WASHINGTON&nbsp; —A Chinese national who amassed millions of hijacked residential IP addresses and facilitated billions of dollars in unemployment and pandemic relief fraud is in custody, according to the United State's Department of Justice.

A court-authorized international law enforcement operation led by the U.S. Justice Department disrupted a botnet used to commit cyber attacks, large-scale fraud, child exploitation, harassment, bomb threats, and export violations, according to a media release.

As part of this operation, YunHe Wang, 35, a People’s Republic of China national and St. Kitts and Nevis citizen-by-investment, was arrested on May 24 on criminal charges arising from his deployment of malware and the creation and operation of a residential proxy service known as “911 S5.”

According to an indictment unsealed on May 24, from 2014 through July 2022, Wang and others are alleged to have created and disseminated malware to compromise and amass a network of millions of residential Windows computers worldwide. These devices were associated with more than 19 million unique IP addresses, including 613,841 IP addresses located in the United States. Wang then generated millions of dollars by offering cybercriminals access to these infected IP addresses for a fee.

“This Justice Department-led operation brought together law enforcement partners from around the globe to disrupt 911 S5, a botnet that facilitated cyber-attacks, large-scale fraud, child exploitation, harassment, bomb threats, and export violations,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As a result of this operation, YunHe Wang was arrested on charges that he created and operated the botnet and deployed malware. This case makes clear that the long arm of the law stretches across borders and into the deepest shadows of the dark web, and the Justice Department will never stop fighting to hold cybercriminals to account.”

“Working with our international partners, the FBI conducted a joint, sequenced cyber operation to dismantle the 911 S5 Botnet—likely the world’s largest botnet ever,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray.&nbsp; “We arrested its administrator, Yunhe Wang, seized infrastructure and assets, and levied sanctions against Wang and his co-conspirators. The 911 S5 Botnet infected computers in nearly 200 countries and facilitated a whole host of computer-enabled crimes, including financial frauds, identity theft, and child exploitation. This operation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to working shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners to protect American businesses and the American people, and we will work tirelessly to unmask and arrest the cybercriminals who profit from this illegal activity.”

According to court documents, Wang allegedly propagated his malware through Virtual Private Network (VPN) programs, such as MaskVPN and DewVPN (torrent distribution models that he operated) and pay-per-install services that bundled his malware with other program files, including pirated versions of licensed software or copyrighted materials. Wang then managed and controlled approximately 150 dedicated servers worldwide, approximately 76 of which he leased from U.S. based online service providers. Using the dedicated servers, Wang deployed and managed applications, commanded and controlled the infected devices, operated his 911 S5 service, and provided paying customers with access to proxied IP addresses associated with the infected devices.

“As alleged in the indictment, Wang created malware that compromised millions of residential computers around the world and then sold access to the infected computers to cybercriminals,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These criminals used the hijacked computers to conceal their identities and commit a host of crimes, from fraud to cyberstalking. Cybercriminals should take note. Today’s announcement sends a clear message that the Criminal Division and its law enforcement partners are firm in their resolve to disrupt the most technologically sophisticated criminal tools and hold wrongdoers to account.”

“YunHe Wang created and administered a residential proxy service—a botnet known as 911 S5—that affected millions of computers all over the world,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs for the Eastern District of Texas. “He will now be held accountable. Proxy services like 911 S5 are pervasive threats that shield criminals behind the compromised IP addresses of residential computers worldwide. Successfully tackling a problem of this scale is only possible with strong collaboration and exceptional investigative work between our law enforcement partners at home and abroad, and we stand ready to hold accountable anyone—no matter where they are located—who exploits our telecommunications infrastructure for their own criminal purpose.”

Cybercriminals then used proxied IP addresses purchased from 911 S5 to conceal their true originating IP addresses and locations, and anonymously commit a wide array of offenses. These offenses including financial crimes, stalking, transmitting bomb threats and threats of harm, illegal exportation of goods, and receiving and sending child exploitation materials. Since 2014, 911 S5 allegedly enabled cybercriminals to bypass financial fraud detection systems and steal billions of dollars from financial institutions, credit card issuers, and federal lending programs.

911 S5 customers allegedly targeted certain pandemic relief programs. For example, the United States estimates that 560,000 fraudulent unemployment insurance claims originated from compromised IP addresses, resulting in a confirmed fraudulent loss exceeding $5.9 billion. Additionally, in evaluating suspected fraud loss to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, the United States estimates that more than 47,000 EIDL applications originated from IP addresses compromised by 911 S5. Millions of dollars more were similarly identified by financial institutions in the United States as loss originating from IP addresses compromised by 911 S5.

The 911 S5 client interface software, which was hosted on U.S.-based servers, enabled cybercriminals located outside of the United States to purchase goods with stolen credit cards or criminally derived proceeds, and illegally export them outside of the United States contrary to U.S. export laws, such as the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The 911 S5 client interface may also contain encryption or other features which subject it to export controls detailed in the EAR. Accordingly, downloads of the 911 S5 client interface software by certain foreign nationals without a license may constitute violations of the EAR.

“The disruption, seizure, and arrest of the perpetrator(s) responsible for the 911 S5 cybercriminal enterprise demonstrates the forward leaning posture of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Cyber Field Office,” said DCIS Director Kelly P. Mayo. “This investigation showcases the critical import of identifying and pursuing emerging threats and technologies targeting our warfighters, and the industrial base that supports them. Today’s announcement illustrates the magnitude of cooperation within federal law enforcement and our foreign partners pursuing criminals in the rapidly evolving cybercrime arena.”

The indictment further alleges that from 2018 until July 2022, Wang received approximately $99 million from his sales of the hijacked proxied IP addresses through his 911 S5 operation, either in cryptocurrency or fiat currency. Wang used the illicitly gained proceeds to purchase real property in the United States, St. Kitts and Nevis, China, Singapore, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. The indictment identifies dozens of assets and properties subject to forfeiture, including a 2022 Ferrari F8 Spider S-A, a BMW i8, a BMW X7 M50d, a Rolls Royce, more than a dozen domestic and international bank accounts, over two dozen cryptocurrency wallets, several luxury wristwatches, 21 residential or investment properties (across Thailand, Singapore, the U.A.E., St. Kitts and Nevis, and the United States), and 20 domains.

Law enforcement initially focused on 911 S5 during an investigation of a money laundering and smuggling scheme, where criminal actors in Ghana and the United States used hijacked IP addresses purchased from 911 S5 to place fraudulent orders using stolen credit cards on the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) online e-commerce platform known as ShopMyExchange. Although approximately 2,525 fraudulent orders valued at $5.5 million were submitted, credit card fraud detection systems and federal investigators were able to thwart the bulk of the attempted purchases, reducing the actual loss to approximately $254,000.

“The conduct alleged here reads like it’s ripped from a screenplay: A scheme to sell access to millions of malware-infected computers worldwide, enabling criminals over the world to steal billions of dollars, transmit bomb threats, and exchange child exploitation materials—then using the scheme’s nearly $100 million in profits to buy luxury cars, watches, and real estate,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). “What they don’t show in the movies though is the painstaking work it takes by domestic and international law enforcement, working closely with industry partners, to take down such a brazen scheme and make an arrest like this happen.”&nbsp;

Wang is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud, substantive computer fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted on all counts, Wang faces a maximum penalty of 65 years in prison.

This operation was a coordinated multiagency effort led by law enforcement in the United States, Singapore, Thailand, and Germany. Agents and officers searched residences, seized assets valued at approximately $30 million, and identified additional forfeitable property valued at approximately $30 million. The operation also seized 23 domains and over 70 servers constituting the backbone of Wang’s prior residential proxy service and the recent incarnation of the service. By seizing multiple domains tied to the historical 911 S5, as well as several new domains and services directly linked to an effort to reconstitute the service, the government has successfully terminated Wang’s efforts to further victimize individuals through his newly formed service Clourouter.io and closed the existing malicious backdoors.

On May 28, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy2375" target="_blank">issued financial sanctions</a>&nbsp;against Wang, Jingping Liu, and Yanni Zheng, for their activities associated with 911 S5, and three entities for being owned or controlled by Wang.

The FBI Dallas and Denver Field Offices, DCIS Cyber Field Office, and BIS Office of Export Enforcement’s Dallas field office are investigating the case.

