PHILLIPS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest following a police pursuit in northwest Kansas.

Just before 3p.m. Saturday, the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office assisted in a vehicle pursuit that began in Smith County, according to a statement from the sheriff's office.

 The pursuit continued into Rooks County, where a Rooks County Sheriff’s Deputy successfully deployed spike strips, bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop.

With the vehicle disabled, the male driver—identified as being from Pennsylvania—was given clear commands and taken into custody without incident. No injuries were reported. Area agencies maintained communication throughout the incident, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Rooks County Sheriff’s Office, and Phillips County Sheriff’s Office coordinated to ensure the pursuit was resolved safely and efficiently.

PHILLIPS COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest following a police pursuit in northwest Kansas.Just before 3p.m. Saturday, the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office assisted in a vehicle pursuit that began in Smith County, according to a statement from the sheriff's office. The pursuit continued into Rooks County, where a Rooks County Sheriff’s Deputy successfully deployed spike strips, bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop.With the vehicle disabled, the male driver—identified as being from Pennsylvania—was given clear commands and taken into custody without incident. No injuries were reported. Area agencies maintained communication throughout the incident, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Rooks County Sheriff’s Office, and Phillips County Sheriff’s Office coordinated to ensure the pursuit was resolved safely and efficiently.

Suspect arrested after northwest Kansas police chase

COWLEY COUNTY —A suspect wanted for a shooting in Cowley County is finally in custody.

Earlier this month, police issued an arrest warrant and are asked the public for help to locate shooting suspect 25-year-old Levi Garwood, according to a statement from Winfield Police. The alleged crime occurred on November 22 near Main Street in Winfield. First responders found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and later to a hospital in Wichita.

Detectives conducted witness interviews and reviewed audio and video evidence before seeking a warrant through the Cowley County District Court. Just after 4:30p.m.&nbsp; December 23, Garwood was booked into the Cowley County jail, according to online jail records. He is being held&nbsp; on a $500,000 bomd on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp; Police have not released details of the arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765985005034.png" alt="Garwood photo Winfield Police" />
 <figcaption>Garwood photo Winfield Police</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —A suspect wanted for a shooting in Cowley County is finally in custody.Earlier this month, police issued an arrest warrant and are asked the public for help to locate shooting suspect 25-year-old Levi Garwood, according to a statement from Winfield Police. The alleged crime occurred on November 22 near Main Street in Winfield. First responders found a man with a gunshot wound to the chest. EMS transported the victim to a local hospital and later to a hospital in Wichita.Detectives conducted witness interviews and reviewed audio and video evidence before seeking a warrant through the Cowley County District Court. Just after 4:30p.m.&nbsp; December 23, Garwood was booked into the Cowley County jail, according to online jail records. He is being held&nbsp; on a $500,000 bomd on requested charges of attempted second-degree murder.&nbsp; Police have not released details of the arrest.

After hiding for a month, Kan. attempted murder suspect is in custody

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement investigating a suspect on multiple allegations in connection with a burglary.

On November 7, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of criminal damage and burglary to a vehicle in the City of Delia, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified as Shaun Justin Barber, 41, of Delia.&nbsp; Deputies developed probable cause to search a residence and received a search warrant for 203 East Street in Delia where the suspect was believed to be staying. 

Deputies seized illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia from the residence.&nbsp; The suspect was not present and a warrant was issued for his arrest.&nbsp; On December 22, 2025, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located Barber and arrested him on the outstanding Jackson County warrant.&nbsp; 

Barber was transferred to Jackson County where he was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766368778207.png" alt="Barber-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Barber-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY– Law enforcement investigating a suspect on multiple allegations in connection with a burglary.On November 7, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report of criminal damage and burglary to a vehicle in the City of Delia, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified as Shaun Justin Barber, 41, of Delia.&nbsp; Deputies developed probable cause to search a residence and received a search warrant for 203 East Street in Delia where the suspect was believed to be staying. Deputies seized illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia from the residence.&nbsp; The suspect was not present and a warrant was issued for his arrest.&nbsp; On December 22, 2025, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located Barber and arrested him on the outstanding Jackson County warrant.&nbsp; Barber was transferred to Jackson County where he was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Deputies capture Kan. suspect wanted for November burglary 

WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;— The Wichita Police Department arrested an 18-year-old after he shot and critically injured another 18-year-old Tuesday night inside a south Wichita home.

Officers responded to a report of a shooting around 10 p.m. Dec. 23 in the 3600 block of South Eisenhower Court and found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body.&nbsp;

Investigators determined the victim was in the basement with a friend showing him two firearms. During the interaction, the friend reportedly pointed one of the firearms at the victim and fired, striking him.&nbsp;

The victim was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.&nbsp;

The 18-year-old suspect was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on a charge of aggravated battery.&nbsp;

“Tragically we have another incident where we have two young adults playing with a firearm not practicing responsible gun ownership or handling,” Police Chief Joe Sullivan said. “It is tragic that at this time of year when families are supposed to be celebrating this joyous holiday season coming two families lives have forever been changed.”&nbsp;

WICHITA, Kan.&nbsp;— The Wichita Police Department arrested an 18-year-old after he shot and critically injured another 18-year-old Tuesday night inside a south Wichita home.Officers responded to a report of a shooting around 10 p.m. Dec. 23 in the 3600 block of South Eisenhower Court and found the victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body.&nbsp;Investigators determined the victim was in the basement with a friend showing him two firearms. During the interaction, the friend reportedly pointed one of the firearms at the victim and fired, striking him.&nbsp;The victim was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.&nbsp;The 18-year-old suspect was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on a charge of aggravated battery.&nbsp;“Tragically we have another incident where we have two young adults playing with a firearm not practicing responsible gun ownership or handling,” Police Chief Joe Sullivan said. “It is tragic that at this time of year when families are supposed to be celebrating this joyous holiday season coming two families lives have forever been changed.”&nbsp;

Kan. teen jailed after accidental shooting critically injures teen

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A suspect arrested&nbsp; in connection with an ongoing child abuse investigation made his first appearance in court last week.

A judge charged 30-year-old Kevin D. Mitchell with abuse of child. He is also charged with two counts of failure to appear, according to online jail records.

Just after 5:30p.m. Tuesday, police responded to an EMS assist call at a residence in the 5500 block of South Handley in Wichita, according to a media release.

 Upon arrival, officers found a 1-year-old child unresponsive. The child was transported to a medical facility in critical condition and is currently listed as critical but stable.

Five children were in the home at the time of the incident, ranging from 6 months old to 9 years old. In addition to the 1-year-old, the 6-month-old was also taken to the hospital for medical treatment. All five children have been placed in police protective custody.

Wichita police began investigating at the scene, which led to Mitchell's arrest.&nbsp; He is being held on a bond of $75,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765990410968.png" alt="Mitchell photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Mitchell photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A suspect arrested&nbsp; in connection with an ongoing child abuse investigation made his first appearance in court last week.A judge charged 30-year-old Kevin D. Mitchell with abuse of child. He is also charged with two counts of failure to appear, according to online jail records.Just after 5:30p.m. Tuesday, police responded to an EMS assist call at a residence in the 5500 block of South Handley in Wichita, according to a media release. Upon arrival, officers found a 1-year-old child unresponsive. The child was transported to a medical facility in critical condition and is currently listed as critical but stable.Five children were in the home at the time of the incident, ranging from 6 months old to 9 years old. In addition to the 1-year-old, the 6-month-old was also taken to the hospital for medical treatment. All five children have been placed in police protective custody.Wichita police began investigating at the scene, which led to Mitchell's arrest.&nbsp; He is being held on a bond of $75,000.

