BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 2 a.m. Tuesday, p0lice conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 900 block of Farmer's Plaza Lane in Great Bend for a moving infraction, according to a media release.

Officer's asked for consent to search the vehicle and the driver identified as 25-year-old Maddison Crawford granted permission and told officers there were drugs in the vehicle.

While searching the vehicle, Officers located a white crystal-like substance consistent with methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia inside of the vehicle. Police placed Crawford under arrest and booked him into the Barton County jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no tax stamp and illegal window tint. He is being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707255085033.jpeg" alt="Crawford photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Crawford photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 2 a.m. Tuesday, p0lice conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 900 block of Farmer's Plaza Lane in Great Bend for a moving infraction, according to a media release.Officer's asked for consent to search the vehicle and the driver identified as 25-year-old Maddison Crawford granted permission and told officers there were drugs in the vehicle.While searching the vehicle, Officers located a white crystal-like substance consistent with methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia inside of the vehicle. Police placed Crawford under arrest and booked him into the Barton County jail on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, no tax stamp and illegal window tint. He is being held in lieu of a $10,000 bond.

Driver told Kansas officers of meth in his vehicle

SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp;–On Tuesday, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kansas teacher for alleged sex crimes, according to a media release from the agency.

Just after 6 p.m., KBI agents arrested 38-year-old Brian Stuckenschmidt of Topeka, on a warrant for rape and aggravated criminal sodomy.

In May of 2023, the KBI initiated an investigation after a former student reported incidents that took place between January and May of 2018, when Stuckenschmidt was her music teacher at USD 452 in Johnson City, Kansas. Stuckenschmidt is currently employed at a Topeka school, but was placed on administrative leave in June 2023, when KBI agents brought the investigation to the attention of school officials.

Following the arrest, Stuckenschmidt was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707274518943.png" alt="Stuckenschmidt-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Stuckenschmidt-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY&nbsp;–On Tuesday, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) arrested a Kansas teacher for alleged sex crimes, according to a media release from the agency.Just after 6 p.m., KBI agents arrested 38-year-old Brian Stuckenschmidt of Topeka, on a warrant for rape and aggravated criminal sodomy.In May of 2023, the KBI initiated an investigation after a former student reported incidents that took place between January and May of 2018, when Stuckenschmidt was her music teacher at USD 452 in Johnson City, Kansas. Stuckenschmidt is currently employed at a Topeka school, but was placed on administrative leave in June 2023, when KBI agents brought the investigation to the attention of school officials.Following the arrest, Stuckenschmidt was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

KBI: Kansas music teacher accused of child sex crimes

MCPHERSON COUNTY— Following an incident in January, an investigation was initiated by the McPherson County Sheriff’s Office in reference to the introduction of contraband into the McPherson County Jail and distributing the contraband to an inmate, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.

During the investigation, Cheyenne Ratley, who was a McPherson County Corrections Deputy at the time of the incident, was identified as a suspect.

Ratley has been arrested and charged with Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Institution by a Correctional Officer and is currently awaiting extradition back to Kansas.

MCPHERSON COUNTY— Following an incident in January, an investigation was initiated by the McPherson County Sheriff’s Office in reference to the introduction of contraband into the McPherson County Jail and distributing the contraband to an inmate, according to a media release from the sheriff's office.During the investigation, Cheyenne Ratley, who was a McPherson County Corrections Deputy at the time of the incident, was identified as a suspect.Ratley has been arrested and charged with Introduction of Contraband into a Correctional Institution by a Correctional Officer and is currently awaiting extradition back to Kansas.

Deputy accused of bringing drugs into Kansas jail

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.

Richard Beachner, Failure to appear, arrested 02/02

Zachary Franklin,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/02

Rebecca Simmons, Endangering a child, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 02/02

Kayleen Richards,&nbsp; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 02/02

Santez White, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 02/02

Pharel Petitfrere, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/03

Antoine Yates, Driving while suspended (3rd or subsequent conviction), arrested 02/03

Gloria Gonzalez, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 02/03

Kaleb Antonucci, Driving while license cancelled / suspended /revoked, arrested 02/03

Demetrius Harvey, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Arrest by LEO; Warrant arrest, arrested 02/03

Anastasia Kenyon, Outside warrant, arrested 02/04

Xyomara Hui, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 02/04

Michael Rogel, Failure to appear, arrested 02/04

Michael Wasylk, Domestic battery, arrested 02/04

Dalton Hester, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon (Less than 3 years since sentence/diversion was completed), Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 02/05

Rashad Shelton, Outside warrant (Two counts), Domestic battery, arrested 02/05

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/2024/2/1707234890151.jpeg" alt="Shadale Njau, Failure to appear, arrested 02/02" />
 <figcaption>Shadale Njau, Failure to appear, arrested 02/02</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707234919592.jpeg" alt="Daniel Henry, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana (1 or more prior convictions), Possession of controlled substance, arrested 02/03" />
 <figcaption>Daniel Henry, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana (1 or more prior convictions), Possession of controlled substance, arrested 02/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707235005613.jpeg" alt="Ethan Wheeler, Failure to appear, arrested 02/03" />
 <figcaption>Ethan Wheeler, Failure to appear, arrested 02/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707235324952.jpeg" alt="Christopher Hill, Driving while suspended (2nd or subsequent conviction), arrested 02/03" />
 <figcaption>Christopher Hill, Driving while suspended (2nd or subsequent conviction), arrested 02/03</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707235376586.jpeg" alt="Gabrielle Ballenger, Probation violation (Two counts), Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 02/04" />
 <figcaption>Gabrielle Ballenger, Probation violation (Two counts), Failure to appear (Three counts), arrested 02/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707238040023.jpeg" alt="Gilberto Lopez Perez, Taxation drugs, No drug stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance, Distribute certain stimulant: Dose&gt; 1000 units, arrested 02/04" />
 <figcaption>Gilberto Lopez Perez, Taxation drugs, No drug stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance, Distribute certain stimulant: Dose&gt; 1000 units, arrested 02/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707238719173.jpeg" alt="Isabella Figueroa,&nbsp;Taxation drugs, No drug stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Unlawful to transmit proceeds deprived from drugs:Value &lt; $5,000,&nbsp;Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance, Distribute certain stimulant: Dose&gt; 1000 units, arrested 02/04" />
 <figcaption>Isabella Figueroa,&nbsp;Taxation drugs, No drug stamp for marijuana or controlled substance, Possession of marijuana, Unlawful to transmit proceeds deprived from drugs:Value &lt; $5,000,&nbsp;Possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture controlled substance, Distribute certain stimulant: Dose&gt; 1000 units, arrested 02/04</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707240693787.jpeg" alt="Richard Leistner, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 02/05" />
 <figcaption>Richard Leistner, Probation violation (Two counts), arrested 02/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707240729476.jpeg" alt="Kara Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 02/05" />
 <figcaption>Kara Smith, Failure to appear, arrested 02/05</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707240751099.jpeg" alt="Michelle Drywater, Outside warrant, arrested 02/05" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Drywater, Outside warrant, arrested 02/05</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Richard Beachner, Failure to appear, arrested 02/02Zachary Franklin,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 02/02Rebecca Simmons, Endangering a child, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 02/02Kayleen Richards,&nbsp; Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, Possession of marijuana, arrested 02/02Santez White, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, arrested 02/02Pharel Petitfrere, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, arrested 02/03Antoine Yates, Driving while suspended (3rd or subsequent conviction), arrested 02/03Gloria Gonzalez, DUI-Liquor/Drugs, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 02/03Kaleb Antonucci, Driving while license cancelled / suspended /revoked, arrested 02/03Demetrius Harvey, Prohibiting drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana, Arrest by LEO; Warrant arrest, arrested 02/03Anastasia Kenyon, Outside warrant, arrested 02/04Xyomara Hui, Criminal deprivation of property, arrested 02/04Michael Rogel, Failure to appear, arrested 02/04Michael Wasylk, Domestic battery, arrested 02/04Dalton Hester, Criminal possession of a weapon by a felon (Less than 3 years since sentence/diversion was completed), Possession of controlled substance, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body, arrested 02/05Rashad Shelton, Outside warrant (Two counts), Domestic battery, arrested 02/05Recent 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 Feb. 3-6