Trial Attorneys Candy Heath and Lydia Lichlyter of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camelia Lopez and William Tatum for the Eastern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

WASHINGTON&nbsp; —A Chinese national who amassed millions of hijacked residential IP addresses and facilitated billions of dollars in unemployment and pandemic relief fraud is in custody, according to the United State's Department of Justice.A court-authorized international law enforcement operation led by the U.S. Justice Department disrupted a botnet used to commit cyber attacks, large-scale fraud, child exploitation, harassment, bomb threats, and export violations, according to a media release.As part of this operation, YunHe Wang, 35, a People’s Republic of China national and St. Kitts and Nevis citizen-by-investment, was arrested on May 24 on criminal charges arising from his deployment of malware and the creation and operation of a residential proxy service known as “911 S5.”According to an indictment unsealed on May 24, from 2014 through July 2022, Wang and others are alleged to have created and disseminated malware to compromise and amass a network of millions of residential Windows computers worldwide. These devices were associated with more than 19 million unique IP addresses, including 613,841 IP addresses located in the United States. Wang then generated millions of dollars by offering cybercriminals access to these infected IP addresses for a fee.“This Justice Department-led operation brought together law enforcement partners from around the globe to disrupt 911 S5, a botnet that facilitated cyber-attacks, large-scale fraud, child exploitation, harassment, bomb threats, and export violations,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “As a result of this operation, YunHe Wang was arrested on charges that he created and operated the botnet and deployed malware. This case makes clear that the long arm of the law stretches across borders and into the deepest shadows of the dark web, and the Justice Department will never stop fighting to hold cybercriminals to account.”“Working with our international partners, the FBI conducted a joint, sequenced cyber operation to dismantle the 911 S5 Botnet—likely the world’s largest botnet ever,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray.&nbsp; “We arrested its administrator, Yunhe Wang, seized infrastructure and assets, and levied sanctions against Wang and his co-conspirators. The 911 S5 Botnet infected computers in nearly 200 countries and facilitated a whole host of computer-enabled crimes, including financial frauds, identity theft, and child exploitation. This operation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to working shoulder-to-shoulder with our partners to protect American businesses and the American people, and we will work tirelessly to unmask and arrest the cybercriminals who profit from this illegal activity.”According to court documents, Wang allegedly propagated his malware through Virtual Private Network (VPN) programs, such as MaskVPN and DewVPN (torrent distribution models that he operated) and pay-per-install services that bundled his malware with other program files, including pirated versions of licensed software or copyrighted materials. Wang then managed and controlled approximately 150 dedicated servers worldwide, approximately 76 of which he leased from U.S. based online service providers. Using the dedicated servers, Wang deployed and managed applications, commanded and controlled the infected devices, operated his 911 S5 service, and provided paying customers with access to proxied IP addresses associated with the infected devices.“As alleged in the indictment, Wang created malware that compromised millions of residential computers around the world and then sold access to the infected computers to cybercriminals,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These criminals used the hijacked computers to conceal their identities and commit a host of crimes, from fraud to cyberstalking. Cybercriminals should take note. Today’s announcement sends a clear message that the Criminal Division and its law enforcement partners are firm in their resolve to disrupt the most technologically sophisticated criminal tools and hold wrongdoers to account.”“YunHe Wang created and administered a residential proxy service—a botnet known as 911 S5—that affected millions of computers all over the world,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs for the Eastern District of Texas. “He will now be held accountable. Proxy services like 911 S5 are pervasive threats that shield criminals behind the compromised IP addresses of residential computers worldwide. Successfully tackling a problem of this scale is only possible with strong collaboration and exceptional investigative work between our law enforcement partners at home and abroad, and we stand ready to hold accountable anyone—no matter where they are located—who exploits our telecommunications infrastructure for their own criminal purpose.”Cybercriminals then used proxied IP addresses purchased from 911 S5 to conceal their true originating IP addresses and locations, and anonymously commit a wide array of offenses. These offenses including financial crimes, stalking, transmitting bomb threats and threats of harm, illegal exportation of goods, and receiving and sending child exploitation materials. Since 2014, 911 S5 allegedly enabled cybercriminals to bypass financial fraud detection systems and steal billions of dollars from financial institutions, credit card issuers, and federal lending programs.911 S5 customers allegedly targeted certain pandemic relief programs. For example, the United States estimates that 560,000 fraudulent unemployment insurance claims originated from compromised IP addresses, resulting in a confirmed fraudulent loss exceeding $5.9 billion. Additionally, in evaluating suspected fraud loss to the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, the United States estimates that more than 47,000 EIDL applications originated from IP addresses compromised by 911 S5. Millions of dollars more were similarly identified by financial institutions in the United States as loss originating from IP addresses compromised by 911 S5.The 911 S5 client interface software, which was hosted on U.S.-based servers, enabled cybercriminals located outside of the United States to purchase goods with stolen credit cards or criminally derived proceeds, and illegally export them outside of the United States contrary to U.S. export laws, such as the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The 911 S5 client interface may also contain encryption or other features which subject it to export controls detailed in the EAR. Accordingly, downloads of the 911 S5 client interface software by certain foreign nationals without a license may constitute violations of the EAR.“The disruption, seizure, and arrest of the perpetrator(s) responsible for the 911 S5 cybercriminal enterprise demonstrates the forward leaning posture of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Cyber Field Office,” said DCIS Director Kelly P. Mayo. “This investigation showcases the critical import of identifying and pursuing emerging threats and technologies targeting our warfighters, and the industrial base that supports them. Today’s announcement illustrates the magnitude of cooperation within federal law enforcement and our foreign partners pursuing criminals in the rapidly evolving cybercrime arena.”The indictment further alleges that from 2018 until July 2022, Wang received approximately $99 million from his sales of the hijacked proxied IP addresses through his 911 S5 operation, either in cryptocurrency or fiat currency. Wang used the illicitly gained proceeds to purchase real property in the United States, St. Kitts and Nevis, China, Singapore, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates. The indictment identifies dozens of assets and properties subject to forfeiture, including a 2022 Ferrari F8 Spider S-A, a BMW i8, a BMW X7 M50d, a Rolls Royce, more than a dozen domestic and international bank accounts, over two dozen cryptocurrency wallets, several luxury wristwatches, 21 residential or investment properties (across Thailand, Singapore, the U.A.E., St. Kitts and Nevis, and the United States), and 20 domains.Law enforcement initially focused on 911 S5 during an investigation of a money laundering and smuggling scheme, where criminal actors in Ghana and the United States used hijacked IP addresses purchased from 911 S5 to place fraudulent orders using stolen credit cards on the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) online e-commerce platform known as ShopMyExchange. Although approximately 2,525 fraudulent orders valued at $5.5 million were submitted, credit card fraud detection systems and federal investigators were able to thwart the bulk of the attempted purchases, reducing the actual loss to approximately $254,000.“The conduct alleged here reads like it’s ripped from a screenplay: A scheme to sell access to millions of malware-infected computers worldwide, enabling criminals over the world to steal billions of dollars, transmit bomb threats, and exchange child exploitation materials—then using the scheme’s nearly $100 million in profits to buy luxury cars, watches, and real estate,” said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). “What they don’t show in the movies though is the painstaking work it takes by domestic and international law enforcement, working closely with industry partners, to take down such a brazen scheme and make an arrest like this happen.”&nbsp;Wang is charged with conspiracy to commit computer fraud, substantive computer fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. If convicted on all counts, Wang faces a maximum penalty of 65 years in prison.This operation was a coordinated multiagency effort led by law enforcement in the United States, Singapore, Thailand, and Germany. Agents and officers searched residences, seized assets valued at approximately $30 million, and identified additional forfeitable property valued at approximately $30 million. The operation also seized 23 domains and over 70 servers constituting the backbone of Wang’s prior residential proxy service and the recent incarnation of the service. By seizing multiple domains tied to the historical 911 S5, as well as several new domains and services directly linked to an effort to reconstitute the service, the government has successfully terminated Wang’s efforts to further victimize individuals through his newly formed service Clourouter.io and closed the existing malicious backdoors.On May 28, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)&nbsp;<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy2375" target="_blank">issued financial sanctions</a>&nbsp;against Wang, Jingping Liu, and Yanni Zheng, for their activities associated with 911 S5, and three entities for being owned or controlled by Wang.The FBI Dallas and Denver Field Offices, DCIS Cyber Field Office, and BIS Office of Export Enforcement’s Dallas field office are investigating the case.Trial Attorneys Candy Heath and Lydia Lichlyter of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Camelia Lopez and William Tatum for the Eastern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

DOJ charged man with theft of $5.9 billion in Covid relief funds

JERUSALEM —Terrorists continue to attempt attacks on U.S. forces in the Red Sea.

Between 9 a.m. and <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/1797080594985140483?t=450">7:30</a> p.m. (Sanaa time) June 1, U.S. forces destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi drone (UAS)&nbsp; the southern Red Sea, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.

U.S. forces also observed two other drones crash into the Red Sea. No injuries or damage was reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships.


Additionally, between 7 and <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/1797080594985140483?t=690">11:30</a> p.m., US forces successfully engaged two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles in the southern Red Sea. The missiles were fired in the direction of USS Gravely and were destroyed in self-defense, with no damage or injuries reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships.

Meanwhile, acknowledging only “an uptick” in Israeli military activity, the United States has gone to lengths to avoid any suggestion that Israeli forces have crossed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-weapons-shipment-us-eed365ebef0477ba74bf9848cacae4f4">red line set by President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;in the deepening offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

In just the past week, Israeli&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-05-26-2024-eb25eb70d2c7b9e6bcd0497060eccbca">strikes that hit displaced families sheltering in tents</a>&nbsp;drew international condemnation and Israel confirmed that its forces were operating in the city's center. Still, Biden administration officials say Israel has avoided massive attacks on what had been thickly crowded neighborhoods of Rafah and kept strikes more limited and targeted than earlier in its nearly 8-month-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">war with Hamas</a>.