Kan. man arrested after 2 kids hospitalized faced a judge

WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging two Indian nationals with allegedly defrauding a victim while posing as federal law enforcement officials.&nbsp;

According to court documents, Venkateswara Reddy Chagamreddy, 27, of San Antonio, Texas, and Sai Praveen Kommana, 29, of Frisco, Texas, were indicted on one count of wire fraud conspiracy and one count of interference with commerce by threat.

From May 2025 through September 2025, Chagamreddy and Kommana are accused of conspiring with others to defraud a victim in Kansas. The members of this conspiracy posed as agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). They allegedly convinced the individual to purchase $255,287 in gold and give it them, falsely thinking it was going to a government agency for safe keeping.

The members of this conspiracy, including the indicted men, allegedly primarily target elderly retired individuals, falsely asserting they are with a government agency and telling victims that their identity has been compromised in ways that could result in jail time and major financial loss for victims. Prosecutors accuse the members of this conspiracy of convincing victims to transfer their assets, primarily in gold, to the federal government to protect themselves against further crimes.

The FBI will never call, email or otherwise contact private citizens to demand payment, threaten arrest, or request personal or sensitive information. Fraud can be reported via<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/home">&nbsp;tips.fbi.gov&nbsp;</a>or 1-800-CALL-FBI. The FBI encourages people who have been victims of internet crimes and/or financial fraud and schemes to report via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/">ic3.gov</a>.&nbsp;

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758654102753.png" alt="Sai Praveen Kommana from his Sept. arrest in Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Sai Praveen Kommana from his Sept. arrest in Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging two Indian nationals with allegedly defrauding a victim while posing as federal law enforcement officials.&nbsp;According to court documents, Venkateswara Reddy Chagamreddy, 27, of San Antonio, Texas, and Sai Praveen Kommana, 29, of Frisco, Texas, were indicted on one count of wire fraud conspiracy and one count of interference with commerce by threat.From May 2025 through September 2025, Chagamreddy and Kommana are accused of conspiring with others to defraud a victim in Kansas. The members of this conspiracy posed as agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). They allegedly convinced the individual to purchase $255,287 in gold and give it them, falsely thinking it was going to a government agency for safe keeping.The members of this conspiracy, including the indicted men, allegedly primarily target elderly retired individuals, falsely asserting they are with a government agency and telling victims that their identity has been compromised in ways that could result in jail time and major financial loss for victims. Prosecutors accuse the members of this conspiracy of convincing victims to transfer their assets, primarily in gold, to the federal government to protect themselves against further crimes.The FBI will never call, email or otherwise contact private citizens to demand payment, threaten arrest, or request personal or sensitive information. Fraud can be reported via<a href="https://tips.fbi.gov/home">&nbsp;tips.fbi.gov&nbsp;</a>or 1-800-CALL-FBI. The FBI encourages people who have been victims of internet crimes and/or financial fraud and schemes to report via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/">ic3.gov</a>.&nbsp;The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Andrusak is prosecuting the case.An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a&nbsp;

2 accused of posing as FBI agents to scam Kansans

&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on drug allegations.&nbsp;

Just after&nbsp; 7:00 a.m. Dec. 18, a Sheriff’s Deputies and Detectives served a search warrant at the residence of 16399 R. Road, just north of the City of Mayetta, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse. In October law enforcement responded to a shooting at the same address.

 The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received information late Tuesday evening reporting a domestic altercation and criminal damage to a vehicle at the location.&nbsp; On Wednesday, deputies served the search warrant taking two men into custody.

Deputies arrested 22-year-old Cody M. Smith and 21-year-old Cole Alexander Thompson both of Mayetta.

Deputies seized cocaine and weapons from the residence. Smith was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of distribution of cocaine, possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Thompson was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of cocaine, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766096515535.png" alt="Smith photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Smith photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating two suspect on drug allegations.&nbsp;Just after&nbsp; 7:00 a.m. Dec. 18, a Sheriff’s Deputies and Detectives served a search warrant at the residence of 16399 R. Road, just north of the City of Mayetta, according to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse. In October law enforcement responded to a shooting at the same address.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766096470916.png" alt="Thompson photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Thompson photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure> The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received information late Tuesday evening reporting a domestic altercation and criminal damage to a vehicle at the location.&nbsp; On Wednesday, deputies served the search warrant taking two men into custody.Deputies arrested 22-year-old Cody M. Smith and 21-year-old Cole Alexander Thompson both of Mayetta.Deputies seized cocaine and weapons from the residence. Smith was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of distribution of cocaine, possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.Thompson was booked into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of&nbsp; possession of cocaine, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

Sheriff: Suspects were selling cocaine from Kansas home

WICHITA, KAN. –&nbsp;Alex Emillano Jaramillo, 45, a minimum-custody resident of the Wichita Work Release Facility (WWRF) has been apprehended.

Jaramillo was taken into custody Wednesday morning, December 24, after surrendering to authorities at a local hospital, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. He was arrested without incident.

Jaramillo was placed on escape status after not returning to the facility Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from his night job.

Jaramillo is listed a violent Kansas offender and has previous convictions for aggravated assault; use of a deadly weapon, burglary, driving while suspended, flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, violation of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766595016819.png" alt="Jaramillo photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Jaramillo photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. –&nbsp;Alex Emillano Jaramillo, 45, a minimum-custody resident of the Wichita Work Release Facility (WWRF) has been apprehended.Jaramillo was taken into custody Wednesday morning, December 24, after surrendering to authorities at a local hospital, according to a media release from the Kansas Department of Corrections. He was arrested without incident.Jaramillo was placed on escape status after not returning to the facility Wednesday, December 24, 2025, from his night job.Jaramillo is listed a violent Kansas offender and has previous convictions for aggravated assault; use of a deadly weapon, burglary, driving while suspended, flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, violation of the offender registration act and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Violent Kan. offender captured after Christmas Eve escape

FINNEY COUNTY—With just a day before Christmas, a crash involving an alleged DUI ensured one "driver’s spot on the naughty list," according to a social media report from Garden City Police.

Just before 11p.m. Dec. 18, Police, Fire, and EMS responded to an injury accident in the 1300 block of N. 13th Street in Garden City. First responders found that a garage and a parked pickup truck in the driveway had been struck. The suspected vehicle, a Toyota Camry, was located across the street with extensive front‑end damage.

The driver, identified as Nickolas Asebedo, 23, ran from the crash as Officers arrived, jumping several fences to escape the area. 

Officers located Asebedo at his home, and further investigation determined he was driving under the influence and registered a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit. 

Asebedo was arrested and booking into the Finney County Jail on requested charges of DUI, Interference LEO, Tampering with an Ignition Interlock Device, and Duty Upon Striking an Unattended Vehicle. There were no injuries reported from the incident.

