KANSAS CITY, KANSAS —The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas issued a statement on the weekend arrest of a priest.

The Archdiocese stated they had been informed that 57-year-old Father Richard Storey, a priest formerly serving at Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, voluntarily surrendered to the Leawood Police Department&nbsp; on a level 5 felony charge involving theft of funds valued at approximately $160,000.&nbsp;

The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with law enforcement and will continue to respect the investigative process.&nbsp;

“This news is deeply painful for all of us in the&nbsp; Catholic community, particularly given the nature of the allegations involving resources entrusted to the Church through the sacrifice and generosity of the faithful,” Archbishop Shawn McKnight said.

 “My primary concern at this time is for the people of Curé of Ars parish and all those directly affected. I am grateful for Father Riley’s steady leadership and care for this community during this difficult time. These allegations are serious, the legal processes must be allowed to proceed, and Father Storey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law or internal canonical process."

"I recognize there will be differing emotions and perspectives within the community in the days ahead, and I ask parishioners to treat one another with greater sensitivity, patience, charity, and respect as we move through this together, trusting that with faith in Christ, our community can emerge stronger and more united.”&nbsp;

In&nbsp;<a href="https://archkck.org/statement-regarding-the-resignation-of-father-richard-storey/">September of 2025</a>, the Archdiocese was notified by the Prairie Village Police Department about a criminal investigation involving Father Storey and another adult. The Prairie Village Police Department’s investigation remains ongoing. For questions about the investigation, please call the Prairie Village Police Department at (913) 381-6464. Father Storey then advised the Archdiocese of his decision to resign as the pastor of Curé of Ars. As a result, Father John Riley was appointed temporary administrator of the parish and then pastor in February of 2026. An internal financial review was initiated following Father Storey’s resignation.&nbsp;

"When there is a change in pastoral leadership at a parish, it is standard protocol to conduct an internal review to ensure financial records, administrative processes, and parish operations are in good order during the transition. In addition, archdiocesan parishes undergo routine reviews every 3 to 4 years. Curé of Ars’ most recent audit before this review was conducted in 2022. "

"After the conclusion of the most recent financial review, Chancery officials met with the pastor and parish staff to ensure that proper protocols are now in place. During the course of the review, information was identified that warranted referral to law enforcement. The Archdiocese shared this information with the Leawood Police Department, which serves the jurisdiction where the parish office is located. Curé of Ars will be filing an insurance claim to recover the financial losses. To reach the Leawood Police Department, you can call (913) 642-5555."

&nbsp;Storey met the requirement of the $25,000 bond and is no longer in custody. He made his first court appearance in the case on Tuesday, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779878171157.png" alt="Storey photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Storey photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KANSAS —The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas issued a statement on the weekend arrest of a priest.The Archdiocese stated they had been informed that 57-year-old Father Richard Storey, a priest formerly serving at Curé of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, voluntarily surrendered to the Leawood Police Department&nbsp; on a level 5 felony charge involving theft of funds valued at approximately $160,000.&nbsp;The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with law enforcement and will continue to respect the investigative process.&nbsp;“This news is deeply painful for all of us in the&nbsp; Catholic community, particularly given the nature of the allegations involving resources entrusted to the Church through the sacrifice and generosity of the faithful,” Archbishop Shawn McKnight said. “My primary concern at this time is for the people of Curé of Ars parish and all those directly affected. I am grateful for Father Riley’s steady leadership and care for this community during this difficult time. These allegations are serious, the legal processes must be allowed to proceed, and Father Storey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law or internal canonical process.""I recognize there will be differing emotions and perspectives within the community in the days ahead, and I ask parishioners to treat one another with greater sensitivity, patience, charity, and respect as we move through this together, trusting that with faith in Christ, our community can emerge stronger and more united.”&nbsp;In&nbsp;<a href="https://archkck.org/statement-regarding-the-resignation-of-father-richard-storey/">September of 2025</a>, the Archdiocese was notified by the Prairie Village Police Department about a criminal investigation involving Father Storey and another adult. The Prairie Village Police Department’s investigation remains ongoing. For questions about the investigation, please call the Prairie Village Police Department at (913) 381-6464. Father Storey then advised the Archdiocese of his decision to resign as the pastor of Curé of Ars. As a result, Father John Riley was appointed temporary administrator of the parish and then pastor in February of 2026. An internal financial review was initiated following Father Storey’s resignation.&nbsp;"When there is a change in pastoral leadership at a parish, it is standard protocol to conduct an internal review to ensure financial records, administrative processes, and parish operations are in good order during the transition. In addition, archdiocesan parishes undergo routine reviews every 3 to 4 years. Curé of Ars’ most recent audit before this review was conducted in 2022. ""After the conclusion of the most recent financial review, Chancery officials met with the pastor and parish staff to ensure that proper protocols are now in place. During the course of the review, information was identified that warranted referral to law enforcement. The Archdiocese shared this information with the Leawood Police Department, which serves the jurisdiction where the parish office is located. Curé of Ars will be filing an insurance claim to recover the financial losses. To reach the Leawood Police Department, you can call (913) 642-5555."&nbsp;Storey met the requirement of the $25,000 bond and is no longer in custody. He made his first court appearance in the case on Tuesday, according to online jail records.

Archdiocese's statement after arrest of former Kansas priest

DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects for allgedly selling illegal drugs in central Kansas.

In March of 2026, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit began an investigation into the distribution of Methamphetamine, according to a media release.

 The approximate two month-long investigation resulted in a search warrant being executed on May 13, 2026, at a residence in the 1200 Block of 2900 Avenue in rural Dickinson County. Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, Marijuana, and a Firearm were seized during the search of the residence.

As a result of the investigation and search warrant, arrest warrants were issued through Dickinson County District Court on May 22, 2026, for Brandon Ray Hixson, 44, and Sarah Marie Drummond, 43, both of Abilene.

On May 23, 2026, Brandon Ray Hixson was arrested by the Abilene Police Department on the warrant and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on the following requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp and Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon

On May 24, Sarah Marie Drummond was arrested by the Abilene Police Department on the warrant and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on the&nbsp; requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax Stamp

All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779825901599.png" alt="Hixson -photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Hixson -photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspects for allgedly selling illegal drugs in central Kansas.In March of 2026, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit began an investigation into the distribution of Methamphetamine, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779825865500.png" alt="Drummond photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Drummond photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure> The approximate two month-long investigation resulted in a search warrant being executed on May 13, 2026, at a residence in the 1200 Block of 2900 Avenue in rural Dickinson County. Methamphetamine, Drug Paraphernalia, Marijuana, and a Firearm were seized during the search of the residence.As a result of the investigation and search warrant, arrest warrants were issued through Dickinson County District Court on May 22, 2026, for Brandon Ray Hixson, 44, and Sarah Marie Drummond, 43, both of Abilene.On May 23, 2026, Brandon Ray Hixson was arrested by the Abilene Police Department on the warrant and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on the following requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Drug Tax Stamp and Criminal Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted FelonOn May 24, Sarah Marie Drummond was arrested by the Abilene Police Department on the warrant and booked into the Dickinson County Jail on the&nbsp; requested charges of Possession of Methamphetamine with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Marijuana with the Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and No Drug Tax StampAll persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Couple accused of selling meth in central Kansas

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged crimes at a bank in Manhattan.

Just before 11:30p.m. Saturday, police filed a report of attempted theft or property or services and computer unlawful acts in the 1000 block of Hylton Heights Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Intrust Bank reported unknown suspect with a mask was attempting to break into an ATM. Alexander Jose Lopez Cedeno, 18, of Chicago, was arrested at approximately 12:40 a.m. for attempted theft of property or services and computer unlawful acts. Lopez Cedeno remains jailed on a $5,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779809247302.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged crimes at a bank in Manhattan.Just before 11:30p.m. Saturday, police filed a report of attempted theft or property or services and computer unlawful acts in the 1000 block of Hylton Heights Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Intrust Bank reported unknown suspect with a mask was attempting to break into an ATM. Alexander Jose Lopez Cedeno, 18, of Chicago, was arrested at approximately 12:40 a.m. for attempted theft of property or services and computer unlawful acts. Lopez Cedeno remains jailed on a $5,000 bond.

RCPD: Suspect tried to break into bank ATM

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating and searching for a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred October 23 at Dr. Glen Dey Park, located at 2801 N. Grove in Wichita.&nbsp; Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward in the case.  Police indicated they have only received very few tips on the investigation since the crime occurred.

At approximately 7:03 p.m. an off-duty WPD detective working secondary employment at&nbsp; the park heard multiple gunshots from another area of the park. The detective immediately ran toward the scene and found 32-year-old Travon Stewart suffering from gunshot wounds.

The detective called for backup and emergency medical services, then began life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Stewart was transported to a local hospital in extremely critical condition and later died from his injuries.

Preliminary findings indicate that around 200 to 300 people were in attendance at the football games. Stewart was at the park selling concessions as a fundraiser for a football team not affiliated with the Wichita Junior Football League.

Homicide investigators responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses who remained in the area. Detectives believe this was a targeted shooting and not connected to the youth football games.

