrest, Olkowski was booked into the Bourbon County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME.&nbsp;Anonymous tips can be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery" target="_blank">www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.

&nbsp;The case is expected to be prosecuted by the Bourbon County Attorney’s Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753387895744.png" alt="Olkowski photo Bourbon Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Olkowski photo Bourbon Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BOURBON COUNTY&nbsp;–The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Fort Scott Police Department arrested a Fort Scott man for alleged child sex crimes.&nbsp;Just after&nbsp; 1 p.m. on Wednesday, KBI agents and the Fort Scott Police Department arrested 24-year-old Micheal Olkowski, of Fort Scott. Olkowski on requested charges of sexual exploitation of a child and aggravated internet trading in child pornography after a search warrant was conducted at 920 W. Park Avenue in Fort Scott, according to a media release from the KBI.The KBI Child Victims Unit began investigating after multiple cyber tips were received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in July.Following the arrest, Olkowski was booked into the Bourbon County Jail.&nbsp;&nbsp;Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME.&nbsp;Anonymous tips can be submitted online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kbi.ks.gov/sar?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=govdelivery" target="_blank">www.kbi.ks.gov/sar</a>.&nbsp;The case is expected to be prosecuted by the Bourbon County Attorney’s Office.

Kansas man accused of internet trading in child porn

CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — Hulk Hogan, the mustachioed, headscarf-wearing icon in the world of professional wrestling, has died at the age of 71, Florida police and WWE said Thursday.

In Clearwater, Florida, authorities responded to a call Thursday morning about a cardiac arrest. Hogan was pronounced dead at a hospital, police said in a statement on Facebook.

Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was perhaps the biggest star in WWE’s long history. He was the main draw for the first WrestleMania in 1985 and was a fixture for years, facing everyone from Andre The Giant and Randy Savage to The Rock and even company chairman Vince McMahon.

He won at least six WWE championships and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.

Hogan was also a celebrity outside the wrestling world, appearing in numerous movies and television shows, including a reality show about his life on VH1, “Hogan Knows Best.”

In 2016, a Florida jury awarded Hogan $115 million in his sex tape lawsuit against Gawker Media. Hogan sued after Gawker in 2012 posted a video of him having sex with his former best friend’s wife. Hogan contended the post violated his privacy.

WWE posted a note on X saying it was saddened to learn the WWE Hall of Famer had passed away.

“One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans," it said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753374239472.png" alt="Hulk Hogan spoke on the final night of the Republican National Convention last July-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Hulk Hogan spoke on the final night of the Republican National Convention last July-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — Hulk Hogan, the mustachioed, headscarf-wearing icon in the world of professional wrestling, has died at the age of 71, Florida police and WWE said Thursday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.&mdash; WWE (@WWE) <a href="https://twitter.com/WWE/status/1948414335153230023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In Clearwater, Florida, authorities responded to a call Thursday morning about a cardiac arrest. Hogan was pronounced dead at a hospital, police said in a statement on Facebook.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FClearwaterPolice%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0272xskH6HPZZSAZefBwY23wP1UjQgC1dJjALZMEbkSHrLxhoG8dSZRnPG7YKFWhtml&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="469" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/HulkHogan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HulkHogan</a>: &quot;As an entertainer I try to stay out of politics, but after everything that&#39;s happened to our country over the past four years and after everything that happened last weekend I can no longer stay silent...Donald Trump is a real American hero!&quot; <a href="https://t.co/UxM0ZieYfM">pic.twitter.com/UxM0ZieYfM</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1814113807662567834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 19, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From 2024 RNC. Watch the full video here: <a href="https://t.co/10hAILirT9">https://t.co/10hAILirT9</a> <a href="https://t.co/lsr2lFymhn">https://t.co/lsr2lFymhn</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1948426827858354619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was perhaps the biggest star in WWE’s long history. He was the main draw for the first WrestleMania in 1985 and was a fixture for years, facing everyone from Andre The Giant and Randy Savage to The Rock and even company chairman Vince McMahon.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An American Legend. <a href="https://t.co/DVQuR2YIxJ">pic.twitter.com/DVQuR2YIxJ</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1948419594827235760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>He won at least six WWE championships and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.Hogan was also a celebrity outside the wrestling world, appearing in numerous movies and television shows, including a reality show about his life on VH1, “Hogan Knows Best.”In 2016, a Florida jury awarded Hogan $115 million in his sex tape lawsuit against Gawker Media. Hogan sued after Gawker in 2012 posted a video of him having sex with his former best friend’s wife. Hogan contended the post violated his privacy.WWE posted a note on X saying it was saddened to learn the WWE Hall of Famer had passed away.“One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans," it said.

Hulk Hogan, pro wrestling superstar dead at 71

Tyrail Beverly, Failure to appear, arrested 07/23

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753367396194.jpeg" alt="Travis Golden, Probation violation, arrested 07/23" />
 <figcaption>Travis Golden, Probation violation, arrested 07/23</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753367424057.jpeg" alt="Matthew Teague, Probation violation, arrested 07/23" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Teague, Probation violation, arrested 07/23</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753367453068.jpeg" alt="Courtney Haroldsen, Domestic battery; Disorderly conduct, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Courtney Haroldsen, Domestic battery; Disorderly conduct, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753367487918.jpeg" alt="Julia Burlingame, Aggravated battery; Interference with LEO; Criminal damage to property; Theft &lt; $1,500 - all other, arrested 07/24" />
 <figcaption>Julia Burlingame, Aggravated battery; Interference with LEO; Criminal damage to property; Theft &lt; $1,500 - all other, arrested 07/24</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Tyrail Beverly, Failure to appear, arrested 07/23Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos July 24

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a homicide that occurred earlier this month in Kansas City have identified the victim as 51-year-old Jorge Grageda,&nbsp; according to Officer Alayna Gonzalez

just after 5a.m. July 5, police were dispatched to the&nbsp;100&nbsp;block&nbsp;of&nbsp;N&nbsp;Belliare on reported shooting. Upon arrival, officers were directed to the rear&nbsp;of&nbsp;a&nbsp;nearby residence where a victim later identified as Jorge Grageda was located suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. 

Emergency aid was immediately rendered by responding&nbsp;officers until EMS arrived on scene. EMS declared him deceased at that time. Preliminary investigation indicates this occurred as a result&nbsp;of&nbsp;an argument that escalated to gunfire.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751741015533.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryl Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement investigating a homicide that occurred earlier this month in Kansas City have identified the victim as 51-year-old Jorge Grageda,&nbsp; according to Officer Alayna Gonzalezjust after 5a.m. July 5, police were dispatched to the&nbsp;100&nbsp;block&nbsp;of&nbsp;N&nbsp;Belliare on reported shooting. Upon arrival, officers were directed to the rear&nbsp;of&nbsp;a&nbsp;nearby residence where a victim later identified as Jorge Grageda was located suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency aid was immediately rendered by responding&nbsp;officers until EMS arrived on scene. EMS declared him deceased at that time. Preliminary investigation indicates this occurred as a result&nbsp;of&nbsp;an argument that escalated to gunfire.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

KCPD: 51-year-old died after argument led to gunfire

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/bryan-kohberger-sentencing-idaho-murders-updates">his sentencing hearing</a>&nbsp;began Wednesday.