"We’ve said it before, and we'll keep saying it - please do not drink and drive and risk lives unnecessarily, not just during the holidays, but at any time of the year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766264098179.png" alt="Photo Garden City Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Garden City Police</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—With just a day before Christmas, a crash involving an alleged DUI ensured one "driver’s spot on the naughty list," according to a social media report from Garden City Police.Just before 11p.m. Dec. 18, Police, Fire, and EMS responded to an injury accident in the 1300 block of N. 13th Street in Garden City. First responders found that a garage and a parked pickup truck in the driveway had been struck. The suspected vehicle, a Toyota Camry, was located across the street with extensive front‑end damage.The driver, identified as Nickolas Asebedo, 23, ran from the crash as Officers arrived, jumping several fences to escape the area. Officers located Asebedo at his home, and further investigation determined he was driving under the influence and registered a blood alcohol content nearly twice the legal limit. Asebedo was arrested and booking into the Finney County Jail on requested charges of DUI, Interference LEO, Tampering with an Ignition Interlock Device, and Duty Upon Striking an Unattended Vehicle. There were no injuries reported from the incident."We’ve said it before, and we'll keep saying it - please do not drink and drive and risk lives unnecessarily, not just during the holidays, but at any time of the year.

Police: SW Kansas driver sure to make 'the naughty list'

BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.

Just after 10 p.m. Dec. 21, an police conducted a traffic stop in the 3600 block of 10th&nbsp;Street in Great Bend for an equipment violation, according to a media release.

During this traffic stop, Great Bend K9 Neo was utilized for a free-air sniff of the vehicle. With the assistance of a Barton County Sheriff's deputy, the officer began to conduct a search of the vehicle after a positive alert from K9 Neo.

While removing the two occupants from the vehicle, the male passenger, Jason Sohm, 46, became confrontational and attempted to run.&nbsp; Sohm was unsuccessful and was detained by the two officers. During his attempted flight on foot, Sohm received minor injuries and was treated on scene by Great Bend Fire and EMS.

During the search of the vehicle, a large quantity of a crystal-like substance belonging to Sohm was located. Officers conducted a field test of the substance, which tested positive for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl. 

Sohm was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail, where he was booked on requested charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl/Methamphetamine, Felony Interference with Law Enforcement, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp. Following the initial investigation, the driver of the vehicle was released at the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766451132827.png" alt="Sohm photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Sohm photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on drug allegations.Just after 10 p.m. Dec. 21, an police conducted a traffic stop in the 3600 block of 10th&nbsp;Street in Great Bend for an equipment violation, according to a media release.During this traffic stop, Great Bend K9 Neo was utilized for a free-air sniff of the vehicle. With the assistance of a Barton County Sheriff's deputy, the officer began to conduct a search of the vehicle after a positive alert from K9 Neo.While removing the two occupants from the vehicle, the male passenger, Jason Sohm, 46, became confrontational and attempted to run.&nbsp; Sohm was unsuccessful and was detained by the two officers. During his attempted flight on foot, Sohm received minor injuries and was treated on scene by Great Bend Fire and EMS.During the search of the vehicle, a large quantity of a crystal-like substance belonging to Sohm was located. Officers conducted a field test of the substance, which tested positive for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl. Sohm was placed under arrest and transported to the Barton County Jail, where he was booked on requested charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl/Methamphetamine, Felony Interference with Law Enforcement, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drug Tax Stamp. Following the initial investigation, the driver of the vehicle was released at the scene.

Kan. man transporting fentanyl ran from traffic stop

WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security is continuing to deliver this holiday season on its promise to help illegal aliens in the United States return home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Illegal aliens who sign up to self-deport through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/cbphome" target="_blank">CBP Home app</a>&nbsp;by the end of the year will receive a $3,000 stipend in addition to a free flight home. Using the CBP Home app also qualifies recipients for forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties for failing to depart the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Since January 2025, 1.9 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home program. During the Christmas Season, the U.S. taxpayer is so generously TRIPLING the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in this country illegally- offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but just until the end of the year,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.&nbsp;“Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return.”&nbsp; &nbsp;

Self-deportation through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/cbphome" target="_blank">CBP Home app</a>&nbsp;is the best gift that an illegal alien can give themselves and their families this holiday season. It’s a fast, free, and easy process: Just download the app, fill out your information, and DHS will take care of the rest – including arranging and paying for your travel back home.&nbsp;

Those illegal aliens who don’t take advantage of this special offer today have only one alternative: They will be arrested, deported, and they will never be able to return to the United States.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766422617160.png" alt="Homeland Security" />
 <figcaption>Homeland Security</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security is continuing to deliver this holiday season on its promise to help illegal aliens in the United States return home.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">ILLEGAL ALIENS: Avoid ICE Air and go Ho Ho Home this Christmas using the CBP Home app! <a href="https://t.co/8UqOwg0Dhb">pic.twitter.com/8UqOwg0Dhb</a>&mdash; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (@ICEgov) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICEgov/status/2002912253772026218?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Illegal aliens who sign up to self-deport through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/cbphome" target="_blank">CBP Home app</a>&nbsp;by the end of the year will receive a $3,000 stipend in addition to a free flight home. Using the CBP Home app also qualifies recipients for forgiveness of any civil fines or penalties for failing to depart the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Since January 2025, 1.9 million illegal aliens have voluntarily self-deported and tens of thousands have used the CBP Home program. During the Christmas Season, the U.S. taxpayer is so generously TRIPLING the incentive to leave voluntarily for those in this country illegally- offering a $3,000 exit bonus, but just until the end of the year,”&nbsp;said&nbsp;Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.&nbsp;“Illegal aliens should take advantage of this gift and self-deport because if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return.”&nbsp; &nbsp;Self-deportation through the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dhs.gov/cbphome" target="_blank">CBP Home app</a>&nbsp;is the best gift that an illegal alien can give themselves and their families this holiday season. It’s a fast, free, and easy process: Just download the app, fill out your information, and DHS will take care of the rest – including arranging and paying for your travel back home.&nbsp;Those illegal aliens who don’t take advantage of this special offer today have only one alternative: They will be arrested, deported, and they will never be able to return to the United States.&nbsp;

DHS offers cash stipend for illegal aliens to go ‘Home for the Holidays’

WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita police have arrested a 15-year-old boy in connection with a fatal shooting Monday afternoon in north Wichita.

Officers were dispatched at 3:16 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, to a reported shooting in the 2600 block of N. Fairview. A RAVEN gunshot-detection alert was recorded at about 3:15 p.m. When officers arrived, they found a 14-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. Officers and EMS immediately began life-saving measures.&nbsp;

The teen was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and later died.

Preliminary information indicates four boy, ages 14 to 18, were in a backyard when the shooting occurred.

A 15-year-old was taken to be interviewed and later booked into the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center (JIAC) on a charge of second-degree murder. A firearm was located at the scene, and further testing will be completed to determine if it was the firearm used in the homicide.

The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charging consideration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766512157739.png" alt="Police at the scene on Monday- photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene on Monday- photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. -&nbsp;Wichita police have arrested a 15-year-old boy in connection with a fatal shooting Monday afternoon in north Wichita.Officers were dispatched at 3:16 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, to a reported shooting in the 2600 block of N. Fairview. A RAVEN gunshot-detection alert was recorded at about 3:15 p.m. When officers arrived, they found a 14-year-old boy with a gunshot wound to the upper torso. Officers and EMS immediately began life-saving measures.&nbsp;The teen was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and later died.Preliminary information indicates four boy, ages 14 to 18, were in a backyard when the shooting occurred.A 15-year-old was taken to be interviewed and later booked into the Juvenile Intake Assessment Center (JIAC) on a charge of second-degree murder. A firearm was located at the scene, and further testing will be completed to determine if it was the firearm used in the homicide.The case will be presented to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office for formal charging consideration.