Anyone who attended the games or may have information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at 316-268-4407.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761331970728.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation in October -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation in October -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement continue investigating and searching for a suspect in a fatal shooting that occurred October 23 at Dr. Glen Dey Park, located at 2801 N. Grove in Wichita.&nbsp; Crime Stoppers is offering a $10,000 reward in the case. Police indicated they have only received very few tips on the investigation since the crime occurred.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762985053767.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">CRIME STOPPERS APPROVES $10,000 REWARD ***PRESS RELEASE*** WICHITA, Kan. – Crime Stoppers of Wichita/Sedgwick County has approved an increased reward of $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the suspect responsible for the homicide of Trayvon Stewart. <a href="https://t.co/sgNgtHlJHj">pic.twitter.com/sgNgtHlJHj</a>&mdash; Crime Stoppers ICT (@crimestoppers) <a href="https://twitter.com/crimestoppers/status/1988667731865211043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>At approximately 7:03 p.m. an off-duty WPD detective working secondary employment at&nbsp; the park heard multiple gunshots from another area of the park. The detective immediately ran toward the scene and found 32-year-old Travon Stewart suffering from gunshot wounds.The detective called for backup and emergency medical services, then began life-saving measures until EMS arrived. Stewart was transported to a local hospital in extremely critical condition and later died from his injuries.Preliminary findings indicate that around 200 to 300 people were in attendance at the football games. Stewart was at the park selling concessions as a fundraiser for a football team not affiliated with the Wichita Junior Football League.Homicide investigators responded to the scene and interviewed witnesses who remained in the area. Detectives believe this was a targeted shooting and not connected to the youth football games.Anyone who attended the games or may have information is urged to contact the Wichita Police Department Investigations Section at 316-268-4407.&nbsp;

7 months and no arrest in deadly Kan. youth football game shooting

TOPEKA – An Alabama man was sentenced to 72 months in prison after law enforcement discovered fentanyl and firearms in his vehicle in Kansas, according to the Department of Justice.

According to court documents, Russell Scott IV, 38, of Gulf Shores, Alabama, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

In September 2023, a Wichita police detective saw Scott speeding on Interstate 35 and made a traffic stop. During a probable cause search, law enforcement found approximately 3,000 fentanyl-laced pills and nine firearms in Scott’s vehicle.

“Although deaths caused by fentanyl overdoses are down from record highs, this poison continues to put lives at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The defendant admitted his intention before his arrest was to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills. I would like to thank the Wichita Police Department for helping to keep so much of this potentially deadly substance off our streets.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779310293788.png" alt="Scott from his 2023 arrest in Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Scott from his 2023 arrest in Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – An Alabama man was sentenced to 72 months in prison after law enforcement discovered fentanyl and firearms in his vehicle in Kansas, according to the Department of Justice.According to court documents, Russell Scott IV, 38, of Gulf Shores, Alabama, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.In September 2023, a Wichita police detective saw Scott speeding on Interstate 35 and made a traffic stop. During a probable cause search, law enforcement found approximately 3,000 fentanyl-laced pills and nine firearms in Scott’s vehicle.“Although deaths caused by fentanyl overdoses are down from record highs, this poison continues to put lives at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser. “The defendant admitted his intention before his arrest was to distribute thousands of fentanyl pills. I would like to thank the Wichita Police Department for helping to keep so much of this potentially deadly substance off our streets.”

Fentanyl dealer caught with 3,000 pills during Kan. traffic stop

SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man is going to prison for a DUI crash that killed a motorcyclist.

Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced 62-year-old Brian Adrian to 55 months in prison for a crash that killed&nbsp; 27-year-old Bryce Rowland, according to the Segwick County District Attorney's office.

In March, Adrian pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of vehicular homicide and a felony count of aggravated battery while driving under the influence, according to the District Attorney's Office.

He was originally charged with felony involuntary manslaughter.&nbsp;

Just after 7p.m. October 17,&nbsp; police responded to a crash involving a sedan and a motorcycle at West 42nd Street South and South Seneca in Wichita, according to a media release. First responders located a motorcyclist identified as 27-year-old Bryce Rowland, who was pronounced deceased at the scene

Preliminary investigation indicates that the driver of a sedan, identified as Adrian, was traveling north on Seneca in Wichita and attempting to make a left turn onto 42nd Street. The motorcyclist was traveling south on Seneca when the sedan turned and struck him.

The Wichita Police Critical Accident Follow up Team was activated and AFU Detectives responded to the scene. Police arrested Adrian. He has been in jail on a $200,000 bond since his arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760814274895.png" alt="-Adrian-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>-Adrian-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— A Kansas man is going to prison for a DUI crash that killed a motorcyclist.Judge Sean Hatfield sentenced 62-year-old Brian Adrian to 55 months in prison for a crash that killed&nbsp; 27-year-old Bryce Rowland, according to the Segwick County District Attorney's office.In March, Adrian pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of vehicular homicide and a felony count of aggravated battery while driving under the influence, according to the District Attorney's Office.He was originally charged with felony involuntary manslaughter.&nbsp;Just after 7p.m. October 17,&nbsp; police responded to a crash involving a sedan and a motorcycle at West 42nd Street South and South Seneca in Wichita, according to a media release. First responders located a motorcyclist identified as 27-year-old Bryce Rowland, who was pronounced deceased at the scenePreliminary investigation indicates that the driver of a sedan, identified as Adrian, was traveling north on Seneca in Wichita and attempting to make a left turn onto 42nd Street. The motorcyclist was traveling south on Seneca when the sedan turned and struck him.The Wichita Police Critical Accident Follow up Team was activated and AFU Detectives responded to the scene. Police arrested Adrian. He has been in jail on a $200,000 bond since his arrest.

Prison for Kansas man in DUI crash that killed motorcyclist

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/sarah-raza">SARAH RAZA</a>

A bystander who was struck by gunfire after a man fired on a checkpoint&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-house-gunshots-lockdown-secret-service-trump-204c429ab3888b3d0921cf724e0c0474">outside the White House</a>&nbsp;and was fatally shot by U.S. Secret Service officers remained in serious but stable condition Sunday.

The Secret Service said the bystander, who has not been identified, suffered a gunshot wound described as not life-threatening. It was not clear how he was shot.

Authorities have released few additional details about the early Saturday evening shooting. The District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department said the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, started shooting toward a White House security checkpoint when Secret Service officers returned fire. Best, of Dundalk, Maryland, was later pronounced dead at a hospital.

No officers were injured, Secret Service Director Sean Curran said in a statement posted on social media. “Our thoughts are also with the innocent bystander who was wounded during this incident,” Curran said. “The Secret Service is hopeful he will make a full recovery.”

President Donald Trump was in the White House at the time of the shooting.

It was the third shooting near the president in the past month, after a man stormed the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-correspondents-dinner-allen-shooting-d9a2d4ddab8c6a48d3e365f72eea9a86">White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner</a>&nbsp;in April armed with guns and knives, and Secret Service officers shot and wounded a man who fired at them earlier this month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shooting-washington-monument-white-house-vulgar-remark-78898feb198db144cf56de483f06060a">near the Washington Monument</a>.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said the suspect in Saturday’s shooting had a “possible obsession with our Country’s most cherished structure.” He also used the shooting to promote the ballroom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ballroom-construction-east-wing-275f8034ad3817ca78aa085d1c202c32">he is seeking to build</a>&nbsp;on the site of the White House’s former East Wing, saying the shooting “goes to show how important it is, for all future Presidents, to get, what will be, the most safe and secure space of its kind ever built in Washington, D.C.” Trump is asking Congress for $1 billion for security additions for the White House campus, including the ballroom.

Best had a previous run-in with law enforcement near the White House, according to District of Columbia court records. He was arrested last July for attempting to enter White House grounds near a different checkpoint. He failed to heed officers’ commands to stop, claimed to be Jesus Christ and said he wanted to be arrested.

Best was a track and field athlete at Dundalk High School, from which he graduated in 2023.