Mark and Mandy Helstrom, who face criminal drug charges, say they accidentally recorded private conversations in courthouse

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Mark and Mandy Helstrom feared their lives were in danger when they discovered an audio recording of Wallace County law enforcement and court officials talking about ways to kill the couple.

The couple say they inadvertently recorded the private conversation with Mark Helstrom’s phone after he left it in a clerk’s office in the Wallace County Courthouse. They shared the recording with Kansas Reflector.

In one part of the conversation, District Judge Scott Showalter, court clerk Rosella Ryser and County Attorney Charles Moser say they should take the couple into Colorado for a visit to the “Yellowstone train station.” The innuendo — from the TV show “Yellowstone” — refers to killing an enemy.

Later in the same recording, Sheriff Marshall Unruh and Undersheriff Lance Finley talk about putting a bag over Mandy Helstrom’s head.

“I just live in fear all day, every day,” she said in an interview for this story.

The Helstroms live in Sharon Springs, in the far northwest corner of the state, and are defending themselves from criminal drug charges. Mark Helstrom describes himself in court filings as sovereign — but he says he is not associated with the “sovereign citizen” movement of extremist&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://archives.fbi.gov/archives/news/stories/2010/april/sovereigncitizens_041310/domestic-terrorism-the-sovereign-citizen-movement">anti-government activism</a>.

Showalter recused himself from handling the couple’s cases after they discovered the audio recording and brought it to the court’s attention.

Ryser, Moser, Unruh and Finley didn’t respond to inquiries for this story. Showalter responded with a written statement.

“I acknowledge I made inappropriate remarks that were in poor taste, and I regret it,” Showalter said. “The remarks, made in a private conversation, were not intended as a threat to anyone. I recognize my error, recused myself from the cases at hand, and self-reported my actions to the Commission on Judicial Conduct. I apologize to the parties, my court colleagues, and anyone else affected by my remarks.”

Sheriff’s officers arrested the Helstroms in June after they found marijuana and oxycodone in their house. Moser charged them with possession of the drugs, as well as not having a drug tax stamp and possession of drug paraphernalia. Moser also charged Mark Helstrom with interference with law enforcement.

Mandy Helstrom said she suffers from a medical condition that frequently causes her to vomit or feel nauseated. The couple said she intended to order a legal form of CBD to see if it would help, but the package arrived with marijuana. The U.S. Postal Service notified law enforcement, which raided their house.

Officers found the marijuana, as well as oxycodone. Mark Helstrom said a neighbor inadvertently left the prescribed painkillers in the house years ago and that the Helstroms had forgotten about them.

The Helstroms chose to represent themselves in court rather than rely on a court-appointed stand-by counsel, who happens to be a prosecutor from a neighboring county.

In court filings, Mark Helstrom declared himself to be sovereign and to have revoked his consent to be governed.

“I do not consent to your laws nor have I consented to this court’s jurisdiction, the only reason, I have appeared at-all, is because of the government’s violent tendencies which is placing my life in danger of being terminated,” Mark Helstrom wrote in an Oct. 16 motion to dismiss his case. “I am a peaceful man just trying to live my life without interference from the government, God gave this right to man and this country was founded upon this principle.”

In a Sept. 25 filing, Mark Helstrom demanded Moser drop the charges against him. Otherwise, he wrote, “I will have no other choice in this matter but to file criminal charges for slavery.”

Mark Helstrom said he began recording audio with his phone before the couple entered the courthouse for a Dec. 14 hearing.

Inside, he was instructed to leave his phone on the counter in the clerk’s office while he was in the courtroom. He said he forgot to turn the recording off.

A couple of days later, he said, his wife was looking through the phone and found the recording — and the private conversation among the judge, court clerk and prosecutor.

Showalter: “Charles, we’ve decided we need a train station somewhere about two miles into Colorado.”

Moser: “And it needs to be the Yellowstone train station.”

Ryser: Yes, exactly … and we all know what that means.”

At first, the Helstroms didn’t understand the reference to the TV show and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://yellowstone.fandom.com/wiki/The_Train_Station">the rural canyon where enemies are executed</a>.

“Then we found out what it was all about, and then it was like, ‘Wow. They’re talking about murdering me, is what they’re saying.’ That’s exactly what it means. You can’t take that any other way,” Mark Helstrom said.

At another point in the recording, Sheriff Unruh and Undersheriff Finley are heard talking about Mark Helstrom. Finley referenced a ball and chain at his desk, and Unruh said: “We’re gonna have to get him, ’cause he’s gonna file a report.”

Then Unruh and Finley turn their attention to Mandy Helstrom.

“God, I wish they would just put a bag over her head,” Finley said. “Like tie it off so she throws up.”

Finley adds: “That’s a medical. She needs to go to Greeley County so they can kill her.”

Audio Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.

The Helstroms filed a complaint against Unruh and Finley with the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training.

CPOST identifies its mission as “providing the citizens of Kansas with qualified, trained, ethical, competent, and professional peace officers.” But in a Jan. 5 letter to the Helstroms, CPOST investigator Kevin Sexton said the agency doesn’t investigate alleged crimes. Their complaint was dismissed.

“The appropriate forum for any issues you may have with your complaints and concerns lie with the Wallace County Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s Office,” Sexton wrote. “Please contact them for information on how to proceed with your concerns.”

The Helstroms say they don’t feel safe, even if the recorded comments were intended to be a joke.

“I was telling my wife, I said, ‘Well, if the cops came over here right now, and they said they had a warrant for your arrest, even though it may be real or not real, and they put the handcuffs on you and then drove you two miles out, took the cuffs off and blew your brains out, who’s gonna know?” Mark Helstrom said. “Nobody’s gonna know.”