15-year-old Kansas boy accused in deadly shooting

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.

Gary Glacken, Failure to appear, arrested 12/19

Jordan Thiem, Aggravated indecent liberties with a child; Intercourse with child 14 &lt; 16 years of age, arrested 12/19

Cinderella Jackson, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 12/19

Tommy Clements, Failure to appear, arrested 12/20

Chassidy Vieira, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 12/20

Christopher Wood, Unlawful damage to property; Domestic battery, arrested 12/20

Laura Wood, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 12/20

Jordan Thiem, Aggravated indecent liberties with a child; Intercourse with child 14 &lt; 16 years of age, arrested 12/20

Evan Booker, Unlawful restraint; Domestic battery, arrested 12/20

Sadid Pagan, Failure to appear, arrested 12/20

Javon Bailey, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 12/20

Dalton Jurgens, Assault; Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner; Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear to person or family, arrested 12/21

Cameron Muller, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 12/21

Christina Murphy, Failure to appear, arrested 12/21

Tamia Moses, Failure to appear, arrested 12/22

Recent Booking Activity for the Geary County Detention Center. All persons included in this post are innocent of crimes until proven guilty in a court of law.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507483400.jpeg" alt="Jimmie King, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 12/21" />
 <figcaption>Jimmie King, Use/possess with intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of controlled substance; Theft &lt; $1,500 pocket picking, arrested 12/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507494401.jpeg" alt="Mikal Kairson, Failure to appear, arrested 12/21" />
 <figcaption>Mikal Kairson, Failure to appear, arrested 12/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507506762.jpeg" alt="Lamont Kairson,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 12/21" />
 <figcaption>Lamont Kairson,&nbsp;Failure to appear, arrested 12/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507519780.jpeg" alt="Cody Allen, Aggravated battery; Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 12/21" />
 <figcaption>Cody Allen, Aggravated battery; Knowingly cause great bodily harm or disfigurement, arrested 12/21</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507534610.jpeg" alt="Roland Dore, Sexual Battery; Rape, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Roland Dore, Sexual Battery; Rape, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507796138.jpeg" alt="Jose Quinonez-Barreto, Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear to person or family; Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt; $1,000), arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Jose Quinonez-Barreto, Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear to person or family; Criminal damage to property without consent (value &lt; $1,000), arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507556707.jpeg" alt="Ashley Cain, Theft-all other, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Ashley Cain, Theft-all other, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507902359.jpeg" alt="Derrick Barbour Jr., Failure to appear; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship (2nd in 5 years); Criminal threat; Criminal damage to property; Criminal restraint; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship; Aggravated arson, substantial risk to great bodily harm, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Derrick Barbour Jr., Failure to appear; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship (2nd in 5 years); Criminal threat; Criminal damage to property; Criminal restraint; Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/dating relationship; Aggravated arson, substantial risk to great bodily harm, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507913312.jpeg" alt="Calvin Fontenot, Probation violation, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Calvin Fontenot, Probation violation, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507925961.jpeg" alt="Michael Roth Jr., Probation violation, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Michael Roth Jr., Probation violation, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507938721.jpeg" alt="Wayne Boyd, Failure to appear, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Wayne Boyd, Failure to appear, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507959283.jpeg" alt="Erica Brown, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution; Burglary, vehicle to commit felony, Theft, Domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Erica Brown, Interference with LEO, Obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution; Burglary, vehicle to commit felony, Theft, Domestic violence, or sexually motivated crime, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766507969628.jpeg" alt="Reece Williston, Failure to appear, arrested 12/22" />
 <figcaption>Reece Williston, Failure to appear, arrested 12/22</figcaption>
 </figure>Bonds have been posted. Photos are unavailable.Gary Glacken, Failure to appear, arrested 12/19Jordan Thiem, Aggravated indecent liberties with a child; Intercourse with child 14 &lt; 16 years of age, arrested 12/19Cinderella Jackson, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 12/19Tommy Clements, Failure to appear, arrested 12/20Chassidy Vieira, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol, arrested 12/20Christopher Wood, Unlawful damage to property; Domestic battery, arrested 12/20Laura Wood, Criminal deprivation of property; Domestic battery, arrested 12/20Jordan Thiem, Aggravated indecent liberties with a child; Intercourse with child 14 &lt; 16 years of age, arrested 12/20Evan Booker, Unlawful restraint; Domestic battery, arrested 12/20Sadid Pagan, Failure to appear, arrested 12/20Javon Bailey, Cancelled/suspended/revoked driver's license, arrested 12/20Dalton Jurgens, Assault; Battery; Physical contact in rude, insulting, angry manner; Stalking; Reckless conduct causing fear to person or family, arrested 12/21Cameron Muller, Unlawful damage to property, arrested 12/21Christina Murphy, Failure to appear, arrested 12/21Tamia Moses, Failure to appear, arrested 12/22Recent 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 Dec. 20-23

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the death of a 4-year-old boy is due back in court on Monday.&nbsp;

On Dec. 12, Judge Rodger Woods charged 34-year-old Daniel Martin with&nbsp; first degree murder and child abuse in the death of Tiuri Blunt-Porrata, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Just before 3:30p.m. Dec. 8, police&nbsp; responded to a medical call regarding an unresponsive 4-year-old child in the 2600 block of South Topeka in Wichita, according to police department spokesman Andrew Ford. The child identified as Tirui Blunt-Porrata, according to an online fundraiser, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased at 4:07 p.m.

Police arrested Martin and booked him, into the Sedgwick County Jail where he remains on a $1 million bond, according to online jail records.

On December 16, police arrested the boy's mother 27-year-old Tyne Blunt in connection with the boy's death. A Sedgwick County judge charged her with first-degree murder and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Blunt is being held on a  a $750,000 bond and is scheduled to return to court on December 29, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765296481475.png" alt="Martin-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Martin-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in the death of a 4-year-old boy is due back in court on Monday.&nbsp;On Dec. 12, Judge Rodger Woods charged 34-year-old Daniel Martin with&nbsp; first degree murder and child abuse in the death of Tiuri Blunt-Porrata, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1765596159268.png" alt="Tiuri Blunt-Porrata-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Tiuri Blunt-Porrata-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 3:30p.m. Dec. 8, police&nbsp; responded to a medical call regarding an unresponsive 4-year-old child in the 2600 block of South Topeka in Wichita, according to police department spokesman Andrew Ford. The child identified as Tirui Blunt-Porrata, according to an online fundraiser, was transported to a local hospital in critical condition and was pronounced deceased at 4:07 p.m.Police arrested Martin and booked him, into the Sedgwick County Jail where he remains on a $1 million bond, according to online jail records.On December 16, police arrested the boy's mother 27-year-old Tyne Blunt in connection with the boy's death. A Sedgwick County judge charged her with first-degree murder and aggravated endangering a child, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Blunt is being held on a a $750,000 bond and is scheduled to return to court on December 29, according to the district attorney's office.

