HUTCHINSON —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a dog attack that sent a woman to the hospital and resulted in an officer having to shoot a dog.

Just after 1:30p.m. Monday, police responded to the report of a woman being attacked by a dog in front of 423 E. Avenue A in Hutchinson, according to a media release.

Two citizens observed the attack and were able to stop the attack and keep the dogs at bay till officers arrived. When officers arrived they found the&nbsp; 55-year-old woman had leg injuries that could be life threatening and provided medical assistance, which included applying a tourniquet.&nbsp;

Other officers arrived and attempted to contain the dogs in a backyard, when one of the dogs charged an officer, the officer fired one shot striking the dog, according to the release.

EMS transported the woman identified as&nbsp;Tina Stapleton to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for additional treatment.

Animal Control transported both dogs and are providing medical attention to the injured animal.

Police arrested Ismael Rojas, 21,&nbsp; and booked him into the Reno County Correctional Facility on one count of aggravated battery. He is being held on a $10,000 bond. The two dogs were taken into custody by the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.

HUTCHINSON —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a dog attack that sent a woman to the hospital and resulted in an officer having to shoot a dog.Just after 1:30p.m. Monday, police responded to the report of a woman being attacked by a dog in front of 423 E. Avenue A in Hutchinson, according to a media release.Two citizens observed the attack and were able to stop the attack and keep the dogs at bay till officers arrived. When officers arrived they found the&nbsp; 55-year-old woman had leg injuries that could be life threatening and provided medical assistance, which included applying a tourniquet.&nbsp;Other officers arrived and attempted to contain the dogs in a backyard, when one of the dogs charged an officer, the officer fired one shot striking the dog, according to the release.EMS transported the woman identified as&nbsp;Tina Stapleton to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for additional treatment.Animal Control transported both dogs and are providing medical attention to the injured animal.Police arrested Ismael Rojas, 21,&nbsp; and booked him into the Reno County Correctional Facility on one count of aggravated battery. He is being held on a $10,000 bond. The two dogs were taken into custody by the Hutchinson Animal Shelter.

Police shoot dog after attack that critically injured Kan. woman

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged sexual assault and have a suspect in custody.

Just after 7:30 p.m., February 18, police responded to an unknown call for EMS at a residence in the 1500 block of South Pinecrest, in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. 

At the scene, police made contact with an 18-year-old girl who reported being raped by&nbsp; 41-year-old Willie L. Green of Wichita.

Through the investigation, officers learned the 18-year-old and 12-year-old were runaways from a foster home and came in contact with Green. 

Green drove the juveniles to his residence where he allegedly raped the 18-year-old, according to Cruz.&nbsp; On Sunday, police reported they arrested Green on requested charges of rape, contributing to a child's misconduct; shelter, conceal a runaway. He is being <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18767239">held on a bond of $200,000,</a> according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582498960497.png" alt="Willie Green photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Willie Green photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating an alleged sexual assault and have a suspect in custody.Just after 7:30 p.m., February 18, police responded to an unknown call for EMS at a residence in the 1500 block of South Pinecrest, in Wichita, according to officer Paul Cruz. At the scene, police made contact with an 18-year-old girl who reported being raped by&nbsp; 41-year-old Willie L. Green of Wichita.Through the investigation, officers learned the 18-year-old and 12-year-old were runaways from a foster home and came in contact with Green. Green drove the juveniles to his residence where he allegedly raped the 18-year-old, according to Cruz.&nbsp; On Sunday, police reported they arrested Green on requested charges of rape, contributing to a child's misconduct; shelter, conceal a runaway. He is being <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=18767239">held on a bond of $200,000,</a> according to online jail records.

Man jailed for alleged rape of teen runaway from Kan. foster home

A 25 year old Junction City resident, John Edward Motton is listed in stable condition at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka where he was lifeflighted after suffering a stab wound to his chest Sunday evening. Police report that Kyrianna Johnson, 21, Junction City, was arrested on suspicion of Domestic Aggravated Battery.

Police said they responded to an apartment complex at 110 West 16th Street for a subject bleeding. Upon arrival they found Motton suffering from the stab wound.&nbsp;

During their investigation they determined the victim had been assaulted in Unit Number one of the complex where he resides with his girlfriend, Kyrianna Johnson, 21.&nbsp; Johnson was transported to the Geary County Detention Center where she was held without bonding pending a first court appearance.

A 25 year old Junction City resident, John Edward Motton is listed in stable condition at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka where he was lifeflighted after suffering a stab wound to his chest Sunday evening. Police report that Kyrianna Johnson, 21, Junction City, was arrested on suspicion of Domestic Aggravated Battery.Police said they responded to an apartment complex at 110 West 16th Street for a subject bleeding. Upon arrival they found Motton suffering from the stab wound.&nbsp;During their investigation they determined the victim had been assaulted in Unit Number one of the complex where he resides with his girlfriend, Kyrianna Johnson, 21.&nbsp; Johnson was transported to the Geary County Detention Center where she was held without bonding pending a first court appearance.

One woman is in custody following a stabbing incident 

SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen after a weekend incident at a Salina hotel.

On Saturday, police responded to a report of a shot fired at the Fairfield Inn and Suites, 2455 Virginia in Salina, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.

A motel guest reported to the front desk that an electrical outlet in his room had exploded. When staff went into the room to investigate, they found what appeared to be a bullet hole in the wall and called police.

As officers were entering the room, they observed three subjects exiting an adjacent room where the shot appeared to have originated. Officers detained the three and while police were clearing the adjacent room, they observed marijuana and a bullet hole, according to Forrester.

The three subjects, Juan Whitaker, Jr., 19, of Salina, an 18-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy were taken to the Salina Police Department for questioning.

After an investigation and questioning, police arrested Whitaker on requested charges of&nbsp; Criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, Possession of marijuana, Possession of paraphernalia and Endangering a child

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582468534497.jpeg" alt="Juan Whitaker -photo Saline County&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Juan Whitaker -photo Saline County&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas teen after a weekend incident at a Salina hotel.On Saturday, police responded to a report of a shot fired at the Fairfield Inn and Suites, 2455 Virginia in Salina, according to Police Captain Paul Forrester.A motel guest reported to the front desk that an electrical outlet in his room had exploded. When staff went into the room to investigate, they found what appeared to be a bullet hole in the wall and called police.As officers were entering the room, they observed three subjects exiting an adjacent room where the shot appeared to have originated. Officers detained the three and while police were clearing the adjacent room, they observed marijuana and a bullet hole, according to Forrester.The three subjects, Juan Whitaker, Jr., 19, of Salina, an 18-year-old girl and a 15-year-old boy were taken to the Salina Police Department for questioning.After an investigation and questioning, police arrested Whitaker on requested charges of&nbsp; Criminal discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling, Possession of marijuana, Possession of paraphernalia and Endangering a child

Police: Salina hotel guest avoids injury after gun fired in adjacent room

NEW YORK (AP) — Harvey Weinstein was convicted Monday of rape and sexual assault against two women and could be sent to prison for decades, sealing his dizzying fall from powerful Hollywood studio boss to archvillain of the #MeToo movement.

He was convicted on charges stemming from a 2006 sexual assault and a 2013 rape. The jury found Weinstein not guilty on the most serious charge, predatory sexual assault, that could have resulted in a life sentence.

The most damaging conviction, for the sexual assault of production assistant Mimi Haleyi, would carry a maximum sentence of 25 years.

Weinstein, 67, had a look of resignation as the verdict came in, and was seen talking to his lawyers shortly after.