“This world was a better place with her in it,” Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. ”Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie.”

The father of Kaylee Goncalves taunted Kohberger for leaving his DNA behind and getting caught despite being a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/four-dead-idaho-university-students-3369af9472fa36cc5a6ed270fa5ace07">graduate student in criminology</a>&nbsp;at nearby Washington State University at the time.

“You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid,” Steve Goncalves said. “Master’s degree? You’re a joke.”

Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bryan-kohberger-sentencing-motive-plea-victims-54726aa3e3d9cacb489f637fa9f4e968">serve four life sentences</a>&nbsp;without parole for four counts of first-degree murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-slain-6626d7c53a08563cfa9df5123f41bd87">brutal stabbing deaths</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-killed-victims-5ab2369325a207db21541bccbbc11434">Mogen, Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin</a>&nbsp;early on Nov. 13, 2022. He was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary and assessed $270,000 in fines and civil penalties.

The defendant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-slain-6626d7c53a08563cfa9df5123f41bd87">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;early this month, just weeks before his trial was to start, in a deal to avoid the death penalty.

Kohberger broke into the home through a kitchen sliding door and brutally stabbed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. No motive has been offered, and Kohberger chose not to speak at the hearing.

Dylan Mortenson, a roommate who told police of seeing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bryan-kohberger-stabbings-murder-trial-eyebrows-idaho-2efec9f917ce07d690acd43fce91d08c">a strange man with bushy eyebrows</a>&nbsp;and a ski mask in the home that night, sobbed as she described how Kohberger, seated across the room in an orange jumpsuit, “took the light they carried into each room.”

“He is a hollow vessel, something less than human,” Mortenson said. "A body without empathy without remorse.”

Mortenson and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks and anxiety after the attack.

“I slept in my parents’ room for almost a year, and had them double lock every door, set an alarm, and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding,” Funke wrote in a statement read by a friend. “I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panic, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or I’m about to lose someone else that I love.”

Alivea Goncalves's voice didn’t waver as she asked Kohberger questions about the killings, including what her sister’s last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless as she insulted him.

“You didn’t win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are," Alivea Goncalves said. "You’re a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser.”

Kohberger’s mother and sister also attended the hearing, sitting in the gallery near the defense table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Maddie Mogen’s grandmother said that her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohberger’s.

Xana Kernodle’s aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings.

“Bryan, I’m here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart,” she said. “And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. I’m here. No judgment.”

Police initially had no suspects in the killings, which terrified the rural western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe.

A knife sheath left near Mogen’s body had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-of-idaho-murder-kohberger-guilty-d73f71d01046a99e2dba6170e4ed7c50">a single source of male DNA on the button snap</a>, investigators said, and surveillance videos showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-pennsylvania-idaho-5f5173a3af306701d5659f2fb61a9d44">a white Hyundai Elantra</a>&nbsp;near the rental home around the time of the murders.

Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect and accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home.

Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings.

Both the investigation and the case drew widespread attention. Discussion groups proliferated online, members eagerly sharing their theories and questions about the case. Some armchair web-sleuths pointed fingers at innocent people simply because they knew the victims or lived in the same town. Misinformation spread, piling additional distress on the already-traumatized community.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751459170755.png" alt="Kohberger photo Ada Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Kohberger photo Ada Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Friends and relatives of four University of Idaho students murdered in their rental home by Bryan Kohberger delivered powerful statements of love, anguish and condemnation as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/bryan-kohberger-sentencing-idaho-murders-updates">his sentencing hearing</a>&nbsp;began Wednesday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Now *THIS* is how you give an impact statement that will undoubtedly get under Kohberger&#39;s skin. Holy shit. Alivea Goncalves throws some punches here. <a href="https://t.co/CkWqPWm9vO">pic.twitter.com/CkWqPWm9vO</a>&mdash; Frosty (@FrostyTakes) <a href="https://twitter.com/FrostyTakes/status/1948054679914733645?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“This world was a better place with her in it,” Scott Laramie, the stepfather of Madison Mogen, told the court. ”Karen and I are ordinary people, but we lived extraordinary lives because we had Maddie.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751479520041.png" alt="From top left, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle." />
 <figcaption>From top left, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle.</figcaption>
 </figure>The father of Kaylee Goncalves taunted Kohberger for leaving his DNA behind and getting caught despite being a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/four-dead-idaho-university-students-3369af9472fa36cc5a6ed270fa5ace07">graduate student in criminology</a>&nbsp;at nearby Washington State University at the time.“You were that careless, that foolish, that stupid,” Steve Goncalves said. “Master’s degree? You’re a joke.”Judge Steven Hippler ordered Kohberger to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bryan-kohberger-sentencing-motive-plea-victims-54726aa3e3d9cacb489f637fa9f4e968">serve four life sentences</a>&nbsp;without parole for four counts of first-degree murder in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-slain-6626d7c53a08563cfa9df5123f41bd87">brutal stabbing deaths</a>&nbsp;of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-killed-victims-5ab2369325a207db21541bccbbc11434">Mogen, Goncalves, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin</a>&nbsp;early on Nov. 13, 2022. He was also given a 10-year sentence for burglary and assessed $270,000 in fines and civil penalties.The defendant&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-slain-6626d7c53a08563cfa9df5123f41bd87">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;early this month, just weeks before his trial was to start, in a deal to avoid the death penalty.Kohberger broke into the home through a kitchen sliding door and brutally stabbed the four friends, who appeared to have no connection with him. No motive has been offered, and Kohberger chose not to speak at the hearing.Dylan Mortenson, a roommate who told police of seeing&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bryan-kohberger-stabbings-murder-trial-eyebrows-idaho-2efec9f917ce07d690acd43fce91d08c">a strange man with bushy eyebrows</a>&nbsp;and a ski mask in the home that night, sobbed as she described how Kohberger, seated across the room in an orange jumpsuit, “took the light they carried into each room.”“He is a hollow vessel, something less than human,” Mortenson said. "A body without empathy without remorse.”Mortenson and another surviving roommate, Bethany Funke, described crippling panic attacks and anxiety after the attack.“I slept in my parents’ room for almost a year, and had them double lock every door, set an alarm, and still check everywhere in the room just in case someone was hiding,” Funke wrote in a statement read by a friend. “I have not slept through a single night since this happened. I constantly wake up in panic, terrified someone is breaking in or someone is here to hurt me, or I’m about to lose someone else that I love.”Alivea Goncalves's voice didn’t waver as she asked Kohberger questions about the killings, including what her sister’s last words were. She drew applause after belittling Kohberger, who remained expressionless as she insulted him.“You didn’t win, you just exposed yourself as the coward you are," Alivea Goncalves said. "You’re a delusional, pathetic, hypochondriac loser.”Kohberger’s mother and sister also attended the hearing, sitting in the gallery near the defense table. His mother quietly wept at times as the other parents described their grief. She sobbed briefly when Maddie Mogen’s grandmother said that her heart goes out to the other families, including Kohberger’s.Xana Kernodle’s aunt, Kim Kernodle, said she forgave Kohberger and asked him to call her from prison, hoping he would answer her lingering questions about the killings.“Bryan, I’m here today to tell you I have forgiven you, because I no longer could live with that hate in my heart,” she said. “And for me to become a better person, I have forgiven you. And any time you want to talk and tell me what happened, get my number. I’m here. No judgment.”Police initially had no suspects in the killings, which terrified the rural western Idaho city of Moscow. Some students at both universities left mid-semester, taking the rest of their classes online because they felt unsafe.A knife sheath left near Mogen’s body had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-of-idaho-murder-kohberger-guilty-d73f71d01046a99e2dba6170e4ed7c50">a single source of male DNA on the button snap</a>, investigators said, and surveillance videos showed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-pennsylvania-idaho-5f5173a3af306701d5659f2fb61a9d44">a white Hyundai Elantra</a>&nbsp;near the rental home around the time of the murders.Police used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect and accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements the night of the killings. Online shopping records showed Kohberger had purchased a military-style knife months earlier, along with a sheath like the one at the home.Kohberger was arrested in Pennsylvania about six weeks after the killings.Both the investigation and the case drew widespread attention. Discussion groups proliferated online, members eagerly sharing their theories and questions about the case. Some armchair web-sleuths pointed fingers at innocent people simply because they knew the victims or lived in the same town. Misinformation spread, piling additional distress on the already-traumatized community.