<h2>Mark and Mandy Helstrom, who face criminal drug charges, say they accidentally recorded private conversations in courthouse</h2>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/sherman-smith/">SHERMAN SMITH</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Mark and Mandy Helstrom feared their lives were in danger when they discovered an audio recording of Wallace County law enforcement and court officials talking about ways to kill the couple.The couple say they inadvertently recorded the private conversation with Mark Helstrom’s phone after he left it in a clerk’s office in the Wallace County Courthouse. They shared the recording with Kansas Reflector.In one part of the conversation, District Judge Scott Showalter, court clerk Rosella Ryser and County Attorney Charles Moser say they should take the couple into Colorado for a visit to the “Yellowstone train station.” The innuendo — from the TV show “Yellowstone” — refers to killing an enemy.Later in the same recording, Sheriff Marshall Unruh and Undersheriff Lance Finley talk about putting a bag over Mandy Helstrom’s head.“I just live in fear all day, every day,” she said in an interview for this story.The Helstroms live in Sharon Springs, in the far northwest corner of the state, and are defending themselves from criminal drug charges. Mark Helstrom describes himself in court filings as sovereign — but he says he is not associated with the “sovereign citizen” movement of extremist&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://archives.fbi.gov/archives/news/stories/2010/april/sovereigncitizens_041310/domestic-terrorism-the-sovereign-citizen-movement">anti-government activism</a>.Showalter recused himself from handling the couple’s cases after they discovered the audio recording and brought it to the court’s attention.Ryser, Moser, Unruh and Finley didn’t respond to inquiries for this story. Showalter responded with a written statement.“I acknowledge I made inappropriate remarks that were in poor taste, and I regret it,” Showalter said. “The remarks, made in a private conversation, were not intended as a threat to anyone. I recognize my error, recused myself from the cases at hand, and self-reported my actions to the Commission on Judicial Conduct. I apologize to the parties, my court colleagues, and anyone else affected by my remarks.”<h2>Drugs and consent</h2>Sheriff’s officers arrested the Helstroms in June after they found marijuana and oxycodone in their house. Moser charged them with possession of the drugs, as well as not having a drug tax stamp and possession of drug paraphernalia. Moser also charged Mark Helstrom with interference with law enforcement.Mandy Helstrom said she suffers from a medical condition that frequently causes her to vomit or feel nauseated. The couple said she intended to order a legal form of CBD to see if it would help, but the package arrived with marijuana. The U.S. Postal Service notified law enforcement, which raided their house.Officers found the marijuana, as well as oxycodone. Mark Helstrom said a neighbor inadvertently left the prescribed painkillers in the house years ago and that the Helstroms had forgotten about them.The Helstroms chose to represent themselves in court rather than rely on a court-appointed stand-by counsel, who happens to be a prosecutor from a neighboring county.In court filings, Mark Helstrom declared himself to be sovereign and to have revoked his consent to be governed.“I do not consent to your laws nor have I consented to this court’s jurisdiction, the only reason, I have appeared at-all, is because of the government’s violent tendencies which is placing my life in danger of being terminated,” Mark Helstrom wrote in an Oct. 16 motion to dismiss his case. “I am a peaceful man just trying to live my life without interference from the government, God gave this right to man and this country was founded upon this principle.”In a Sept. 25 filing, Mark Helstrom demanded Moser drop the charges against him. Otherwise, he wrote, “I will have no other choice in this matter but to file criminal charges for slavery.”<h2>Death threats</h2><h2>Death threats</h2>Mark Helstrom said he began recording audio with his phone before the couple entered the courthouse for a Dec. 14 hearing.Inside, he was instructed to leave his phone on the counter in the clerk’s office while he was in the courtroom. He said he forgot to turn the recording off.A couple of days later, he said, his wife was looking through the phone and found the recording — and the private conversation among the judge, court clerk and prosecutor.A section goes as follows:Showalter: “Charles, we’ve decided we need a train station somewhere about two miles into Colorado.”Moser: “And it needs to be the Yellowstone train station.”Ryser: Yes, exactly … and we all know what that means.”At first, the Helstroms didn’t understand the reference to the TV show and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://yellowstone.fandom.com/wiki/The_Train_Station">the rural canyon where enemies are executed</a>.“Then we found out what it was all about, and then it was like, ‘Wow. They’re talking about murdering me, is what they’re saying.’ That’s exactly what it means. You can’t take that any other way,” Mark Helstrom said.At another point in the recording, Sheriff Unruh and Undersheriff Finley are heard talking about Mark Helstrom. Finley referenced a ball and chain at his desk, and Unruh said: “We’re gonna have to get him, ’cause he’s gonna file a report.”Then Unruh and Finley turn their attention to Mandy Helstrom.“God, I wish they would just put a bag over her head,” Finley said. “Like tie it off so she throws up.”Finley adds: “That’s a medical. She needs to go to Greeley County so they can kill her.”TOPEKA — Mark and Mandy Helstrom feared their lives were in danger when they discovered an audio recording of Wallace County law enforcement and court officials talking about ways to kill the couple.The couple say they inadvertently recorded the private conversation with Mark Helstrom’s phone after he left it in a clerk’s office in the Wallace County Courthouse. They shared the recording with Kansas Reflector.In one part of the conversation, District Judge Scott Showalter, court clerk Rosella Ryser and County Attorney Charles Moser say they should take the couple into Colorado for a visit to the “Yellowstone train station.” The innuendo — from the TV show “Yellowstone” — refers to killing an enemy.Later in the same recording, Sheriff Marshall Unruh and Undersheriff Lance Finley talk about putting a bag over Mandy Helstrom’s head.“I just live in fear all day, every day,” she said in an interview for this story.The Helstroms live in Sharon Springs, in the far northwest corner of the state, and are defending themselves from criminal drug charges. Mark Helstrom describes himself in court filings as sovereign — but he says he is not associated with the “sovereign citizen” movement of extremist&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://archives.fbi.gov/archives/news/stories/2010/april/sovereigncitizens_041310/domestic-terrorism-the-sovereign-citizen-movement">anti-government activism</a>.Showalter recused himself from handling the couple’s cases after they discovered the audio recording and brought it to the court’s attention.Ryser, Moser, Unruh and Finley didn’t respond to inquiries for this story. Showalter responded with a written statement.“I acknowledge I made inappropriate remarks that were in poor taste, and I regret it,” Showalter said. “The remarks, made in a private conversation, were not intended as a threat to anyone. I recognize my error, recused myself from the cases at hand, and self-reported my actions to the Commission on Judicial Conduct. I apologize to the parties, my court colleagues, and anyone else affected by my remarks.”<h2>Drugs and consent</h2>Sheriff’s officers arrested the Helstroms in June after they found marijuana and oxycodone in their house. Moser charged them with possession of the drugs, as well as not having a drug tax stamp and possession of drug paraphernalia. Moser also charged Mark Helstrom with interference with law enforcement.Mandy Helstrom said she suffers from a medical condition that frequently causes her to vomit or feel nauseated. The couple said she intended to order a legal form of CBD to see if it would help, but the package arrived with marijuana. The U.S. Postal Service notified law enforcement, which raided their house.Officers found the marijuana, as well as oxycodone. Mark Helstrom said a neighbor inadvertently left the prescribed painkillers in the house years ago and that the Helstroms had forgotten about them.The Helstroms chose to represent themselves in court rather than rely on a court-appointed stand-by counsel, who happens to be a prosecutor from a neighboring county.In court filings, Mark Helstrom declared himself to be sovereign and to have revoked his consent to be governed.“I do not consent to your laws nor have I consented to this court’s jurisdiction, the only reason, I have appeared at-all, is because of the government’s violent tendencies which is placing my life in danger of being terminated,” Mark Helstrom wrote in an Oct. 16 motion to dismiss his case. “I am a peaceful man just trying to live my life without interference from the government, God gave this right to man and this country was founded upon this principle.”In a Sept. 25 filing, Mark Helstrom demanded Moser drop the charges against him. Otherwise, he wrote, “I will have no other choice in this matter but to file criminal charges for slavery.”<h2>Death threats</h2>Mark Helstrom said he began recording audio with his phone before the couple entered the courthouse for a Dec. 14 hearing.Inside, he was instructed to leave his phone on the counter in the clerk’s office while he was in the courtroom. He said he forgot to turn the recording off.A couple of days later, he said, his wife was looking through the phone and found the recording — and the private conversation among the judge, court clerk and prosecutor.A section goes as follows:Showalter: “Charles, we’ve decided we need a train station somewhere about two miles into Colorado.”Moser: “And it needs to be the Yellowstone train station.”Ryser: Yes, exactly … and we all know what that means.”Audio Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.At first, the Helstroms didn’t understand the reference to the TV show and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://yellowstone.fandom.com/wiki/The_Train_Station">the rural canyon where enemies are executed</a>.“Then we found out what it was all about, and then it was like, ‘Wow. They’re talking about murdering me, is what they’re saying.’ That’s exactly what it means. You can’t take that any other way,” Mark Helstrom said.At another point in the recording, Sheriff Unruh and Undersheriff Finley are heard talking about Mark Helstrom. Finley referenced a ball and chain at his desk, and Unruh said: “We’re gonna have to get him, ’cause he’s gonna file a report.”Audio Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.Then Unruh and Finley turn their attention to Mandy Helstrom.“God, I wish they would just put a bag over her head,” Finley said. “Like tie it off so she throws up.”Audio Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.Finley adds: “That’s a medical. She needs to go to Greeley County so they can kill her.”Audio Player00:0000:00Use Up/Down Arrow keys to increase or decrease volume.<h2>Professional standard</h2>The Helstroms filed a complaint against Unruh and Finley with the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training.CPOST identifies its mission as “providing the citizens of Kansas with qualified, trained, ethical, competent, and professional peace officers.” But in a Jan. 5 letter to the Helstroms, CPOST investigator Kevin Sexton said the agency doesn’t investigate alleged crimes. Their complaint was dismissed.“The appropriate forum for any issues you may have with your complaints and concerns lie with the Wallace County Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney’s Office,” Sexton wrote. “Please contact them for information on how to proceed with your concerns.”The Helstroms say they don’t feel safe, even if the recorded comments were intended to be a joke.“I was telling my wife, I said, ‘Well, if the cops came over here right now, and they said they had a warrant for your arrest, even though it may be real or not real, and they put the handcuffs on you and then drove you two miles out, took the cuffs off and blew your brains out, who’s gonna know?” Mark Helstrom said. “Nobody’s gonna know.”