The verdict followed weeks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/weinstein-accuser-says-he-is-my-rapist-after-returning-to-stand">often harrowing and excruciatingly graphic testimony&nbsp;</a>from a string of accusers who told of rapes, forced oral sex, groping, masturbation, lewd propositions and that’s-Hollywood excuses from Weinstein about how the casting couch works.

The conviction was seen as a long-overdue reckoning for Weinstein after years of whispers about his behavior turned into a torrent of accusations in 2017 that destroyed his career and gave rise to #MeToo, the global movement to encourage women to come forward and hold powerful men accountable for their sexual misconduct.

The jury of seven men and five women took five days to find him guilty.

The case against the once-feared producer was essentially built on three allegations: that he raped an aspiring actress in a New York City hotel room in 2013, that he forcibly performed oral sex on Haleyi and that he raped and forcibly performed oral sex on “Sopranos” actress Annabella Sciorra in her apartment in the mid-1990s.

Three additional women who said they, too, were attacked by Weinstein also testified as part of an effort by prosecutors to show a pattern of brutish behavior on his part.

The Associated Press does not typically identify people who say they are victims of sex crimes unless they grant permission, as Haleyi and Sciorra did.

Jurors signaled their struggles with the Sciorra charges four days into deliberations. On Friday, after reviewing sections of her testimony and related evidence, they sent a note to the judge indicating they were deadlocked on the counts but had reached a unanimous verdict on the others. After some debate in the courtroom, the judge ordered jurors to keep deliberating.

While Weinstein did not testify, his lawyers contended that any sexual contact was consensual and that his accusers went to bed with him to advance their careers.

The defense seized on the fact that two of the women central to the case stayed in contact with Weinstein through warm and even flirty emails — and had sex with him — well after he supposedly attacked them.

The hard-charging and phenomenally successful movie executive helped bring to the screen such Oscar winners as “Good Will Hunting,” “Pulp Fiction,” “The King’s Speech” and “Shakespeare in Love” and nurtured the careers of celebrated filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Kevin Smith.

Weinstein now&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=weinstein+los+angeles+pbs+newshour&amp;rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS812US812&amp;oq=weinstein+los+angeles+pbs+newshour&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j0l4j69i64l3.3095j1j4&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">faces charges in Los Angeles.</a>&nbsp;In that case, announced just as the New York trial was getting under way on Jan. 6, authorities allege Weinstein raped one woman and sexually assaulted another on back-to-back nights during Oscars week in 2013. One of those women testified as a supporting witness at the New York trial.

The trial was the first criminal case to arise from a barrage of allegations against Weinstein from more than 90 women, including actresses Gwyneth Paltrow, Salma Hayek and Uma Thurman. Most of those cases were too old to prosecute.

During the trial, Weinstein regularly trudged into the courthouse stooped and unshaven, using a walker after recently undergoing back surgery — a far cry from the way he was depicted in court as a burly, intimidating figure whose eyes seemed to turn black with menace when his anger flared.

Many of Weinstein’s accusers described him as a “Jekyll and Hyde” character who could be incredibly charming at first, making jokes and showing interest in using his immense power to help their careers.

But that was an act, they said, meant to gain their trust and get them to a place — often a hotel room or an apartment — where he could violate them.

“If he heard the word ‘no,’ it was like a trigger for him,” his rape accuser testified.

Several women testified that Weinstein excused his behavior as the price for getting ahead in Hollywood. One said that when she laughed off his advances, he sneered, “You’ll never make it in this business. This is how this industry works.”

The jury heard lurid testimony that Weinstein injected himself with a needle to get an erection, that his genitals appeared disfigured, that he sent Sciorra a box of chocolate penises and that he once showed up uninvited at her hotel room door in his underwear with a bottle of baby oil in one hand and a video in the other.

The prosecution’s task was made more complicated because two of the women at the very center of the case didn’t just abandon Weinstein after the alleged encounters: Haleyi testified that she had sex with him two weeks later, while the rape accuser whose name was withheld said she had a sexual encounter with him more than three years afterward.

Like Haleyi, she sent Weinstein friendly and sometimes flirtatious emails, such as “Miss you big guy” and “I love you, always do. But I hate feeling like a booty call.”

During a cross-examination from Weinstein’s lawyers so exhaustive that she broke down in tears on the stand, the woman said she sent him flattering emails and kept seeing him because she was afraid of his unpredictable anger and “I wanted him to believe I wasn’t a threat.”

To blunt that line of questioning, prosecutors called to the witness stand a forensic psychiatrist who said that most sexual assault victims continue to have contact with their attackers and that they hope what happened to them “is just an aberration.”

During closing arguments, Weinstein lawyer Donna Rotunno charged that Weinstein had become “the target of a cause and a movement” — #MeToo — and asked the jury to ignore “outside forces.”

“This is not a popularity contest,” she said.

She said the case against Weinstein amounted to “regret renamed as rape,” arguing that the women exercised their free will to try to further their careers.

Prosecutor Joan Illuzzi-Orbon told the jury that Weinstein considered himself such a big shot in Hollywood that he thought he could get away with treating women as “complete disposables.”

“The universe is run by me and they don’t get to complain when they get stepped on, spit on, demoralized and, yes, raped and abused by me — the king,” she said, mimicking Weinstein.

Rumors about Weinstein’s behavior swirled in Hollywood circles for a long time, but he managed to silence many accusers with payoffs, nondisclosure agreements and the constant fear that he could crush their careers if they spoke out.

Weinstein was finally arrested and led away in handcuffs in May 2018, seven months after The New York Times and The New Yorker exposed his alleged misconduct in stories that would win the Pulitzer Prize.

Among other men taken down by the #MeToo movement since the scandal broke: news anchors Matt Lauer and Charlie Rose, actor Kevin Spacey and Sen. Al Franken.

Weinstein, the product of a working-class family from Queens, achieved success at two movie studios he created with his brother Bob: Miramax — named for their parents, Miriam and Max — and then the Weinstein Co.

The Weinstein Co. went bankrupt after his disgrace. A tentative settlement was reached last year to resolve nearly all lawsuits stemming from the scandal. It would pay Weinstein’s alleged victims about $25 million. Under the proposed deal, Weinstein would not have to admit any wrongdoing or personally pay anything; the studio’s insurance companies would cover the cost.