🎥Anger, sadness during sentencing for murder of 4 university students

Tawan Moody, Failure to appear, arrested 07/17

Zachary Franklin, Theft-All other, arrested 07/17

Michael Aldapa, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute certain stimulant, &gt; 1 kilogram, arrested 07/17

Martin Ramos, Aggravated assault, use of a deadly weapon; Criminal threat; Criminal damage to property; Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 07/17

William Taylor, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 07/18

Rontavius Banks, Outside warrant; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; Transporting an open container; Driving while suspended (2nd or subsequent conviction), arrested 07/17

Anthony Benifield,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18

Chris Loupe,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18

Janie Villegas, Pedestrian under influence of alcohol/drugs, arrested 07/18

Ayram Cry, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 07/18

Luke Clark, DUI - Liquor/Drugs; Transporting an open container of alcohol, arrested 07/19

Daniel Schnakenberg, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana, arrested 07/19

Antonio Miles, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 07/19

Maximillian Mock, Interference with LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Boating under the influence; Interference with LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, arrested 07/19

Mark Crubel, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Criminal restraint, arrested 07/19

Cordova-Erazo, Boating under the influence, arrested 07/19

Taigon Kotinek, Boating under the influence, arrested 07/19

Richard Zeller, Liquor; Purchase/possess/consume by minor 18-20 years of age;&nbsp;Boating under the influence, arrested 07/19

Raymond Kendall,&nbsp;Boating under the influence, arrested 07/20

Fernando Nava, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 07/20

David Edwards,&nbsp;Boating under the influence, arrested 07/20

Aden Hatcher, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 07/20

Aynat Butler, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 07/20

Ignacio Rendon, Failure to appear, arrested 07/20

Thurman Ellison, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 07/21

Tiffany Ryals, Failure to appear, arrested 07/21

David Roman, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 07/22

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753302621698.jpeg" alt="Raulices Astorga,&nbsp;Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body;&nbsp; Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute certain stimulant, &gt;&nbsp; kilogram, arrested 07/17" />
 <figcaption>Raulices Astorga,&nbsp;Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body;&nbsp; Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute certain stimulant, &gt;&nbsp; kilogram, arrested 07/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753302632921.jpeg" alt="April Meza Quintero, Traffic contraband into correctional facility; Possession of controlled substance;&nbsp;Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute certain stimulant, &gt; kilogram, arrested 07/17" />
 <figcaption>April Meza Quintero, Traffic contraband into correctional facility; Possession of controlled substance;&nbsp;Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute certain stimulant, &gt; kilogram, arrested 07/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753302812947.jpeg" alt="William Adams, Failure to appear, arrested 07/18" />
 <figcaption>William Adams, Failure to appear, arrested 07/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753302824956.jpeg" alt="Melissa Oquist,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18" />
 <figcaption>Melissa Oquist,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753302838021.jpeg" alt="Reese Williston,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18" />
 <figcaption>Reese Williston,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753303754581.jpeg" alt="Andrew Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 07/20" />
 <figcaption>Andrew Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 07/20</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753303782662.jpeg" alt="Brenda Vanhoesen, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 07/20" />
 <figcaption>Brenda Vanhoesen, Aggravated assault; Use of a deadly weapon, arrested 07/20</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753303827784.jpeg" alt="Hailey Wiesner, Unlawful restraint, arrested 07/20" />
 <figcaption>Hailey Wiesner, Unlawful restraint, arrested 07/20</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753303862475.jpeg" alt="Joseph Eustice, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 07/20" />
 <figcaption>Joseph Eustice, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 07/20</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753303873442.jpeg" alt="Dillon McCalmon, Disorderly conduct; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 07/21" />
 <figcaption>Dillon McCalmon, Disorderly conduct; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 07/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753303997634.jpeg" alt="Austin Edge, Failure to appear, arrested 07/21" />
 <figcaption>Austin Edge, Failure to appear, arrested 07/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753304137028.jpeg" alt="Antoine Graham, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 07/22" />
 <figcaption>Antoine Graham, Failure to appear (Two counts), arrested 07/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753304147164.jpeg" alt="Ciera Jernigan, Violate offender registration act, arrested 07/22" />
 <figcaption>Ciera Jernigan, Violate offender registration act, arrested 07/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753304157236.jpeg" alt="Jean Guillaumette, Criminal trespass, arrested 07/22" />
 <figcaption>Jean Guillaumette, Criminal trespass, arrested 07/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753304169588.jpeg" alt="Christopher Hunter, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 07/22" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Hunter, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 07/22</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Tawan Moody, Failure to appear, arrested 07/17Zachary Franklin, Theft-All other, arrested 07/17Michael Aldapa, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant; Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture/plant/cultivate controlled substance; Distribute certain stimulant, &gt; 1 kilogram, arrested 07/17Martin Ramos, Aggravated assault, use of a deadly weapon; Criminal threat; Criminal damage to property; Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 07/17William Taylor, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 07/18Rontavius Banks, Outside warrant; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; Transporting an open container; Driving while suspended (2nd or subsequent conviction), arrested 07/17Anthony Benifield,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18Chris Loupe,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 07/18Janie Villegas, Pedestrian under influence of alcohol/drugs, arrested 07/18Ayram Cry, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 07/18Luke Clark, DUI - Liquor/Drugs; Transporting an open container of alcohol, arrested 07/19Daniel Schnakenberg, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana, arrested 07/19Antonio Miles, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 07/19Maximillian Mock, Interference with LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Boating under the influence; Interference with LEO; Obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution, arrested 07/19Mark Crubel, Disorderly conduct; Brawling or fighting; Criminal restraint, arrested 07/19Cordova-Erazo, Boating under the influence, arrested 07/19Taigon Kotinek, Boating under the influence, arrested 07/19Richard Zeller, Liquor; Purchase/possess/consume by minor 18-20 years of age;&nbsp;Boating under the influence, arrested 07/19Raymond Kendall,&nbsp;Boating under the influence, arrested 07/20Fernando Nava, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 07/20David Edwards,&nbsp;Boating under the influence, arrested 07/20Aden Hatcher, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 07/20Aynat Butler, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 07/20Ignacio Rendon, Failure to appear, arrested 07/20Thurman Ellison, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 07/21Tiffany Ryals, Failure to appear, arrested 07/21David Roman, Operate a motor vehicle without a valid license, arrested 07/22Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.