Suspect in 4-year-old's death is due back in court

RILEY COUNTY --Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend incident in Riley County.

Just before 3:30p.m. Sunday,  a 22-year-old suspect drove his vehicle at officers and then struck a gate that hit the two officers, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Ashton Troughton, 22, of Ogden, was arrested at approximately 4:20 p.m. in the 20000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd and remains jailed on a $50,000 bond on requested charges that include two counts of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and two counts of attempted aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY --Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend incident in Riley County.Just before 3:30p.m. Sunday, a 22-year-old suspect drove his vehicle at officers and then struck a gate that hit the two officers, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Ashton Troughton, 22, of Ogden, was arrested at approximately 4:20 p.m. in the 20000 block of Tuttle Creek Blvd and remains jailed on a $50,000 bond on requested charges that include two counts of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and two counts of attempted aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer.&nbsp;

Riley Co. man threatened officers with his vehicle

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Wichita police arrested four people, including two juveniles, after investigators determined a gunshot that struck a 22-year-old woman inside her home was fired from a nearby parking garage.

Just before 10p.m. Dec. 18, police responded to a reported shooting in the 700 block of E. Second Street North in Wichita, according to a media release.

The injured woman told officers she had just arrived home with a friend when a bullet came through a window and struck her in the upper body. She went to a local hospital in a private vehicle and was later treated and released.

Investigators determined the shot came from the Warren Parking Garage, 315 N. Moore Street., across from the apartment complex at 701 E. Second St. North.

Cameras in the area were used to identify a vehicle of interest. Later that night, officers observed and stopped that vehicle near Mount Vernon and Washington. Officers detained five people and took them for interviews. Police later booked four suspects into the Sedgwick County Jail and the Juvenile Detention Facility.

Those arrested include a 17-year-old boy, a 14-year-old boy, an 18-year-old woman identified in county booking records at Pamela Nunez and a 20-year-old man identified in county booking records as Franklin L. Hernandez Murillo. They are being held on requested charges of aggravated battery, discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling and unlawful possession of a firearm by a juvenile.

“This has to stop,” Chief Joe Sullivan said. “One reckless decision can change a life forever. Juveniles, or any person, who make the intentional decision to pick up a firearm and use it in the commission of a crime need to and will be held accountable.”

Anyone with information is asked to call investigators at 316-268-4407. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766245844778.png" alt="Hernandez Murillo-Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Hernandez Murillo-Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — Wichita police arrested four people, including two juveniles, after investigators determined a gunshot that struck a 22-year-old woman inside her home was fired from a nearby parking garage.Just before 10p.m. Dec. 18, police responded to a reported shooting in the 700 block of E. Second Street North in Wichita, according to a media release.The injured woman told officers she had just arrived home with a friend when a bullet came through a window and struck her in the upper body. She went to a local hospital in a private vehicle and was later treated and released.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766246386311.png" alt="Nunez photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Nunez photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators determined the shot came from the Warren Parking Garage, 315 N. Moore Street., across from the apartment complex at 701 E. Second St. North.Cameras in the area were used to identify a vehicle of interest. Later that night, officers observed and stopped that vehicle near Mount Vernon and Washington. Officers detained five people and took them for interviews. Police later booked four suspects into the Sedgwick County Jail and the Juvenile Detention Facility.Those arrested include a 17-year-old boy, a 14-year-old boy, an 18-year-old woman identified in county booking records at Pamela Nunez and a 20-year-old man identified in county booking records as Franklin L. Hernandez Murillo. They are being held on requested charges of aggravated battery, discharge of a firearm into an occupied dwelling and unlawful possession of a firearm by a juvenile.“This has to stop,” Chief Joe Sullivan said. “One reckless decision can change a life forever. Juveniles, or any person, who make the intentional decision to pick up a firearm and use it in the commission of a crime need to and will be held accountable.”Anyone with information is asked to call investigators at 316-268-4407. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

Gunfire struck Kansas woman in her home, 4 arrested

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday defended the Justice Department’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/release-epstein-files-justice-department-trump-f919d9dc9c3957cb2bd2c9c1a14b533c">release just a fraction</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>&nbsp;files by the congressionally mandated deadline as necessary to protect survivors of sexual abuse by the disgraced financier.

<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">Click here to see</a>&nbsp;the Epstein files and do a search

Blanche pledged that the Trump administration eventually would meet its obligation required by law. But he stressed that the department was obligated to act with caution as it goes about making public thousands of documents that can include sensitive information.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/release-epstein-files-justice-department-trump-f919d9dc9c3957cb2bd2c9c1a14b533c">Friday's partial release</a>&nbsp;of the Epstein files has led to a new crush of criticism from Democrats who have accused the Republican administration of trying to hide information.

Blanche called that pushback disingenuous as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;administration continues to struggle with calls for greater transparency, including from members of his political base, about the government’s investigations into Epstein, who once counted Trump as well as several political leaders and business titans among his peers.

“The reason why we are still reviewing documents and still continuing our process is simply that to protect victims,” Blanche told NBC's "Meet the Press." “So the same individuals that are out there complaining about the lack of documents that were produced on Friday are the same individuals who apparently don’t want us to protect victims.”

Blanche's comments were the most extensive by the administration since the file dump, which included photographs, interview transcripts, call logs, court records and other documents. But some of the most consequential records expected about Epstein were nowhere to be found, such as FBI interviews with survivors and internal Justice Department memos examining charging decisions. Those records could help explain how investigators viewed the case and why Epstein was allowed in 2008 to plead guilty to a relatively minor state-level prostitution charge.

Trump, who was friends with Epstein for years before the two had a falling-out, tried for months to keep the records sealed. Though Trump has not been accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein, he has argued there is nothing to see in the files and that the public should focus on other issues.

Federal prosecutors in New York brought sex trafficking charges against Epstein in 2019, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-jail-suicide-prison-death-8d194a756f2b429067f009a0c70f96c0">he killed himself in jail</a>&nbsp;after his arrest.

Democrat see a cover-up, not an effort to protect victims

But Democratic lawmakers on Sunday hammered Trump and the Justice Department for a partial release.

Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., argued that the Justice Department is obstructing the implementation of the law mandating the release of the documents not because it wants to protect the Epstein victims.

“It’s all about covering up things that, for whatever reason, Donald Trump doesn’t want to go public, either about himself, other members of his family, friends, Jeffrey Epstein, or just the social, business, cultural network that he was involved in for at least a decade, if not longer," he said on CNN's “State of the Union.”

Blanche also defended the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/release-epstein-files-justice-department-trump-9290fcaad1cb6fcb1cbc1befabc01994">department's decision to remove several files</a>&nbsp;related to the case from its public webpage, including a photograph showing Trump, less than a day after they were posted.

The missing files, which were available Friday but no longer accessible by Saturday, included images of paintings depicting nude women, and one showed a series of photographs along a credenza and in drawers. In that image, inside a drawer among other photos, was a photograph of Trump, alongside Epstein, Melania Trump and Epstein’s longtime associate, Ghislaine Maxwell.

Blanche said the documents were removed because they also showed victims of Epstein. Blanche said that Trump photo and the other documents will be reposted once redactions are made to protect survivors.

“It has nothing to do with President Trump,” Blanche said. “There are dozens of photos of President Trump already released to the public seeing him with Mr. Epstein.”

