KANSAS CITY(AP) — Missouri prosecutors said Wednesday that they intend to seek the death penalty against a Kansas City-area man who is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/officers-shot-wounded-independence-missouri-87f9ad636e064b3399c17536f727bc8f">charged with murder</a>&nbsp;in the killings of a court employee who tried to serve an eviction notice on him and a police officer who responded.

Larry Acree, 70, of Independence, is accused of shooting court employee Drexel Mack on Feb. 29, plus two police officers who came to the scene, including Cody Allen, who was killed. Officers returned fire and arrested Acree, who suffered minor injuries.

Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker's office filed a notice with the court saying the state will prove there are aggravating circumstances sufficient to warrant the death penalty. Acree is charged with 18 total counts including two of first-degree murder.

According to court papers, Acree owed delinquent taxes dating back to at least 2019. His 9-acre (3.6-hectare) property and three-bedroom home was sold last August for $260,000, and the new owner paid the taxes. A “Notice to Vacate” sign was posted at the property in February, and authorities have said Acree had no right to be there.

At a brief hearing Wednesday, Acree’s attorney, Edward Berrigan of the Missouri State Public Defender’s office, asked for a continuance so that the public defenders who handle death penalty cases could be reassigned, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article288648525.html">Kansas City Star reported</a>.

Acree's next court date is set for July 10 in Independence, a suburb of Kansas City with about 122,000 residents.

Eleven people are currently on death row in Missouri.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/3/1709695226784.png" alt="Acree-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Acree-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — Missouri prosecutors said Wednesday that they intend to seek the death penalty against a Kansas City-area man who is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/officers-shot-wounded-independence-missouri-87f9ad636e064b3399c17536f727bc8f">charged with murder</a>&nbsp;in the killings of a court employee who tried to serve an eviction notice on him and a police officer who responded.Larry Acree, 70, of Independence, is accused of shooting court employee Drexel Mack on Feb. 29, plus two police officers who came to the scene, including Cody Allen, who was killed. Officers returned fire and arrested Acree, who suffered minor injuries.Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker's office filed a notice with the court saying the state will prove there are aggravating circumstances sufficient to warrant the death penalty. Acree is charged with 18 total counts including two of first-degree murder.According to court papers, Acree owed delinquent taxes dating back to at least 2019. His 9-acre (3.6-hectare) property and three-bedroom home was sold last August for $260,000, and the new owner paid the taxes. A “Notice to Vacate” sign was posted at the property in February, and authorities have said Acree had no right to be there.At a brief hearing Wednesday, Acree’s attorney, Edward Berrigan of the Missouri State Public Defender’s office, asked for a continuance so that the public defenders who handle death penalty cases could be reassigned, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article288648525.html">Kansas City Star reported</a>.Acree's next court date is set for July 10 in Independence, a suburb of Kansas City with about 122,000 residents.Eleven people are currently on death row in Missouri.

Prosecutors to seek death penalty in KC killing of court employee, police officer

JOHNSON COUNTY —Two members of the Kansas City Chiefs arrested Friday in Johnson County are due to appear in court Thursday, according to online booking information.

The Johnson County sheriff's office reported&nbsp; 23-year-old Chukwuebuka <a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/chukwuebuka-jason-godrick/">Godrick </a>and 23-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/wanya-morris/">Wanya Morris </a>were booked into jail for misdemeanor marijuana possession.

Both were released on Friday afternoon after posting $2,500 bond.&nbsp;

Morris, an offensive lineman from the University of Oklahoma, was a third-round draft pick (92nd overall) by the Chiefs in the 2023 NFL Draft, according to his bio on the team web site.