Geary County Booking Photos July 18-23

CAMDEN COUNTY, Mo. —Law enforcement are investigating a Missouri State Park Ranger for alleged sexual assault.

On Monday, Camden County Sheriff&nbsp;Chris Edgar confirmed the arrest of 34-year-old Billy G Stephens III, a suspect in a sexual assault investigation. 

Stephens, a Missouri State Park Ranger, was taken into custody late Saturday night while on duty.

On July 19th, Camden County Sheriff’s Detectives conducted an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving an active-duty Missouri State Park Ranger. After attending a forensic interview of an alleged child victim, detectives contacted command staff at the Missouri State Park Rangers and advised them of the situation.

 Rangers command staff cooperated fully with the investigation and assisted in devising a plan to take Stephens into custody. Stephens was arrested at the Camden County Adult Detention Facility. He is charged with the Class B Felony of 2nd Degree Child Molestation, two counts of the Class D Felony of Statutory Rape, the Class D Felony of Tampering with a Witness, and the Class E Felony of Tampering with Physical Evidence.  He is being held without bond 

A statement from the sheriff's office said, "The allegations against Stephens are disturbing and, frankly, a betrayal of the trust our community puts in its law enforcement officers. This office is committed to the equal administration of justice regardless of a suspect’s status as a law enforcement officer."

"While this office does not regularly put out press release information on sex crimes cases, I felt in this case the public needed to know about the alleged misconduct of one of their law enforcement officers."&nbsp;

"We are extremely grateful to the Missouri State Park Rangers for their assistance in this investigation and their commitment to helping us fight crime in our communities.  We will not waiver when it comes to our pursuit of justice. No one gets a pass from us.  A personal message to all law enforcement officers in Camden County and the surrounding communities This is the second local law enforcement officer this month my staff has arrested for felony crimes. Let this be a warning to you. If you are a law enforcement officer and you are involved in criminal activity; we will find you. We will not harbor you. We will hold you accountable."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753180737433.png" alt="Stephens photo Camden County" />
 <figcaption>Stephens photo Camden County</figcaption>
 </figure>CAMDEN COUNTY, Mo. —Law enforcement are investigating a Missouri State Park Ranger for alleged sexual assault.On Monday, Camden County Sheriff&nbsp;Chris Edgar confirmed the arrest of 34-year-old Billy G Stephens III, a suspect in a sexual assault investigation. Stephens, a Missouri State Park Ranger, was taken into custody late Saturday night while on duty.On July 19th, Camden County Sheriff’s Detectives conducted an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving an active-duty Missouri State Park Ranger. After attending a forensic interview of an alleged child victim, detectives contacted command staff at the Missouri State Park Rangers and advised them of the situation. Rangers command staff cooperated fully with the investigation and assisted in devising a plan to take Stephens into custody. Stephens was arrested at the Camden County Adult Detention Facility. He is charged with the Class B Felony of 2nd Degree Child Molestation, two counts of the Class D Felony of Statutory Rape, the Class D Felony of Tampering with a Witness, and the Class E Felony of Tampering with Physical Evidence. He is being held without bond A statement from the sheriff's office said, "The allegations against Stephens are disturbing and, frankly, a betrayal of the trust our community puts in its law enforcement officers. This office is committed to the equal administration of justice regardless of a suspect’s status as a law enforcement officer." "While this office does not regularly put out press release information on sex crimes cases, I felt in this case the public needed to know about the alleged misconduct of one of their law enforcement officers."&nbsp;"We are extremely grateful to the Missouri State Park Rangers for their assistance in this investigation and their commitment to helping us fight crime in our communities. We will not waiver when it comes to our pursuit of justice. No one gets a pass from us. A personal message to all law enforcement officers in Camden County and the surrounding communities This is the second local law enforcement officer this month my staff has arrested for felony crimes. Let this be a warning to you. If you are a law enforcement officer and you are involved in criminal activity; we will find you. We will not harbor you. We will hold you accountable."

Sheriff: Park ranger accused of child sex crimes

COLES COUNTY, Illinois –A Kansas Amber Alert suspect is in custody and police in Illinois released new details on the capture of 32-year-old&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Christopher K. Barnshaw.

Just after noon Tuesday, police in Mattoon, Illinois, were notified that a suspect in a kidnapping incident in Topeka was possibly in their city, according to a media release from police.

Police in Topeka reported that Barshaw was believed to be a suspect in the death of a man and woman the 500 Block of NE Wabash in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Daniel Garrett. Barnshaw was also believed to have taken a child of one of the victims and fled the area. He was reported to be driving a Lexus passenger vehicle bearing Kansas License 4003AHF.

At 12:16p.m. a police officer in Mattoon, who was actively on a traffic stop on Route 16 observed the suspect vehicle pass him.&nbsp; The officer cleared from the traffic stop and began following the suspect in the Lexus eastboun toward Charleston, Illinois. After several other officers arrived in the area, they conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle at the intersection of Route 16 and Beechtree Road.&nbsp; Barnshaw was take into custody without incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the arrest, officers found a firearm concealed on Barnshaw.&nbsp; The 2-year-old boy who the subject of the Amber Alert was in the back seat unharmed.

Barnshaw is being held in the Coles County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Kidnapping and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Mattoon Police are working with Topeka Police.&nbsp; Barshaw could face additional charges.&nbsp; Arrangements are being made to reunite the&nbsp; child with a family member.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753203309827.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>COLES COUNTY, Illinois –A Kansas Amber Alert suspect is in custody and police in Illinois released new details on the capture of 32-year-old&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Christopher K. Barnshaw.Just after noon Tuesday, police in Mattoon, Illinois, were notified that a suspect in a kidnapping incident in Topeka was possibly in their city, according to a media release from police.Police in Topeka reported that Barshaw was believed to be a suspect in the death of a man and woman the 500 Block of NE Wabash in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Daniel Garrett. Barnshaw was also believed to have taken a child of one of the victims and fled the area. He was reported to be driving a Lexus passenger vehicle bearing Kansas License 4003AHF.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753228568726.png" alt="Barnshaw photo Coles Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Barnshaw photo Coles Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>At 12:16p.m. a police officer in Mattoon, who was actively on a traffic stop on Route 16 observed the suspect vehicle pass him.&nbsp; The officer cleared from the traffic stop and began following the suspect in the Lexus eastboun toward Charleston, Illinois. After several other officers arrived in the area, they conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle at the intersection of Route 16 and Beechtree Road.&nbsp; Barnshaw was take into custody without incident.&nbsp;&nbsp;During the arrest, officers found a firearm concealed on Barnshaw.&nbsp; The 2-year-old boy who the subject of the Amber Alert was in the back seat unharmed.Barnshaw is being held in the Coles County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Kidnapping and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. Mattoon Police are working with Topeka Police.&nbsp; Barshaw could face additional charges.&nbsp; Arrangements are being made to reunite the&nbsp; child with a family member.