The thousands of Epstein-related records posted publicly offer the most detailed look yet at nearly two decades worth of government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-epstein-investigation-records-timeline-545c371ee3dd3142355a26d27829c188">scrutiny of Epstein’s sexual abuse</a>&nbsp;of young women and underage girls. Yet Friday's release, replete with redactions, has not dulled the clamor for information given how many records had yet to be released and because some of the materials had already been made public.

Justice Department has just learned the names of more potential victims, Blanche says

Blanche said that the department continues to review the trove of documents and has learned the names of additional potential victims in recent days.

The deputy attorney general also defended the decision by the federal Bureau of Prisons, which Blanche oversees, to transfer Maxwell to a less restrictive, minimum-security federal prison earlier this year soon after he interviewed her about Epstein. Blanche said that the transfer was made because of concerns about her safety.

Maxwell, Epstein's onetime girlfriend, is serving a 20-year federal prison sentence for her 2021 conviction for sex trafficking crimes.

“She was suffering numerous and numerous threats against her life,” Blanche said. “So the BOP is not only responsible for putting people in jail and making sure they stay in jail, but also for their safety.”

Meanwhile, Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and Thomas Massie, R-Ky., have indicated they could draft articles of impeachment against Attorney General Pam Bondi for what they see as the gross failure of the department to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

“It’s not about the timeline, it’s about the selective concealment,” Khanna said on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” adding that the redactions in the released files are excessive. He said he believes there will be "bipartisan support in holding her accountable, and a committee of Congress should determine whether these redactions are justified or not."

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York said on ABC's “This Week” that there needs “to be a full and complete explanation and then a full and complete investigation as to why the document production has fallen short of what the law clearly required,” but he stopped short of backing impeachment.

“Bring it on,” Blanche said. “We are doing everything we’re supposed to be doing to comply with this statute.”

Gómez Licón reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Sunday defended the Justice Department’s decision to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/release-epstein-files-justice-department-trump-f919d9dc9c3957cb2bd2c9c1a14b533c">release just a fraction</a>&nbsp;of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/jeffrey-epstein">Jeffrey Epstein</a>&nbsp;files by the congressionally mandated deadline as necessary to protect survivors of sexual abuse by the disgraced financier.<a href="https://www.justice.gov/epstein">Click here to see</a>&nbsp;the Epstein files and do a search<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/ZbpE6Uq6xh">pic.twitter.com/ZbpE6Uq6xh</a>&mdash; U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJusticeDept/status/2002843217633632644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Blanche pledged that the Trump administration eventually would meet its obligation required by law. But he stressed that the department was obligated to act with caution as it goes about making public thousands of documents that can include sensitive information.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/release-epstein-files-justice-department-trump-f919d9dc9c3957cb2bd2c9c1a14b533c">Friday's partial release</a>&nbsp;of the Epstein files has led to a new crush of criticism from Democrats who have accused the Republican administration of trying to hide information.Blanche called that pushback disingenuous as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump's</a>&nbsp;administration continues to struggle with calls for greater transparency, including from members of his political base, about the government’s investigations into Epstein, who once counted Trump as well as several political leaders and business titans among his peers.“The reason why we are still reviewing documents and still continuing our process is simply that to protect victims,” Blanche told NBC's "Meet the Press." “So the same individuals that are out there complaining about the lack of documents that were produced on Friday are the same individuals who apparently don’t want us to protect victims.”Blanche's comments were the most extensive by the administration since the file dump, which included photographs, interview transcripts, call logs, court records and other documents. But some of the most consequential records expected about Epstein were nowhere to be found, such as FBI interviews with survivors and internal Justice Department memos examining charging decisions. Those records could help explain how investigators viewed the case and why Epstein was allowed in 2008 to plead guilty to a relatively minor state-level prostitution charge.Trump, who was friends with Epstein for years before the two had a falling-out, tried for months to keep the records sealed. Though Trump has not been accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein, he has argued there is nothing to see in the files and that the public should focus on other issues.Federal prosecutors in New York brought sex trafficking charges against Epstein in 2019, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jeffrey-epstein-jail-suicide-prison-death-8d194a756f2b429067f009a0c70f96c0">he killed himself in jail</a>&nbsp;after his arrest.<h2>Democrat see a cover-up, not an effort to protect victims</h2>But Democratic lawmakers on Sunday hammered Trump and the Justice Department for a partial release.Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., argued that the Justice Department is obstructing the implementation of the law mandating the release of the documents not because it wants to protect the Epstein victims.“It’s all about covering up things that, for whatever reason, Donald Trump doesn’t want to go public, either about himself, other members of his family, friends, Jeffrey Epstein, or just the social, business, cultural network that he was involved in for at least a decade, if not longer," he said on CNN's “State of the Union.”Blanche also defended the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/release-epstein-files-justice-department-trump-9290fcaad1cb6fcb1cbc1befabc01994">department's decision to remove several files</a>&nbsp;related to the case from its public webpage, including a photograph showing Trump, less than a day after they were posted.The missing files, which were available Friday but no longer accessible by Saturday, included images of paintings depicting nude women, and one showed a series of photographs along a credenza and in drawers. In that image, inside a drawer among other photos, was a photograph of Trump, alongside Epstein, Melania Trump and Epstein’s longtime associate, Ghislaine Maxwell.Blanche said the documents were removed because they also showed victims of Epstein. Blanche said that Trump photo and the other documents will be reposted once redactions are made to protect survivors.“It has nothing to do with President Trump,” Blanche said. “There are dozens of photos of President Trump already released to the public seeing him with Mr. Epstein.”The thousands of Epstein-related records posted publicly offer the most detailed look yet at nearly two decades worth of government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-epstein-investigation-records-timeline-545c371ee3dd3142355a26d27829c188">scrutiny of Epstein’s sexual abuse</a>&nbsp;of young women and underage girls. Yet Friday's release, replete with redactions, has not dulled the clamor for information given how many records had yet to be released and because some of the materials had already been made public.<h2>Justice Department has just learned the names of more potential victims, Blanche says</h2>Blanche said that the department continues to review the trove of documents and has learned the names of additional potential victims in recent days.The deputy attorney general also defended the decision by the federal Bureau of Prisons, which Blanche oversees, to transfer Maxwell to a less restrictive, minimum-security federal prison earlier this year soon after he interviewed her about Epstein. Blanche said that the transfer was made because of concerns about her safety.Maxwell, Epstein's onetime girlfriend, is serving a 20-year federal prison sentence for her 2021 conviction for sex trafficking crimes.“She was suffering numerous and numerous threats against her life,” Blanche said. “So the BOP is not only responsible for putting people in jail and making sure they stay in jail, but also for their safety.”Meanwhile, Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., and Thomas Massie, R-Ky., have indicated they could draft articles of impeachment against Attorney General Pam Bondi for what they see as the gross failure of the department to comply with the Epstein Files Transparency Act.“It’s not about the timeline, it’s about the selective concealment,” Khanna said on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” adding that the redactions in the released files are excessive. He said he believes there will be "bipartisan support in holding her accountable, and a committee of Congress should determine whether these redactions are justified or not."House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York said on ABC's “This Week” that there needs “to be a full and complete explanation and then a full and complete investigation as to why the document production has fallen short of what the law clearly required,” but he stopped short of backing impeachment.Blanche dismissed the impeachment talk.“Bring it on,” Blanche said. “We are doing everything we’re supposed to be doing to comply with this statute.”___Gómez Licón reported from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

DOJ issues new statement on release of Epstein files

SEDGWICK COUNTY– A Kansas teacher charged with sex crimes involving a student was back in court Friday for an arraignment hearing.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Nicole Morgan Baird Hernandez, 30, pleaded not guilty in Judge Rodger Woods courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Earlier this month, the judge determined&nbsp; there was enough evidence against Hernandez to go to trial on charges of unlawful sexual relations with a student, according to the District Attorney's office.&nbsp; 

Hernandez&nbsp; was an art teacher at Wichita North High School, according to the school web site.&nbsp;The student involved was over the age of 16, according to the arrest report.