Godrick, an offensive lineman, is also entering his second season with the Chiefs. He originally entered the NFL as a designated International Pathway Player with the Chiefs in 2023, according to his bio on the team web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Both are due back in court May 23, according to online records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029417033.png" alt="Godrick-photo Johnson Co." />
 <figcaption>Godrick-photo Johnson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Two members of the Kansas City Chiefs arrested Friday in Johnson County are due to appear in court Thursday, according to online booking information.The Johnson County sheriff's office reported&nbsp; 23-year-old Chukwuebuka <a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/chukwuebuka-jason-godrick/">Godrick </a>and 23-year-old&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chiefs.com/team/players-roster/wanya-morris/">Wanya Morris </a>were booked into jail for misdemeanor marijuana possession.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029434679.png" alt="Morris-photo Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Morris-photo Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029595231.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716029631137.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Both were released on Friday afternoon after posting $2,500 bond.&nbsp;Morris, an offensive lineman from the University of Oklahoma, was a third-round draft pick (92nd overall) by the Chiefs in the 2023 NFL Draft, according to his bio on the team web site.Godrick, an offensive lineman, is also entering his second season with the Chiefs. He originally entered the NFL as a designated International Pathway Player with the Chiefs in 2023, according to his bio on the team web site.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both are due back in court May 23, according to online records.

2 KC Chiefs players due in court after arrest in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY— Wichita Police Officers are investigating another deadly shooting.

Just before 3:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting at 2723 SE Boulevard Plaza, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.&nbsp;

First responders located a man suffering from several gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead on scene. Officers also located another victim suffering from several gunshot wounds as well. EMS transported him to an area hospital. He should survive his injuries, according to Ford.&nbsp;

 Investigators continue working to determine the circumstances that led to this shooting. Police have not reported an arrest or additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716430928843.png" alt="Police on the scene photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY— Wichita Police Officers are investigating another deadly shooting.Just before 3:30p.m. Wednesday, police responded to a shooting at 2723 SE Boulevard Plaza, according to Police spokesman Andrew Ford.&nbsp;First responders located a man suffering from several gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead on scene. Officers also located another victim suffering from several gunshot wounds as well. EMS transported him to an area hospital. He should survive his injuries, according to Ford.&nbsp; Investigators continue working to determine the circumstances that led to this shooting. Police have not reported an arrest or additional details.

Man dead after gunfight at Kansas massage parlor

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple allegations.

On May 17, police took a report of stolen property and someone being battered, according to a media release.

On May 19, police located and arrested 35-year-old Ashley Van Petten of Topeka&nbsp;&nbsp;in the 1500 block of SE Morrison Street.

Van Petten is being held on requested&nbsp;charges of aggravated Robbery; Inflicts bodily harm; domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship and intimidation of witness or victim; Prevent reporting of victimization.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716294981890.png" alt="Van Petten photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Van Petten photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a woman on multiple allegations.On May 17, police took a report of stolen property and someone being battered, according to a media release.On May 19, police located and arrested 35-year-old Ashley Van Petten of Topeka&nbsp;&nbsp;in the 1500 block of SE Morrison Street.Van Petten is being held on requested&nbsp;charges of aggravated Robbery; Inflicts bodily harm; domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship and intimidation of witness or victim; Prevent reporting of victimization.

Kansas woman accused of violent robbery

SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas man faces multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in and around Salina.

Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy saw a black 2005 Ford Mustang speeding northbound on Ohio Street in Salina, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. Once the deputy attempted a traffic stop, the driver continued, leading to a chase.

"The deputy turned on the red lights, but the vehicle continued eastbound on Magnolia," Soldan said. "The vehicle made a U-turn on East Magnolia and went back westbound on Magnolia — at this point, the vehicle was fleeing from the deputy. They checked the vehicle's speed at 123 mph in a 35mph zone in the area of Magnolia and Belmont."

Soldan said the driver then ran a red light at Ninth Street and Magnolia Road and turned south onto Interstate 135, where he allegedly reached speeds of 127 mph.

A KHP trooper joined the chase once the driver, later identified as 24-year-old Salina resident Corey Cantrell, Jr., entered the interstate. Since Cantrell reached such extreme speeds on Interstate 135, KHP discontinued the chase.

After a short time, the Saline County Sheriff's Office began receiving multiple reports of a dark vehicle traveling quickly around town.

"We had several reports of people calling, citizens calling dispatch about a vehicle driving through town with no lights on at a high rate of speed," Soldan said.