A woman who identified herself as Best’s mother told The Washington Post that she learned about the shooting on social media and was in disbelief. She said her son “was never violent, regardless of what people are posting.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779618793513.png" alt="U.S. Secret Service Police observe from the roof of the White House, Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Washington, after reports of shots fired near the White House. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Secret Service Police observe from the roof of the White House, Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Washington, after reports of shots fired near the White House. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/sarah-raza">SARAH RAZA</a>A bystander who was struck by gunfire after a man fired on a checkpoint&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/white-house-gunshots-lockdown-secret-service-trump-204c429ab3888b3d0921cf724e0c0474">outside the White House</a>&nbsp;and was fatally shot by U.S. Secret Service officers remained in serious but stable condition Sunday.The Secret Service said the bystander, who has not been identified, suffered a gunshot wound described as not life-threatening. It was not clear how he was shot.Authorities have released few additional details about the early Saturday evening shooting. The District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department said the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, started shooting toward a White House security checkpoint when Secret Service officers returned fire. Best, of Dundalk, Maryland, was later pronounced dead at a hospital.No officers were injured, Secret Service Director Sean Curran said in a statement posted on social media. “Our thoughts are also with the innocent bystander who was wounded during this incident,” Curran said. “The Secret Service is hopeful he will make a full recovery.”President Donald Trump was in the White House at the time of the shooting.It was the third shooting near the president in the past month, after a man stormed the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-correspondents-dinner-allen-shooting-d9a2d4ddab8c6a48d3e365f72eea9a86">White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner</a>&nbsp;in April armed with guns and knives, and Secret Service officers shot and wounded a man who fired at them earlier this month&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shooting-washington-monument-white-house-vulgar-remark-78898feb198db144cf56de483f06060a">near the Washington Monument</a>.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/PfWlJJdiSS">pic.twitter.com/PfWlJJdiSS</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2058403880593953070?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>In a Truth Social post, Trump said the suspect in Saturday’s shooting had a “possible obsession with our Country’s most cherished structure.” He also used the shooting to promote the ballroom&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-ballroom-construction-east-wing-275f8034ad3817ca78aa085d1c202c32">he is seeking to build</a>&nbsp;on the site of the White House’s former East Wing, saying the shooting “goes to show how important it is, for all future Presidents, to get, what will be, the most safe and secure space of its kind ever built in Washington, D.C.” Trump is asking Congress for $1 billion for security additions for the White House campus, including the ballroom.Best had a previous run-in with law enforcement near the White House, according to District of Columbia court records. He was arrested last July for attempting to enter White House grounds near a different checkpoint. He failed to heed officers’ commands to stop, claimed to be Jesus Christ and said he wanted to be arrested.Best was a track and field athlete at Dundalk High School, from which he graduated in 2023.A woman who identified herself as Best’s mother told The Washington Post that she learned about the shooting on social media and was in disbelief. She said her son “was never violent, regardless of what people are posting.”

Bystander remains hospitalized after fatal shooting near White House 

MCPHERSON COUNTY —The McPerson County Sheriff issued a holiday weekend warning after a DUI arrest.

"We advertise safety messages. We educate our youth. We diligently patrol our roadways to promote safety. We make the "stupid stops" to locate the criminal element in our community. We make the arrests to protect the innocent," the sheriff's office wrote on their social media page.

"As evidenced time and time again, one simple traffic stop can uncover so much; an impaired driver, a wanted fugitive, a kidnapped child, an elderly person suffering from dementia, illegal drugs, a person in medical distress, stolen property, domestic violence victims or a terrorist bomber."

"And these traffic stops save lives, even if it is the life of the offender, every life given a chance is worth something in this world."

"A stop was made early Saturday morning where the driver was arrested for DUI. The breath test result was 2 1/2 times the legal limit. This person intended to drive from Salina to Wichita but was stopped by the McPherson County Sheriff's Office and removed from the road."

The driver identified from online jail records was 37-year-old Fabian Guerrero Jiminez. He is being held on requested charges of DUI, Endangerment; Reckless expose to danger of great bodily harm or death; operation a motor vehicle without a valid license and hold for ICE.

"Impaired driving does not discriminate. Young and old, people of all races, sex's and backgrounds, have all been killed in our jurisdiction alone because of numerous CHOICES to drive impaired."

"We implore everyone, to take a moment and think how badly this trip could have been for someone. We will continue to advocate for designated drivers, not driving impaired and making a plan before going out; but we also ask that you help us help you."

"Don't drive impaired. Stop your friends from driving impaired. Be a designated driver. Report other dangerous drivers. Be an advocate for safe roads in Kansas."

"No family deserves to be subjected to unimaginable grief, the pain of an empty home, or an empty seat at the table because of a senseless tragedy stemming from one person's bad decisions."

"We will continue to do our part, day and night through support and ridicule, to protect and support you and your family."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779657345942.png" alt="Jimenez-photo McPherson Co." />
 <figcaption>Jimenez-photo McPherson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>MCPHERSON COUNTY —The McPerson County Sheriff issued a holiday weekend warning after a DUI arrest."We advertise safety messages. We educate our youth. We diligently patrol our roadways to promote safety. We make the "stupid stops" to locate the criminal element in our community. We make the arrests to protect the innocent," the sheriff's office wrote on their social media page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779657362575.png" alt="McPherson Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>McPherson Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>"As evidenced time and time again, one simple traffic stop can uncover so much; an impaired driver, a wanted fugitive, a kidnapped child, an elderly person suffering from dementia, illegal drugs, a person in medical distress, stolen property, domestic violence victims or a terrorist bomber.""And these traffic stops save lives, even if it is the life of the offender, every life given a chance is worth something in this world.""A stop was made early Saturday morning where the driver was arrested for DUI. The breath test result was 2 1/2 times the legal limit. This person intended to drive from Salina to Wichita but was stopped by the McPherson County Sheriff's Office and removed from the road."The driver identified from online jail records was 37-year-old Fabian Guerrero Jiminez. He is being held on requested charges of DUI, Endangerment; Reckless expose to danger of great bodily harm or death; operation a motor vehicle without a valid license and hold for ICE."Impaired driving does not discriminate. Young and old, people of all races, sex's and backgrounds, have all been killed in our jurisdiction alone because of numerous CHOICES to drive impaired.""We implore everyone, to take a moment and think how badly this trip could have been for someone. We will continue to advocate for designated drivers, not driving impaired and making a plan before going out; but we also ask that you help us help you.""Don't drive impaired. Stop your friends from driving impaired. Be a designated driver. Report other dangerous drivers. Be an advocate for safe roads in Kansas.""No family deserves to be subjected to unimaginable grief, the pain of an empty home, or an empty seat at the table because of a senseless tragedy stemming from one person's bad decisions.""We will continue to do our part, day and night through support and ridicule, to protect and support you and your family."

Kan. sheriff's holiday weekend warning after DUI arrest

WASHINGTON (AP) — A man who opened fire Saturday near a White House security checkpoint is dead after being shot by officers who returned fire, the U.S. Secret Service said. It was the third incidence of gunfire in the vicinity of President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;in the past month.

The law enforcement agency said in a statement posted on X that the man was in the area of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue when he “pulled a weapon from his bag" shortly after 6 p.m. EDT and began firing.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-secret-service">Secret Service</a>&nbsp;officers returned fire and hit the suspect, who died at a hospital, the agency said.

The suspect was identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, said a law enforcement official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the investigation.

According to District of Columbia court records, Best was arrested in July 2025 after he attempted to enter a different White House checkpoint without authorization, didn’t heed officers’ commands to stop, “claimed he was Jesus Christ” and said he wanted to be arrested.

An initial hearing was held and a “Pretrial Stay Away Order” was issued, typically a measure ordering a defendant not to go near a person or area before a trial. A bench warrant was issued in August after a notice of “noncompliance” against Best, who did appear for a subsequent hearing.

It was the third time in the past month that shots were fired near the president after incidents at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-correspondents-dinner-allen-shooting-d9a2d4ddab8c6a48d3e365f72eea9a86">White House Correspondents' Association Dinner</a>&nbsp;in April and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shooting-washington-monument-white-house-vulgar-remark-78898feb198db144cf56de483f06060a">near the Washington Monument</a>&nbsp;earlier in May.

A bystander was also struck on Saturday, but a law enforcement official said it wasn’t clear whether that person was hit by the suspect’s initial bullets or those fired subsequently by officers.

Secret Service said none of its officers were injured, and that Trump — who was at the White House at the time — was not "impacted.” Trump originally was scheduled to spend the weekend at his New Jersey golf club but changed his plans on Friday to stay at the White House instead.

FBI Director Kash Patel said on social media that agency personnel were on the scene and "we will update the public as we’re able.”

Evidence of the shooting was visible on a sidewalk just outside the White House complex, where yellow crime scene tape snaked across the pavement and Secret Service officers placed dozens of orange evidence markers on the ground. Medical material, including what appeared to be purple surgical gloves and kits typically used by emergency medical personnel, were also seen.

Gunshots heard by journalists at the White House

Journalists working at the White House on Saturday evening reported hearing a series of gunshots and were told to seek shelter inside the press briefing room.

In a post shared on X, ABC News senior White House correspondent Selina Wang shared dramatic video of the moment she said she heard what “sounded like dozens of gunshots” and ducked for cover. Writing that she had been performing a routine task that White House reporters do daily — filming themselves on a cellphone for a social media post — Wang’s video shows her speaking for a few seconds about Trump’s statements earlier Saturday about a potential Iran deal.

As the sounds of gunfire are heard in the background, Wang’s eyes grow wider, and she ducks down in the media tent, which is among those situated in a line along the White House driveway where broadcasters film their reports. On X, Wang’s video had been shared thousands of times as of Saturday evening, and viewed at least 3 million times.

Shooting scene not far from a deadly incident last year

The shooting scene is within walking distance of where a gunman ambushed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-shooting-dc-c5785dd8920d2d1ac7d71fab769faf5f">two members of the West Virginia National Guard</a>&nbsp;last November.

U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from the wounds she suffered in that shooting. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, then 24, was critically wounded. Rahmanullah Lakanwal has been charged in that incident.

The gunfire Saturday came nearly a month after what law enforcement authorities said was an attempted assassination of the president as he attended the annual White House Correspondents' Association Dinner at a Washington hotel on April 25. Cole Tomas Allen, of Torrance, California, recently pleaded not guilty to charges that he attempted to kill Trump. Allen is accused of running through a security checkpoint inside the hotel and firing a shotgun at a Secret Service officer.