That refrain underscores an increasingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-rafah-offensive-us-united-nations-403a7c44b248b828559253206140eae5">isolated U.S. position</a>.

Critics charge that Biden, who declared early last month that he would not supply offensive weapons if Israel launched an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-war-05-07-2024-113bf4ee5dad87dc5c003d76ed2785bf">all-out assault on Rafah</a>, has come up against a domestic red line of his own and decided not to cross it: challenging ally Israel, which has support from Republicans and many American voters, in an election year.

Administration officials “keep moving the goalposts when it comes to the Rafah operation, saying, ‘You know, we won’t let the Israelis do X, Y or Z,’” said Colin Clarke, an international security expert and research director at the Soufan Center, a research center. "And then somebody says, 'Well, aren’t they doing that?’”

“So they’ve been playing semantics around what the Rafah operation constitutes,” he said. “I think if it weren’t an election year, you would see the president being a lot more forceful.”

Administration officials insist Israel has changed its tactics in an effort to reduce civilian deaths as the military sweeps through the city and targets Hamas operatives — even as humanitarian conditions worsen. Some 1 million Palestinians have fled the Rafah offensive and are sheltering in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-war-hamas-muwasi-humanitarian-2de77ea9095d2c680f57f77ad395917c">squalid tent camps</a>, and aid is only trickling into the territory. The United Nations estimates as few as 200,000 to 300,000 people still remain.

“We have been clear about what this isn’t, which is not a major military operation,” State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said Thursday. He referred to Israeli strikes on the outskirts of the city and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-05-29-2024-7952f779552f41ef6fb44c3b662f5c48">seizure of an adjoining border region</a>&nbsp;with Egypt as an “uptick.”

Pressed on the question, national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters that there’s “no mathematical formula” to determining when and if the Rafah assault has gone beyond the conditions set by the Democratic president.

The U.S. would be looking at whether the operation was causing "a lot of death and destruction” or was “more precise and proportional,” Sullivan said.

Unlike earlier in the Israeli drive to cripple Hamas militants in Gaza, Israelis have conveyed their specific battlefield goals and plans for getting there in the Rafah offensive, a senior administration official said Friday. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to brief reporters under ground rules set by the White House, said if those plans change and Israel goes back to earlier tactics, “that might be a different story.”

Israel launched its war in Gaza after attacks by Hamas killed about 1,200 Israelis on Oct. 7. More than 36,000 Palestinians have been killed since then, many of them women and children. Fighting and Israeli restrictions on aid shipments through border crossings mean nearly all 2.3 million people in Gaza are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-crossings-aid-gaza-f654871ba67c42e6345b6f709427b664">facing severe hunger</a>. U.N. officials say&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-famine-world-food-program-israel-hamas-war-476941bf2dc259f85a706408b2a665ff">famine has already started</a>&nbsp;in the north.

It was the Israeli operation against Hamas in Rafah that brought on the strongest warnings from Biden last month about how Israel was conducting the war and that the U.S. could cut its supply of offensive weapons. The population of Rafah had swelled to some 1.3 million as Israeli offensives to the north pushed Palestinian civilians south.

“If they go into Rafah, I'm not supplying the weapons,” Biden told CNN on May 9. He indicated the red line as being an attack on “population centers” in the city.

At about the same time, U.S. officials confirmed that the administration had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-weapons-shipment-us-eed365ebef0477ba74bf9848cacae4f4">suspended a shipment of heavy bombs</a>&nbsp;to Israel to ensure they were not dropped on Rafah.

Republicans' condemnation of Biden's move was fast and fierce. Soon after, the chief prosecutor for the world’s top war crimes court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/icc-khan-netanyahu-070941d21ccd1f2b9611032b88527575">sought an arrest warrant</a>&nbsp;for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the top U.N. court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-palestinians-court-ceasefire-01d093d21a1eadaa31af5708cf1cbf38">ordered Israel to cease its operations</a>&nbsp;in Rafah, increasing the political pressure on the U.S. and Israel.

Brian Finucane, a former State Department official who is now a senior adviser for the International Crisis Group, notes “changes in tone and tenor” in the administration’s public comments toward Israel from around that time. Biden said the effort for a Netanyahu arrest warrant was “outrageous.”

Administration warnings and threats to Israel over the Rafah campaign ebbed. Biden, un a White House address Friday to urge Hamas to accept an Israeli proposal for a cease-fire and hostage release, made only a passing mention of the operation there, noting widely circulated images of children killed in an Israeli strike last Sunday that burned some of 45 victims alive.

Far more important than whether the U.S. scolds or only echoes Israeli talking points, Finucane said, is “what the administration actually does in terms of policy ... to bring about a shift in what’s actually happening on the ground in Gaza.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1703418619283.png" alt="Photo U.S. Central Command" />
 <figcaption>Photo U.S. Central Command</figcaption>
 </figure>JERUSALEM —Terrorists continue to attempt attacks on U.S. forces in the Red Sea.Between 9 a.m. and <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/1797080594985140483?t=450">7:30</a> p.m. (Sanaa time) June 1, U.S. forces destroyed one Iranian-backed Houthi drone (UAS)&nbsp; the southern Red Sea, according to a statement from the U.S. Central Command.U.S. forces also observed two other drones crash into the Red Sea. No injuries or damage was reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships.

Additionally, between 7 and <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/1797080594985140483?t=690">11:30</a> p.m., US forces successfully engaged two Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles in the southern Red Sea. The missiles were fired in the direction of USS Gravely and were destroyed in self-defense, with no damage or injuries reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships.Meanwhile, acknowledging only “an uptick” in Israeli military activity, the United States has gone to lengths to avoid any suggestion that Israeli forces have crossed a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-weapons-shipment-us-eed365ebef0477ba74bf9848cacae4f4">red line set by President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;in the deepening offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.In just the past week, Israeli&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-05-26-2024-eb25eb70d2c7b9e6bcd0497060eccbca">strikes that hit displaced families sheltering in tents</a>&nbsp;drew international condemnation and Israel confirmed that its forces were operating in the city's center. Still, Biden administration officials say Israel has avoided massive attacks on what had been thickly crowded neighborhoods of Rafah and kept strikes more limited and targeted than earlier in its nearly 8-month-old&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">war with Hamas</a>.That refrain underscores an increasingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-rafah-offensive-us-united-nations-403a7c44b248b828559253206140eae5">isolated U.S. position</a>.Critics charge that Biden, who declared early last month that he would not supply offensive weapons if Israel launched an&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-hamas-war-05-07-2024-113bf4ee5dad87dc5c003d76ed2785bf">all-out assault on Rafah</a>, has come up against a domestic red line of his own and decided not to cross it: challenging ally Israel, which has support from Republicans and many American voters, in an election year.Administration officials “keep moving the goalposts when it comes to the Rafah operation, saying, ‘You know, we won’t let the Israelis do X, Y or Z,’” said Colin Clarke, an international security expert and research director at the Soufan Center, a research center. "And then somebody says, 'Well, aren’t they doing that?’”“So they’ve been playing semantics around what the Rafah operation constitutes,” he said. “I think if it weren’t an election year, you would see the president being a lot more forceful.”Administration officials insist Israel has changed its tactics in an effort to reduce civilian deaths as the military sweeps through the city and targets Hamas operatives — even as humanitarian conditions worsen. Some 1 million Palestinians have fled the Rafah offensive and are sheltering in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-gaza-war-hamas-muwasi-humanitarian-2de77ea9095d2c680f57f77ad395917c">squalid tent camps</a>, and aid is only trickling into the territory. The United Nations estimates as few as 200,000 to 300,000 people still remain.“We have been clear about what this isn’t, which is not a major military operation,” State Department spokesman Vedant Patel said Thursday. He referred to Israeli strikes on the outskirts of the city and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-05-29-2024-7952f779552f41ef6fb44c3b662f5c48">seizure of an adjoining border region</a>&nbsp;with Egypt as an “uptick.”Pressed on the question, national security adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters that there’s “no mathematical formula” to determining when and if the Rafah assault has gone beyond the conditions set by the Democratic president.The U.S. would be looking at whether the operation was causing "a lot of death and destruction” or was “more precise and proportional,” Sullivan said.Unlike earlier in the Israeli drive to cripple Hamas militants in Gaza, Israelis have conveyed their specific battlefield goals and plans for getting there in the Rafah offensive, a senior administration official said Friday. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to brief reporters under ground rules set by the White House, said if those plans change and Israel goes back to earlier tactics, “that might be a different story.”Israel launched its war in Gaza after attacks by Hamas killed about 1,200 Israelis on Oct. 7. More than 36,000 Palestinians have been killed since then, many of them women and children. Fighting and Israeli restrictions on aid shipments through border crossings mean nearly all 2.3 million people in Gaza are&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-crossings-aid-gaza-f654871ba67c42e6345b6f709427b664">facing severe hunger</a>. U.N. officials say&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gaza-famine-world-food-program-israel-hamas-war-476941bf2dc259f85a706408b2a665ff">famine has already started</a>&nbsp;in the north.It was the Israeli operation against Hamas in Rafah that brought on the strongest warnings from Biden last month about how Israel was conducting the war and that the U.S. could cut its supply of offensive weapons. The population of Rafah had swelled to some 1.3 million as Israeli offensives to the north pushed Palestinian civilians south.“If they go into Rafah, I'm not supplying the weapons,” Biden told CNN on May 9. He indicated the red line as being an attack on “population centers” in the city.At about the same time, U.S. officials confirmed that the administration had&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-weapons-shipment-us-eed365ebef0477ba74bf9848cacae4f4">suspended a shipment of heavy bombs</a>&nbsp;to Israel to ensure they were not dropped on Rafah.Republicans' condemnation of Biden's move was fast and fierce. Soon after, the chief prosecutor for the world’s top war crimes court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/icc-khan-netanyahu-070941d21ccd1f2b9611032b88527575">sought an arrest warrant</a>&nbsp;for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the top U.N. court&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-gaza-palestinians-court-ceasefire-01d093d21a1eadaa31af5708cf1cbf38">ordered Israel to cease its operations</a>&nbsp;in Rafah, increasing the political pressure on the U.S. and Israel.Brian Finucane, a former State Department official who is now a senior adviser for the International Crisis Group, notes “changes in tone and tenor” in the administration’s public comments toward Israel from around that time. Biden said the effort for a Netanyahu arrest warrant was “outrageous.”Administration warnings and threats to Israel over the Rafah campaign ebbed. Biden, un a White House address Friday to urge Hamas to accept an Israeli proposal for a cease-fire and hostage release, made only a passing mention of the operation there, noting widely circulated images of children killed in an Israeli strike last Sunday that burned some of 45 victims alive.Far more important than whether the U.S. scolds or only echoes Israeli talking points, Finucane said, is “what the administration actually does in terms of policy ... to bring about a shift in what’s actually happening on the ground in Gaza.”___