Recording captures judge, prosecutor, undersheriff talking about killing Kansas couple

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an alleged computer crime have made an arrest.

On Tuesday, the Riley County Police Department reported the arrest of 22-year-old Alexis Brantley of Fort Riley on a Riley County District Court warrant for computer unlawful acts, theft of property lost or mislaid, criminal use of financial card, and identity theft. 

The crime was reported to have occurred in October of 2023. 

Brantley was issued a total bond of $5,000 and was not confined at the time of this report.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating an alleged computer crime have made an arrest.On Tuesday, the Riley County Police Department reported the arrest of 22-year-old Alexis Brantley of Fort Riley on a Riley County District Court warrant for computer unlawful acts, theft of property lost or mislaid, criminal use of financial card, and identity theft. The crime was reported to have occurred in October of 2023. Brantley was issued a total bond of $5,000 and was not confined at the time of this report.&nbsp;

Fort Riley woman accused of identity theft

KANSAS CITY —A Nebraska man’s brief crime spree came to an end over the weekend thanks to a Sheriff’s Office canine and teamwork by numerous law enforcement agencies.

Just after 2p.m. February 4, an elderly woman home alone called the Clay County Sheriff’s office to report an unknown vehicle that had parked in her driveway near H Highway and Crockett road, southwest of Excelsior Springs., according to a media release. She said a man then got out of the vehicle and ran behind her house.

The vehicle left in the woman’s driveway turned out to be stolen from Nebraska. Deputies and Excelsior Springs Police moved into the area to locate the driver. Soon, dispatchers reported a caller had seen a man acting oddly walking on Cameron Road nearby. As deputies were moving to that area, they got another report of a truck was just stolen from farmers at Cameron Road and NE 136th Street. The victims were in their barn and saw their truck being driven away.

The KCPD helicopter joined in to try to locate the suspect vehicle. They saw it exit from 92 Highway to southbound Interstate 35 in Kearney. Kearney Police pursued the vehicle, and Sheriff’s deputies took over at the city limit. A Sheriff’s deputy and Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper were able to successfully deploy Stop Sticks, deflating the suspect’s tires, and bring the truck safely to a stop by the exit to 152 Highway.

At that point, the suspect got out of the truck and ran. Deputies, including K9 Duke, ran after him. Duke apprehended the suspect in the median of the highway. After being treated for his dog bite at the hospital, the suspect was booked at the Clay County Detention Center, where he remains in custody on a $40,000 bond.

Timothy M. Miller, 38, of Omaha, Neb., has now been charged with tampering with a motor vehicle and resisting arrest by fleeing, according to the sheriff's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707160985667.png" alt="The Clay County Sheriff's office asked, "Who runs faster?"" />
 <figcaption>The Clay County Sheriff's office asked, "Who runs faster?"</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Nebraska man’s brief crime spree came to an end over the weekend thanks to a Sheriff’s Office canine and teamwork by numerous law enforcement agencies.Just after 2p.m. February 4, an elderly woman home alone called the Clay County Sheriff’s office to report an unknown vehicle that had parked in her driveway near H Highway and Crockett road, southwest of Excelsior Springs., according to a media release. She said a man then got out of the vehicle and ran behind her house.The vehicle left in the woman’s driveway turned out to be stolen from Nebraska. Deputies and Excelsior Springs Police moved into the area to locate the driver. Soon, dispatchers reported a caller had seen a man acting oddly walking on Cameron Road nearby. As deputies were moving to that area, they got another report of a truck was just stolen from farmers at Cameron Road and NE 136th Street. The victims were in their barn and saw their truck being driven away.The KCPD helicopter joined in to try to locate the suspect vehicle. They saw it exit from 92 Highway to southbound Interstate 35 in Kearney. Kearney Police pursued the vehicle, and Sheriff’s deputies took over at the city limit. A Sheriff’s deputy and Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper were able to successfully deploy Stop Sticks, deflating the suspect’s tires, and bring the truck safely to a stop by the exit to 152 Highway.At that point, the suspect got out of the truck and ran. Deputies, including K9 Duke, ran after him. Duke apprehended the suspect in the median of the highway. After being treated for his dog bite at the hospital, the suspect was booked at the Clay County Detention Center, where he remains in custody on a $40,000 bond.Timothy M. Miller, 38, of Omaha, Neb., has now been charged with tampering with a motor vehicle and resisting arrest by fleeing, according to the sheriff's office.

Suspect's KC-area crime spree ends after caught by sheriff's K9

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two Wabaunsee County Sheriff’s Deputies are out of the hospital and recovering after a suspected Fentanyl exposure during a custodial arrest made Monday morning, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.&nbsp;

The sheriff's office reported, "we use all precautions roadside. It's almost impossible to defend against a bag of&nbsp;unknown substance intentionally thrown into the wind in vicinity of emergency service personnel."