Following that scare, Secret Service officers shot a suspect they said had fired at officers near the Washington Monument, several blocks from the White House. Michael Marx, 45, of Midland, Texas, was charged in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court in connection with the May 4 shooting. A teenage bystander was wounded in that incident.

Kinnard reported from Columbia, South Carolina. Associated Press photojournalists Jose Luis Magana and Alex Brandon and AP writers Gary Fields and Matthew Daly contributed to this report.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779580665807.png" alt="Secret Service closed streets near the White House on Saturday-photo courtesy WJLA" />
 <figcaption>Secret Service closed streets near the White House on Saturday-photo courtesy WJLA</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A man who opened fire Saturday near a White House security checkpoint is dead after being shot by officers who returned fire, the U.S. Secret Service said. It was the third incidence of gunfire in the vicinity of President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;in the past month.The law enforcement agency said in a statement posted on X that the man was in the area of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue when he “pulled a weapon from his bag" shortly after 6 p.m. EDT and began firing.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/us-secret-service">Secret Service</a>&nbsp;officers returned fire and hit the suspect, who died at a hospital, the agency said.The suspect was identified as 21-year-old Nasire Best, said a law enforcement official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the investigation.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I was in the middle of taping on my iPhone for a social video from the White House North Lawn when we heard the shots. It sounded like dozens of gunshots. We were told to sprint to the press briefing room where we are holding now. <a href="https://t.co/iqdQwh4soq">pic.twitter.com/iqdQwh4soq</a>&mdash; Selina Wang (@selinawangtv) <a href="https://twitter.com/selinawangtv/status/2058312115098697760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">FBI is on the scene and supporting Secret Service responding to shots fired near White House grounds - we will update the public as we’re able&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/2058318050240184514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Preliminary statement regarding the shooting incident on 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. <a href="https://t.co/NOdFKmwVuU">pic.twitter.com/NOdFKmwVuU</a>&mdash; U.S. Secret Service Office of Communications (@SecretSvcSpox) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/2058341552234115202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>According to District of Columbia court records, Best was arrested in July 2025 after he attempted to enter a different White House checkpoint without authorization, didn’t heed officers’ commands to stop, “claimed he was Jesus Christ” and said he wanted to be arrested.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779618793513.png" alt="U.S. Secret Service Police observe from the roof of the White House, Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Washington, after reports of shots fired near the White House. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Secret Service Police observe from the roof of the White House, Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Washington, after reports of shots fired near the White House. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)</figcaption>
 </figure>An initial hearing was held and a “Pretrial Stay Away Order” was issued, typically a measure ordering a defendant not to go near a person or area before a trial. A bench warrant was issued in August after a notice of “noncompliance” against Best, who did appear for a subsequent hearing.<h2>Latest gunfire incident around Trump</h2>It was the third time in the past month that shots were fired near the president after incidents at the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-correspondents-dinner-allen-shooting-d9a2d4ddab8c6a48d3e365f72eea9a86">White House Correspondents' Association Dinner</a>&nbsp;in April and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shooting-washington-monument-white-house-vulgar-remark-78898feb198db144cf56de483f06060a">near the Washington Monument</a>&nbsp;earlier in May.A bystander was also struck on Saturday, but a law enforcement official said it wasn’t clear whether that person was hit by the suspect’s initial bullets or those fired subsequently by officers.Secret Service said none of its officers were injured, and that Trump — who was at the White House at the time — was not "impacted.” Trump originally was scheduled to spend the weekend at his New Jersey golf club but changed his plans on Friday to stay at the White House instead.FBI Director Kash Patel said on social media that agency personnel were on the scene and "we will update the public as we’re able.”Evidence of the shooting was visible on a sidewalk just outside the White House complex, where yellow crime scene tape snaked across the pavement and Secret Service officers placed dozens of orange evidence markers on the ground. Medical material, including what appeared to be purple surgical gloves and kits typically used by emergency medical personnel, were also seen.<h2>Gunshots heard by journalists at the White House</h2>Journalists working at the White House on Saturday evening reported hearing a series of gunshots and were told to seek shelter inside the press briefing room.In a post shared on X, ABC News senior White House correspondent Selina Wang shared dramatic video of the moment she said she heard what “sounded like dozens of gunshots” and ducked for cover. Writing that she had been performing a routine task that White House reporters do daily — filming themselves on a cellphone for a social media post — Wang’s video shows her speaking for a few seconds about Trump’s statements earlier Saturday about a potential Iran deal.As the sounds of gunfire are heard in the background, Wang’s eyes grow wider, and she ducks down in the media tent, which is among those situated in a line along the White House driveway where broadcasters film their reports. On X, Wang’s video had been shared thousands of times as of Saturday evening, and viewed at least 3 million times.<h2>Shooting scene not far from a deadly incident last year</h2>The shooting scene is within walking distance of where a gunman ambushed&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/national-guard-shooting-dc-c5785dd8920d2d1ac7d71fab769faf5f">two members of the West Virginia National Guard</a>&nbsp;last November.U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, died from the wounds she suffered in that shooting. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, then 24, was critically wounded. Rahmanullah Lakanwal has been charged in that incident.The gunfire Saturday came nearly a month after what law enforcement authorities said was an attempted assassination of the president as he attended the annual White House Correspondents' Association Dinner at a Washington hotel on April 25. Cole Tomas Allen, of Torrance, California, recently pleaded not guilty to charges that he attempted to kill Trump. Allen is accused of running through a security checkpoint inside the hotel and firing a shotgun at a Secret Service officer.Following that scare, Secret Service officers shot a suspect they said had fired at officers near the Washington Monument, several blocks from the White House. Michael Marx, 45, of Midland, Texas, was charged in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court in connection with the May 4 shooting. A teenage bystander was wounded in that incident.___Kinnard reported from Columbia, South Carolina. Associated Press photojournalists Jose Luis Magana and Alex Brandon and AP writers Gary Fields and Matthew Daly contributed to this report.

🎥Police ID man who died in gun fight with Secret Service near White House

Business leaders said the move is disruptive to tech industries that rely on foreign workers.

By:<a href="https://stateline.org/author/thenderson/">Tim Henderson</a>

Immigrants seeking green cards will have to return first to their home countries and wait despite years of potential backlogs, the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/DHSgov/status/2057817233200418837?s=20" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;Friday.&nbsp;

“An alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply,” Zach Kahler, a spokesperson for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary" target="_blank">in a statement</a>.&nbsp;

The change would apply to workers on temporary visas, as well as to people living here illegally but hoping for legal status through sponsorship by relatives such as spouses or children who are U.S. citizens.

The immigration advocacy group&nbsp;<a href="http://fwd.us/" target="_blank">FWD.us</a>&nbsp;said the new policy “will create chaos and impose massive costs on immigrants who have lived and worked legally in the United States for many years” in a statement to Stateline.&nbsp;

Business leaders said the move is disruptive to tech industries that rely on foreign workers who have temporary visas and sometimes hope for a green card and eventual citizenship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Andrew Ng, co-founder of Coursera and an adjunct professor of computer science at Stanford University, in an X post&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AndrewYNg/status/2057874024672469493?s=20" target="_blank">called</a>&nbsp;the change “a capricious attack on legal immigration” that will “hurt families, leave us with fewer doctors, teachers and scientists, and hurt American competitiveness in AI.”&nbsp;

“This is the worst imaginable way to disrupt important work for the country and pretend you’re fighting some loophole,” Silicon Valley venture capitalist Nick Davidov&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/nick_davidov/status/2057842593850118286?s=46&amp;t=MEhI42w_1xzBt3kTX3pZKA" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on X, saying at least three large startups in his portfolio would be hurt by the policy.&nbsp;

The so-called green cards represent a status called lawful permanent residence, a legal immigration status that can lead to citizenship.&nbsp;

The administration’s intent, Kahler said in the statement, is to prevent temporary visitors from seeking permanent legal status while they’re in the United States.&nbsp;

“Nonimmigrants, like students, temporary workers, or people on tourist visas, come to the U.S. for a short time and for a specific purpose,” Kahler wrote. “Our system is designed for them to leave when their visit is over. Their visit should not function as the first step in the Green Card process.”