Weinstein’s efforts to silence his accusers and thwart journalists who sought to expose his secrets included hiring Black Cube, an Israeli spy agency staffed by former Mossad agents. Asked one day as he left court why he hired that firm, Weinstein turned to a reporter and said: “For days like this.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582565296060.png" alt="Manhattan, New York District Attorney Cy Vance meeting with reporters following Monday's jury verdicts -photo courtesy Manhattan DA's office." />
 <figcaption>Manhattan, New York District Attorney Cy Vance meeting with reporters following Monday's jury verdicts -photo courtesy Manhattan DA's office.</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Harvey Weinstein was convicted Monday of rape and sexual assault against two women and could be sent to prison for decades, sealing his dizzying fall from powerful Hollywood studio boss to archvillain of the #MeToo movement.He was convicted on charges stemming from a 2006 sexual assault and a 2013 rape. The jury found Weinstein not guilty on the most serious charge, predatory sexual assault, that could have resulted in a life sentence.The most damaging conviction, for the sexual assault of production assistant Mimi Haleyi, would carry a maximum sentence of 25 years.Weinstein, 67, had a look of resignation as the verdict came in, and was seen talking to his lawyers shortly after.The verdict followed weeks of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/weinstein-accuser-says-he-is-my-rapist-after-returning-to-stand">often harrowing and excruciatingly graphic testimony&nbsp;</a>from a string of accusers who told of rapes, forced oral sex, groping, masturbation, lewd propositions and that’s-Hollywood excuses from Weinstein about how the casting couch works.The conviction was seen as a long-overdue reckoning for Weinstein after years of whispers about his behavior turned into a torrent of accusations in 2017 that destroyed his career and gave rise to #MeToo, the global movement to encourage women to come forward and hold powerful men accountable for their sexual misconduct.The jury of seven men and five women took five days to find him guilty.The case against the once-feared producer was essentially built on three allegations: that he raped an aspiring actress in a New York City hotel room in 2013, that he forcibly performed oral sex on Haleyi and that he raped and forcibly performed oral sex on “Sopranos” actress Annabella Sciorra in her apartment in the mid-1990s.Three additional women who said they, too, were attacked by Weinstein also testified as part of an effort by prosecutors to show a pattern of brutish behavior on his part.The Associated Press does not typically identify people who say they are victims of sex crimes unless they grant permission, as Haleyi and Sciorra did.Jurors signaled their struggles with the Sciorra charges four days into deliberations. On Friday, after reviewing sections of her testimony and related evidence, they sent a note to the judge indicating they were deadlocked on the counts but had reached a unanimous verdict on the others. After some debate in the courtroom, the judge ordered jurors to keep deliberating.While Weinstein did not testify, his lawyers contended that any sexual contact was consensual and that his accusers went to bed with him to advance their careers.The defense seized on the fact that two of the women central to the case stayed in contact with Weinstein through warm and even flirty emails — and had sex with him — well after he supposedly attacked them.The hard-charging and phenomenally successful movie executive helped bring to the screen such Oscar winners as “Good Will Hunting,” “Pulp Fiction,” “The King’s Speech” and “Shakespeare in Love” and nurtured the careers of celebrated filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Kevin Smith.Weinstein now&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=weinstein+los+angeles+pbs+newshour&amp;rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS812US812&amp;oq=weinstein+los+angeles+pbs+newshour&amp;aqs=chrome..69i57j0l4j69i64l3.3095j1j4&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8">faces charges in Los Angeles.</a>&nbsp;In that case, announced just as the New York trial was getting under way on Jan. 6, authorities allege Weinstein raped one woman and sexually assaulted another on back-to-back nights during Oscars week in 2013. One of those women testified as a supporting witness at the New York trial.The trial was the first criminal case to arise from a barrage of allegations against Weinstein from more than 90 women, including actresses Gwyneth Paltrow, Salma Hayek and Uma Thurman. Most of those cases were too old to prosecute.During the trial, Weinstein regularly trudged into the courthouse stooped and unshaven, using a walker after recently undergoing back surgery — a far cry from the way he was depicted in court as a burly, intimidating figure whose eyes seemed to turn black with menace when his anger flared.Many of Weinstein’s accusers described him as a “Jekyll and Hyde” character who could be incredibly charming at first, making jokes and showing interest in using his immense power to help their careers.But that was an act, they said, meant to gain their trust and get them to a place — often a hotel room or an apartment — where he could violate them.“If he heard the word ‘no,’ it was like a trigger for him,” his rape accuser testified.Several women testified that Weinstein excused his behavior as the price for getting ahead in Hollywood. One said that when she laughed off his advances, he sneered, “You’ll never make it in this business. This is how this industry works.”The jury heard lurid testimony that Weinstein injected himself with a needle to get an erection, that his genitals appeared disfigured, that he sent Sciorra a box of chocolate penises and that he once showed up uninvited at her hotel room door in his underwear with a bottle of baby oil in one hand and a video in the other.The prosecution’s task was made more complicated because two of the women at the very center of the case didn’t just abandon Weinstein after the alleged encounters: Haleyi testified that she had sex with him two weeks later, while the rape accuser whose name was withheld said she had a sexual encounter with him more than three years afterward.Like Haleyi, she sent Weinstein friendly and sometimes flirtatious emails, such as “Miss you big guy” and “I love you, always do. But I hate feeling like a booty call.”During a cross-examination from Weinstein’s lawyers so exhaustive that she broke down in tears on the stand, the woman said she sent him flattering emails and kept seeing him because she was afraid of his unpredictable anger and “I wanted him to believe I wasn’t a threat.”To blunt that line of questioning, prosecutors called to the witness stand a forensic psychiatrist who said that most sexual assault victims continue to have contact with their attackers and that they hope what happened to them “is just an aberration.”During closing arguments, Weinstein lawyer Donna Rotunno charged that Weinstein had become “the target of a cause and a movement” — #MeToo — and asked the jury to ignore “outside forces.”“This is not a popularity contest,” she said.She said the case against Weinstein amounted to “regret renamed as rape,” arguing that the women exercised their free will to try to further their careers.Prosecutor Joan Illuzzi-Orbon told the jury that Weinstein considered himself such a big shot in Hollywood that he thought he could get away with treating women as “complete disposables.”“The universe is run by me and they don’t get to complain when they get stepped on, spit on, demoralized and, yes, raped and abused by me — the king,” she said, mimicking Weinstein.Rumors about Weinstein’s behavior swirled in Hollywood circles for a long time, but he managed to silence many accusers with payoffs, nondisclosure agreements and the constant fear that he could crush their careers if they spoke out.Weinstein was finally arrested and led away in handcuffs in May 2018, seven months after The New York Times and The New Yorker exposed his alleged misconduct in stories that would win the Pulitzer Prize.Among other men taken down by the #MeToo movement since the scandal broke: news anchors Matt Lauer and Charlie Rose, actor Kevin Spacey and Sen. Al Franken.Weinstein, the product of a working-class family from Queens, achieved success at two movie studios he created with his brother Bob: Miramax — named for their parents, Miriam and Max — and then the Weinstein Co.The Weinstein Co. went bankrupt after his disgrace. A tentative settlement was reached last year to resolve nearly all lawsuits stemming from the scandal. It would pay Weinstein’s alleged victims about $25 million. Under the proposed deal, Weinstein would not have to admit any wrongdoing or personally pay anything; the studio’s insurance companies would cover the cost.Weinstein’s efforts to silence his accusers and thwart journalists who sought to expose his secrets included hiring Black Cube, an Israeli spy agency staffed by former Mossad agents. Asked one day as he left court why he hired that firm, Weinstein turned to a reporter and said: “For days like this.”

Harvey Weinstein found guilty in landmark #MeToo moment

SEATTLE (AP) — Greyhound, the nation’s largest bus company, said Friday it will stop allowing Border Patrol agents without a warrant to board its buses to conduct routine immigration checks.

The company’s announcement came one week after The Associated Press reported on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/48960c783dd3f22af2ad320227e40b20">a leaked Border Patrol memo</a>&nbsp;confirming that agents can’t board private buses without the consent of the bus company. Greyhound had previously insisted that even though it didn’t like the immigration checks, it had no choice under federal law but to allow them.

In an emailed statement, the company said it would notify the Department of Homeland Security that it does not consent to unwarranted searches on its buses or in areas of terminals that are not open to the public — such as company offices or any areas a person needs a ticket to access.

Greyhound said it would provide its drivers and bus station employees updated training regarding the new policy, and that it would place stickers on all its buses clearly stating that it does not consent to the searches.

“Our primary concern is the safety of our customers and team members, and we are confident these changes will lead to an improved experience for all parties involved,” the statement said.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which includes the Border Patrol, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Greyhound has faced pressure from the American Civil Liberties Union, immigrant rights activists and Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson to stop allowing sweeps on buses within 100 miles of an international border or coastline. In many cases, the buses being checked were not crossing or even approaching an international boundary.