"Fentanyl and opioids are indiscriminate killers. This is the reality of modern law enforcement."&nbsp; The sheriff's office also sent a big thank you to the "wonderful ER Staff at Wamego Hospital."&nbsp;

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two Wabaunsee County Sheriff’s Deputies are out of the hospital and recovering after a suspected Fentanyl exposure during a custodial arrest made Monday morning, according to a social media report from the sheriff's office.&nbsp;The sheriff's office reported, "we use all precautions roadside. It's almost impossible to defend against a bag of&nbsp;unknown substance intentionally thrown into the wind in vicinity of emergency service personnel.""Fentanyl and opioids are indiscriminate killers. This is the reality of modern law enforcement."&nbsp; The sheriff's office also sent a big thank you to the "wonderful ER Staff at Wamego Hospital."&nbsp;

2 Wabaunsee Co. deputies recovering after suspected fentanyl exposure

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of shootings in Wichita that have left four teens dead in separate incidents.

The latest teen homicide occurred Friday. Just before 9 p.m., police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead a short time after arriving at the hospital. On Saturday, police reported they arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder for the death of Ruiz.

Just after 11:45p.m. January 26, the Wichita Police Department responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims. Emoni Shears, 14, and Jhiquez Roberts, 19, both of Wichita were later pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Police have arrested 18-year-old Hayden Rydell Williams, a 14-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and 17-year-old boy all from Wichita and a 15-year-old boy from Garden City in connection with the double homicide, according to&nbsp; Police Lt. Aaron Moses.

On January 28, police arrived at an apartment at 8405 W. Central in Wichita, to check on 14-year-old Claude Hodges after his father called concerned for his welfare.

After a lengthy standoff involving the boy's mother identified as&nbsp;43-year-old Kylee R. Hodges,  SWAT Team officers fired shots wounding her. When officers reentered the apartment, they discovered Claude Hodges in a bedroom deceased from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; His mother is suspected in her son's death. She continues to recover from her injuries and is not in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/1/1706389022620.png" alt="Police on the scene of the January 26 homicide investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the January 26 homicide investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a series of shootings in Wichita that have left four teens dead in separate incidents.The latest teen homicide occurred Friday. Just before 9 p.m., police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead a short time after arriving at the hospital. On Saturday, police reported they arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder for the death of Ruiz.Just after 11:45p.m. January 26, the Wichita Police Department responded to reports of shots being fired in the area of 5200 E Kensington in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Around the same time, officers were dispatched to an area hospital for the report of two walk-in shooting victims. Emoni Shears, 14, and Jhiquez Roberts, 19, both of Wichita were later pronounced deceased at the hospital.Police have arrested 18-year-old Hayden Rydell Williams, a 14-year-old boy, a 16-year-old boy and 17-year-old boy all from Wichita and a 15-year-old boy from Garden City in connection with the double homicide, according to&nbsp; Police Lt. Aaron Moses.On January 28, police arrived at an apartment at 8405 W. Central in Wichita, to check on 14-year-old Claude Hodges after his father called concerned for his welfare.After a lengthy standoff involving the boy's mother identified as&nbsp;43-year-old Kylee R. Hodges, SWAT Team officers fired shots wounding her. When officers reentered the apartment, they discovered Claude Hodges in a bedroom deceased from a gunshot wound.&nbsp; His mother is suspected in her son's death. She continues to recover from her injuries and is not in custody, according to online jail records.

4 teen homicide victims in Wichita in first weeks of 2024

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly hit-and-run have identified the victim as 31-year-old&nbsp; 31-year-old Pedro Bautista, of Wichita.&nbsp;

Just after 10:30 p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the area of 13th and Mosely in Wichita for a report of an assault call, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. 

First responders located Bautista who was unconscious, had&nbsp; injuries and was lying on the sidewalk.&nbsp; Fire and EMS administered life-saving measures, but he was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Investigators from the Wichita Police Department Accident Follow-up Section and the Critical Accident Team responded to the scene. Preliminary investigation revealed a motor vehicle struck Bautista. Police reported on Monday afternoon they had located the vehicle, according to Gupilan.

The circumstances leading up to the collision are still under investigation.&nbsp; Police released no additional details and have not reported the type of vehicle involved or an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696884966886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly hit-and-run have identified the victim as 31-year-old&nbsp; 31-year-old Pedro Bautista, of Wichita.&nbsp;Just after 10:30 p.m. Friday, officers were dispatched to the area of 13th and Mosely in Wichita for a report of an assault call, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. First responders located Bautista who was unconscious, had&nbsp; injuries and was lying on the sidewalk.&nbsp; Fire and EMS administered life-saving measures, but he was pronounced deceased on the scene.Investigators from the Wichita Police Department Accident Follow-up Section and the Critical Accident Team responded to the scene. Preliminary investigation revealed a motor vehicle struck Bautista. Police reported on Monday afternoon they had located the vehicle, according to Gupilan.The circumstances leading up to the collision are still under investigation.&nbsp; Police released no additional details and have not reported the type of vehicle involved or an arrest.

Police locate vehicle, ID victim in fatal Kan. hit-and-run

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after midnight&nbsp;&nbsp;Feb. 2, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz for an alleged traffic violation on US 56 Highway, just inside the east city limits of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The driver was identified as Paul Scott Ringering, age 54 of Ellinwood.

The Sheriff’s deputy became suspicious of potential drug activity and Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was called to the scene. Maxx indicated the presence of controlled substances. Further investigation revealed marijuana and methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Ringering was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail. During the course of the booking process it was found Ringering had more methamphetamine as well as cocaine concealed on his person.

Ringering was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances as well as trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.

Ringering remains in the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $50,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707150550505.jpeg" alt="Photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after midnight&nbsp;&nbsp;Feb. 2, a sheriff's deputy stopped a 2010 Mercedes-Benz for an alleged traffic violation on US 56 Highway, just inside the east city limits of Great Bend, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir. The driver was identified as Paul Scott Ringering, age 54 of Ellinwood.The Sheriff’s deputy became suspicious of potential drug activity and Sheriff’s Office K9 Maxx was called to the scene. Maxx indicated the presence of controlled substances. Further investigation revealed marijuana and methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Ringering was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail. During the course of the booking process it was found Ringering had more methamphetamine as well as cocaine concealed on his person.Ringering was booked into the Barton County Jail on requested charges of possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances as well as trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.Ringering remains in the Barton County Jail in lieu of a $50,000 bond.

Cocaine, meth discovered during Kansas traffic stop

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an investigation.

Just after 10:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report for domestic criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and battery of a law enforcement officer in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity report.

A 21-year-old man reported a known female suspect damaged his television. The estimated total loss is expected to be over $1,000. &nbsp;

A 32-year-old female RCPD Police Officer also reported a 20-year-old woman kicked her during the arrest. The officer arrested Akira Cridge on requested charges of criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and battery of a LEO. 

Cridge was issued a total bond of $5,000 and remained in custody on Monday, according to the RCPD.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an investigation.Just after 10:30p.m. Friday, officers filed a report for domestic criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and battery of a law enforcement officer in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department Activity report.A 21-year-old man reported a known female suspect damaged his television. The estimated total loss is expected to be over $1,000. &nbsp;A 32-year-old female RCPD Police Officer also reported a 20-year-old woman kicked her during the arrest. The officer arrested Akira Cridge on requested charges of criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, and battery of a LEO. Cridge was issued a total bond of $5,000 and remained in custody on Monday, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Suspect allegedly kicked female officer during arrest

JOHNSON COUNTY—A man is going to prison for a series of burglary sex&nbsp; crimes.&nbsp;

Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced 23-year-old&nbsp;William Louis Elliot to just over 22-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.