U.S. forces down more ballistic missiles, drones in the Red Sea

KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man made his initial appearance Friday after a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, indicted him on multiple charges related to sex trafficking multiple victims, including children, according to the United State's Attorney.

&nbsp;Elijah Z. Haley, 21, of Atchison was indicted on two counts of sex trafficking of a child, two counts of sex trafficking accomplished by force, fraud, or coercion, two counts of transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and two counts of transportation for illegal sexual activity, according to court documents.

Haley made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Angel D. Mitchell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kansas Highway Patrol, Atchison, Kansas Police Department, and the Boone County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717245022442.png" alt="Haley from a 2023 arrest in Atchison County" />
 <figcaption>Haley from a 2023 arrest in Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man made his initial appearance Friday after a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, indicted him on multiple charges related to sex trafficking multiple victims, including children, according to the United State's Attorney.&nbsp;Elijah Z. Haley, 21, of Atchison was indicted on two counts of sex trafficking of a child, two counts of sex trafficking accomplished by force, fraud, or coercion, two counts of transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, and two counts of transportation for illegal sexual activity, according to court documents.Haley made his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Angel D. Mitchell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kansas Highway Patrol, Atchison, Kansas Police Department, and the Boone County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Kansas man accused of sex trafficking multiple child victims

OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just before 10:30 p.m. May 29,, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to make a traffic stop near milepost 165 on Interstate 35 for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. The driver refused to stop, and a pursuit was initiated.

The pursuit exited Interstate 35, traveled through Williamsburg and into rural Franklin County, where Franklin County deputies assisted. Tire deflating devices were utilized, and the vehicle came to a stop near Rock Creek Road and Delaware Road in Franklin County.

Two subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility. Carlos M. Gonzalez, 42, of Wichita is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Flee or attempt to elude law enforcement by engaging in reckless driving, Aggravated endangering a child, Driving while suspended; 3rd or subsequent conviction and an Arrest warrant

Mary I. Walker, 43, of Wichita is jailed on requested charges of&nbsp; Interference with law enforcement and an&nbsp;Arrest warrant.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717099981477.png" alt="Gonzalez-photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Gonzalez-photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>OSAGE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just before 10:30 p.m. May 29,, an Osage County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to make a traffic stop near milepost 165 on Interstate 35 for a traffic violation, according to Sheriff Chris Wells. The driver refused to stop, and a pursuit was initiated.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717099942385.png" alt="Walker photo Osage Co." />
 <figcaption>Walker photo Osage Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The pursuit exited Interstate 35, traveled through Williamsburg and into rural Franklin County, where Franklin County deputies assisted. Tire deflating devices were utilized, and the vehicle came to a stop near Rock Creek Road and Delaware Road in Franklin County.Two subjects were taken into custody and transported to the Osage County Jail Facility. Carlos M. Gonzalez, 42, of Wichita is being held on requested charges of&nbsp;Flee or attempt to elude law enforcement by engaging in reckless driving, Aggravated endangering a child, Driving while suspended; 3rd or subsequent conviction and an Arrest warrantMary I. Walker, 43, of Wichita is jailed on requested charges of&nbsp; Interference with law enforcement and an&nbsp;Arrest warrant.

Kansas couple jailed after 2-county chase

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities in Kansas City are investigating a man's murder.

Just before 11:30p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a sound of gunshots the 600 block of E 110th Terrace in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp;

When officers arrived, they were summoned to a nearby residence where a man was located in the front yard unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot wounds, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.

EMS responded and transported the victim to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The preliminary investigation revealed the incident occurred over an argument. Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to gather evidence and collect witness statements.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1717241922116.png" alt="Photo Sheriff Daryle Forte'" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sheriff Daryle Forte'</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities in Kansas City are investigating a man's murder.Just before 11:30p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a sound of gunshots the 600 block of E 110th Terrace in Kansas City, according to Sheriff Daryl Forte'.&nbsp;When officers arrived, they were summoned to a nearby residence where a man was located in the front yard unresponsive and suffering from apparent gunshot wounds, according to&nbsp;Officer Alayna Gonzalez.EMS responded and transported the victim to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased. The preliminary investigation revealed the incident occurred over an argument. Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel responded to gather evidence and collect witness statements.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest.

Police: Argument led to man's murder in front yard of KC home

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a convicted felon on new allegations after an incident involving a gun.

Just before 9 a.m. May 29, police responded to a reported disturbance at Planet Smokes located at 101 SE 37th Street in Topeka, according Police Lt. Michael Hren. Upon arrival, it was alleged an individual entered the business and an employee, later identified as Angel L. Baatrup, 33, of Topeka, had pointed a firearm at them.

Officers made contact with Baatrup and learned she was prohibited from possessing a firearm. As a result of the investigation, Baatrup was later arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated assault; use of a deadly weapon and Felon in possession of a firearm

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717118554722.png" alt="Baatrup photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Baatrup photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a convicted felon on new allegations after an incident involving a gun.Just before 9 a.m. May 29, police responded to a reported disturbance at Planet Smokes located at 101 SE 37th Street in Topeka, according Police Lt. Michael Hren. Upon arrival, it was alleged an individual entered the business and an employee, later identified as Angel L. Baatrup, 33, of Topeka, had pointed a firearm at them.Officers made contact with Baatrup and learned she was prohibited from possessing a firearm. As a result of the investigation, Baatrup was later arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated assault; use of a deadly weapon and Felon in possession of a firearm

Kansas woman accused of pointing gun at smoke shop customer

KANSAS CITY, Kan. – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) identified the man killed in an officer-involved shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, as Jason A. Burk, 41, of Kansas City, Missouri, according to a media release from the KBI.

Just before 7&nbsp;p.m. May 27, a citizen reported to the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department (KCPD) that two male suspects carjacked her blue 2010 GMC Terrain at gunpoint from the area of East 24th&nbsp;Street and Highland Avenue, in Kansas City, Missouri, according to a media release from the KBI.

 Just after 8 p.m., KCPD spotted the stolen SUV in the 1500 block of Paseo, and a pursuit began when the driver refused to stop.

Around 8:10 p.m., the pursuit entered Kansas City, Kansas where officers from KCKPD joined. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) and the Mission Police Department also joined the pursuit.

At 8:17 p.m., a 21-year-old male passenger exited the stolen GMC and fled in the area of 18th&nbsp;and Steele. He was quickly apprehended. At around 8:20 p.m., a KHP trooper conducted a tactical vehicle intervention causing the SUV to spin around and strike a guard rail, ending the pursuit along U.S. Highway 69 and the 18th&nbsp;Street Expressway.

Preliminary information indicates that once the vehicle stopped, the 41-year-old male driver later identified as Burk began firing rounds from the SUV at responding officers. It is believed two officers from KCKPD, and five officers from KCPD returned fire. The man was struck multiple times.&nbsp;

Officers rendered aid and EMS transported Burk to an area hospital. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital. 