Critics say the practice is intimidating and discriminatory and has become more common under President Donald Trump. Border Patrol arrests videotaped by other passengers have sparked criticism, and Greyhound faces a lawsuit in California alleging that it violated consumer protection laws by facilitating raids.

“We are pleased to see Greyhound clearly communicate that it does not consent to racial profiling and harassment on its buses,” Andrea Flores, deputy director of policy for the ACLU’s Equality Division, said in an email. “By protecting its customers and employees, Greyhound is sending a message that it prioritizes the communities it serves.”

Ferguson said in an email his office will follow up with Greyhound to ensure compliance.

“Today’s announcement from Greyhound confirms what should have been obvious to the company since I contacted them a year ago – it has both the power and the responsibility to stand up for its customers, who suffered for far too long from Greyhound’s indifference to CBP’s suspicionless bus raids and harassment,” he said.

The Border Patrol has insisted that it does not profile passengers based on their appearance, but instead asks all passengers whether they are citizens or in the country legally. The agency says the bus checks are an important way to ferret out human trafficking, narcotics and illegal immigration.

Some other bus companies, including Jefferson Lines, which operates in 14 states, and MTRWestern, which operates in the Pacific Northwest, have already taken similar steps to those announced by Greyhound. Flores said the ACLU would continue to push others to follow suit.

The memo obtained by the AP was dated Jan. 28, addressed to all chief patrol agents and signed by then-Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost just before she retired. It confirms the legal position that Greyhound’s critics have taken: that the Constitution’s Fourth Amendment prevents agents from boarding buses and questioning passengers without a warrant or the consent of the company.

“When transportation checks occur on a bus at non-checkpoint locations, the agent must demonstrate that he or she gained access to the bus with the consent of the company’s owner or one of the company’s employees,” the memo states. An agent’s actions while on the bus “would not cause a reasonable person to believe that he or she is unable to terminate the encounter with the agent.”

Greyhound previously argued that case law, including a 1973 Supreme Court ruling, did not extend the Fourth Amendment’s protections to commercial carriers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582338255683.png" alt="Greyhound bus makes a stop in Wichita -google image" />
 <figcaption>Greyhound bus makes a stop in Wichita -google image</figcaption>
 </figure>SEATTLE (AP) — Greyhound, the nation’s largest bus company, said Friday it will stop allowing Border Patrol agents without a warrant to board its buses to conduct routine immigration checks.The company’s announcement came one week after The Associated Press reported on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/48960c783dd3f22af2ad320227e40b20">a leaked Border Patrol memo</a>&nbsp;confirming that agents can’t board private buses without the consent of the bus company. Greyhound had previously insisted that even though it didn’t like the immigration checks, it had no choice under federal law but to allow them.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582376253873.png" alt="Tomas Martinez-Maldonado charged with raping a 13-year-old girl on a Greyhound bus that traveled through Kansas had been deported 10 times and voluntarily removed from the U.S. another nine times since 2003." />
 <figcaption>Tomas Martinez-Maldonado charged with raping a 13-year-old girl on a Greyhound bus that traveled through Kansas had been deported 10 times and voluntarily removed from the U.S. another nine times since 2003.</figcaption>
 </figure>In an emailed statement, the company said it would notify the Department of Homeland Security that it does not consent to unwarranted searches on its buses or in areas of terminals that are not open to the public — such as company offices or any areas a person needs a ticket to access.Greyhound said it would provide its drivers and bus station employees updated training regarding the new policy, and that it would place stickers on all its buses clearly stating that it does not consent to the searches.“Our primary concern is the safety of our customers and team members, and we are confident these changes will lead to an improved experience for all parties involved,” the statement said.U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which includes the Border Patrol, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.Greyhound has faced pressure from the American Civil Liberties Union, immigrant rights activists and Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson to stop allowing sweeps on buses within 100 miles of an international border or coastline. In many cases, the buses being checked were not crossing or even approaching an international boundary.Critics say the practice is intimidating and discriminatory and has become more common under President Donald Trump. Border Patrol arrests videotaped by other passengers have sparked criticism, and Greyhound faces a lawsuit in California alleging that it violated consumer protection laws by facilitating raids.“We are pleased to see Greyhound clearly communicate that it does not consent to racial profiling and harassment on its buses,” Andrea Flores, deputy director of policy for the ACLU’s Equality Division, said in an email. “By protecting its customers and employees, Greyhound is sending a message that it prioritizes the communities it serves.”Ferguson said in an email his office will follow up with Greyhound to ensure compliance.“Today’s announcement from Greyhound confirms what should have been obvious to the company since I contacted them a year ago – it has both the power and the responsibility to stand up for its customers, who suffered for far too long from Greyhound’s indifference to CBP’s suspicionless bus raids and harassment,” he said.The Border Patrol has insisted that it does not profile passengers based on their appearance, but instead asks all passengers whether they are citizens or in the country legally. The agency says the bus checks are an important way to ferret out human trafficking, narcotics and illegal immigration.Some other bus companies, including Jefferson Lines, which operates in 14 states, and MTRWestern, which operates in the Pacific Northwest, have already taken similar steps to those announced by Greyhound. Flores said the ACLU would continue to push others to follow suit.The memo obtained by the AP was dated Jan. 28, addressed to all chief patrol agents and signed by then-Border Patrol Chief Carla Provost just before she retired. It confirms the legal position that Greyhound’s critics have taken: that the Constitution’s Fourth Amendment prevents agents from boarding buses and questioning passengers without a warrant or the consent of the company.“When transportation checks occur on a bus at non-checkpoint locations, the agent must demonstrate that he or she gained access to the bus with the consent of the company’s owner or one of the company’s employees,” the memo states. An agent’s actions while on the bus “would not cause a reasonable person to believe that he or she is unable to terminate the encounter with the agent.”Greyhound previously argued that case law, including a 1973 Supreme Court ruling, did not extend the Fourth Amendment’s protections to commercial carriers.

Greyhound to stop allowing immigration checks on buses

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting death and have reported an arrest.

Just before 7p.m. on February 16, police were working an unrelated call at Via Christi St. Joseph Hospital when they had contact with 21-year-old Israel Norwood, who was the front seat passenger of a 2007 Chevy Impala and had a gunshot wound to his body, according to Lt. Christian Cory. Norwood died of his injuries at the hospital.

Norwood’s 18-year-old brother and 17-year-old brother were also in the vehicle. The 18-year-old fled from the hospital on foot and was later located by officers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The brothers and other family members had been uncooperative with the investigation, according to Cory. 

On February 23, police reported the arrest of Norwood's 18-year-old brother identified as Idriys Norwood of Wichita for second-degree murder, according to officer Paul Cruz.

He is being <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20065407">held on a $75,000 bond, a</a>ccording to online jail records.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting death of a Kansas man.

Just before 7p..m.&nbsp; Sunday, police were at St. Joseph Hospital in Wichita when they had contact with 21-year-old Israel Norwood.&nbsp;

He was the front seat passenger of a 2007 Chevy Impala, had suffered a gunshot wound to his body and died at the hospital, according to Wichita police Lt. Christian Cory.