In November, a jury found Elliott guilty of aggravated sodomy by force, rape, sexual battery and aggravated burglary.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2018, police arrested Elliott for breaking into three homes through unlocked doors in Shawnee.&nbsp;

Two of the incidents occurred near 75th and Goddard streets and the third near 55th and Caenen streets, according to a media release from Shawnee Police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699106600413.png" alt="Elliott-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Elliott-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY—A man is going to prison for a series of burglary sex&nbsp; crimes.&nbsp;Last week, Judge Thomas Sutherland sentenced 23-year-old&nbsp;William Louis Elliot to just over 22-years in prison, according to the Johnson County District Attorney.In November, a jury found Elliott guilty of aggravated sodomy by force, rape, sexual battery and aggravated burglary.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2018, police arrested Elliott for breaking into three homes through unlocked doors in Shawnee.&nbsp;Two of the incidents occurred near 75th and Goddard streets and the third near 55th and Caenen streets, according to a media release from Shawnee Police.

Man sentenced for 3 Kan. home-invasion burglary, sex assaults

TYLER, Texas (AP) — The father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was arrested in East Texas on at least his third charge of driving while intoxicated, according to jail records. The legal issue comes as the younger Mahomes prepares to lead his team into the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.

Patrick Mahomes Sr., 54, was arrested Saturday night in Tyler and his bond was set at $10,000. He was released on Sunday, according to jail records from Smith County, Texas.

Mahomes' attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail from The Associated Press seeking comment.

His arrest occurred a little more than a week before his son leads the Chiefs against San Francisco in Las Vegas as Kansas City attempts to repeat as Super Bowl champion.

The younger Mahomes likely will face questions at Super Bowl media night on Monday about whether his father's arrest will be a distraction. That could be a storyline going into next weekend.

Mahomes Sr. was arrested on the same charge in 2019 and was sentenced to 40 days in jail, Smith County records show.

Mahomes Sr. played 11 seasons (1992-2003) in Major League Baseball as a pitcher.

The right-hander was 42-39 with a 5.47 ERA in 308 career games (63 starts) for the Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Rangers, Cubs and Pirates. He was part of the 1999 NL playoffs with the Mets.

Last month, the quarterback's brother, Jackson Mahomes, had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charges-dropped-jackson-mahomes-sexual-assault-e342afb174f0567499b9458504b79c2b?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">three felony charges against him dismissed</a>. He had been accused of grabbing a woman’s neck and kissing her without her consent.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707097553263.png" alt="Mahomes photo Smith County, Texas Jail" />
 <figcaption>Mahomes photo Smith County, Texas Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>TYLER, Texas (AP) — The father of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was arrested in East Texas on at least his third charge of driving while intoxicated, according to jail records. The legal issue comes as the younger Mahomes prepares to lead his team into the Super Bowl against the San Francisco 49ers.Patrick Mahomes Sr., 54, was arrested Saturday night in Tyler and his bond was set at $10,000. He was released on Sunday, according to jail records from Smith County, Texas.Mahomes' attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail from The Associated Press seeking comment.His arrest occurred a little more than a week before his son leads the Chiefs against San Francisco in Las Vegas as Kansas City attempts to repeat as Super Bowl champion.The younger Mahomes likely will face questions at Super Bowl media night on Monday about whether his father's arrest will be a distraction. That could be a storyline going into next weekend.Mahomes Sr. was arrested on the same charge in 2019 and was sentenced to 40 days in jail, Smith County records show.Mahomes Sr. played 11 seasons (1992-2003) in Major League Baseball as a pitcher.The right-hander was 42-39 with a 5.47 ERA in 308 career games (63 starts) for the Twins, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Rangers, Cubs and Pirates. He was part of the 1999 NL playoffs with the Mets.Last month, the quarterback's brother, Jackson Mahomes, had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/charges-dropped-jackson-mahomes-sexual-assault-e342afb174f0567499b9458504b79c2b?utm_source=copy&amp;utm_medium=share">three felony charges against him dismissed</a>. He had been accused of grabbing a woman’s neck and kissing her without her consent.

Patrick Mahomes' father arrested for alleged DWI for 3rd time

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.

Just after 2a.m.&nbsp;February 2, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a truck in the vicinity of 94th&nbsp;and U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a quantity of methamphetamine was located. &nbsp;The driver, Travis Wallace Ray, 41, of Louisburg, Kansas was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ray was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706971743236.png" alt="Ray-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Ray-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged drug crimes.Just after 2a.m.&nbsp;February 2, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a truck in the vicinity of 94th&nbsp;and U.S. 75 Highway, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted and a quantity of methamphetamine was located. &nbsp;The driver, Travis Wallace Ray, 41, of Louisburg, Kansas was arrested on requested charges of driving under the influence, distribution of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia. Ray was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Sheriff: Kansas man was selling methamphetamine

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly shooting of another teen in Wichita and have arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder.

Just before 9 p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

 At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries.

The investigation revealed that the shooting occurred in the 100 block of N. Zelta, and the circumstances of what led up to the shooting are still under investigation.&nbsp;

The diligent efforts of the investigators and officers resulted in the swift arrest of the suspect. This was not a random incident and the involved parties are known to each other.

The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1707013524240.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the deadly shooting of another teen in Wichita and have arrested a 14-year-old boy on requested charges of 1st Degree Murder.Just before 9 p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a reported shooting in the vicinity of 11700 E. Waterman in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. At the same time, a local hospital reported a walk-in shooting victim. Officers arrived at the hospital and located 17-year-old&nbsp; Julio Ruiz, of Wichita. who had sustained gunshot wounds. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries.The investigation revealed that the shooting occurred in the 100 block of N. Zelta, and the circumstances of what led up to the shooting are still under investigation.&nbsp;The diligent efforts of the investigators and officers resulted in the swift arrest of the suspect. This was not a random incident and the involved parties are known to each other.The facts of this case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s office.

Police: 14-year-old accused in another killing in Kansas

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations and a high speed chase in rural Kansas.

Just after 3:30p.m. Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper attempted to stop a motorcycle near Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The driver failed to stop and attempted to elude the trooper.

The pursuit ensued and continued on P. Road south of Kansas 16 Highway and then westbound on 214th Road. The motorcycle crossed a field and ended up on 206th Road west of L. Road where it became stuck in mud. Troopers and sheriff's deputies attempted to apprehend the pair in the mud and ice.

The driver, identified as 26-year-old Colton Merriman of Topeka ran from the scene and was bit by a police service K-9.

Deputies eventually took Merriman and a passenger identified as 21-year-old Kami Moore, of Saint Joseph, Missouri, into custody. Jackson County EMS also responded to the scene.

Merriman was jailed on requested charges for felony fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer, felony interference with law enforcement, driving while suspended, no insurance and other traffic infractions. He was also wanted on outstanding warrants out of the state of Missouri and Brown County, Kansas.