No law enforcement officers were injured in the shooting.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717180981486.png" alt="Burk from an earlier arrest in Wyandotte County" />
 <figcaption>Burk from an earlier arrest in Wyandotte County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Kan. – The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) identified the man killed in an officer-involved shooting in Kansas City, Kansas, as Jason A. Burk, 41, of Kansas City, Missouri, according to a media release from the KBI.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716977677856.png" alt="View of the investigation -photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>View of the investigation -photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before 7&nbsp;p.m. May 27, a citizen reported to the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department (KCPD) that two male suspects carjacked her blue 2010 GMC Terrain at gunpoint from the area of East 24th&nbsp;Street and Highland Avenue, in Kansas City, Missouri, according to a media release from the KBI. Just after 8 p.m., KCPD spotted the stolen SUV in the 1500 block of Paseo, and a pursuit began when the driver refused to stop.Around 8:10 p.m., the pursuit entered Kansas City, Kansas where officers from KCKPD joined. The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) and the Mission Police Department also joined the pursuit.At 8:17 p.m., a 21-year-old male passenger exited the stolen GMC and fled in the area of 18th&nbsp;and Steele. He was quickly apprehended. At around 8:20 p.m., a KHP trooper conducted a tactical vehicle intervention causing the SUV to spin around and strike a guard rail, ending the pursuit along U.S. Highway 69 and the 18th&nbsp;Street Expressway.Preliminary information indicates that once the vehicle stopped, the 41-year-old male driver later identified as Burk began firing rounds from the SUV at responding officers. It is believed two officers from KCKPD, and five officers from KCPD returned fire. The man was struck multiple times.&nbsp;Officers rendered aid and EMS transported Burk to an area hospital. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital. No law enforcement officers were injured in the shooting.&nbsp;

KBI IDs carjacking suspect killed in gunfight with police

JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in a 2021 murder has entered a plea in the case.

On May 28, Kyle Anthony Gutierres, 28, pleaded guilty to second-degree intentional murder in the death of 35-year-old Jeren Hinton in Overland Park, according the Johnson County District Attorney's office.

In May of 2021, police responded to report of a shooting in an apartment complex in the 8500 block of Greenbrier Drive in Overland Park.

After asking the public for help to locate a suspect, police arrested Gutierres. He is scheduled for sentencing August 7, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716935604176.png" alt="Gutierres -photo&nbsp; Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Gutierres -photo&nbsp; Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —A Kansas man accused in a 2021 murder has entered a plea in the case.On May 28, Kyle Anthony Gutierres, 28, pleaded guilty to second-degree intentional murder in the death of 35-year-old Jeren Hinton in Overland Park, according the Johnson County District Attorney's office.In May of 2021, police responded to report of a shooting in an apartment complex in the 8500 block of Greenbrier Drive in Overland Park.After asking the public for help to locate a suspect, police arrested Gutierres. He is scheduled for sentencing August 7, according to the district attorney's office.

Suspect enters plea for murder of 35-year-old Kansas man

BUTLER COUNTY —In July 1997, Butler County Sheriff's Office took a missing person report from Franklin "Punkie" Harrod's then-wife, Kelly Harrod. 

Investigation into "Punkie" Harrod's disappearance confirmed him to have been killed in Butler County, but his remains have not been located, according to a social media report from the Butler County Sheriff's office.

 All three individuals involved in the murder of "Punkie" Harrod were arrested and found guilty, only one remains in prison.

 In 2023, Butler County Sheriff Monty Hughey directed detectives to investigate further into finding the location of Harrod's remains. It was during this investigation detectives discovered a second individual by the name of Ricky L. Nelms was also alleged to be buried in Butler County.

 A missing person came for Nelms, originally from Moulton, Alabama, and was discovered in Sedgwick County, Kansas dating back to 1988.

 In December 2023, the Butler County Sheriff's Office released to the public, the victim's names and photos asking for help locating the two burial locations of "Punkie" Harrod and Ricky Nelms.

 Tips were given and follow-up continues, but the exact location of the remains has yet to be discovered. 

On Thursday, Sheriff Hughey offered a substantial reward for any information leading investigators to the location of either of these two victims.&nbsp; Sheriff Hughey believes it's his duty to get the victims located and their remains returned to their families. 

Anyone with information regarding these cases can contact the Butler County Sheriff's Office by Facebook messenger or the following telephone numbers to remain anonymous. Butler County Sheriff's Office Tip LinesEmail crime tips: crimetips@bucoks.comCrime tip number: (316) 322-8817 or 866-484-5924Media: Butler County Sheriff's Office, Kansas Facebook (Messenger)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717095317467.png" alt="Harrod photo Butler Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Harrod photo Butler Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY —In July 1997, Butler County Sheriff's Office took a missing person report from Franklin "Punkie" Harrod's then-wife, Kelly Harrod. Investigation into "Punkie" Harrod's disappearance confirmed him to have been killed in Butler County, but his remains have not been located, according to a social media report from the Butler County Sheriff's office. All three individuals involved in the murder of "Punkie" Harrod were arrested and found guilty, only one remains in prison. In 2023, Butler County Sheriff Monty Hughey directed detectives to investigate further into finding the location of Harrod's remains. It was during this investigation detectives discovered a second individual by the name of Ricky L. Nelms was also alleged to be buried in Butler County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717095562656.png" alt="Nelms photo Butler Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Nelms photo Butler Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure> A missing person came for Nelms, originally from Moulton, Alabama, and was discovered in Sedgwick County, Kansas dating back to 1988. In December 2023, the Butler County Sheriff's Office released to the public, the victim's names and photos asking for help locating the two burial locations of "Punkie" Harrod and Ricky Nelms. Tips were given and follow-up continues, but the exact location of the remains has yet to be discovered. On Thursday, Sheriff Hughey offered a substantial reward for any information leading investigators to the location of either of these two victims.&nbsp; Sheriff Hughey believes it's his duty to get the victims located and their remains returned to their families. Anyone with information regarding these cases can contact the Butler County Sheriff's Office by Facebook messenger or the following telephone numbers to remain anonymous. Butler County Sheriff's Office Tip LinesEmail crime tips: crimetips@bucoks.comCrime tip number: (316) 322-8817 or 866-484-5924Media: Butler County Sheriff's Office, Kansas Facebook (Messenger)

Reward for information on location of murdered Kan. men

SALINE COUNTY —A Kansas man remains in jail after a series of crimes in Salina.

Just before 3p.m. May 27, a 36-year-old Salina man reported that someone stole his 2000 Ford Mustang from the storefront of Cave Divers Liquor at 1103 West Crawford Street in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.

The victim reported that he left the car running while he went into the store to shop.

While the victim was in the store, a subject, later identified as Marcellius Garner, 31, Salina, was in the store. Employees told police that Garner was walking around the store and indicated that he did not have any money and was hoping someone would purchase alcohol for him, according to Feldman.&nbsp; Employees did observe him picking up a bottle of tequila, valued at $29, and then just walk out.

Garner then got into the Mustang and drove away. Feldman said later the same day, an officer located the Mustang at 409 South Broadway Boulevard, just a few blocks north of the liquor store.

Around 7 p.m., someone called&nbsp; from the Ambassy Hotel at 217 South Broadway Boulevard in Salina and reported a man running around naked outside the local hotel.

Once officers arrived, they located and identified Garner from the car theft at Cave Divers Liquor. Garner initially retreated back to his room and allegedly slammed the door barring entry.

Officers were able to get him to answer and he gave consent to his room where police observed the same clothing in the room that Garner had been wearing at the liquor store and the bottle of tequila.

Officers arrested Garner on charges for felony theft, misdemeanor theft and lewd and lascivious exposure.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717066636275.png" alt="Garner photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Garner photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —A Kansas man remains in jail after a series of crimes in Salina.Just before 3p.m. May 27, a 36-year-old Salina man reported that someone stole his 2000 Ford Mustang from the storefront of Cave Divers Liquor at 1103 West Crawford Street in Salina, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.The victim reported that he left the car running while he went into the store to shop.While the victim was in the store, a subject, later identified as Marcellius Garner, 31, Salina, was in the store. Employees told police that Garner was walking around the store and indicated that he did not have any money and was hoping someone would purchase alcohol for him, according to Feldman.&nbsp; Employees did observe him picking up a bottle of tequila, valued at $29, and then just walk out.Garner then got into the Mustang and drove away. Feldman said later the same day, an officer located the Mustang at 409 South Broadway Boulevard, just a few blocks north of the liquor store.Around 7 p.m., someone called&nbsp; from the Ambassy Hotel at 217 South Broadway Boulevard in Salina and reported a man running around naked outside the local hotel.Once officers arrived, they located and identified Garner from the car theft at Cave Divers Liquor. Garner initially retreated back to his room and allegedly slammed the door barring entry.Officers were able to get him to answer and he gave consent to his room where police observed the same clothing in the room that Garner had been wearing at the liquor store and the bottle of tequila.Officers arrested Garner on charges for felony theft, misdemeanor theft and lewd and lascivious exposure.