Then, at about 10:25 p.m., Salina Police Capt. James Feldman said a citizen reported that a black Ford Mustang was driving on Quincy Street without headlights or taillights.

Feldman said that an officer then observed the Mustang in the 800 block of South Front Street, where they attempted a traffic stop, but Cantrell did not stop but traveled at the speed limit.

"The officer turned around on the vehicle and attempted to do a traffic stop at the intersection of Fourth and Wilson," Feldman said. "Then, he continued northbound on Front Street, then turned onto Fourth Street, then to Bond Street, and still did not stop, but he was driving at the speed limit and did not accelerate away, just not pulling over."

After cruising at the posted speed limit on Bond Street, Cantrell turned onto Second Street and pulled into a parking lot at 500 East Crawford Avenue.

Once Cantrell pulled over at the parking lot, police contacted the Sheriff's Office, where&nbsp;deputies arrested him without incident. Soldan said deputies located an alleged THC pen once they arrested Cantrell.

Cantrell is being held on requested charges of felony flee and elude, three counts of failing to stop at a stop sign, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, improper driving on a laned roadway, failing to signal, a few speeding and racing charges due to the extreme speeds and two traffic control signal violations.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716378922195.jpeg" alt=" Cantrell photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption> Cantrell photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—A Kansas man faces multiple allegations after a high-speed chase in and around Salina.Just before 10p.m. Tuesday, a sheriff's deputy saw a black 2005 Ford Mustang speeding northbound on Ohio Street in Salina, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan. Once the deputy attempted a traffic stop, the driver continued, leading to a chase."The deputy turned on the red lights, but the vehicle continued eastbound on Magnolia," Soldan said. "The vehicle made a U-turn on East Magnolia and went back westbound on Magnolia — at this point, the vehicle was fleeing from the deputy. They checked the vehicle's speed at 123 mph in a 35mph zone in the area of Magnolia and Belmont."Soldan said the driver then ran a red light at Ninth Street and Magnolia Road and turned south onto Interstate 135, where he allegedly reached speeds of 127 mph.A KHP trooper joined the chase once the driver, later identified as 24-year-old Salina resident Corey Cantrell, Jr., entered the interstate. Since Cantrell reached such extreme speeds on Interstate 135, KHP discontinued the chase.After a short time, the Saline County Sheriff's Office began receiving multiple reports of a dark vehicle traveling quickly around town."We had several reports of people calling, citizens calling dispatch about a vehicle driving through town with no lights on at a high rate of speed," Soldan said.Then, at about 10:25 p.m., Salina Police Capt. James Feldman said a citizen reported that a black Ford Mustang was driving on Quincy Street without headlights or taillights.Feldman said that an officer then observed the Mustang in the 800 block of South Front Street, where they attempted a traffic stop, but Cantrell did not stop but traveled at the speed limit."The officer turned around on the vehicle and attempted to do a traffic stop at the intersection of Fourth and Wilson," Feldman said. "Then, he continued northbound on Front Street, then turned onto Fourth Street, then to Bond Street, and still did not stop, but he was driving at the speed limit and did not accelerate away, just not pulling over."After cruising at the posted speed limit on Bond Street, Cantrell turned onto Second Street and pulled into a parking lot at 500 East Crawford Avenue.Once Cantrell pulled over at the parking lot, police contacted the Sheriff's Office, where&nbsp;deputies arrested him without incident. Soldan said deputies located an alleged THC pen once they arrested Cantrell.Cantrell is being held on requested charges of felony flee and elude, three counts of failing to stop at a stop sign, possession of marijuana and paraphernalia, improper driving on a laned roadway, failing to signal, a few speeding and racing charges due to the extreme speeds and two traffic control signal violations.

Sheriff: Kansas driver was traveling 123mph in a 35mph zone

BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations.