Police: Kan. Amber Alert suspect took child after double-murder

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/rebecca-boone">REBECCA BOONE</a>

<a href="https://apnews.com/author/rebecca-boone"></a>BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Bryan Kohberger, the masked man who snuck into a rental home near the University of Idaho campus and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bryan-kohberger">stabbed four students to death</a>&nbsp;in late 2022, is expected to face the families of his victims in court Wednesday at his sentencing hearing.

Whether those families will get any answers about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bryan-kohberger-idaho-student-killings-fc03e31c8a35deb0718ae15e2887481a">why he did it</a>&nbsp;or how he came to target&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-of-idaho-house-demolished-four-students-killed-80d34c85bd62f0857d41eacc173626dd">the home on King Road</a>&nbsp;in Moscow remains to be seen. But Kohberger, 30, is expected to be sentenced to life in prison for murdering Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves and Ethan Chapin in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moscow-idaho-boise-university-of-d0ed74d74bd11f3c58e5f78ea52a0b6c">rural college town of Moscow</a>.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-slain-6626d7c53a08563cfa9df5123f41bd87">He pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;earlier this month in a deal to avoid the death penalty. He will have an opportunity to speak at the sentencing — as will the loved ones of his victims.

Here’s what to know about Kohberger’s sentencing.

Mogen, Kernodle, Goncalves and Chapin were found stabbed to death on Nov. 13, 2023. The crime horrified the city, which hadn’t seen a homicide in about five years, and prompted a massive hunt for the perpetrator.

Kohberger, a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/law-enforcement-idaho-pennsylvania-crime-5a9c3c1117dbf2efcd37cdf04e5c01ae">arrested in Pennsylvania</a>, where his parents lived, roughly six weeks later.

Police said they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-idaho-killings-kohberger-evidence-constitutional-134b5f69a8878cd6174a7c4d487d3b9b">recovered DNA</a>&nbsp;from a knife sheath found at the home, and used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect. They accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements and used surveillance camera footage to help locate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-pennsylvania-idaho-5f5173a3af306701d5659f2fb61a9d44">a white sedan</a>&nbsp;that was seen repeatedly driving past the home on the night of the killings.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-of-idaho-murder-kohberger-guilty-d73f71d01046a99e2dba6170e4ed7c50">Q-tip from the garbage</a>&nbsp;at his parents’ house was used to match Kohberger’s DNA to genetic material from the sheath, investigators said.

Kohberger’s attorneys got the trial moved to Boise after expressing concerns that the court wouldn’t be able to find enough unbiased jurors in Moscow. But Judge Stephen Hippler rejected their efforts to get the death penalty taken off the table and to strike critical evidence — including the DNA — from being admitted in trial.

The trial had been set to begin next month.

In exchange for Kohberger admitting guilt and waiving his right to appeal, prosecutors agreed not to seek his execution. Instead, both sides agreed to recommend that he serve four consecutive life sentences without parole for the killings.

The victim’s families&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/idaho-kohberger-murder-plea-death-penalty-victims-rights-e86eea00a32721839a320177eabc7db0">were split</a>&nbsp;on how they felt about the plea deal.

Kohberger’s motive and many other details are unknown

If they know why Kohberger did it, investigators haven’t said so publicly. Nor is it clear why he spared two roommates who were home at the time.

Cellphone location data did show Kohberger had been in the neighborhood multiple times before the attack.

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson has said that Kohberger used&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/four-dead-idaho-university-students-3369af9472fa36cc5a6ed270fa5ace07">his knowledge about forensic investigations</a>&nbsp;to attempt to cover his tracks by deep cleaning his vehicle after the crime.

Police say Kohberger’s Amazon purchase history shows he bought a military-style knife as well as the knife sheath found at the home. But the knife itself was never found.

The case drew widespread interest and judges feared the publicity could harm Kohberger’s right to a fair trial. A sweeping gag order was imposed and hundreds of court documents were sealed from public view.

After Kohberger pleaded guilty, a coalition of news organizations including The Associated Press asked that the gag order be lifted and the documents be unsealed. Hippler agreed, but said unsealing the documents will take time and that process won’t begin until after the sentencing hearing. It’s not clear how many answers they might contain.

Kohberger can speak at sentencing or refuse

The families and surviving roommates of the victims will have the opportunity during the sentencing hearing to describe the damage the killings have done to them. Because there are so many of them, the hearing could stretch into Thursday.

Kohberger will also have the opportunity to speak. Defendants sometimes use such chances to express remorse, ask for mercy, or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing.

But Kohberger also has the right to remain silent — despite a suggestion from President Donald Trump that the judge should force Kohberger to explain himself.

“I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders,” Trump wrote online on Monday. “There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING.”

Foundations honor Kaylee, Maddie, Xana and Ethan

Friends and family members have sought to commemorate the victims’ lives by raising money for scholarships and other initiatives.

<a href="https://www.ethanssmile.org/" target="_blank">Ethan’s Smile Foundation</a>, started by Chapin’s family, honors his “love of life, people, and new adventures by providing scholarships that enable others to follow their dreams,” its website says.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.madewithkindnessfoundation.com/" target="_blank">Made With Kindness Foundation</a>&nbsp;honors the legacy of Mogen, Goncalves, and Kernodle through scholarships, wellness support and empowerment initiatives. “Our mission is to inspire and uplift the next generation, turning their dreams into realities in a world that values compassion and community,” its website says.