Moore was arrested on requested charges of interference with law enforcement. Both remain in custody, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706886432419.png" alt="Merriman-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Merriman-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegations and a high speed chase in rural Kansas.Just after 3:30p.m. Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper attempted to stop a motorcycle near Holton, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. The driver failed to stop and attempted to elude the trooper.The pursuit ensued and continued on P. Road south of Kansas 16 Highway and then westbound on 214th Road. The motorcycle crossed a field and ended up on 206th Road west of L. Road where it became stuck in mud. Troopers and sheriff's deputies attempted to apprehend the pair in the mud and ice.The driver, identified as 26-year-old Colton Merriman of Topeka ran from the scene and was bit by a police service K-9.Deputies eventually took Merriman and a passenger identified as 21-year-old Kami Moore, of Saint Joseph, Missouri, into custody. Jackson County EMS also responded to the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706886477492.png" alt="Moore-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Moore-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Merriman was jailed on requested charges for felony fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer, felony interference with law enforcement, driving while suspended, no insurance and other traffic infractions. He was also wanted on outstanding warrants out of the state of Missouri and Brown County, Kansas.Moore was arrested on requested charges of interference with law enforcement. Both remain in custody, according to online jail records..

Chase ends when motorcycle is stuck in muddy Kan. field

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are looking for three suspects seen on a security camera who pulled a truck up to&nbsp;Quincy’s Bar and Grill in the 2000 Block of N. West Street in Wichita at 7a.m. January 9, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

The suspects exited the vehicle, entered the business. They enter and and took the Automated Teller Machine.

 Wichita Police Investigators with the burglary unit are asking for the public’s help with identifying the suspects and locating the&nbsp;light-colored 4-door pickup truck with KS Tag 571 RXB.

Tipsters are asked to submit any information to Crime Stoppers using the QR code or calling 316-267-2111. They are eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.00 if their tip leads to an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706989702487.png" alt="Photo from security camera video of the burglary-Crime StoppersICT" />
 <figcaption>Photo from security camera video of the burglary-Crime StoppersICT</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are looking for three suspects seen on a security camera who pulled a truck up to&nbsp;Quincy’s Bar and Grill in the 2000 Block of N. West Street in Wichita at 7a.m. January 9, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.The suspects exited the vehicle, entered the business. They enter and and took the Automated Teller Machine. Wichita Police Investigators with the burglary unit are asking for the public’s help with identifying the suspects and locating the&nbsp;light-colored 4-door pickup truck with KS Tag 571 RXB.Tipsters are asked to submit any information to Crime Stoppers using the QR code or calling 316-267-2111. They are eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,500.00 if their tip leads to an arrest.

Security camera shows Kansas suspects stealing ATM

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a. homicide in Topeka have made an arrest.

Just after 4a.m. Thursday, police&nbsp;responded to a shooting at an apartment complex in the 2100 block of SE 12th Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.

Officers located 33-year-old Gabriel Martinez-Meraz of Topeka. suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

As a result of the investigation, police arrested Tyron Wagner, 33, and Shi Ann Veloris Barnes, 29, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. 

Wagner is being held on requested charges&nbsp;Murder in the 1st Degree, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Stolen Property and a Warrant.

Shi Ann Veloris Barnes is being held on requested charges of Obstructing Apprehension of Prosecution and Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706976224393.png" alt="Wagner-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Wagner-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a. homicide in Topeka have made an arrest.Just after 4a.m. Thursday, police&nbsp;responded to a shooting at an apartment complex in the 2100 block of SE 12th Street in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Edward Stanley.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706795135183.png" alt="Scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Scene of the investigation photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Officers located 33-year-old Gabriel Martinez-Meraz of Topeka. suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706976566846.png" alt="Barnes-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Barnes-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result of the investigation, police arrested Tyron Wagner, 33, and Shi Ann Veloris Barnes, 29, were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Wagner is being held on requested charges&nbsp;Murder in the 1st Degree, Aggravated Robbery, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Stolen Property and a Warrant.Shi Ann Veloris Barnes is being held on requested charges of Obstructing Apprehension of Prosecution and Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.

2 arrested for robbery, murder at Kansas apartment

SEDGWICK COUNTY —One of three men accused in the 2019 killing of a man in Bel Aire, Kansas is going to prison for a long time.

This week, Sedgwick County Judge Eric Williams sentenced 34-year-old Efrain Arroyo to life with parole eligibility after 25 years for first-degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

 Arroyo also received 186 months for aggravated kidnapping and nine months for criminal use of a firearm by a felon. The sentences will run consecutively, according to the district attorney's office.

In November, Arroyo was convicted for his role in the 2019 murder of 30-year-old Christian Osvaldo Hernandez of Wichita/.

In November of 2019, a passerby found the body of a man later identified as Hernandez lying next to the road in the 12000 block of east 45th Street North in Wichita, according to Lt. Tim Myers.

Responding deputies noticed a gunshot to the Hernandez body and he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The following week authorities reported the arrest of 40-year-old Dusty Joe Brown, 37-year-old Thomas Ray Armstrong and Arroyo II.

<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=481699">Armstrong </a>pleaded no contest to kidnapping and interference with law enforcement in August 2022 and was sentenced to 88 months in prison. Dustyn Brown will be sentenced March 15.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575317063410.png" alt="Efrain Daniel Arroyo II-photo Sedgwick Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>Efrain Daniel Arroyo II-photo Sedgwick Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —One of three men accused in the 2019 killing of a man in Bel Aire, Kansas is going to prison for a long time.This week, Sedgwick County Judge Eric Williams sentenced 34-year-old Efrain Arroyo to life with parole eligibility after 25 years for first-degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Arroyo also received 186 months for aggravated kidnapping and nine months for criminal use of a firearm by a felon. The sentences will run consecutively, according to the district attorney's office.In November, Arroyo was convicted for his role in the 2019 murder of 30-year-old Christian Osvaldo Hernandez of Wichita/.In November of 2019, a passerby found the body of a man later identified as Hernandez lying next to the road in the 12000 block of east 45th Street North in Wichita, according to Lt. Tim Myers.Responding deputies noticed a gunshot to the Hernandez body and he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575316892512.png" alt="Thomas Armstrong photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Thomas Armstrong photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The following week authorities reported the arrest of 40-year-old Dusty Joe Brown, 37-year-old Thomas Ray Armstrong and Arroyo II.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575546461755.png" alt="Dustyn Brown-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Dustyn Brown-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=481699">Armstrong </a>pleaded no contest to kidnapping and interference with law enforcement in August 2022 and was sentenced to 88 months in prison. Dustyn Brown will be sentenced March 15.

Murder: Man sentenced after body found near rural Kansas road

NEW YORK (AP) — Carl Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who became a Hollywood action&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/movies">movie</a>&nbsp;and comedy star, playing nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies, facing off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and teaching golf in “Happy Gilmore,” has died. He was 76.

Matt Luber, his manager, said Weathers died Thursday. His family issued a statement saying he died “peacefully in his sleep."

Comfortable flexing his muscles on the big screen in “Action Jackson” as he was joking around on the small screen in such shows as “Arrested Development,” Weathers was perhaps most closely associated with Creed, who made his first appearance as the cocky, undisputed heavyweight world champion in 1976’s “Rocky,” starring Sylvester Stallone.

“It puts you on the map and makes your career, so to speak. But that’s a one-off, so you’ve got to follow it up with something. Fortunately those movies kept coming, and Apollo Creed became more and more in people’s consciousness and welcome in their lives, and it was just the right guy at the right time,” he told The Daily Beast in 2017.