Those affected include many tech workers on temporary visas that might lead to green cards.&nbsp;

“This includes top scientists in our universities, founders of billion dollar companies,” Davidov wrote in his post, referring to temporary visas such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/o-1-visa-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability-or-achievement" target="_blank">O-1</a>&nbsp;(extraordinary ability) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/immigration/h1b" target="_blank">H-1B</a>&nbsp;(highly skilled specialties) visas that can lead to citizenship with employer sponsorship.&nbsp;<a href="http://fwd.us/" target="_blank">FWD.us</a>&nbsp;estimates H-1B visa holders and their families in the United States&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fwd.us/news/h1b-visa-program/" target="_blank">number</a>&nbsp;about 1.3 million.&nbsp;

People from India would have to wait through years of backlogs if they stopped working and went home to apply for green cards, and people from Russia would be unable to apply at all because there’s no U.S. embassy there, he noted.&nbsp;

The USCIS announcement did refer to “extraordinary” circumstances that might allow continued processing of green cards in the United States but did not elaborate.&nbsp;

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/memos/PM-602-0199-AdjustmentOfStatusAndDiscretion-20260521.pdf" target="_blank">policy memo</a>&nbsp;issued Friday, USCIS agents “must consider and weigh all the relevant evidence” and determine “if approval of the alien’s adjustment of status application is in the best interest of the United States.”&nbsp;

Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thenderson@stateline.org">thenderson@stateline.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779543674370.png" alt=" Carmen Cancino and her daughter Ximena Lopez at a December protest against arrests of immigrants at green card appointments in Salt Lake City. The Trump administration is threatening to force legal immigrants applying for green cards to return home first and wait for processing. (Photo by Annie Knox, Utah News Dispatch)" />
 <figcaption> Carmen Cancino and her daughter Ximena Lopez at a December protest against arrests of immigrants at green card appointments in Salt Lake City. The Trump administration is threatening to force legal immigrants applying for green cards to return home first and wait for processing. (Photo by Annie Knox, Utah News Dispatch)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Business leaders said the move is disruptive to tech industries that rely on foreign workers.</h2>By:<a href="https://stateline.org/author/thenderson/">Tim Henderson</a>Immigrants seeking green cards will have to return first to their home countries and wait despite years of potential backlogs, the Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/DHSgov/status/2057817233200418837?s=20" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;Friday.&nbsp;“An alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply,” Zach Kahler, a spokesperson for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary" target="_blank">in a statement</a>.&nbsp;The change would apply to workers on temporary visas, as well as to people living here illegally but hoping for legal status through sponsorship by relatives such as spouses or children who are U.S. citizens.The immigration advocacy group&nbsp;<a href="http://fwd.us/" target="_blank">FWD.us</a>&nbsp;said the new policy “will create chaos and impose massive costs on immigrants who have lived and worked legally in the United States for many years” in a statement to Stateline.&nbsp;Business leaders said the move is disruptive to tech industries that rely on foreign workers who have temporary visas and sometimes hope for a green card and eventual citizenship.&nbsp;&nbsp;Andrew Ng, co-founder of Coursera and an adjunct professor of computer science at Stanford University, in an X post&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/AndrewYNg/status/2057874024672469493?s=20" target="_blank">called</a>&nbsp;the change “a capricious attack on legal immigration” that will “hurt families, leave us with fewer doctors, teachers and scientists, and hurt American competitiveness in AI.”&nbsp;“This is the worst imaginable way to disrupt important work for the country and pretend you’re fighting some loophole,” Silicon Valley venture capitalist Nick Davidov&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/nick_davidov/status/2057842593850118286?s=46&amp;t=MEhI42w_1xzBt3kTX3pZKA" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;on X, saying at least three large startups in his portfolio would be hurt by the policy.&nbsp;The so-called green cards represent a status called lawful permanent residence, a legal immigration status that can lead to citizenship.&nbsp;The administration’s intent, Kahler said in the statement, is to prevent temporary visitors from seeking permanent legal status while they’re in the United States.&nbsp;“Nonimmigrants, like students, temporary workers, or people on tourist visas, come to the U.S. for a short time and for a specific purpose,” Kahler wrote. “Our system is designed for them to leave when their visit is over. Their visit should not function as the first step in the Green Card process.”Those affected include many tech workers on temporary visas that might lead to green cards.&nbsp;“This includes top scientists in our universities, founders of billion dollar companies,” Davidov wrote in his post, referring to temporary visas such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/temporary-workers/o-1-visa-individuals-with-extraordinary-ability-or-achievement" target="_blank">O-1</a>&nbsp;(extraordinary ability) and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/immigration/h1b" target="_blank">H-1B</a>&nbsp;(highly skilled specialties) visas that can lead to citizenship with employer sponsorship.&nbsp;<a href="http://fwd.us/" target="_blank">FWD.us</a>&nbsp;estimates H-1B visa holders and their families in the United States&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fwd.us/news/h1b-visa-program/" target="_blank">number</a>&nbsp;about 1.3 million.&nbsp;People from India would have to wait through years of backlogs if they stopped working and went home to apply for green cards, and people from Russia would be unable to apply at all because there’s no U.S. embassy there, he noted.&nbsp;The USCIS announcement did refer to “extraordinary” circumstances that might allow continued processing of green cards in the United States but did not elaborate.&nbsp;According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/memos/PM-602-0199-AdjustmentOfStatusAndDiscretion-20260521.pdf" target="_blank">policy memo</a>&nbsp;issued Friday, USCIS agents “must consider and weigh all the relevant evidence” and determine “if approval of the alien’s adjustment of status application is in the best interest of the United States.”&nbsp;Stateline reporter Tim Henderson can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:thenderson@stateline.org">thenderson@stateline.org</a>.

Trump admin. will make green card hopefuls return to home countries before applying

MANHATTAN— Law enforcement have a Kansas felon in custody in Manhattan on new allegations.

Just after 9:30p.m. Thursday, police arrested 42-year-old Benigno David Aquino Jr, 42, of Salina, in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road on a Riley County District Court warrant for possession of opiate/opium/narcotic or certain stimulant, failure to appear and use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. 

This arrest stems from an original report filed in December 2025. Aquino Jr. is being held on an $8,000 bond. He has a previous drug possession conviction in 2022, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779463601775.png" alt="Aquino from an arrest last month in. Pottawatomie County1" />
 <figcaption>Aquino from an arrest last month in. Pottawatomie County1</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN— Law enforcement have a Kansas felon in custody in Manhattan on new allegations.Just after 9:30p.m. Thursday, police arrested 42-year-old Benigno David Aquino Jr, 42, of Salina, in the 1000 block of S. Seth Child Road on a Riley County District Court warrant for possession of opiate/opium/narcotic or certain stimulant, failure to appear and use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. This arrest stems from an original report filed in December 2025. Aquino Jr. is being held on an $8,000 bond. He has a previous drug possession conviction in 2022, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon jailed on new drug allegations

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.

Sery Pouman, Failure to appear, arrested 05/21

Dillon Wilkins,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21

Timothy Avery,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21

Brentley Crider, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of THC; Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/22

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/2026/5/1779483404057.jpeg" alt="Joshua McCulloch,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21" />
 <figcaption>Joshua McCulloch,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779483428473.jpeg" alt="Matthew Burdine,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21" />
 <figcaption>Matthew Burdine,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779483468042.jpeg" alt="Amanda Headlee,&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance, arrested 05/21" />
 <figcaption>Amanda Headlee,&nbsp;Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance, arrested 05/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779483478235.jpeg" alt="Nolen Frye, Criminal restraint; Aggravated domestic battery, Impede breath, blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, arrested 05/21" />
 <figcaption>Nolen Frye, Criminal restraint; Aggravated domestic battery, Impede breath, blocking nose/mouth of family/dating relationship, arrested 05/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779483487092.jpeg" alt="Latrice Bogan,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21" />
 <figcaption>Latrice Bogan,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Sery Pouman, Failure to appear, arrested 05/21Dillon Wilkins,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21Timothy Avery,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 05/21Brentley Crider, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of THC; Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrested 05/22Recent 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 May 22, 2026

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas softball coach accused of sex crimes involving a player returned to court Thursday.

&nbsp;Savana King, 31, Wichita, pleaded not guilty during an arraignment hearing before Judge Kathleen Watson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On January 29, an 18-year-old woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted by her former softball coach Savanah King over several years, between 2021 and 2024, before she reached the age of consent, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Police arrested King on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child; fondling, criminal sodomy with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful sexual relations, according to Sedgwick County arrest records. After spending a weekend in jail, King met the requirement of a $250,00 bond and was released from jail.

<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.&nbsp;&nbsp;King is due back in court July 16, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739222315038.png" alt="King photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>King photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas softball coach accused of sex crimes involving a player returned to court Thursday.&nbsp;Savana King, 31, Wichita, pleaded not guilty during an arraignment hearing before Judge Kathleen Watson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On January 29, an 18-year-old woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted by her former softball coach Savanah King over several years, between 2021 and 2024, before she reached the age of consent, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.Police arrested King on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child; fondling, criminal sodomy with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful sexual relations, according to Sedgwick County arrest records. After spending a weekend in jail, King met the requirement of a $250,00 bond and was released from jail.<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.&nbsp;&nbsp;King is due back in court July 16, according to the district attorney's office.