The University of Idaho built the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uidaho.edu/giving/healing-garden-and-memorial" target="_blank">Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial</a>&nbsp;in memory of all students who passed away while enrolled at the school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751459170755.png" alt="Kohberger photo Ada Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Kohberger photo Ada Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/rebecca-boone">REBECCA BOONE</a><a href="https://apnews.com/author/rebecca-boone"></a>BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Bryan Kohberger, the masked man who snuck into a rental home near the University of Idaho campus and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/bryan-kohberger">stabbed four students to death</a>&nbsp;in late 2022, is expected to face the families of his victims in court Wednesday at his sentencing hearing.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751479520041.png" alt="From top left, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle." />
 <figcaption>From top left, Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin and Xana Kernodle.</figcaption>
 </figure>Whether those families will get any answers about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bryan-kohberger-idaho-student-killings-fc03e31c8a35deb0718ae15e2887481a">why he did it</a>&nbsp;or how he came to target&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-of-idaho-house-demolished-four-students-killed-80d34c85bd62f0857d41eacc173626dd">the home on King Road</a>&nbsp;in Moscow remains to be seen. But Kohberger, 30, is expected to be sentenced to life in prison for murdering Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle, Kaylee Goncalves and Ethan Chapin in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/moscow-idaho-boise-university-of-d0ed74d74bd11f3c58e5f78ea52a0b6c">rural college town of Moscow</a>.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/kohberger-idaho-students-slain-6626d7c53a08563cfa9df5123f41bd87">He pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;earlier this month in a deal to avoid the death penalty. He will have an opportunity to speak at the sentencing — as will the loved ones of his victims.Here’s what to know about Kohberger’s sentencing.<h2>A plea deal was reached before a trial</h2>Mogen, Kernodle, Goncalves and Chapin were found stabbed to death on Nov. 13, 2023. The crime horrified the city, which hadn’t seen a homicide in about five years, and prompted a massive hunt for the perpetrator.Kohberger, a graduate student in criminology at nearby Washington State University, was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/law-enforcement-idaho-pennsylvania-crime-5a9c3c1117dbf2efcd37cdf04e5c01ae">arrested in Pennsylvania</a>, where his parents lived, roughly six weeks later.Police said they&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-idaho-killings-kohberger-evidence-constitutional-134b5f69a8878cd6174a7c4d487d3b9b">recovered DNA</a>&nbsp;from a knife sheath found at the home, and used genetic genealogy to identify Kohberger as a possible suspect. They accessed cellphone data to pinpoint his movements and used surveillance camera footage to help locate&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/washington-pennsylvania-idaho-5f5173a3af306701d5659f2fb61a9d44">a white sedan</a>&nbsp;that was seen repeatedly driving past the home on the night of the killings.A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/university-of-idaho-murder-kohberger-guilty-d73f71d01046a99e2dba6170e4ed7c50">Q-tip from the garbage</a>&nbsp;at his parents’ house was used to match Kohberger’s DNA to genetic material from the sheath, investigators said.Kohberger’s attorneys got the trial moved to Boise after expressing concerns that the court wouldn’t be able to find enough unbiased jurors in Moscow. But Judge Stephen Hippler rejected their efforts to get the death penalty taken off the table and to strike critical evidence — including the DNA — from being admitted in trial.The trial had been set to begin next month.In exchange for Kohberger admitting guilt and waiving his right to appeal, prosecutors agreed not to seek his execution. Instead, both sides agreed to recommend that he serve four consecutive life sentences without parole for the killings.The victim’s families&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/idaho-kohberger-murder-plea-death-penalty-victims-rights-e86eea00a32721839a320177eabc7db0">were split</a>&nbsp;on how they felt about the plea deal.<h2>Kohberger’s motive and many other details are unknown</h2>If they know why Kohberger did it, investigators haven’t said so publicly. Nor is it clear why he spared two roommates who were home at the time.Cellphone location data did show Kohberger had been in the neighborhood multiple times before the attack.Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson has said that Kohberger used&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/four-dead-idaho-university-students-3369af9472fa36cc5a6ed270fa5ace07">his knowledge about forensic investigations</a>&nbsp;to attempt to cover his tracks by deep cleaning his vehicle after the crime.Police say Kohberger’s Amazon purchase history shows he bought a military-style knife as well as the knife sheath found at the home. But the knife itself was never found.The case drew widespread interest and judges feared the publicity could harm Kohberger’s right to a fair trial. A sweeping gag order was imposed and hundreds of court documents were sealed from public view.After Kohberger pleaded guilty, a coalition of news organizations including The Associated Press asked that the gag order be lifted and the documents be unsealed. Hippler agreed, but said unsealing the documents will take time and that process won’t begin until after the sentencing hearing. It’s not clear how many answers they might contain.<h2>Kohberger can speak at sentencing or refuse</h2>The families and surviving roommates of the victims will have the opportunity during the sentencing hearing to describe the damage the killings have done to them. Because there are so many of them, the hearing could stretch into Thursday.Kohberger will also have the opportunity to speak. Defendants sometimes use such chances to express remorse, ask for mercy, or to say whatever else they think the court should hear before sentencing.But Kohberger also has the right to remain silent — despite a suggestion from President Donald Trump that the judge should force Kohberger to explain himself.“I hope the Judge makes Kohberger, at a minimum, explain why he did these horrible murders,” Trump wrote online on Monday. “There are no explanations, there is no NOTHING.”<h2>Foundations honor Kaylee, Maddie, Xana and Ethan</h2>Friends and family members have sought to commemorate the victims’ lives by raising money for scholarships and other initiatives.<a href="https://www.ethanssmile.org/" target="_blank">Ethan’s Smile Foundation</a>, started by Chapin’s family, honors his “love of life, people, and new adventures by providing scholarships that enable others to follow their dreams,” its website says.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.madewithkindnessfoundation.com/" target="_blank">Made With Kindness Foundation</a>&nbsp;honors the legacy of Mogen, Goncalves, and Kernodle through scholarships, wellness support and empowerment initiatives. “Our mission is to inspire and uplift the next generation, turning their dreams into realities in a world that values compassion and community,” its website says.The University of Idaho built the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uidaho.edu/giving/healing-garden-and-memorial" target="_blank">Vandal Healing Garden and Memorial</a>&nbsp;in memory of all students who passed away while enrolled at the school.

Confessed killer will face victim's families at sentencing

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. –Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.

Just before 8p.m. on July 18, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop near 150th Road on U.S. Hwy 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics. The driver, 41-year-old Kelly Jospeh Hall and 51-year-old Jeffery Wade Romines, both of Sabetha were both arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753115401426.png" alt="Romines photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Romines photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. –Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.Just before 8p.m. on July 18, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop near 150th Road on U.S. Hwy 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753115382110.png" alt="Hall photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hall photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal narcotics. The driver, 41-year-old Kelly Jospeh Hall and 51-year-old Jeffery Wade Romines, both of Sabetha were both arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Two Kansas suspects caught transporting meth

ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend arrest in Ellis County.

At about 9:30 p.m. July 17,, deputies with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of a domestic disturbance that had occurred in the 300 block of Hopewell Road in rural Ellis County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

Deputies contacted a 40-year-old woman who had sustained multiple injuries as a result of the disturbance. Through the course of the investigation, deputies were able to identify the suspect as 37-year-old Cody Evan Garrett of WaKeeney.

With the assistance of the Trego County Sheriff’s Office, WaKeeney Police Department, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, Garrett would later be located at a residence in Trego County and taken into custody.

Garrett was booked into the Ellis County Jail on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated domestic battery, criminal threat and criminal damage to Property.