Norwood's 17 and 18-year-old brothers had also been in the vehicle that arrived at the hospital. The 18-year-old fled from the hospital on foot. Police later located him in the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The brothers and other family members have been uncooperative with the investigation, according to Cory.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police ask for anyone with information on the shooting to contact them.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582497903020.png" alt="Idriys Norwood photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Idriys Norwood photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting death and have reported an arrest.Just before 7p.m. on February 16, police were working an unrelated call at Via Christi St. Joseph Hospital when they had contact with 21-year-old Israel Norwood, who was the front seat passenger of a 2007 Chevy Impala and had a gunshot wound to his body, according to Lt. Christian Cory. Norwood died of his injuries at the hospital.Norwood’s 18-year-old brother and 17-year-old brother were also in the vehicle. The 18-year-old fled from the hospital on foot and was later located by officers.&nbsp;&nbsp;The brothers and other family members had been uncooperative with the investigation, according to Cory. On February 23, police reported the arrest of Norwood's 18-year-old brother identified as Idriys Norwood of Wichita for second-degree murder, according to officer Paul Cruz.He is being <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/sheriffinmates/SheriffInmateDetail.aspx?nameId=20065407">held on a $75,000 bond, a</a>ccording to online jail records.--------SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting death of a Kansas man.Just before 7p..m.&nbsp; Sunday, police were at St. Joseph Hospital in Wichita when they had contact with 21-year-old Israel Norwood.&nbsp;He was the front seat passenger of a 2007 Chevy Impala, had suffered a gunshot wound to his body and died at the hospital, according to Wichita police Lt. Christian Cory.Norwood's 17 and 18-year-old brothers had also been in the vehicle that arrived at the hospital. The 18-year-old fled from the hospital on foot. Police later located him in the area.&nbsp;&nbsp;The brothers and other family members have been uncooperative with the investigation, according to Cory.&nbsp; &nbsp;Police ask for anyone with information on the shooting to contact them.

Kan. teen jailed for brother's death after family uncooperative with police 

&nbsp;CHEROKEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Sunday burglary in Cherokee County.

Just after 6:33 a.m., a suspect later identified as Justin Robert Galloway, 24, St. Paul,&nbsp; forced entry into Strip Pit Bait and Tackle in West Mineral, stealing miscellaneous fishing equipment and beer, according to a media release.

Deputies responded to the scene and obtained a description of the suspects’ vehicle, locating it a few miles away a short time later.

As the result of their investigation, Cherokee County Sheriffs’ Deputies arrested Galloway, who was transported to the Cherokee County Jail where he is being held in lieu of $7,000 bond on allegations of commercial burglary, theft, criminal damage to property and driving under the influence.

&nbsp;Deputies were able to recover nearly all the property which had been reported stolen and get it back to its rightful owner, according to Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582501166147.png" alt="Galloway" />
 <figcaption>Galloway</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;CHEROKEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Sunday burglary in Cherokee County.Just after 6:33 a.m., a suspect later identified as Justin Robert Galloway, 24, St. Paul,&nbsp; forced entry into Strip Pit Bait and Tackle in West Mineral, stealing miscellaneous fishing equipment and beer, according to a media release.Deputies responded to the scene and obtained a description of the suspects’ vehicle, locating it a few miles away a short time later.As the result of their investigation, Cherokee County Sheriffs’ Deputies arrested Galloway, who was transported to the Cherokee County Jail where he is being held in lieu of $7,000 bond on allegations of commercial burglary, theft, criminal damage to property and driving under the influence.&nbsp;Deputies were able to recover nearly all the property which had been reported stolen and get it back to its rightful owner, according to Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves.

Kansas man jailed for burglary of fishing equipment, beer

OLATHE, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;Shawnee man admitted Friday that he threatened to kill a 13-year-old girl's family if she did not send nude photos of herself to him.

Logan Clements, 23, pleaded guilty in Johnson County District Court to electronic solicitation of a minor, blackmail and sexual exploitation of a child. Prosecutors dismissed rape and sexual exploitation of a child charges.

Clements was charged in January 2019 after the Overland Park girl's parents found photos their daughter had sent.

Police say Clements came to the girl's house believing they were going to have sex but he was arrested.

The two met online and the girl told Clements she was 18, according to court documents. After his arrest, Clements said he at first thought the girl was 18 or 19 but later believed she was 14 or 16.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582317666637.png" alt="Logan Clements -photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Logan Clements -photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>OLATHE, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;Shawnee man admitted Friday that he threatened to kill a 13-year-old girl's family if she did not send nude photos of herself to him.Logan Clements, 23, pleaded guilty in Johnson County District Court to electronic solicitation of a minor, blackmail and sexual exploitation of a child. Prosecutors dismissed rape and sexual exploitation of a child charges.Clements was charged in January 2019 after the Overland Park girl's parents found photos their daughter had sent.Police say Clements came to the girl's house believing they were going to have sex but he was arrested.The two met online and the girl told Clements she was 18, according to court documents. After his arrest, Clements said he at first thought the girl was 18 or 19 but later believed she was 14 or 16.Clements will be sentenced April 2.

Kansas man admits threatening girl's family to get nude photos

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman found with a stolen handgun and drugs.

Just after 11:30 p.m. February 13, two police officers stopped a 1997 Honda Prelude at St. Francis and Mt. Vernon in Wichita for a traffic violation, according to officer Charley Davidson.

 During the stop, officers had contact with 21-year-old Kylie Yauch of Newton who was in possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a stolen handgun. The gun had been stolen from a vehicle the previous day.

Police had arrested Yauch on February 8, after she was stopped driving a stolen vehicle. She was arrested on charges of criminal deprivation of property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving on a suspended license.

She was booked on requested charges of possession of stolen property, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and a seat belt violation for the February 13, arrest.

Police reminded the public to not leave guns unsecured in a vehicle. Take them with you, leave them at home or purchase a lockbox.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582386768557.png" alt="Yauch photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Yauch photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas woman found with a stolen handgun and drugs.Just after 11:30 p.m. February 13, two police officers stopped a 1997 Honda Prelude at St. Francis and Mt. Vernon in Wichita for a traffic violation, according to officer Charley Davidson. During the stop, officers had contact with 21-year-old Kylie Yauch of Newton who was in possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a stolen handgun. The gun had been stolen from a vehicle the previous day.Police had arrested Yauch on February 8, after she was stopped driving a stolen vehicle. She was arrested on charges of criminal deprivation of property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving on a suspended license.She was booked on requested charges of possession of stolen property, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and a seat belt violation for the February 13, arrest.Police reminded the public to not leave guns unsecured in a vehicle. Take them with you, leave them at home or purchase a lockbox.

Police: Kan. woman had stolen handgun during traffic stop

MANHATTAN —A 22-year-old man is confined in the Riley County Jail after a 3-month criminal investigation and 2 active grass fires in rural Riley County on Friday night.

Samuel Gilbert, a Riley County volunteer firefighter, was arrested on two counts of Arson, according to a media release from the RCPD.&nbsp; He is currently being held on a $10,000 bond.

Gilbert was taken into custody around 11:55 p.m. Friday near a pasture fire at the intersection of Alert Road and Sherman Road. The other fire reported that night was on land near Fairview Church Road and Calvary Road.&nbsp;

In November 2019, the Riley County Fire Department requested assistance from the RCPD to investigate a series of suspicious grass fires occurring in northern Riley County. &nbsp;Following analysis of the past fire response, a criminal investigation was initiated and led by Patrol Officers assigned to the North County.

&nbsp;If you have any information on these crimes, please contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using the Crime Stoppers service allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1572454008797.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —A 22-year-old man is confined in the Riley County Jail after a 3-month criminal investigation and 2 active grass fires in rural Riley County on Friday night.Samuel Gilbert, a Riley County volunteer firefighter, was arrested on two counts of Arson, according to a media release from the RCPD.&nbsp; He is currently being held on a $10,000 bond.Gilbert was taken into custody around 11:55 p.m. Friday near a pasture fire at the intersection of Alert Road and Sherman Road. The other fire reported that night was on land near Fairview Church Road and Calvary Road.&nbsp;In November 2019, the Riley County Fire Department requested assistance from the RCPD to investigate a series of suspicious grass fires occurring in northern Riley County. &nbsp;Following analysis of the past fire response, a criminal investigation was initiated and led by Patrol Officers assigned to the North County.&nbsp;If you have any information on these crimes, please contact RCPD at (785) 537-2112 or Crime Stoppers at (785) 539-7777. Using the Crime Stoppers service allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward up to $1,000.