Softball coach accused of sexually assaulting player enters plea

Bethany Garcia, Outside warrant, arrested 05/14

Stephanie Munk-Adair, Driving while license cancelled / suspended / revoked; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 05/15

Christina Murphy, Probation violation, arrested 05/15

EJ Ioanis, Failure to appear, arrested 05/15

Collie Darby, Failure to appear, arrested 05/17

Dominique Burrow, Failure to appear, arrested 05/17

Norberto Anzures Jr., DUI - Liquor/Drugs, arrested 05/17

Jadarius Turner, Possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Outside warrant, arrested 05/18

Chelsey Sims, Pedestrian under influence of alcohol/drugs, arrested 05/18

Tiffany Seaman, Failure to appear, arrested 05/18

Kenneth Sanders, Violate offender registration act, arrested 05/20

David Woodman, Driving while license cancelled / suspended / revoked, arrested 05/21

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/2026/5/1779394006836.jpeg" alt="Yvonne Duddeck, Failure to appear, arrested 05/14" />
 <figcaption>Yvonne Duddeck, Failure to appear, arrested 05/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394047077.jpeg" alt="Neka Jones, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant (3.5 &lt; 100 grams); Distribute marijuana &lt; 25 grams; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Failure to appear, arrested 05/14" />
 <figcaption>Neka Jones, Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic, certain stimulant (3.5 &lt; 100 grams); Distribute marijuana &lt; 25 grams; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Failure to appear, arrested 05/14</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394157211.jpeg" alt="Deion Singleton, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery; Unlawful damage to property, arrested 05/15" />
 <figcaption>Deion Singleton, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery; Unlawful damage to property, arrested 05/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394410050.jpeg" alt="Marc Stovall, Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice, arrested 05/15" />
 <figcaption>Marc Stovall, Duty of governor to arrest person charged who has fled from justice, arrested 05/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394464948.jpeg" alt="Debra Satulla, Taxation - Drugs - No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance; Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance; Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant &gt; 1 kilogram, arrested 05/15" />
 <figcaption>Debra Satulla, Taxation - Drugs - No drug tax stamp for marijuana or controlled substance; Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance; Distribute opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant &gt; 1 kilogram, arrested 05/15</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394592668.jpeg" alt="Zachary Franklin, Failure to appear; Probation violation, arrested 05/16" />
 <figcaption>Zachary Franklin, Failure to appear; Probation violation, arrested 05/16</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394558249.jpeg" alt="Deion Singleton, Bond violation, arrested 05/17" />
 <figcaption>Deion Singleton, Bond violation, arrested 05/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394634582.jpeg" alt="Tyler Allison, Mistreat dependent adult/elder person, Physical injury/confinement/punishment; Criminal deprivation of property; Abuse of a child, arrested 05/17" />
 <figcaption>Tyler Allison, Mistreat dependent adult/elder person, Physical injury/confinement/punishment; Criminal deprivation of property; Abuse of a child, arrested 05/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394713433.jpeg" alt="Francis Frimpong, Aggravated domestic battery, Choke in rude manner, family member/dating relationship, arrested 05/17" />
 <figcaption>Francis Frimpong, Aggravated domestic battery, Choke in rude manner, family member/dating relationship, arrested 05/17</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394896069.jpeg" alt="Garret Orlando, Outside warrant, arrested 05/18" />
 <figcaption>Garret Orlando, Outside warrant, arrested 05/18</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779394939831.jpeg" alt="Loren Stinebaugh, Neglect of animal; Cruelty to animals, arrested 05/20" />
 <figcaption>Loren Stinebaugh, Neglect of animal; Cruelty to animals, arrested 05/20</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Bethany Garcia, Outside warrant, arrested 05/14Stephanie Munk-Adair, Driving while license cancelled / suspended / revoked; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of opiate, opium, narcotic or certain stimulant, arrested 05/15Christina Murphy, Probation violation, arrested 05/15EJ Ioanis, Failure to appear, arrested 05/15Collie Darby, Failure to appear, arrested 05/17Dominique Burrow, Failure to appear, arrested 05/17Norberto Anzures Jr., DUI - Liquor/Drugs, arrested 05/17Jadarius Turner, Possession of drug paraphernalia; Possession of marijuana; Outside warrant, arrested 05/18Chelsey Sims, Pedestrian under influence of alcohol/drugs, arrested 05/18Tiffany Seaman, Failure to appear, arrested 05/18Kenneth Sanders, Violate offender registration act, arrested 05/20David Woodman, Driving while license cancelled / suspended / revoked, arrested 05/21Recent 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 May 15-21, 2026

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man involved in crash&nbsp;a crash that killed a motorcyclist in 2025 will learn his fate Thursday.

Brian Adrian, 61, Wichita, is scheduled for a sentencing hearing before Judge Sean Hatfield, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Preliminary investigation indicates that the driver of a sedan, identified as Adrian, was traveling north on Seneca and attempting to make a left turn onto 42nd Street. The motorcyclist was traveling south on Seneca when the sedan turned and struck him.

The Wichita Police Critical Accident Follow up Team was activated and AFU Detectives responded to the scene. Police arrested Adrian. He has been in jail on a $200,000 bond since his arrest.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760814308179.png" alt="Near the crash scene photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Near the crash scene photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man involved in crash&nbsp;a crash that killed a motorcyclist in 2025 will learn his fate Thursday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760814274895.png" alt="Adrian-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Adrian-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>Brian Adrian, 61, Wichita, is scheduled for a sentencing hearing before Judge Sean Hatfield, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.In March, Adrian pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of vehicular homicide and a felony count of aggravated battery while driving under the influence, according to the District Attorney's Office.He was originally charged with felony involuntary manslaughter.&nbsp;Just after 7p.m. October 17,&nbsp; police responded to a crash involving a sedan and a motorcycle at West 42nd Street South and South Seneca in Wichita, according to a media release. First responders located a motorcyclist identified as 27-year-old Bryce Rowland, who was pronounced deceased at the scenePreliminary investigation indicates that the driver of a sedan, identified as Adrian, was traveling north on Seneca and attempting to make a left turn onto 42nd Street. The motorcyclist was traveling south on Seneca when the sedan turned and struck him.The Wichita Police Critical Accident Follow up Team was activated and AFU Detectives responded to the scene. Police arrested Adrian. He has been in jail on a $200,000 bond since his arrest.&nbsp;

Sentencing Day for crash that killed Kan. motorcyclist

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an aggravated robbery and have made an arrest.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a&nbsp;14-year-old boy reported five known suspects battered him and stole multiple items, including a cell phone on May 19, in the 1000 block of Colorado Street.

On Wednesday police arrested Tommie Earl Baggett, 18, of Manhattan, was arrested at approximately 2:08 p.m. on May 20 near Ewing Road and Brockman Street on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated battery and contributing to child misconduct. Baggett is being held on a $40,000 bond.

&nbsp;Whitney Terrell Hamilton, 27, of Manhattan, was also arrested – at approximately 1:23 p.m. Wednesday near Ewing Road and Brockman Street. Hamilton is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated battery and contributing to child misconduct.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an aggravated robbery and have made an arrest.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a&nbsp;14-year-old boy reported five known suspects battered him and stole multiple items, including a cell phone on May 19, in the 1000 block of Colorado Street.On Wednesday police arrested Tommie Earl Baggett, 18, of Manhattan, was arrested at approximately 2:08 p.m. on May 20 near Ewing Road and Brockman Street on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated battery and contributing to child misconduct. Baggett is being held on a $40,000 bond.&nbsp;Whitney Terrell Hamilton, 27, of Manhattan, was also arrested – at approximately 1:23 p.m. Wednesday near Ewing Road and Brockman Street. Hamilton is being held on a $50,000 bond on requested charges of aggravated robbery, aggravated battery and contributing to child misconduct.

RCPD: 2 arrested for violent robbery of Manhattan boy

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman accused of sex crimes is scheduled to return to court Thursday.

&nbsp;Savana King, 31, Wichita, will attend an arraignment hearing before Judge Kathleen Watson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/2/1739222315038.png" alt="King photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>King photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas softball coach accused of sex crimes involving a player returned to court Thursday.&nbsp;Savana King, 31, Wichita, pleaded not guilty during an arraignment hearing before Judge Kathleen Watson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On January 29, an 18-year-old woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted by her former softball coach Savanah King over several years, between 2021 and 2024, before she reached the age of consent, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.Police arrested King on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child; fondling, criminal sodomy with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful sexual relations, according to Sedgwick County arrest records. After spending a weekend in jail, King met the requirement of a $250,00 bond and was released from jail.<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.&nbsp;&nbsp;King is due back in court July 16, according to the district attorney's office.------------SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas woman accused of sex crimes is scheduled to return to court Thursday.&nbsp;Savana King, 31, Wichita, will attend an arraignment hearing before Judge Kathleen Watson, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On January 29, an 18-year-old woman reported that she had been sexually assaulted by her former softball coach Savanah King over several years, between 2021 and 2024, before she reached the age of consent, according to Wichita Police Officer Juan Rebolledo.Police arrested King on requested charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child; fondling, criminal sodomy with a child under the age of 14 and unlawful sexual relations, according to Sedgwick County arrest records. After spending a weekend in jail, King met the requirement of a $250,00 bond and was released from jail.<a href="https://friendsathletics.com/sports/softball/roster/savana-king/2824">King played softball for</a>&nbsp;Friends University, according to the school's website.&nbsp;

Arraignment hearing: Softball coach accused of sex assault of player

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

Just after 6:30 p.m.,&nbsp; May 16, a Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies assisted the Hoyt Police Department in locating a subject believed to have an outstanding warrant in the Hoyt area, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

Law enforcement officers located Jason Michael McClane, who was wanted on a Denison Municipal Court warrant, at 202 Annetta Ave. in Hoyt. McClane surrendered to deputies without incident.