Police: Kansas man went on naked run after alleged car theft

HARVEY COUNTY —Law enforcement in Harvey County are investigating an alleged road rage incident.&nbsp;

Just after 6a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; Hesston Police received a call of shots fired in the area of exit 40 on Lincoln Blvd, just off of Interstate 135, according to a media release.

Police made contact with the victim and learned that an alleged road rage incident on northbound Interstate 135 ended with another driver pulling a gun and then discharging that firearm. 

Police believe that the round discharged went into the berm of the interchange. Using the department's Flock Camera in the area they were able to develop a suspect and witnesses. One of the witnesses had video footage of part of the incident.

With all of that information, police secured a search warrant and with the help of Moundridge Police Department arrested the suspect on requested charges of Aggravated Assault and Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and collected evidence.&nbsp; &nbsp;The suspect, whose name has not been released, met the bond requirement and is no longer in custody, according to Hesston Police Chief Chris Eilert.

HARVEY COUNTY —Law enforcement in Harvey County are investigating an alleged road rage incident.&nbsp;Just after 6a.m. Wednesday,&nbsp; Hesston Police received a call of shots fired in the area of exit 40 on Lincoln Blvd, just off of Interstate 135, according to a media release.Police made contact with the victim and learned that an alleged road rage incident on northbound Interstate 135 ended with another driver pulling a gun and then discharging that firearm. Police believe that the round discharged went into the berm of the interchange. Using the department's Flock Camera in the area they were able to develop a suspect and witnesses. One of the witnesses had video footage of part of the incident.With all of that information, police secured a search warrant and with the help of Moundridge Police Department arrested the suspect on requested charges of Aggravated Assault and Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and collected evidence.&nbsp; &nbsp;The suspect, whose name has not been released, met the bond requirement and is no longer in custody, according to Hesston Police Chief Chris Eilert.

Witness video led to arrest in alleged Kan. road-rage incident

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects including a Kansas felon on drug allegations.

Just after 6p.m. Thursday the Riley County Police Department, with the assistance of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, conducted an investigation into the distribution of fentanyl, in the 1500 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to a media release.

Officers arrested Catrien Van Petten, 35, of Manhattan on requested charges of possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, distribution of opiates/narcotics/certain stimulants/heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana- two or more prior convictions, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/ certain stimulant/ heroin 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams within 1000 feet of a school.

Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Nathan McClurg, 34, of Tipton, Kansas was arrested in the 1500 block of Colorado Street in connection with the same investigation. McClurg was arrested on requested charges of possession of opiate/opium/narcotic/ certain stimulant, possession of marijuana- 1 prior conviction, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture controlled substance, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/ heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school. 

He has previous felony convictions for theft, making a false writing and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Van Petten and McClurg are each being held on a total bond of $100,000, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1717078422006.jpeg" alt="Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects including a Kansas felon on drug allegations.Just after 6p.m. Thursday the Riley County Police Department, with the assistance of the Geary County Sheriff’s Office, conducted an investigation into the distribution of fentanyl, in the 1500 block of Houston Street in Manhattan, according to a media release.Officers arrested Catrien Van Petten, 35, of Manhattan on requested charges of possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, distribution of opiates/narcotics/certain stimulants/heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school, possession of marijuana- two or more prior convictions, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/ certain stimulant/ heroin 3.5 - &lt; 100 grams within 1000 feet of a school.Catrien Van Petten has ten previous convictions for burglary, theft, ID theft, forgery and drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.Nathan McClurg, 34, of Tipton, Kansas was arrested in the 1500 block of Colorado Street in connection with the same investigation. McClurg was arrested on requested charges of possession of opiate/opium/narcotic/ certain stimulant, possession of marijuana- 1 prior conviction, use/possession with the intent to use drug paraphernalia into the human body, possession of paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture controlled substance, and distribution of opiate/narcotic/certain stimulant/ heroin dose &gt; 1000 within 1000 feet of a school. He has previous felony convictions for theft, making a false writing and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Van Petten and McClurg are each being held on a total bond of $100,000, according to the RCPD.

Kansas felons accused of selling fentanyl in Manhattan

&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon charged a in fatal 2021 nightclub shooting in Wichita has entered a guilty plea in the case.

&nbsp;Earlier this month, Keshawn Dawson, 25,&nbsp; pleaded guilty to second-degree reckless murder and aggravated battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

At 12:40 a.m. on Sept. 7,&nbsp; 2021 officers responded to a shooting call at the Enigma Club, 351 N. Mosely in Wichita.&nbsp; Officers located multiple victims that were all transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp; The investigation revealed Dawson got into a disturbance earlier inside the club and was forced to leave.&nbsp; Dawson returned a short time later and fired multiple rounds with a handgun through windows into the club from the outside, striking the victims.

In addition, Dawson had active felony Sedgwick County warrants and was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions, according to Officer Charlie Davidson.

On Oct. 8, U.S. Marshals arrested Dawson in Phoenix Arizona.&nbsp; He is scheduled for sentencing July 18, according to the District Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/10/1634817510235.png" alt="Dawson-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Dawson-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon charged a in fatal 2021 nightclub shooting in Wichita has entered a guilty plea in the case.&nbsp;Earlier this month, Keshawn Dawson, 25,&nbsp; pleaded guilty to second-degree reckless murder and aggravated battery, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.At 12:40 a.m. on Sept. 7,&nbsp; 2021 officers responded to a shooting call at the Enigma Club, 351 N. Mosely in Wichita.&nbsp; Officers located multiple victims that were all transported to an area hospital for medical treatment.&nbsp; The investigation revealed Dawson got into a disturbance earlier inside the club and was forced to leave.&nbsp; Dawson returned a short time later and fired multiple rounds with a handgun through windows into the club from the outside, striking the victims.In addition, Dawson had active felony Sedgwick County warrants and was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions, according to Officer Charlie Davidson.On Oct. 8, U.S. Marshals arrested Dawson in Phoenix Arizona.&nbsp; He is scheduled for sentencing July 18, according to the District Attorney's office.

Kan. mass shooting suspect captured in Arizona enters plea

PAWNEE COUNTY– Jason Lance Hummel, 44 of Hutchinson, appeared Tuesday afternoon in the Pawnee County District Court before Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell, for his alleged involvement in a theft at the Big R Store in Larned, Kansas on February 18, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

&nbsp;Hummel entered a Guilty plea to the charge of Theft. After determining there was a factual basis, Judge Cowell accepted the plea and sentenced Hummel to twelve months on probation and ordered him to pay $5,326.00 in restitution joint and several with his co-defendants.

The theft was investigated by the Larned Police Department. At approximately 6:30pm on February 18, two men entered the Big R store, 908 East 14th in Larned, according to a media release from Larned Police. 

Both men then filled their shopping carts but left the store without paying. Video surveillance cameras showed the men placing the merchandise in the back of a newer model silver Jeep Cherokee and then traveling east from Larned. Two female subjects were observed getting out of the Jeep while the men were in the Big R store.

On May 10, Hummell was arrested without incident in Hutchinson. Also charged in the Theft are Garritt Ward Kent McConnell, 44;&nbsp; Kyla Ann Larralde, 20 and Desirea Nicole Larralde, 19 all of Hutchinson. McConnell is currently being held in the Reno County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716930069522.png" alt="Hummel-photo Reno Co." />
 <figcaption>Hummel-photo Reno Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY– Jason Lance Hummel, 44 of Hutchinson, appeared Tuesday afternoon in the Pawnee County District Court before Magistrate Judge Julie Cowell, for his alleged involvement in a theft at the Big R Store in Larned, Kansas on February 18, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.&nbsp;Hummel entered a Guilty plea to the charge of Theft. After determining there was a factual basis, Judge Cowell accepted the plea and sentenced Hummel to twelve months on probation and ordered him to pay $5,326.00 in restitution joint and several with his co-defendants.The theft was investigated by the Larned Police Department. At approximately 6:30pm on February 18, two men entered the Big R store, 908 East 14th in Larned, according to a media release from Larned Police. Both men then filled their shopping carts but left the store without paying. Video surveillance cameras showed the men placing the merchandise in the back of a newer model silver Jeep Cherokee and then traveling east from Larned. Two female subjects were observed getting out of the Jeep while the men were in the Big R store.On May 10, Hummell was arrested without incident in Hutchinson. Also charged in the Theft are Garritt Ward Kent McConnell, 44;&nbsp; Kyla Ann Larralde, 20 and Desirea Nicole Larralde, 19 all of Hutchinson. McConnell is currently being held in the Reno County Jail.

Kansas man admits $5,300 theft from store 

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Criminal charges against Scottie Scheffler have been dismissed, ending a legal saga that began with images of the world’s top male golfer being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-pga-police-fatality-a421bfdb346f00dec95c95a0ab04e4d9">arrested and handcuffed</a>&nbsp;in Louisville during the PGA Championship.

(Click below to watch videos from a street pole camera of encounter)

Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell asked a judge Wednesday afternoon to drop the four charges against Scheffler, who was not required to be in the courtroom. The prosecutor said his team reviewed the case in a “thorough and expeditious manner.”