Garrett remains in the Ellis County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1753197701190.png" alt="Garrett photo Ellis Co." />
 <figcaption>Garrett photo Ellis Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend arrest in Ellis County.At about 9:30 p.m. July 17,, deputies with the Ellis County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call of a domestic disturbance that had occurred in the 300 block of Hopewell Road in rural Ellis County, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.Deputies contacted a 40-year-old woman who had sustained multiple injuries as a result of the disturbance. Through the course of the investigation, deputies were able to identify the suspect as 37-year-old Cody Evan Garrett of WaKeeney.With the assistance of the Trego County Sheriff’s Office, WaKeeney Police Department, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, Garrett would later be located at a residence in Trego County and taken into custody.Garrett was booked into the Ellis County Jail on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder, aggravated domestic battery, criminal threat and criminal damage to Property.Garrett remains in the Ellis County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

NW Kan. man accused of brutal attack on a woman

DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement&nbsp; investigating a series of burglaries at Clinton Marina in Douglas County have made two arrests, according to the Douglas County. Sheriff's office.

On July 10, sheriff's department detectives asked the public for assistance in identifying individuals seen from security cameras.&nbsp; Multiple boats and slips had items stolen during the overnight hours from July 3 to early on July 4.

The sheriff's office released no additional details on the arrests or possible charges in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752195644572.png" alt="Photos Douglas County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Douglas County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY —Law enforcement&nbsp; investigating a series of burglaries at Clinton Marina in Douglas County have made two arrests, according to the Douglas County. Sheriff's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752195784609.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On July 10, sheriff's department detectives asked the public for assistance in identifying individuals seen from security cameras.&nbsp; Multiple boats and slips had items stolen during the overnight hours from July 3 to early on July 4.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752195626190.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The sheriff's office released no additional details on the arrests or possible charges in the case.

Sheriff IDs suspects, makes arrest in Kansas marina burglaries

The sweeping requests raise fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jonathan-shorman/">Jonathan Shorman</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>

The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking the voter registration lists of several states — representing data on millions of Americans — and other election information ahead of the 2026 midterms, raising fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information.

The DOJ is also demanding Colorado turn over all records related to the 2024 election, a massive trove of documents that could include ballots and even voting equipment. The Colorado inquiry, the most sweeping publicly known request, underscores the extent of the administration’s attention on state election activities.

At least nine states have received requests for information over the past three months, according to letters from the DOJ obtained by Stateline. Some states also received emails from a DOJ official last week asking for meetings to discuss information-sharing agreements.

The department’s focus on elections comes after President Donald Trump directed U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in March to seek information about suspected election crimes from state election officials and empowered her to potentially withhold grants and other funds from uncooperative states.

For years, Trump has advanced false claims about elections, including the idea that the 2020 election that he lost was stolen. Now back in power, his administration is taking a new level of interest in how states — and even local authorities — administer elections.

Last week, a political operative approached several Republican county clerks in Colorado to enlist them in election integrity efforts in light of Trump’s sweeping March executive order overhauling elections administration. One clerk told Stateline the operative claimed to represent the White House.

“Whatever the Trump administration tries to pull is very unlikely to be successful,” Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat, said in an interview, calling Colorado elections very secure. “With that said, do I think they are trying to undermine our elections at large in this country? Absolutely.”

DOJ has sent letters to Alaska, Arizona, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in addition to the request to Colorado.

The letters have typically asked election officials to describe how they register voters and work to identify duplicate registrations and individuals not eligible to vote, such as people with felony convictions and those who have died. The Washington Post earlier Wednesday reported on the letters; Votebeat and NPR previously reported on some of the letters as well.

Most letters also ask about each state’s process for flagging noncitizen applicants. Noncitizen voting is against federal law and incredibly rare, but Trump and his allies have promoted false claims about its prevalence. The Trump administration is also conducting a general crackdown on illegal immigration.

The letters call on election officials to turn over voter registration lists, which in some instances contain data on millions of residents in their states. This request has raised the most concerns, with some experts saying it’s unclear exactly why the DOJ wants the information.

“They don’t make much sense as law enforcement investigations. That makes me think that there’s some other purpose,” said Justin Levitt, who served as senior policy adviser for democracy and voting rights in the Biden White House and is now a law professor at Loyola Marymount University.