During the investigation, deputies developed probable cause to seek a search warrant for the residence related to illegal drugs. A search warrant was obtained and executed at the residence, where deputies allegedly located methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. The residence was located within 1,000 feet of a school.

The following individuals were arrested and being held in the Jackson County Jail.

John Bradley Hudson, 50, of Hoyt is being held on requested charges that include

Jason Michael McClane, 52, of Hoyt is being held on requested charges that include.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779119548386.png" alt="McClare photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>McClare photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement are investigating two suspects on drug allegations.Just after 6:30 p.m.,&nbsp; May 16, a Jackson County Sheriff’s deputies assisted the Hoyt Police Department in locating a subject believed to have an outstanding warrant in the Hoyt area, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.Law enforcement officers located Jason Michael McClane, who was wanted on a Denison Municipal Court warrant, at 202 Annetta Ave. in Hoyt. McClane surrendered to deputies without incident.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779119590669.png" alt="Hudson" />
 <figcaption>Hudson</figcaption>
 </figure>During the investigation, deputies developed probable cause to seek a search warrant for the residence related to illegal drugs. A search warrant was obtained and executed at the residence, where deputies allegedly located methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. The residence was located within 1,000 feet of a school.The following individuals were arrested and being held in the Jackson County Jail.John Bradley Hudson, 50, of Hoyt is being held on requested charges that include<ul>
 <li>Distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school</li><li>Distribution of drug paraphernalia</li><li>No drug tax stamp</li><li>Possession of methamphetamine</li><li>Possession of marijuana</li><li>Possession of drug paraphernalia</li>
 </ul>Jason Michael McClane, 52, of Hoyt is being held on requested charges that include.<ul>
 <li>Outstanding warrant from Denison Municipal Court</li><li>Possession of methamphetamine</li><li>Possession of marijuana</li><li>Possession of drug paraphernalia</li>
 </ul>

Sheriff: Suspect was selling meth near a Kansas school

By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/r-j-rico">R.J. RICO</a> Associated Press

Tennessee officials will pay $835,000 to settle a lawsuit filed by a man who was jailed for more than a month over a Facebook post he made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

While many people across the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dowd-msnbc-kirk-comments-e08f349022c9d69171cd575664141075">lost their jobs over social media comments</a>&nbsp;about Kirk’s death, Larry Bushart’s case stood out as a rare instance in which such online speech led to criminal prosecution. The 61-year-old retired police officer spent 37 days behind bars before authorities dropped the felony charge against him in October.

During his time in jail, Bushart lost his postretirement job and missed his wedding anniversary and the birth of his granddaughter, according to a federal lawsuit Bushart filed in December against Perry County, its sheriff and the investigator who obtained the arrest warrant.

“I am pleased my First Amendment rights have been vindicated,” Bushart said in a statement announcing the settlement Wednesday. “The people’s freedom to participate in civil discourse is crucial to a healthy democracy. I am looking forward to moving on and spending time with my family.”

Bushart was arrested in September after he refused to take down Facebook memes that joked about Kirk’s killing, which had prompted an outpouring of grief among conservatives, including in Perry County, which is near Bushart’s home and which held a candlelight vigil.

The meme Bushart posted that prompted his arrest read: “This seems relevant today...” and featured President Donald Trump and the words, “We have to get over it.” That quote, the meme explained, was said by Trump in 2024 after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/perry-high-school-shooting-iowa-1defc6260e074362240a31a7f30cf1b9">school shooting at Iowa’s Perry High School</a>.

Perry County Sheriff Nick Weems told news outlets that most of Bushart’s “hate memes” were lawful free speech, but residents were alarmed by the school shooting post, fearing Bushart was threatening a local school, also called Perry County High School, even though Weems said he knew the meme referred to a school in Iowa.

“Investigators believe Bushart was fully aware of the fear his post would cause and intentionally sought to create hysteria within the community,” Weems said in a statement to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2025/09/23/tennessee-larry-bushart-arrest-charlie-kirk/86313013007/" target="_blank">The Tennessean</a>&nbsp;last year.

Bushart’s bail was set at $2 million before he was released as the case drew national attention.

“It’s in times of turmoil and heightened tensions that our national commitment to free speech is tested the most,” said Cary Davis, an attorney for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, which helped represent Bushart. “When government officials fail that test, the Constitution exists to hold them accountable. Our hope is that Larry’s settlement sends a message to law enforcement across the country: Respect the First Amendment today, or be prepared to pay the price tomorrow.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779291683034.png" alt="Bushart from his booking photo in Perrty County" />
 <figcaption>Bushart from his booking photo in Perrty County</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/author/r-j-rico">R.J. RICO</a> Associated PressTennessee officials will pay $835,000 to settle a lawsuit filed by a man who was jailed for more than a month over a Facebook post he made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.While many people across the U.S.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/dowd-msnbc-kirk-comments-e08f349022c9d69171cd575664141075">lost their jobs over social media comments</a>&nbsp;about Kirk’s death, Larry Bushart’s case stood out as a rare instance in which such online speech led to criminal prosecution. The 61-year-old retired police officer spent 37 days behind bars before authorities dropped the felony charge against him in October.During his time in jail, Bushart lost his postretirement job and missed his wedding anniversary and the birth of his granddaughter, according to a federal lawsuit Bushart filed in December against Perry County, its sheriff and the investigator who obtained the arrest warrant.“I am pleased my First Amendment rights have been vindicated,” Bushart said in a statement announcing the settlement Wednesday. “The people’s freedom to participate in civil discourse is crucial to a healthy democracy. I am looking forward to moving on and spending time with my family.”Bushart was arrested in September after he refused to take down Facebook memes that joked about Kirk’s killing, which had prompted an outpouring of grief among conservatives, including in Perry County, which is near Bushart’s home and which held a candlelight vigil.The meme Bushart posted that prompted his arrest read: “This seems relevant today...” and featured President Donald Trump and the words, “We have to get over it.” That quote, the meme explained, was said by Trump in 2024 after a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/perry-high-school-shooting-iowa-1defc6260e074362240a31a7f30cf1b9">school shooting at Iowa’s Perry High School</a>.Perry County Sheriff Nick Weems told news outlets that most of Bushart’s “hate memes” were lawful free speech, but residents were alarmed by the school shooting post, fearing Bushart was threatening a local school, also called Perry County High School, even though Weems said he knew the meme referred to a school in Iowa.“Investigators believe Bushart was fully aware of the fear his post would cause and intentionally sought to create hysteria within the community,” Weems said in a statement to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2025/09/23/tennessee-larry-bushart-arrest-charlie-kirk/86313013007/" target="_blank">The Tennessean</a>&nbsp;last year.Bushart’s bail was set at $2 million before he was released as the case drew national attention.“It’s in times of turmoil and heightened tensions that our national commitment to free speech is tested the most,” said Cary Davis, an attorney for the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, which helped represent Bushart. “When government officials fail that test, the Constitution exists to hold them accountable. Our hope is that Larry’s settlement sends a message to law enforcement across the country: Respect the First Amendment today, or be prepared to pay the price tomorrow.”

Man jailed over Charlie Kirk post wins $835,000 settlement

MIAMI (AP) — Federal prosecutors on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-us-cuba-relations-raul-castro-6e7b7ade3bf347cb2f1ff0e3984e3b91">announced charges</a>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/raul-castro">former Cuban President Raúl Castro</a>&nbsp;in the 1996 downing of civilian planes flown by Miami-based exiles as the Trump administration escalated pressure on the island's socialist government.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/raul-castro-cuba-doj-indictment-trump-40939c6644185652649bc90d4e445394">The indictment</a>&nbsp;was related to Castro’s alleged role in the shootdown of two small planes operated by the exile group Brothers to the Rescue. Castro, now 94, was Cuba's defense minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-us-cuba-relations-raul-castro-6e7b7ade3bf347cb2f1ff0e3984e3b91">at the time</a>. The charges included murder and destruction of an airplane.

“For nearly 30 years, the families of four murdered Americans have waited for justice,” acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said in Miami at a ceremony to honor those killed. “They were unarmed civilians and were flying humanitarian missions for the rescue and protection of people fleeing oppression across the Florida straits.”

Asked to what lengths American authorities would go to bring Castro to face charges in the U.S., Blanche said: “There was a warrant issued for his arrest. So we expect that he will show up here, by his own will or by another way.”

The federal government, he said, indicts people outside the United States “all the time” and uses a variety of methods to bring them to justice.

A grand jury in Miami returned the indictment in late April before it was unsealed Wednesday, Blanche said. Five other people were also charged, including three Cuban military pilots.

Asked what will happen next for Cuba, President Donald Trump said, "We’re going to see.” He added that the U.S. is ready to provide humanitarian assistance to a “failing nation.”

The charges pose a real threat, observers said, because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;was indicted on drug-related charges before he and his wife were seized by U.S. special forces in the Venezuelan capital in January.

“He’s going to have to keep his head pretty low from now on,” said Peter Kornbluh, a senior analyst and specialist on the U.S.-Cuba relationship at the National Security Archive. “They’re going to have no choice but to take this threat extremely seriously.”