“Based upon the totality of the evidence, my office cannot move forward in the prosecution of the charges filed against Mr. Scheffler," O'Connell said during the hearing that lasted less than 10 minutes. "Mr. Scheffler’s characterization that this was ‘a big misunderstanding’ is corroborated by the evidence.”

Scheffler was charged with a felony for assaulting a police officer with his vehicle, along with three misdemeanors. The arresting officer, Detective Bryan Gillis, was outside the gate of Valhalla Golf Course May 17 directing traffic after a pedestrian death when he encountered Scheffler.

The prosecutor said the findings of his office’s review of the case led him to request the dismissal of the charges.

“The evidence we reviewed supports the conclusion that Detective Gillis was concerned for public safety at the scene when he initiated contact with Mr. Scheffler,” O’Connell said. “However, Mr. Scheffler’s actions and the evidence surrounding their exchange during this misunderstanding do not satisfy the elements of any criminal offenses.”

Scheffler’s attorney, Steve Romines, was asked if he wanted to comment. Romines replied: “Judge, it’s taken me a long time to understand that when I’m winning, don’t talk. So I have nothing to say, your honor.”

The judge then accepted the dismissal motion.

Scheffler, 27, was driving a PGA courtesy vehicle when Gillis said he “refused to comply and accelerated forward, dragging” Gillis to the ground. Gillis said his uniform pants were damaged in the fall and he was taken to the hospital for his injuries.

A surveillance video released by Louisville police last week showed Gillis pursuing Scheffler’s vehicle on foot and stopping him from entering the course. Scheffler is later pulled from the car and cuffed. But the video did not show Gillis’ first contact with Scheffler, authorities said.

Gillis has been disciplined for not activating his body-worn camera during the arrest. In a report on that failure, Gillis wrote that Scheffler had “demanded to be let in” the golf course.

Scheffler has said he simply misunderstood the commands coming from traffic officers.

The famous golfer spent a brief stint in a jail cell, then returned to the course for the second round. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-pga-championship-15f6041dc4d9fd00ab65f742737f0f34">finished the tournament</a>&nbsp;tied for eighth place.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715949652837.png" alt="Scheffler's booking photo Louisville Metropolitan Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Scheffler's booking photo Louisville Metropolitan Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — Criminal charges against Scottie Scheffler have been dismissed, ending a legal saga that began with images of the world’s top male golfer being&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-pga-police-fatality-a421bfdb346f00dec95c95a0ab04e4d9">arrested and handcuffed</a>&nbsp;in Louisville during the PGA Championship.(Click below to watch videos from a street pole camera of encounter)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mnWeQfNMLmM?si=ZRSVVZfgFYR4Z5k4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mnWeQfNMLmM?si=ZRSVVZfgFYR4Z5k4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell asked a judge Wednesday afternoon to drop the four charges against Scheffler, who was not required to be in the courtroom. The prosecutor said his team reviewed the case in a “thorough and expeditious manner.”“Based upon the totality of the evidence, my office cannot move forward in the prosecution of the charges filed against Mr. Scheffler," O'Connell said during the hearing that lasted less than 10 minutes. "Mr. Scheffler’s characterization that this was ‘a big misunderstanding’ is corroborated by the evidence.”Scheffler was charged with a felony for assaulting a police officer with his vehicle, along with three misdemeanors. The arresting officer, Detective Bryan Gillis, was outside the gate of Valhalla Golf Course May 17 directing traffic after a pedestrian death when he encountered Scheffler.The prosecutor said the findings of his office’s review of the case led him to request the dismissal of the charges.“The evidence we reviewed supports the conclusion that Detective Gillis was concerned for public safety at the scene when he initiated contact with Mr. Scheffler,” O’Connell said. “However, Mr. Scheffler’s actions and the evidence surrounding their exchange during this misunderstanding do not satisfy the elements of any criminal offenses.”Scheffler’s attorney, Steve Romines, was asked if he wanted to comment. Romines replied: “Judge, it’s taken me a long time to understand that when I’m winning, don’t talk. So I have nothing to say, your honor.”The judge then accepted the dismissal motion.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715949915421.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Scheffler, 27, was driving a PGA courtesy vehicle when Gillis said he “refused to comply and accelerated forward, dragging” Gillis to the ground. Gillis said his uniform pants were damaged in the fall and he was taken to the hospital for his injuries.A surveillance video released by Louisville police last week showed Gillis pursuing Scheffler’s vehicle on foot and stopping him from entering the course. Scheffler is later pulled from the car and cuffed. But the video did not show Gillis’ first contact with Scheffler, authorities said.Gillis has been disciplined for not activating his body-worn camera during the arrest. In a report on that failure, Gillis wrote that Scheffler had “demanded to be let in” the golf course.Scheffler has said he simply misunderstood the commands coming from traffic officers.The famous golfer spent a brief stint in a jail cell, then returned to the course for the second round. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-pga-championship-15f6041dc4d9fd00ab65f742737f0f34">finished the tournament</a>&nbsp;tied for eighth place.

🎥 Why charges against world's top golfer were dropped after arrest

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered offender on new allegations.

Just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday, police arrested 55-year-old Bradford Brown of Junction City, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report/

 Brown was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for violation of the offender registration act, 2nd conviction.&nbsp; Brown has been listed a registered offender since 2001 for a conviction in 1997 for aggravated sexual battery in Barber County and in 2007 for aggravated indecent liberties with a child in Butler County, according to the KBI Offender Registry.&nbsp;

Total bond was set at $25,000. He is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716992503333.png" alt="Brown photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Brown photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered offender on new allegations.Just before 11:30a.m. Tuesday, police arrested 55-year-old Bradford Brown of Junction City, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report/ Brown was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for violation of the offender registration act, 2nd conviction.&nbsp; Brown has been listed a registered offender since 2001 for a conviction in 1997 for aggravated sexual battery in Barber County and in 2007 for aggravated indecent liberties with a child in Butler County, according to the KBI Offender Registry.&nbsp;Total bond was set at $25,000. He is no longer in custody, according to the RCPD.

RCPD: Junction City man jailed for offender registry violation

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal weekend crash have made an arrest.

The crash occurred just before 8a.m. Sunday when a vehicle driven by 38-year-old Jason E. Brumley of Emporia struck another vehicle driven by&nbsp; 76-year-old Sherry L. Pena&nbsp; near southbound Interstate 35 and Sunflower Road, according to the Johnson County Sheriff's office.

Pena was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported to other passengers in the vehicle identified as 45-year-old Natalia L. Pena and a 6-year-old boy were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. They are expected to survive.

Deputies performed a DUI test on Brumley and later transported. him&nbsp; into the Johnson County Detention Center on a requested charge of involuntary manslaughter, according to online jail record. He is being held on a $350,000 bond and made his first court appearance Tuesday, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716838831196.png" alt="Brumley photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Brumley photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement investigating a fatal weekend crash have made an arrest.The crash occurred just before 8a.m. Sunday when a vehicle driven by 38-year-old Jason E. Brumley of Emporia struck another vehicle driven by&nbsp; 76-year-old Sherry L. Pena&nbsp; near southbound Interstate 35 and Sunflower Road, according to the Johnson County Sheriff's office.Pena was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported to other passengers in the vehicle identified as 45-year-old Natalia L. Pena and a 6-year-old boy were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. They are expected to survive.Deputies performed a DUI test on Brumley and later transported. him&nbsp; into the Johnson County Detention Center on a requested charge of involuntary manslaughter, according to online jail record. He is being held on a $350,000 bond and made his first court appearance Tuesday, according to online jail records.

Kan. man jailed for crash that killed woman, injured 6-year-old

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent domestic disturbance and have a man in custody.

Just before 7:30p.m. on Sunday, 43-year-old Janet Willson of rural Saline County reported that her husband, 60-year-old Timothy Lecklider, shot her in the stomach, according to&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan.

"Deputies that arrived out there on the scene found Janet in the yard, and she was able to come down the driveway to them," Soldan said. "She was transported to Salina Regional, then she had some surgery here and then she was sent to Wichita. As far as I know, she's still in critical condition."

Soldan said the gun Lecklider used was a 0.410 shotgun but did not detail if he shot Willson at point-blank range. Although Willson called Lecklider her husband, Soldan said the pair are not legally married.

Deputies arrested Lecklider without incident on requested charges for attempted murder.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716899069165.jpeg" alt="Lecklider-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Lecklider-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a violent domestic disturbance and have a man in custody.Just before 7:30p.m. on Sunday, 43-year-old Janet Willson of rural Saline County reported that her husband, 60-year-old Timothy Lecklider, shot her in the stomach, according to&nbsp;Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan."Deputies that arrived out there on the scene found Janet in the yard, and she was able to come down the driveway to them," Soldan said. "She was transported to Salina Regional, then she had some surgery here and then she was sent to Wichita. As far as I know, she's still in critical condition."Soldan said the gun Lecklider used was a 0.410 shotgun but did not detail if he shot Willson at point-blank range. Although Willson called Lecklider her husband, Soldan said the pair are not legally married.Deputies arrested Lecklider without incident on requested charges for attempted murder.