While many states make their voter registration lists available to the public, Levitt emphasized the data could still be largely off-limits to the federal government. Federal privacy law sometimes restricts how the government can use data that’s publicly obtainable. The DOJ may need voter information in some individual circumstances, but “that’s not blanket permission to go vacuuming up data.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709323737405.png" alt="Fire photo (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Fire photo (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The sweeping requests raise fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information</h2>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/jonathan-shorman/">Jonathan Shorman</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking the voter registration lists of several states — representing data on millions of Americans — and other election information ahead of the 2026 midterms, raising fears about how the Trump administration plans to use the information.The DOJ is also demanding Colorado turn over all records related to the 2024 election, a massive trove of documents that could include ballots and even voting equipment. The Colorado inquiry, the most sweeping publicly known request, underscores the extent of the administration’s attention on state election activities.At least nine states have received requests for information over the past three months, according to letters from the DOJ obtained by Stateline. Some states also received emails from a DOJ official last week asking for meetings to discuss information-sharing agreements.The department’s focus on elections comes after President Donald Trump directed U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi in March to seek information about suspected election crimes from state election officials and empowered her to potentially withhold grants and other funds from uncooperative states.For years, Trump has advanced false claims about elections, including the idea that the 2020 election that he lost was stolen. Now back in power, his administration is taking a new level of interest in how states — and even local authorities — administer elections.Last week, a political operative approached several Republican county clerks in Colorado to enlist them in election integrity efforts in light of Trump’s sweeping March executive order overhauling elections administration. One clerk told Stateline the operative claimed to represent the White House.“Whatever the Trump administration tries to pull is very unlikely to be successful,” Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, a Democrat, said in an interview, calling Colorado elections very secure. “With that said, do I think they are trying to undermine our elections at large in this country? Absolutely.”DOJ has sent letters to Alaska, Arizona, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in addition to the request to Colorado.The letters have typically asked election officials to describe how they register voters and work to identify duplicate registrations and individuals not eligible to vote, such as people with felony convictions and those who have died. The Washington Post earlier Wednesday reported on the letters; Votebeat and NPR previously reported on some of the letters as well.Most letters also ask about each state’s process for flagging noncitizen applicants. Noncitizen voting is against federal law and incredibly rare, but Trump and his allies have promoted false claims about its prevalence. The Trump administration is also conducting a general crackdown on illegal immigration.The letters call on election officials to turn over voter registration lists, which in some instances contain data on millions of residents in their states. This request has raised the most concerns, with some experts saying it’s unclear exactly why the DOJ wants the information.“They don’t make much sense as law enforcement investigations. That makes me think that there’s some other purpose,” said Justin Levitt, who served as senior policy adviser for democracy and voting rights in the Biden White House and is now a law professor at Loyola Marymount University.While many states make their voter registration lists available to the public, Levitt emphasized the data could still be largely off-limits to the federal government. Federal privacy law sometimes restricts how the government can use data that’s publicly obtainable. The DOJ may need voter information in some individual circumstances, but “that’s not blanket permission to go vacuuming up data.”The DOJ didn’t respond to questions for this story.Federal laws restrict the federal government’s ability to centralize information on Americans, said David Becker, executive director of the nonpartisan Center for Election Innovation &amp; Research. Even if states provide voter registration information to the public, they often redact sensitive information.In Orange County, California, the DOJ sued local election officials in June, seeking unredacted voter registration information, such as Social Security numbers and driver’s licenses, as part of an investigation into noncitizen voting.More than 350 election officials from some 33 states participated in a conference call about federal actions on Monday hosted by Becker, who was previously an attorney in the DOJ Voting Rights Section during the administrations of Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. He said the interest in the call shows the level of uncertainty and anxiety over the current “federal imposition” on election administrators.“The DOJ seems dead set on acquiring personal information on voters, including driver’s license numbers, Social Security numbers and dates of birth — records that are highly protected under federal law and under state law and which state election officials are sworn to protect,” Becker said.<h2>Sweeping Colorado requests</h2>In Colorado, the amount of data the DOJ wants is enormous. On May 12, Harmeet Dhillon, an assistant U.S. attorney general in the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division, sent a letter to Griswold, the secretary of state, asking for access to “all records” related to the 2024 election.Federal law requires state election officials to preserve records related to elections for 22 months. Typically, the rule ensures records are preserved in case any lawsuits are filed over an election. In the letter, Dhillon referred to a complaint against Griswold’s office alleging noncompliance with records retention laws, but provided no details.Experts on election administration who spoke to Stateline expressed shock at the scope of the demand to Colorado. The request encompasses a vast trove of material, potentially including ballots.“The amount of records being requested from a place like Colorado … it’s really, really significant in terms of the volume of materials that are required to be retained,” said Neal Ubriani, a former voting rights litigator at the DOJ during the Obama and first Trump administrations and the current policy and research director at the nonpartisan Institute for Responsive Government.Colorado elections have previously drawn Trump’s attention. Former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, a staunch Trump supporter, is serving a nine-year prison sentence after a conviction in state court for allowing unauthorized access to voting equipment in 2021.On May 5 of this year — a week before the Dhillon letter to Griswold — Trump posted on social media that Peters should be released, calling her a “political prisoner.” Griswold noted the timing.“I think the bigger picture is Donald Trump is continuing to try and rewrite the 2020 election and destabilize the ’26 and ’28 elections,” Griswold told Stateline.The Colorado Secretary of State’s Office responded to the DOJ by providing copies of the state’s master voter file and voter history file. All of the information provided is also available to the public.Some Colorado Republican county clerks in recent days have also been approached by Jeff Small, a political operative who worked at the U.S. Department of the Interior during the first Trump administration. Stateline and Colorado Newsline spoke to three GOP clerks who said they had spoken to Small last week.Steve Schleiker, clerk of El Paso County, which includes Colorado Springs and is the most populous county in the state, said that on July 9 he received a text and call from Small, who introduced himself in a voicemail as someone who “works for the White House.”Schleiker said that when he called back, Small said he wanted to build relationships with clerks because the Trump administration was unhappy with progress on the president’s elections executive order. He later connected Schleiker with a Homeland Security official who wanted to test the security of El Paso County’s election systems, said Schleiker, who added that he opposed the request.Weld County Clerk Carly Koppes said she also heard from Small, but that Small told her he wasn’t under contract or being paid for the calls. Small indicated he was making the calls on behalf of former colleagues, Koppes said.Small, a former Capitol Hill chief of staff who now works for a Colorado-based government affairs firm, didn’t return a call to his office on Wednesday. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said in a statement that the agency works with local partners to ensure elections remain safe.“We don’t disclose every single conversation we have with them,” an unidentified DHS spokesperson wrote in an email.Matt Crane, executive director of the Colorado County Clerks Association, said he was aware of 10 clerks approached by Small. He noted that every clerk approached by Small hails from a county that uses Denver-based Dominion Voting Systems.While Dominion is widely used in Colorado, it’s also been the subject of election conspiracy theories. A former candidate for county sheriff in southwest Colorado was arrested in June, accused of firebombing a clerk’s office. Colorado Public Radio reported the suspect, according to law enforcement, had spoken publicly about trying to get rid of the county’s Dominion machines.“I think the really important thing to say here is that it was Republican clerks who stood up to a Republican administration and said, ‘No, we’re going to follow the law,’” Crane said.The intent of the efforts by Small and the federal government “has been muddied up it seems,” Montrose County Clerk Tressa Guynes said. Based on her conversations with other clerks, she said, it appeared Small represented one thing to other clerks and then “represented maybe a watered-down version by the time it got to me.”Guynes said Small wanted to discuss Trump’s elections executive order. She said Small asked whether she would be willing to support a federal task force’s efforts in an advisory role.“I said absolutely I will advise,” Guynes said. “I said I’m frankly glad that they’re finally reaching out to the boots on the ground, the people who actually conduct the elections, instead of listening to those who have never conducted a Colorado election.”<h2>Letters to other states</h2>As Colorado grapples with the most far-reaching request, other states are choosing how to respond. In Wisconsin, the state election commission responded to a DOJ request for the voter registration list with instructions on how to request public voter data.Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, responded on June 2 — after DOJ in a May 20 letter told the state to ensure voter registration applicants&nbsp;provided a driver’s license number, if they have one, instead of a partial Social Security number. The DOJ also wanted Arizona to check voters against a state database to look for noncitizens.Fontes replied that Arizona complies with federal law and conducts checks using a state motor vehicle division database.“We are focused on dealing with DOJ in a good faith manner while ensuring we are following the letter of federal and state laws,” Fontes spokesperson JP Martin wrote in an email to Stateline.More recently, Arizona received a letter July 10 from DOJ about implementation of Trump’s elections executive order. Rhode Island Democratic Secretary of State Gregg Amore also received an email about the order the same day, according to a copy provided to the Rhode Island Current.In the email, Scott Laragy, principal deputy director in the Executive Office for United States Attorneys, asks for a call to discuss a possible information-sharing agreement to provide DOJ with information on individuals who have registered to vote or have voted despite being ineligible, or those who have committed other forms of election fraud.The email echoes the language in Trump’s elections executive order, which calls for DOJ to reach information-sharing agreements with states. While much of the order, which focused on proof of citizenship in elections, has been struck down in federal court, provisions related to information sharing remain.The executive order directs Bondi, the U.S. attorney general, to prioritize enforcement of federal “election integrity laws” in uncooperative states. It also requires her to review grants and other DOJ funds that could be withheld from states that resist.Some states have already struck deals with the Trump administration. Indiana Republican Secretary of State Diego Morales announced an agreement last week with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services allowing the state to access a database to verify the citizenship of registered voters. Alabama Republican Secretary of State Wes Allen has signed a similar agreement.“With your cooperation, we plan to use this information to enforce Federal election laws and protect the integrity of Federal elections,” Laragy wrote to Rhode Island.Janine Weisman of the Rhode Island Current and Lindsey Toomer of Colorado Newsline contributed to this report. Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jshorman@stateline.org">jshorman@stateline.org</a>.