Riley County volunteer firefighter arrested for alleged arson

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged meth distribution.

Just after 6:30p.m. Friday, deputies executed a search warrant at a residence in the 200 Block of South Clay in Hoisington, according to Sheriff Brian Belendir.

When deputies knocked on the front door to gain entry, the suspect identified later as Nelson Adams, Sr., 57, of Hoisington, stated he had a gun.

After a short standoff, Adams surrendered, exited the home and was arrested.

Deputies also located methamphetamine and packaging materials at the home.

Adams is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges that include possession of meth with intent to distribute and criminal use of a firearm, according to Bellendir.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582394713797.png" alt="Adams photo Barton County" />
 <figcaption>Adams photo Barton County</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man for alleged meth distribution.Just after 6:30p.m. Friday, deputies executed a search warrant at a residence in the 200 Block of South Clay in Hoisington, according to Sheriff Brian Belendir.When deputies knocked on the front door to gain entry, the suspect identified later as Nelson Adams, Sr., 57, of Hoisington, stated he had a gun.After a short standoff, Adams surrendered, exited the home and was arrested.Deputies also located methamphetamine and packaging materials at the home.Adams is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges that include possession of meth with intent to distribute and criminal use of a firearm, according to Bellendir.

Alleged meth dealer jailed after standoff at Kan. home

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a disturbance at a restaurant in Topeka.

Just after 11:30p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a disturbance inside the Applebee’s restaurant located at 5928 SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.

Witnesses reported two groups of people at the restaurant were involved in a physical altercation and at least two subjects were seen armed with handguns. No one fired a weapon and no one was injured in the altercation. Police have not reported an arrest.

Anyone with information regarding this crime is encouraged to email telltpd@topeka.org or

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582322804484.png" alt="Police on the scene of the altercation late Thursday photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the altercation late Thursday photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a disturbance at a restaurant in Topeka.Just after 11:30p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a disturbance inside the Applebee’s restaurant located at 5928 SW 17th Street in Topeka, according to Lt. Ron Ekis.Witnesses reported two groups of people at the restaurant were involved in a physical altercation and at least two subjects were seen armed with handguns. No one fired a weapon and no one was injured in the altercation. Police have not reported an arrest.Anyone with information regarding this crime is encouraged to email telltpd@topeka.org or

Police: Subjects in fight at Kan. restaurant had handguns

BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug charges after a Thursday afternoon raid at a home in Great Bend.

Just after 3:30 p.m., the Great Bend Police Department executed a narcotics search warrant at a residence located at 3222 18th Street in Great Bend as part of an on-going narcotics investigation, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

During the execution of the search warrant, resident Tina Smittle, 43, and another individual identified as Lucas Webster,&nbsp; 39, were located inside of the residence.

During a search of the residence, methamphetamine, marijuana, and items of illegal drug paraphernalia were located.

Webster was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and illegal drug paraphernalia, in addition to multiple arrest warrants for probation violation. He has four previous convictions for theft and two for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Smittle was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, illegal drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582316365943.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Tina SmittleBARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug charges after a Thursday afternoon raid at a home in Great Bend.Just after 3:30 p.m., the Great Bend Police Department executed a narcotics search warrant at a residence located at 3222 18th Street in Great Bend as part of an on-going narcotics investigation, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.During the execution of the search warrant, resident Tina Smittle, 43, and another individual identified as Lucas Webster,&nbsp; 39, were located inside of the residence.During a search of the residence, methamphetamine, marijuana, and items of illegal drug paraphernalia were located.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582316388463.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Lucas WebsterWebster was arrested on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine and illegal drug paraphernalia, in addition to multiple arrest warrants for probation violation. He has four previous convictions for theft and two for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Smittle was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, illegal drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and no drug tax stamp.&nbsp;

Deputies locate wanted felon during search of Kansas home

TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;51-year-old man has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of a man who was run over earlier this week near a Topeka hiking trail.

Chad Thomas Cuevas was charged Thursday and is being held on a $1 million bond, District Attorney Mike Kagay announced.

Emerson D. Downing, 41, of Topeka, was struck and killed Monday near the Soldier Trail in north Topeka.

Police Lt. Manny Munoz heard an argument near the trail and then saw a vehicle run over Downing and flee the scene, WIBW reported. Downing died at a Topeka hospital.

Police arrested Cuevas a short time after the incident.

Cuevas has a criminal history including making a terroristic threat, driving under the influence of alcohol, and criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582024766991.png" alt="Cuevas photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Cuevas photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, KAN. (AP) — A&nbsp;51-year-old man has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of a man who was run over earlier this week near a Topeka hiking trail.Chad Thomas Cuevas was charged Thursday and is being held on a $1 million bond, District Attorney Mike Kagay announced.Emerson D. Downing, 41, of Topeka, was struck and killed Monday near the Soldier Trail in north Topeka.Police Lt. Manny Munoz heard an argument near the trail and then saw a vehicle run over Downing and flee the scene, WIBW reported. Downing died at a Topeka hospital.Police arrested Cuevas a short time after the incident.Cuevas has a criminal history including making a terroristic threat, driving under the influence of alcohol, and criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Kan. man charged with murder for driving over man on walking trail

SHAWNEE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent incident involving a 12-year-old girl captured on video that has gone viral on social media.





The incident reportedly took place at around 11:45 a.m. Thursday morning in the 1200 block of SW Washburn Avenue in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.

The incident was reported to the Topeka Police Department shortly after noon Thursday.&nbsp; A 14-year-old girl was injured during the incident.


Police took the 12-year-old into custody. Following questioning and further investigation, they arrested the girl and booked her in the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections for a felony Aggravated Battery charge.

“The incident that took place Thursday is extremely unsettling not only to myself, but to the Topeka community,” said Topeka Police Chief Bill Cochran. “I am proud of the men and women of the Topeka Police Department for their hard work on this investigation.”

Police continue to ask witnesses and those with information to please contact them with information by emailing <a href="mailto:telltpd@topeka.org">telltpd@topeka.org</a>&lt;mailto:<a href="mailto:telltpd@topeka.org">telltpd@topeka.org</a>&gt; or by calling the Topeka Police Criminal Investigation Bureau at 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007. You can also make anonymous tips online at <a href="http://www.p3tips.com/128" target="_blank">www.p3tips.com/128</a>&lt;<a href="http://www.p3tips.com/128" target="_blank">http://www.p3tips.com/128</a>&gt;.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582284152723.png" alt="Image from the viral video courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Image from the viral video courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY – Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent incident involving a 12-year-old girl captured on video that has gone viral on social media.