Sheriff: Kan. woman accused husband of shooting her with shotgun

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered offender on multiple allegations.

Just before 5a.m. May 24,&nbsp;a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2014 Honda Civic for a traffic violation near Q.4 Road and 150th Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

The deputy discovered methamphetamine, THC, and&nbsp;drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Jay Norman Giannakos, 52, of Paxico.

Gainnukos was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute greater than 3.5 grams, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, and&nbsp;violation of the registry offender act.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716503497152.png" alt="Gainnukos-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Gainnukos-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a registered offender on multiple allegations.Just before 5a.m. May 24,&nbsp;a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2014 Honda Civic for a traffic violation near Q.4 Road and 150th Road in rural Jackson County, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.The deputy discovered methamphetamine, THC, and&nbsp;drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Jay Norman Giannakos, 52, of Paxico.Gainnukos was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute greater than 3.5 grams, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, and&nbsp;violation of the registry offender act.

Registered offender accused of attempting to sell drugs in Kansas

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a wanted suspect on multiple allegations after an incident at a south-central Kansas beef processing plant.

On May 14, police responded to a report of a suspicious individual at Creekstone Farms, 604 Goff Industrial Park Road in Arkansas City, according to a media release.

Employees told officers a male suspect appeared to be under the influence of controlled substances.The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Esphesus Kago of Wichita, was exhibiting unusual behavior.&nbsp; 

During the investigation, officers discovered that Kago was in possession of illegal substances. When officers attempted to take Kago into custody, he resisted arrest. Despite this resistance, officers successfully apprehended Kago and transported him to the Cowley County Jail.

Further investigation revealed that Kago had an active warrant issued by the United States Attorney General's Office for aggravated assault on a postal worker. 

Kago remains in custody on requested charges of obstructing a law enforcement officer, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and the federal warrant.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716476924326.png" alt="Kago from a March 2024 arrest for robbery in Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Kago from a March 2024 arrest for robbery in Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a wanted suspect on multiple allegations after an incident at a south-central Kansas beef processing plant.On May 14, police responded to a report of a suspicious individual at Creekstone Farms, 604 Goff Industrial Park Road in Arkansas City, according to a media release.Employees told officers a male suspect appeared to be under the influence of controlled substances.The suspect, identified as 28-year-old Esphesus Kago of Wichita, was exhibiting unusual behavior.&nbsp; During the investigation, officers discovered that Kago was in possession of illegal substances. When officers attempted to take Kago into custody, he resisted arrest. Despite this resistance, officers successfully apprehended Kago and transported him to the Cowley County Jail.Further investigation revealed that Kago had an active warrant issued by the United States Attorney General's Office for aggravated assault on a postal worker. Kago remains in custody on requested charges of obstructing a law enforcement officer, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and the federal warrant.&nbsp;

Kansas man accused of aggravated assault on a postal worker 

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The Kentucky police officer who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-pga-police-fatality-a421bfdb346f00dec95c95a0ab04e4d9">arrested top-ranked golfer Scottie Scheffler</a>&nbsp;outside the PGA Championship is receiving “corrective action” for not having his body-worn camera activated when he approached the golfer's vehicle — an interaction that allegedly resulted in the officer being dragged to the ground, authorities said Thursday.

Louisville officials said during a news conference that they are not aware of any video footage of the initial interaction last Friday between Scheffler and Louisville Detective Bryan Gillis outside the gates of Valhalla Golf Club on a dark and rainy morning. But Gillis wrote in a report on his failure to turn on the camera that Scheffler “demanded to be let in and proceeded forward ... I was dragged/knocked down by the driver."

Police did release video Thursday from a street pole camera that appears to show Scheffler's SUV turning into the golf club entrance, prompting an officer to run toward the vehicle and seemingly strike it as it comes to a stop. The camera is too far away to capture the full details of the encounter.

Another video released by authorities comes from a police vehicle dashcam and shows Scheffler in handcuffs as he is escorted by officers.

The local prosecutor handling the case has requested that any additional video or evidence related to the case not be released “until the conclusion of the legal process,” the mayor said.

Scheffler was arrested on charges that he injured Gillis and disobeyed commands, but the golfer said “he never intended to disregard any of the instructions,” and the incident was caused by a misunderstanding.

After the news conference, Scheffler's attorney Steve Romines said his client was not at fault.

“Our position is the same as it was last Friday, Scottie Scheffler didn’t do anything wrong, we’re not interested in settling the case," Romines said. "We’ll either try it or it will be dismissed.”

The city's police chief noted that the department's officers are expected to maintain their body-worn cameras in a “constant state of operational readiness.”

“Detective Gillis should have turned on his body-worn camera but did not," Police Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel said. "His failure to do so is a violation of LMPD policy on uniforms and equipment.”

The report on the internal investigation said Gillis should have at least had his camera on in standby mode while directing traffic before the incident with Scheffler.

Gwinn-Villaroel said he "received corrective action" for the violation. The document released Thursday said Gillis completed a "failure to record" form as required by policy, and was “counseled by a member of his command” and a “performance observation” was completed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715949652837.png" alt="Scheffler's booking photo Louisville Metropolitan Department of Corrections." />
 <figcaption>Scheffler's booking photo Louisville Metropolitan Department of Corrections.</figcaption>
 </figure>LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — The Kentucky police officer who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scheffler-pga-police-fatality-a421bfdb346f00dec95c95a0ab04e4d9">arrested top-ranked golfer Scottie Scheffler</a>&nbsp;outside the PGA Championship is receiving “corrective action” for not having his body-worn camera activated when he approached the golfer's vehicle — an interaction that allegedly resulted in the officer being dragged to the ground, authorities said Thursday.(Click below to watch videos from a street pole camera of encounter)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1zsHN_SohUU?si=M9tws8PAAkSUcFJM" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mnWeQfNMLmM?si=ZRSVVZfgFYR4Z5k4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Louisville officials said during a news conference that they are not aware of any video footage of the initial interaction last Friday between Scheffler and Louisville Detective Bryan Gillis outside the gates of Valhalla Golf Club on a dark and rainy morning. But Gillis wrote in a report on his failure to turn on the camera that Scheffler “demanded to be let in and proceeded forward ... I was dragged/knocked down by the driver."Police did release video Thursday from a street pole camera that appears to show Scheffler's SUV turning into the golf club entrance, prompting an officer to run toward the vehicle and seemingly strike it as it comes to a stop. The camera is too far away to capture the full details of the encounter.Another video released by authorities comes from a police vehicle dashcam and shows Scheffler in handcuffs as he is escorted by officers.The local prosecutor handling the case has requested that any additional video or evidence related to the case not be released “until the conclusion of the legal process,” the mayor said.Scheffler was arrested on charges that he injured Gillis and disobeyed commands, but the golfer said “he never intended to disregard any of the instructions,” and the incident was caused by a misunderstanding.After the news conference, Scheffler's attorney Steve Romines said his client was not at fault.“Our position is the same as it was last Friday, Scottie Scheffler didn’t do anything wrong, we’re not interested in settling the case," Romines said. "We’ll either try it or it will be dismissed.”The city's police chief noted that the department's officers are expected to maintain their body-worn cameras in a “constant state of operational readiness.”“Detective Gillis should have turned on his body-worn camera but did not," Police Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel said. "His failure to do so is a violation of LMPD policy on uniforms and equipment.”The report on the internal investigation said Gillis should have at least had his camera on in standby mode while directing traffic before the incident with Scheffler.Gwinn-Villaroel said he "received corrective action" for the violation. The document released Thursday said Gillis completed a "failure to record" form as required by policy, and was “counseled by a member of his command” and a “performance observation” was completed.Gillis wrote in the document that he was requested to respond to a fatal accident at Valhalla when he saw Scheffler's vehicle "traveling in the opposing lanes coming at me."Scheffler was driving before dawn to Valhalla Golf Club to play in the second round of the tournament when he encountered Gillis.Gillis, who approached Scheffler’s car on foot, wrote in an arrest report that Scheffler “refused to comply and accelerated forward, dragging” Gillis to the ground. Gillis said his uniform pants were damaged in the fall and he was taken to the hospital for his injuries.A few hours later, after a trip to jail, Scheffler returned to the golf course in time for his 10:08 a.m. tee time. He&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/scottie-scheffler-pga-championship-15f6041dc4d9fd00ab65f742737f0f34">finished the tournament Sunday tied for eighth place</a>, enough for a tournament payout of about $520,000.He is scheduled to return to Louisville on June 3 to be arraigned on four charges, including second-degree felony assault of a police officer.Louisville police’s current body camera policy was enacted amid controversy in 2020 after officers shot&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/breonna-taylor">Breonna Taylor</a>, a 26-year-old Black woman who was killed during a botched drug raid. At the time, the plain-clothes officers who served the warrant and fired at Taylor were not required to wear body cameras.The new policy required all officers to turn on the camera “prior to engaging in all law enforcement activities and encounters.”The police chief at the time of Taylor’s death was later fired when officers at the scene of another fatal shooting failed to turn on their body-worn cameras.