While it remains unclear whether Castro will ever step foot in a U.S. courtroom, the murder and conspiracy charges carry the potential for life in prison or the death penalty upon conviction.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the indictment and accused the U.S. of lying and manipulating the events of 1996. He called it “a political action without any legal basis" that only seeks to "bolster the case they are fabricating to justify the folly of a military aggression against Cuba.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779306789875.png" alt="Department of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Department of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAMI (AP) — Federal prosecutors on Wednesday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-us-cuba-relations-raul-castro-6e7b7ade3bf347cb2f1ff0e3984e3b91">announced charges</a>&nbsp;against&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/raul-castro">former Cuban President Raúl Castro</a>&nbsp;in the 1996 downing of civilian planes flown by Miami-based exiles as the Trump administration escalated pressure on the island's socialist government.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">PRESIDENT TRUMP on the INDICTMENT of RAUL CASTRO: Today is a big day for Cuban Americans and for people who came from Cuba and want to see their family in Cuba. <a href="https://t.co/6cs13UHE3H">pic.twitter.com/6cs13UHE3H</a>&mdash; Department of State (@StateDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept/status/2057177564251341261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 &quot;Today, we are announcing an indictment charging Raúl Castro, and several others, with conspiracy to kill U.S. nationals,&quot; says <a href="https://twitter.com/DAGToddBlanche?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DAGToddBlanche</a> in Miami. &quot;My message today is clear: the United States and <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> does not, and will not, forget its citizens.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/gAlRAzbvUi">pic.twitter.com/gAlRAzbvUi</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2057154778858172825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/RepMariaSalazar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RepMariaSalazar</a>: &quot;Pay attention and look what happened to Maduro — there&#39;s a new sheriff in town, and that sheriff is Donald Trump.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/N0poC5wszJ">pic.twitter.com/N0poC5wszJ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2057183486763544730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🇺🇸🇨🇺 <a href="https://t.co/nwEePVJ1lX">pic.twitter.com/nwEePVJ1lX</a>&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecRubio/status/2057069290637889876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><a href="https://apnews.com/article/raul-castro-cuba-doj-indictment-trump-40939c6644185652649bc90d4e445394">The indictment</a>&nbsp;was related to Castro’s alleged role in the shootdown of two small planes operated by the exile group Brothers to the Rescue. Castro, now 94, was Cuba's defense minister&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-us-cuba-relations-raul-castro-6e7b7ade3bf347cb2f1ff0e3984e3b91">at the time</a>. The charges included murder and destruction of an airplane.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;Cuban military aircraft shot down 2 civilian planes in international airspace. Search &amp; rescue efforts by the Coast Guard which began immediately after we received word of the incident have failed to find any of the 4 individuals who were aboard the airplanes&quot; - Clinton 2-26-96 <a href="https://t.co/vYeiiWBOdL">pic.twitter.com/vYeiiWBOdL</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/2057249903953228228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/5/1779307011052.png" alt="Raul Modesto Castro Ruz-photo DOJ" />
 <figcaption>Raul Modesto Castro Ruz-photo DOJ</figcaption>
 </figure>“For nearly 30 years, the families of four murdered Americans have waited for justice,” acting Attorney General Todd Blanche said in Miami at a ceremony to honor those killed. “They were unarmed civilians and were flying humanitarian missions for the rescue and protection of people fleeing oppression across the Florida straits.”Asked to what lengths American authorities would go to bring Castro to face charges in the U.S., Blanche said: “There was a warrant issued for his arrest. So we expect that he will show up here, by his own will or by another way.”The federal government, he said, indicts people outside the United States “all the time” and uses a variety of methods to bring them to justice.A grand jury in Miami returned the indictment in late April before it was unsealed Wednesday, Blanche said. Five other people were also charged, including three Cuban military pilots.Asked what will happen next for Cuba, President Donald Trump said, "We’re going to see.” He added that the U.S. is ready to provide humanitarian assistance to a “failing nation.”The charges pose a real threat, observers said, because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro</a>&nbsp;was indicted on drug-related charges before he and his wife were seized by U.S. special forces in the Venezuelan capital in January.“He’s going to have to keep his head pretty low from now on,” said Peter Kornbluh, a senior analyst and specialist on the U.S.-Cuba relationship at the National Security Archive. “They’re going to have no choice but to take this threat extremely seriously.”<h2>Cuban president condemns indictment</h2>While it remains unclear whether Castro will ever step foot in a U.S. courtroom, the murder and conspiracy charges carry the potential for life in prison or the death penalty upon conviction.Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the indictment and accused the U.S. of lying and manipulating the events of 1996. He called it “a political action without any legal basis" that only seeks to "bolster the case they are fabricating to justify the folly of a military aggression against Cuba.”Díaz-Canel wrote on X that Cuba acted in “legitimate self-defense within its territorial waters after repeated and dangerous violations of its airspace by notorious terrorists.”He said U.S. officials at the time had been warned about the violations but allowed them to continue.Marlene Alejandre-Triana, whose father, Armando Alejandre Jr, was among those who died, said the charges were “long overdue.” She said her father only wanted to bring freedom to his Cuban homeland.Over the years, she spoke to multiple federal investigators about charging Castro. She referred to him as “one of the main architects of the crime.”In Miami’s Little Havana neighborhood, Peter Hernandez, whose family owns a fruit and vegetable market, said he would welcome the U.S. sending its military to arrest Castro.“He’s a criminal,” said Hernandez, whose parents moved from Cuba to South Florida before he was born. ”I think we should do that with all criminals, especially if they’re hiding behind a country that consistently has been proven that they are on the wrong side of our national security efforts and ideology.”<h2>Trump has threatened military action for months</h2>Trump has been threatening military action in Cuba ever since U.S. forces captured Maduro, the Cuban government’s longtime patron. After ousting the Venezuelan leader, the White House ordered a blockade that choked off fuel shipments to Cuba, leading to severe blackouts,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuba-government-ration-book-libreta-store-economy-abbfaf6ee2ee6937f00c54f68e565e43">food shortages</a>&nbsp;and an economic collapse across the island.Since Maduro's capture, Trump has ratcheted up talk of regime change in Cuba after pledging earlier this year to conduct a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cuba-friendly-takeover-rubio-venezuela-435f056b47cfd6bc0c0af875318fa123">“friendly takeover” of the country</a>&nbsp;if its leadership did not open its economy to American investment and kick out U.S. adversaries.Trump’s first administration indicted Maduro on drug-trafficking charges and used that to justify removing him from power and whisking him to New York to face trial.Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday urged the Cuban people to demand a free-market economy with new leadership that he said will chart a new course in relations with the U.S.“In the U.S., we are ready to open a new chapter in the relationship between our people,” Rubio, the son of Cuban immigrants, said in a Spanish-language video message. “Currently, the only thing standing in the way of a better future are those who control your country.”<h2>Raúl Castro believed to wield power behind the scenes</h2>Castro took over as president from his ailing older brother Fidel Castro in 2006 before handing power to a trusted loyalist, Díaz-Canel, in 2018.While he retired in 2021 as head of the Cuban Communist Party, he is widely believed to wield power behind the scenes, underscored by the prominence of his grandson, Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, who previously met secretly with Rubio.Last week,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuba-us-meeting-cia-john-9a3e7946460f8e5e48424f3a59df3fe8">CIA Director John Ratcliffe traveled to Havana</a>&nbsp;for meetings with Cuban officials, including Castro’s grandson. Two other&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/cuba-trump-rubio-energy-blockade-26b89fa6c057eb419d099a39e38d5b98">senior State Department officials</a>&nbsp;met with the grandson in April.<h2>The investigation into Castro stretches back to the 1990s</h2>Starting in 1995, planes flown by members of Brothers to the Rescue, a group founded by Cuban exiles, buzzed over Havana dropping leaflets urging Cubans to rise up against the Castro government.The Cubans protested to the U.S. government, warning that they would defend their airspace. Federal Aviation Administration officials also opened an investigation and met with the group’s leaders to urge them to ground the flights, according to declassified government records obtained by George Washington University’s National Security Archive.But those calls went unheeded and on Feb. 24, 1996, missiles fired by Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets downed two unarmed civilian Cessna planes a short distance north of Havana just beyond Cuba’s airspace. All four men aboard were killed.<h2>Raúl Castro faced earlier indictment</h2>Guy Lewis, who was a federal prosecutor, uncovered evidence linking senior Cuban military officials to cocaine trafficking by Colombia’s Medellin cartel. Following the shootdown, the investigation expanded, and prosecutors pursued charges against Raúl Castro for leading a vast racketeering conspiracy by Cuba’s armed forces.In the end, the Clinton administration indicted four individuals, including the MiG pilots involved in the downing of the planes. The shootdown led the U.S. to harden its position against Cuba, even though the Cold War had ended and the Castros’ support for revolution across Latin America was a fading memory.But Castro himself was spared as the Clinton administration raised concerns about such a high-profile indictment.___Durkin Richer reported from Washington. Associated Press reporters David Fischer in Miami; Dánica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico; Meg Kinnard in Houston; Will Weissert in Washington; Michael Weissenstein in New York; and John Seewer in Toledo, Ohio, contributed to this report.