The incident reportedly took place at around 11:45 a.m. Thursday morning in the 1200 block of SW Washburn Avenue in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Gretchen Koenen.The incident was reported to the Topeka Police Department shortly after noon Thursday.&nbsp; A 14-year-old girl was injured during the incident.
Police took the 12-year-old into custody. Following questioning and further investigation, they arrested the girl and booked her in the Shawnee County Juvenile Department of Corrections for a felony Aggravated Battery charge.“The incident that took place Thursday is extremely unsettling not only to myself, but to the Topeka community,” said Topeka Police Chief Bill Cochran. “I am proud of the men and women of the Topeka Police Department for their hard work on this investigation.”Police continue to ask witnesses and those with information to please contact them with information by emailing <a href="mailto:telltpd@topeka.org">telltpd@topeka.org</a>&lt;mailto:<a href="mailto:telltpd@topeka.org">telltpd@topeka.org</a>&gt; or by calling the Topeka Police Criminal Investigation Bureau at 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007. You can also make anonymous tips online at <a href="http://www.p3tips.com/128" target="_blank">www.p3tips.com/128</a>&lt;<a href="http://www.p3tips.com/128" target="_blank">http://www.p3tips.com/128</a>&gt;.

Police arrest 12-year-old Kan. girl after video of attack goes viral

KANSAS CITY – Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon announced Thursday that the DEA will direct enforcement resources to methamphetamine “transportation hubs” — areas where methamphetamine is often trafficked in bulk and then distributed across the country.&nbsp;While continuing to focus on stopping drugs being smuggled across the border, DEA’s Operation Crystal Shield will ramp up enforcement to block their further distribution into America’s neighborhoods.

DEA has identified eight major methamphetamine transportation hubs where these efforts will be concentrated:&nbsp;Atlanta, Dallas, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Phoenix, and the St. Louis Division. Together, these DEA Field Divisions accounted for more than 75 percent of methamphetamine seized in the U.S. in 2019.

“The superhighways of methamphetamine distribution cross Kansas,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. “No drug has proven to be a greater threat to the peace, safety and health of our communities. Operation Crystal Shield is a much needed initiative to make Kansans safer.”

Operation Crystal Shield builds on existing DEA initiatives that target major drug trafficking networks, including the Mexican cartels that are responsible for the overwhelming majority of methamphetamine trafficked into and within the United States.&nbsp;From fiscal year 2017 to 2019, DEA domestic seizures of methamphetamine increased 127 percent&nbsp;from 49,507 pounds to 112,146 pounds. The St. Louis Division seizures were up 56 percent from fiscal year 2018 to 2019. During the same timeframe, the number of DEA arrests related to methamphetamine rose nearly 20 percent.

“For decades, methamphetamine has been a leading cause of violence and addiction – a drug threat that has never gone away,” said Acting Administrator Dhillon.&nbsp;“With a 22 percent increase in methamphetamine-related overdose deaths, now is the time to act, and DEA is leading the way with a surge of interdiction efforts and resources, targeting regional transportation hubs throughout the United States. By reducing the supply of meth, we reduce the violence, addiction, and death it spreads.”

The DEA St. Louis Division covers the entire states of Missouri, Kansas and the southern portion of Illinois, which encompasses hundreds of miles of interstate roadways.&nbsp; “These roadways are routinely utilized by drug trafficking organizations to transport methamphetamine and other deadly drugs into Kansas City metropolitan area,” said Special Agent in Charge William J. Callahan. “Operation Crystal Shield will allow our DEA agents and law enforcement partners the opportunity to strengthen our enforcement strategies in an effort to interdict drugs and disrupt drug trafficking organizations causing harm to the citizens of Kansas City.”

Special Agent in Charge Callahan added, “The DEA seeks to hold methamphetamine drug traffickers accountable through multi-jurisdictional investigations which target all facets of the drug trafficking organizations, and bring them to justice by United States Attorneys in our area of operation.”

“Methamphetamine is by far the most prevalent illegal drug being sold on the streets of our community, and therefore warrants a focused plan of attack,” said U.S. Attorney Tim Garrison. “Meth trafficking makes up more than 60 percent of the federal drug cases we prosecute in the Western District of Missouri. Operation Crystal Shield provides a strategy to stanch the flow of methamphetamine being smuggled into our state by the Mexican cartels. If we can reduce the supply of methamphetamine, we can reduce the violence and other criminal activity associated with drug trafficking.”

Virtually all methamphetamine in the United States comes through major ports of entry along the Southwest Border and is transported by tractor trailers and personal vehicles along the nation’s highways to major transfer centers around the country. It is often found in poly-drug loads, alongside cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582233439503.png" alt="Total seizure of over 1200 pounds of meth and 100 gallons of liquid.&nbsp; The new program will focus efforts will focus on main U.S. methamphetamine trafficking transportation hubs <a href="https://www.dea.gov/press-releases/2020/02/20/dea-announces-launch-operation-crystal-shield">photo courtesy DEA</a>" />
 <figcaption>Total seizure of over 1200 pounds of meth and 100 gallons of liquid.&nbsp; The new program will focus efforts will focus on main U.S. methamphetamine trafficking transportation hubs <a href="https://www.dea.gov/press-releases/2020/02/20/dea-announces-launch-operation-crystal-shield">photo courtesy DEA</a></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon announced Thursday that the DEA will direct enforcement resources to methamphetamine “transportation hubs” — areas where methamphetamine is often trafficked in bulk and then distributed across the country.&nbsp;While continuing to focus on stopping drugs being smuggled across the border, DEA’s Operation Crystal Shield will ramp up enforcement to block their further distribution into America’s neighborhoods.DEA has identified eight major methamphetamine transportation hubs where these efforts will be concentrated:&nbsp;Atlanta, Dallas, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Phoenix, and the St. Louis Division. Together, these DEA Field Divisions accounted for more than 75 percent of methamphetamine seized in the U.S. in 2019.“The superhighways of methamphetamine distribution cross Kansas,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister. “No drug has proven to be a greater threat to the peace, safety and health of our communities. Operation Crystal Shield is a much needed initiative to make Kansans safer.”Operation Crystal Shield builds on existing DEA initiatives that target major drug trafficking networks, including the Mexican cartels that are responsible for the overwhelming majority of methamphetamine trafficked into and within the United States.&nbsp;From fiscal year 2017 to 2019, DEA domestic seizures of methamphetamine increased 127 percent&nbsp;from 49,507 pounds to 112,146 pounds. The St. Louis Division seizures were up 56 percent from fiscal year 2018 to 2019. During the same timeframe, the number of DEA arrests related to methamphetamine rose nearly 20 percent.“For decades, methamphetamine has been a leading cause of violence and addiction – a drug threat that has never gone away,” said Acting Administrator Dhillon.&nbsp;“With a 22 percent increase in methamphetamine-related overdose deaths, now is the time to act, and DEA is leading the way with a surge of interdiction efforts and resources, targeting regional transportation hubs throughout the United States. By reducing the supply of meth, we reduce the violence, addiction, and death it spreads.”The DEA St. Louis Division covers the entire states of Missouri, Kansas and the southern portion of Illinois, which encompasses hundreds of miles of interstate roadways.&nbsp; “These roadways are routinely utilized by drug trafficking organizations to transport methamphetamine and other deadly drugs into Kansas City metropolitan area,” said Special Agent in Charge William J. Callahan. “Operation Crystal Shield will allow our DEA agents and law enforcement partners the opportunity to strengthen our enforcement strategies in an effort to interdict drugs and disrupt drug trafficking organizations causing harm to the citizens of Kansas City.”Special Agent in Charge Callahan added, “The DEA seeks to hold methamphetamine drug traffickers accountable through multi-jurisdictional investigations which target all facets of the drug trafficking organizations, and bring them to justice by United States Attorneys in our area of operation.”“Methamphetamine is by far the most prevalent illegal drug being sold on the streets of our community, and therefore warrants a focused plan of attack,” said U.S. Attorney Tim Garrison. “Meth trafficking makes up more than 60 percent of the federal drug cases we prosecute in the Western District of Missouri. Operation Crystal Shield provides a strategy to stanch the flow of methamphetamine being smuggled into our state by the Mexican cartels. If we can reduce the supply of methamphetamine, we can reduce the violence and other criminal activity associated with drug trafficking.”Virtually all methamphetamine in the United States comes through major ports of entry along the Southwest Border and is transported by tractor trailers and personal vehicles along the nation’s highways to major transfer centers around the country. It is often found in poly-drug loads, alongside cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl.