On May 22, police arrested her in the 300 Block of West Tyler in Wichita. She met the requirement for bond and was released from custody the following day.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749221483052.png" alt="Hernandez photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Hernandez photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY– A Kansas teacher charged with sex crimes involving a student was back in court Friday for an arraignment hearing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nicole Morgan Baird Hernandez, 30, pleaded not guilty in Judge Rodger Woods courtroom, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. Earlier this month, the judge determined&nbsp; there was enough evidence against Hernandez to go to trial on charges of unlawful sexual relations with a student, according to the District Attorney's office.&nbsp; Hernandez&nbsp; was an art teacher at Wichita North High School, according to the school web site.&nbsp;The student involved was over the age of 16, according to the arrest report.On May 22, police arrested her in the 300 Block of West Tyler in Wichita. She met the requirement for bond and was released from custody the following day.

Kan. art teacher accused of sex crime with student enters a plea

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has suspended men's basketball assistant coach Joe Dooley after he was arrested late Saturday on suspicion of driving under the influence and failure to stop at an accident, the school said in a statement Sunday.

Jayhawks coach Bill Self said Dooley “exercised poor judgement and will be suspended for three weeks, effectively immediately.”

“Joe is remorseful, apologetic and accepts the consequences of his actions,” Self added.

Dooley was hired by Self in 2003 and worked with him for a decade before serving as the head coach at Florida Gulf Coast and East Carolina. He returned to the Jayhawks in 2022, first as the director of student-athlete development and now an assistant coach.

<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 17</a>&nbsp;Kansas plays Davidson on Monday night before opening Big 12 play against UCF on Jan. 3 in Orlando, Florida.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766354045813.png" alt="Coach Joe Dooley photo KU Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Coach Joe Dooley photo KU Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has suspended men's basketball assistant coach Joe Dooley after he was arrested late Saturday on suspicion of driving under the influence and failure to stop at an accident, the school said in a statement Sunday.Jayhawks coach Bill Self said Dooley “exercised poor judgement and will be suspended for three weeks, effectively immediately.”“Joe is remorseful, apologetic and accepts the consequences of his actions,” Self added.Dooley was hired by Self in 2003 and worked with him for a decade before serving as the head coach at Florida Gulf Coast and East Carolina. He returned to the Jayhawks in 2022, first as the director of student-athlete development and now an assistant coach.<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-basketball-poll">No. 17</a>&nbsp;Kansas plays Davidson on Monday night before opening Big 12 play against UCF on Jan. 3 in Orlando, Florida.

KU  suspends assistant basketball coach after DUI arrest

The Junction City Police Department has been made aware of a scam currently targeting members of the community. Police said an individual is spoofing the Junction City Police Department’s phone number and claiming to be Chief of Police Nichols. The caller states that Homeland Security has notified them of a warrant for the recipient’s arrest and demands immediate payment to avoid arrest. They may also claim officers are being sent if payment is not made.

This is a scam! Important reminders include the following: 

- JCPD will never call to demand payment or threaten arrest 

- They will never request money, gift cards, or financial information over the phone

-- Phone numbers can be spoofed to appear legitimate.If you receive a call like this, do not engage with the caller, do not provide personal or financial information, hang up, and contact the Junction City Police Department using a verified phone number.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Junction City Police Department has been made aware of a scam currently targeting members of the community. Police said an individual is spoofing the Junction City Police Department’s phone number and claiming to be Chief of Police Nichols. The caller states that Homeland Security has notified them of a warrant for the recipient’s arrest and demands immediate payment to avoid arrest. They may also claim officers are being sent if payment is not made.This is a scam! Important reminders include the following: - JCPD will never call to demand payment or threaten arrest - They will never request money, gift cards, or financial information over the phone-- Phone numbers can be spoofed to appear legitimate.If you receive a call like this, do not engage with the caller, do not provide personal or financial information, hang up, and contact the Junction City Police Department using a verified phone number.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Junction City police issue scam alert

SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas teen who admitted her role in an acid attack on another girl is going to prison.

On Friday Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced Tayronnia West, who was 18 at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post release supervision,&nbsp; according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The judge followed the state’s recommendations and denied a motion for a departure to probation.

In September, West pled guilty to Reckless Aggravated Battery, severity level 5, person felony, according to the District Attorney's office.&nbsp;

In June Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced West's accomplice Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. A&nbsp;jury found Hollins guilty of aggravated battery. She is being held in the Topeka Correctional facility and has been disciplined five times since June, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

In May of 2024, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a fight.&nbsp;

In June Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced West's accomplice Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

Immediately following the acid attack incident, investigators with the Wichita Police Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for the suspects. On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested Hollins and accomplice Tayronnia Jontashia West. In March of 2025, police also arrested a 17-year-old girl in connection with the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/12/1766269444506.png" alt="West photo Sedgwick Co. Jail" />
 <figcaption>West photo Sedgwick Co. Jail</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — A Kansas teen who admitted her role in an acid attack on another girl is going to prison.On Friday Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced Tayronnia West, who was 18 at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post release supervision,&nbsp; according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.&nbsp;&nbsp;The judge followed the state’s recommendations and denied a motion for a departure to probation.In September, West pled guilty to Reckless Aggravated Battery, severity level 5, person felony, according to the District Attorney's office.&nbsp;In June Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced West's accomplice Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. A&nbsp;jury found Hollins guilty of aggravated battery. She is being held in the Topeka Correctional facility and has been disciplined five times since June, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.In May of 2024, police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of N Dodge in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Captain Aaron Moses. The victim in this case, an 18-year-old girl later arrived at an area hospital with second degree burns to the face and neck believed to be caused by a suspect throwing an acidic liquid on her during a fight.&nbsp;In June Judge Tyler Rousch sentenced West's accomplice Ye'Kira Acoya Hollins, who was 18, at the time of the crime, to 34 months in prison and 24 months of post-release supervision, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.Immediately following the acid attack incident, investigators with the Wichita Police Felony Assault unit along with patrol officers began looking for the suspects. On June 5, officers with the Patrol North Community Response Team located and arrested Hollins and accomplice Tayronnia Jontashia West. In March of 2025, police also arrested a 17-year-old girl in connection with the case.