Most recently, Weathers has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f78d5d415c5b40f69a12b2cfb83637f8">starred in the Disney+ hit “The Mandalorian,”</a>&nbsp;appearing in all three seasons.

“We lost an icon,” former “Predator” co-star Jesse Ventura wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional and a dear friend.”

Creed, who appeared in the first four “Rocky” movies, memorably died in the ring of 1984’s “Rocky IV,” going toe-to-toe with the hulking, steroided-using Soviet Ivan Drago, played by Dolph Lundgren. Before he entered the ring, James Brown sang “Living in America” with showgirls and Creed popped up on a balcony in a Star-Spangled Banner shorts and waistcoat combo and an Uncle Sam hat, dancing and taunting Drago.

A bloodied Creed collapses in the ring after taking a vicious beating, twitches and is cradled by Rocky as he dies, inevitably setting up a fight between Drago and Rocky. But while Creed is gone, his character’s son, Michael B. Jordan’s Adonis Creed, would lead his own boxing trilogy starting in 2015.

Weathers went on to 1987’s “Predator,” where he flexed his pecs alongside Ventura, Schwarzenegger and a host of others, and 1988’s nouveau blaxploitation flick “Action Jackson,” where he trains his flamethrower on a bad guy and asks, “How do you like your ribs?” before broiling him.

He later added a false wooden hand to play a golf pro for the 1996 comedy classic “Happy Gilmore” opposite Adam Sandler and starred in Dick Wolf’s short-lived spin-off series “Chicago Justice” in 2017 and in Disney’s “The Mandalorian,” earning an Emmy Award nomination in 2021. He also voiced Combat Carl in the “Toy Story” franchise.

Sandler hailed his friend on social media, calling him a "great man" and "a true legend” — "So much fun to be around always. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell."

Weathers grew up admiring actors such as Woody Strode, whose combination of physique and acting prowess in “Spartacus” made an early impression. Others he idolized included actors Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte and athletes Jim Brown and Muhammad Ali, stars who broke the mold and the color barrier.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/2/1706904085160.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Carl Weathers, a former NFL linebacker who became a Hollywood action&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/movies">movie</a>&nbsp;and comedy star, playing nemesis-turned-ally Apollo Creed in the “Rocky” movies, facing off against Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Predator” and teaching golf in “Happy Gilmore,” has died. He was 76.Matt Luber, his manager, said Weathers died Thursday. His family issued a statement saying he died “peacefully in his sleep."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/AuuJOfrsFr">pic.twitter.com/AuuJOfrsFr</a>&mdash; Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/Raiders/status/1753539143232335918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Comfortable flexing his muscles on the big screen in “Action Jackson” as he was joking around on the small screen in such shows as “Arrested Development,” Weathers was perhaps most closely associated with Creed, who made his first appearance as the cocky, undisputed heavyweight world champion in 1976’s “Rocky,” starring Sylvester Stallone.“It puts you on the map and makes your career, so to speak. But that’s a one-off, so you’ve got to follow it up with something. Fortunately those movies kept coming, and Apollo Creed became more and more in people’s consciousness and welcome in their lives, and it was just the right guy at the right time,” he told The Daily Beast in 2017.Most recently, Weathers has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/f78d5d415c5b40f69a12b2cfb83637f8">starred in the Disney+ hit “The Mandalorian,”</a>&nbsp;appearing in all three seasons.“We lost an icon,” former “Predator” co-star Jesse Ventura wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “Carl Weathers was a phenomenal talent, a true professional and a dear friend.”Creed, who appeared in the first four “Rocky” movies, memorably died in the ring of 1984’s “Rocky IV,” going toe-to-toe with the hulking, steroided-using Soviet Ivan Drago, played by Dolph Lundgren. Before he entered the ring, James Brown sang “Living in America” with showgirls and Creed popped up on a balcony in a Star-Spangled Banner shorts and waistcoat combo and an Uncle Sam hat, dancing and taunting Drago.A bloodied Creed collapses in the ring after taking a vicious beating, twitches and is cradled by Rocky as he dies, inevitably setting up a fight between Drago and Rocky. But while Creed is gone, his character’s son, Michael B. Jordan’s Adonis Creed, would lead his own boxing trilogy starting in 2015.Weathers went on to 1987’s “Predator,” where he flexed his pecs alongside Ventura, Schwarzenegger and a host of others, and 1988’s nouveau blaxploitation flick “Action Jackson,” where he trains his flamethrower on a bad guy and asks, “How do you like your ribs?” before broiling him.He later added a false wooden hand to play a golf pro for the 1996 comedy classic “Happy Gilmore” opposite Adam Sandler and starred in Dick Wolf’s short-lived spin-off series “Chicago Justice” in 2017 and in Disney’s “The Mandalorian,” earning an Emmy Award nomination in 2021. He also voiced Combat Carl in the “Toy Story” franchise.Sandler hailed his friend on social media, calling him a "great man" and "a true legend” — "So much fun to be around always. Smart as hell. Loyal as hell. Funny as hell."Weathers grew up admiring actors such as Woody Strode, whose combination of physique and acting prowess in “Spartacus” made an early impression. Others he idolized included actors Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte and athletes Jim Brown and Muhammad Ali, stars who broke the mold and the color barrier.“There are so many people that came before me who I admired and whose success I wanted to emulate, and just kind of hit the benchmarks they hit in terms of success, who created a pathway that I’ve been able to walk and find success as a result. And hopefully I can inspire someone else to do good work as well,” he told the Detroit News 2023. “I guess I’m just a lucky guy.”Growing up in New Orleans, Weathers started performing in plays as early as grade school. In high school, athletics took him down another path but he would reunite with his first love later in life.Weathers played college football at San Diego State University — he majored in theater — and went on to play for one season in the NFL, for the Oakland Raiders, in 1970.“When I found football, it was a completely different outlet,” says Weathers told the Detroit News. “It was more about the physicality, although one does feed the other. You needed some smarts because there were playbooks to study and film to study, to learn about the opposition on any given week.”After the Raiders, he joined the Canadian Football League, playing for two years while finishing up his studies during the offseason at San Francisco State University. He graduated with a B.A. in drama in 1974.After appearing in several films and TV shows, including “Good Times,” “The Six Million Dollar Man,” “In the Heat of the Night” and “Starsky &amp; Hutch,” as well as fighting Nazis alongside Harrison Ford in “Force 10 From Navarone,” Weathers landed his knockout role — Creed. He told The Hollywood Reporter that his start in the iconic franchise was not auspicious.He was asked to read with the writer, Stallone, then unknown. Weathers read the scene but felt it didn’t land and so he blurted out: “I could do a lot better if you got me a real actor to work with,” he recalled. “So I just insulted the star of the movie without really knowing it and not intending to.” He also lied that he had any boxing experience.Later in life, Weathers developed a passion for directing, helming episodes of “Silk Stalkings” and and the Lorenzo Lamas vehicle “Renegade.” He directed a season three episode of “The Mandalorian.”Weathers introduced himself to another generation when he portrayed himself as an opportunistic and extremely thrifty actor who becomes involved with the dysfunctional clan at the heart of “Arrested Development.”The Weathers character likes to save money by making broth from discarded food — "There’s still plenty of meat on that bone” and “Baby, you got a stew going!” — and, for the right price, agrees to become an acting coach for delusional and talent-free thespian Tobias Funke, played by David Cross.