Crystal Shield: New enforcement operation focuses on meth trafficking hubs

A suspect currently awaiting trial for sex-related crimes in Colorado was arrested at a Hays motel on suspicion of rape.

At 1:08 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14, an officer with the Hays Police Department observed a 14-year-old girl exiting a room during a routine patrol at the Rodeway Inn, 3404 Vine, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.

After making contact with the minor, officers found she appeared intoxicated and began an investigation.&nbsp;

Christopher Lynn Cox, 20, was found in the room and, after questioning, was arrested.

Cox is being held in the Ellis County jail in lieu of a $150,000 bond on suspicion of rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and unlawfully hosting a minor consuming alcoholic liquor or cereal malt beverage.

A no-contact order with the victim has also been put in place, according to Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees.

Cox is currently awaiting trial stemming from offenses in Prowers County, Colorado.

He pleaded not guilty to assault in the third degree and unlawful sexual contact in the case that was set for trial in April in Lamar, Colo.

"This is just good police work," Scheibler said. "The officers were up there being proactive and on patrol, they got out to speak to an individual and saw something potentially suspicious and made contact."

"That investigation allowed us to recover a 14-year-old girl and make sure she was safe and helped us put a sex offender in jail," he said.

Drees said the victim was contacted by Cox via a phone app called Snapchat and encouraged parents to monitor their children's social media accounts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1582227427685.png" alt="Cox photo Ellis County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Cox photo Ellis County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELLHays PostA suspect currently awaiting trial for sex-related crimes in Colorado was arrested at a Hays motel on suspicion of rape.At 1:08 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14, an officer with the Hays Police Department observed a 14-year-old girl exiting a room during a routine patrol at the Rodeway Inn, 3404 Vine, according to Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler.After making contact with the minor, officers found she appeared intoxicated and began an investigation.&nbsp;Christopher Lynn Cox, 20, was found in the room and, after questioning, was arrested.Cox is being held in the Ellis County jail in lieu of a $150,000 bond on suspicion of rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and unlawfully hosting a minor consuming alcoholic liquor or cereal malt beverage.A no-contact order with the victim has also been put in place, according to Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees.Cox is currently awaiting trial stemming from offenses in Prowers County, Colorado.He pleaded not guilty to assault in the third degree and unlawful sexual contact in the case that was set for trial in April in Lamar, Colo."This is just good police work," Scheibler said. "The officers were up there being proactive and on patrol, they got out to speak to an individual and saw something potentially suspicious and made contact.""That investigation allowed us to recover a 14-year-old girl and make sure she was safe and helped us put a sex offender in jail," he said.Drees said the victim was contacted by Cox via a phone app called Snapchat and encouraged parents to monitor their children's social media accounts.

County Attorney: Snapchat used to lure  rape victim to Hays motel

SHAWNEE COUNTY— A Kansas man hospitalized after a weekend hit and run accident in Shawnee County has died.

Just after 1a.m. Sunday, sheriff's deputies responded to an injury accident after a 911 caller reported they were transporting a victim later identified as Noah M. Thibodeau, 20, of Eskridge&nbsp; in a personal vehicle to a local hospital, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.

Witnesses reported that there was a gathering at 151 West 4th Street in Auburn, Kansas. An altercation occurred which resulted in Thibodeau being dragged by a Jeep Wrangeler causing the life-threatening injuries.

Deputies and American Medical Response met the caller and Thibodeau on Interstate 70, transferred the victim to an ambulance for transport to a Topeka hospital in critical condition.

Thibodeau died on Wednesday, according to Sgt.&nbsp;Todd Stallbaumer with the Shawnee County Sheriff's Department.

During the altercation, the Jeep also struck two others resulting in minor injuries and left the scene, according to the witness.

Authorities have identified all the subjects involved, according to the sheriff's department.   Authorities have not reported an arrest.

SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident that sent a victim to a hospital.

Just after 1a.m. Sunday, Shawnee County deputies responded to an injury accident after a 911 call. The caller reported they were transporting a victim in a personal vehicle to a local hospital, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.

Deputies and American Medical Response met the caller and victim on Interstate 70, transferred the victim to an ambulance for transport to a Topeka hospital.

The witness reported that there was a gathering at 151 West 4th Street in Auburn, Kansas. An altercation occurred which resulted in one man being drug by a vehicle causing the life-threatening injuries. Late Monday, the victim remained hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

During the altercation, the vehicle also struck two others resulting in minor injuries, according to the witness.

SHAWNEE COUNTY— A Kansas man hospitalized after a weekend hit and run accident in Shawnee County has died.Just after 1a.m. Sunday, sheriff's deputies responded to an injury accident after a 911 caller reported they were transporting a victim later identified as Noah M. Thibodeau, 20, of Eskridge&nbsp; in a personal vehicle to a local hospital, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.Witnesses reported that there was a gathering at 151 West 4th Street in Auburn, Kansas. An altercation occurred which resulted in Thibodeau being dragged by a Jeep Wrangeler causing the life-threatening injuries.Deputies and American Medical Response met the caller and Thibodeau on Interstate 70, transferred the victim to an ambulance for transport to a Topeka hospital in critical condition.Thibodeau died on Wednesday, according to Sgt.&nbsp;Todd Stallbaumer with the Shawnee County Sheriff's Department.During the altercation, the Jeep also struck two others resulting in minor injuries and left the scene, according to the witness.Authorities have identified all the subjects involved, according to the sheriff's department. Authorities have not reported an arrest.---------------SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident that sent a victim to a hospital.Just after 1a.m. Sunday, Shawnee County deputies responded to an injury accident after a 911 call. The caller reported they were transporting a victim in a personal vehicle to a local hospital, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.Deputies and American Medical Response met the caller and victim on Interstate 70, transferred the victim to an ambulance for transport to a Topeka hospital.The witness reported that there was a gathering at 151 West 4th Street in Auburn, Kansas. An altercation occurred which resulted in one man being drug by a vehicle causing the life-threatening injuries. Late Monday, the victim remained hospitalized with life-threatening injuries, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.During the altercation, the vehicle also struck two others resulting in minor injuries, according to the witness.Authorities have identified all the subjects involved, according to Christian.&nbsp; &nbsp;Authorities have not reported an arrest.------------SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp; —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a hit and run accident that sent a victim to a hospital.Just after 1a.m. Sunday, Shawnee County deputies responded to an injury accident after a 911 call. The caller reported they were transporting a victim in a personal vehicle to a local hospital, according to Deputy Scott Wanamaker.Deputies and American Medical Response met the caller and victim on Interstate 70, transferred the victim to an ambulance for transport to a Topeka hospital with life-threatening injuries.The witness reported that there was a gathering at 151 West 4th Street in Auburn, Kansas. An altercation occurred which resulted in one man being drug by a vehicle causing the life-threatening injuries. During the altercation, the vehicle also struck two others resulting in minor injuries, according to the witness. The vehicle described as a red, or dark colored 4-door Jeep wrangler sped away westbound on 4th street, according to Wanamaker.&nbsp;Deputies asked the public for assistance locating Tyler Moore and Zachary Osborne for questioning in connection with the incident.&nbsp;Later Sunday, deputies reported they were no longer searching for Osborne and continue to search for Moore and the vehicle.