Prison for throwing acid on Kansas teen's face during a fight

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. forces on Saturday stopped an oil tanker off the coast of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/venezuela">Venezuela</a>&nbsp;for the second time in less than two weeks as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;continues to ramp up pressure on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.</a>

The pre-dawn operation comes days after Trump announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-maduro-sanctioned-oil-blockade-fd8fd9aa3da41f826fbabd8752dc9a17">“blockade” of all sanctioned oil tankers</a>&nbsp;coming in and out of the South American country and follows the Dec. 10&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">seizure by American forces</a>&nbsp;of an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that the U.S. Coast Guard with help from the Defense Department stopped the oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. She also posted on social media an unclassified video of a U.S helicopter landing personnel on a vessel called Centuries.

A crude oil tanker flying under the flag of Panama operates under the name and was recently spotted near the Venezuelan coast, according to MarineTraffic, a project that tracks the movement of vessels around the globe using publicly available data. It was not immediately clear if the vessel was under U.S. sanctions.

“The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region,” Noem wrote on X. “We will find you, and we will stop you.”

The action was a “consented boarding,” with the tanker stopping voluntarily and allowing U.S. forces to board it, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Pentagon and White House officials did not immediately respond to a requests for comment.

Trump following the first tanker seizure, of a vessel named the Skipper, this month vowed that the U.S. would carry out a blockade of Venezuela. It all comes as Trump has ratcheted up his rhetoric toward Maduro and warned that the longtime Venezuelan leader’s days in power are numbered.

And the president this week demanded that Venezuela return assets that it seized from U.S. oil companies years ago, justifying anew his announcement of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-maduro-oil-tankers-625a7c9a3106e316c97ceb68a42a1cb5">“blockade” against oil tankers traveling</a>&nbsp;to or from the South American country that face American sanctions.

Trump cited the lost U.S. investments in Venezuela when asked about his newest tactic in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">pressure campaign</a>&nbsp;against Maduro, suggesting the Republican administration’s moves are at least somewhat motivated by disputes over oil investments, along with accusations of drug trafficking. Some sanctioned tankers already are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-oil-tankers-maduro-trump-blockade-2460e98e4c504cd2a1c86b951e825013">diverting away from Venezuela</a>.

"We’re not going to be letting anybody going through who shouldn’t be going through,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. “You remember they took all of our energy rights. They took all of our oil not that long ago. And we want it back. They took it — they illegally took it.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. forces on Saturday stopped an oil tanker off the coast of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/venezuela">Venezuela</a>&nbsp;for the second time in less than two weeks as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;continues to ramp up pressure on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/nicolas-maduro">Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.</a><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">In a pre-dawn action early this morning on Dec. 20, the US Coast Guard with the support of the Department of War apprehended an oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund… <a href="https://t.co/nSZ4mi6axc">pic.twitter.com/nSZ4mi6axc</a>&mdash; Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sec_Noem/status/2002481990755627050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The pre-dawn operation comes days after Trump announced a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-maduro-sanctioned-oil-blockade-fd8fd9aa3da41f826fbabd8752dc9a17">“blockade” of all sanctioned oil tankers</a>&nbsp;coming in and out of the South American country and follows the Dec. 10&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tanker-seized-venezuela-maduro-0a148ba01684fc6ce1a228dd276732c0">seizure by American forces</a>&nbsp;of an oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast.Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed that the U.S. Coast Guard with help from the Defense Department stopped the oil tanker that was last docked in Venezuela. She also posted on social media an unclassified video of a U.S helicopter landing personnel on a vessel called Centuries.A crude oil tanker flying under the flag of Panama operates under the name and was recently spotted near the Venezuelan coast, according to MarineTraffic, a project that tracks the movement of vessels around the globe using publicly available data. It was not immediately clear if the vessel was under U.S. sanctions.“The United States will continue to pursue the illicit movement of sanctioned oil that is used to fund narco terrorism in the region,” Noem wrote on X. “We will find you, and we will stop you.”The action was a “consented boarding,” with the tanker stopping voluntarily and allowing U.S. forces to board it, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity.Pentagon and White House officials did not immediately respond to a requests for comment.Trump following the first tanker seizure, of a vessel named the Skipper, this month vowed that the U.S. would carry out a blockade of Venezuela. It all comes as Trump has ratcheted up his rhetoric toward Maduro and warned that the longtime Venezuelan leader’s days in power are numbered.And the president this week demanded that Venezuela return assets that it seized from U.S. oil companies years ago, justifying anew his announcement of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-venezuela-maduro-oil-tankers-625a7c9a3106e316c97ceb68a42a1cb5">“blockade” against oil tankers traveling</a>&nbsp;to or from the South American country that face American sanctions.Trump cited the lost U.S. investments in Venezuela when asked about his newest tactic in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maduro-venezuela-drug-cartels-military-timeline-91e242e5c56eec39b6b7d72bf55dbd2d">pressure campaign</a>&nbsp;against Maduro, suggesting the Republican administration’s moves are at least somewhat motivated by disputes over oil investments, along with accusations of drug trafficking. Some sanctioned tankers already are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-oil-tankers-maduro-trump-blockade-2460e98e4c504cd2a1c86b951e825013">diverting away from Venezuela</a>."We’re not going to be letting anybody going through who shouldn’t be going through,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. “You remember they took all of our energy rights. They took all of our oil not that long ago. And we want it back. They took it — they illegally took it.”U.S. oil companies dominated&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-maduro-oil-trump-blockade-food-shortages-de504343d2118840f41bcc0cf6788ef4">Venezuela’s petroleum industry</a>&nbsp;until the country’s leaders moved to nationalize the sector, first in the 1970s and again in the 21st century under Maduro and his predecessor, Hugo Chávez. Compensation offered by Venezuela was deemed insufficient, and in 2014 an international arbitration panel ordered the country’s socialist government to pay $1.6 billion to ExxonMobil.The targeting of tankers comes as Trump has ordered the Defense Department to carry out a series of attacks on vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean that his administration alleges are smuggling fentanyl and other illegal drugs into the United States and beyond.At least 104 people have been killed in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-petro-colombia-drugs-us-aid-c3955b2ce351737119920741178e0567">28 known strikes</a>&nbsp;since early September.The strikes have faced scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers and human rights activists, who say the administration has offered scant evidence that its targets are indeed drug smugglers and that the fatal strikes amount to extrajudicial killings.The Coast Guard, sometimes with help from the Navy, had typically interdicted boats suspected of smuggling drugs in the Caribbean Sea, searched for illicit cargo, and arrested the people aboard for prosecution.The administration has justified the strikes as necessary, asserting it is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cartels-armed-conflict-cb57804807e55a00ace60ad5f4d4f24d">“armed conflict” with drug cartels</a>&nbsp;aimed at halting the flow of narcotics into the United States. Maduro faces federal charges of narcoterrorism in the U.S.The U.S. in recent months has sent&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-military-buildup-caribbean-venezuela-ships-troops-810f6181371f53536c723ea562c5277c">a fleet of warships</a>&nbsp;to the region, the largest buildup of forces in generations, and Trump has stated repeatedly that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-maduro-cartel-soles-us-drugs-terrorist-f778922c04b4f514092bd29b91e77358">land attacks are coming soon</a>.Maduro has insisted the real purpose of the U.S. military operations is to force him from power.White House chief of staff Susie Wiles said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/susie-wiles-interview-donald-trump-a9b42bf0580f9ebdf93a45e7d19382f5">in an interview with Vanity Fair</a>&nbsp;published this week that Trump “wants to keep on blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle.”___Madhani reported from West Palm Beach, Florida.