On May 18,&nbsp; Sheriff's deputies went to a residence&nbsp; in Hiawatha, Kansas, attempting to locate Kansas felon who was wanted on multiple warrants in Kansas and Missouri, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

Deputies were allowed to look for Derek Frakes, 38, of Hiawatha&nbsp; and he was located inside the residence and placed under arrest.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

 Deputies&nbsp; gathered information while locating Frakes which led to the approval of a search warrant&nbsp; at the 711 Iowa residence. Brown County Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force initiated the warrant.&nbsp; 

Frakeswas arrested on a $500 and $10,000 Brown County Felony Probation Violation Warrants,&nbsp; $25,000&nbsp; Brown County Felony Failure to Appear Warrant, $2500 Platte County Missouri Felony&nbsp; Warrant for Possession of Marijuana and $2500Platte County Felony Warrant for Distribution or Possession of Drug Paraphernalia for Illegal Use.

Frakes is also facing requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716237137749.png" alt="Frakes photo Brown Co." />
 <figcaption>Frakes photo Brown Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations.On May 18,&nbsp; Sheriff's deputies went to a residence&nbsp; in Hiawatha, Kansas, attempting to locate Kansas felon who was wanted on multiple warrants in Kansas and Missouri, according to Sheriff John Merchant.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716237073364.png" alt="Photo Brown Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Brown Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies were allowed to look for Derek Frakes, 38, of Hiawatha&nbsp; and he was located inside the residence and placed under arrest.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Deputies&nbsp; gathered information while locating Frakes which led to the approval of a search warrant&nbsp; at the 711 Iowa residence. Brown County Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force initiated the warrant.&nbsp; Frakeswas arrested on a $500 and $10,000 Brown County Felony Probation Violation Warrants,&nbsp; $25,000&nbsp; Brown County Felony Failure to Appear Warrant, $2500 Platte County Missouri Felony&nbsp; Warrant for Possession of Marijuana and $2500Platte County Felony Warrant for Distribution or Possession of Drug Paraphernalia for Illegal Use.Frakes is also facing requested charges of Possession of Meth, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Deputies seize drugs capture Kan. felon wanted in 2 states

KANSAS CITY —A man deputies arrested on Friday is now the first person in Missouri to be charged with the crime of attempted voluntary manslaughter by knowingly assisting another in the commission or attempted commission of self murder, according to the Clay County Sheriff's office.

Just before midnight May 16, deputies responded the 600 block of Cherry Street in Randolph, Missouri. They saw a woman lying on the ground with a large knife sticking out from under her armpit. A man was by her. An ambulance transported the victim to the hospital.

The man told deputies he had recorded the woman stabbing herself. He showed them the video, in which he'd told her to get a knife and then threatened that he would stab her if she didn't do it to herself first. He told her the first knife she was going to use was too small, so she retrieved a much larger one. He told her where to insert the knife so she would die quickly, based on what he had seen in a movie. 

When she fell to the ground, the video showed him checking to ensure she had done it. It did not appear that he attempted to provide any aid. He also told deputies he had physically assaulted the woman a few days prior, and she had prior injuries consistent with that.&nbsp; The woman survived the incident, according to the sheriff's office.

Thomas R. Crownover, 41, Kansas City is being held in the Clay County Jail on a $100,000 bond. He has been charged with of attempted voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716381289879.png" alt="Crownover-photo Clay County" />
 <figcaption>Crownover-photo Clay County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A man deputies arrested on Friday is now the first person in Missouri to be charged with the crime of attempted voluntary manslaughter by knowingly assisting another in the commission or attempted commission of self murder, according to the Clay County Sheriff's office.Just before midnight May 16, deputies responded the 600 block of Cherry Street in Randolph, Missouri. They saw a woman lying on the ground with a large knife sticking out from under her armpit. A man was by her. An ambulance transported the victim to the hospital.The man told deputies he had recorded the woman stabbing herself. He showed them the video, in which he'd told her to get a knife and then threatened that he would stab her if she didn't do it to herself first. He told her the first knife she was going to use was too small, so she retrieved a much larger one. He told her where to insert the knife so she would die quickly, based on what he had seen in a movie. When she fell to the ground, the video showed him checking to ensure she had done it. It did not appear that he attempted to provide any aid. He also told deputies he had physically assaulted the woman a few days prior, and she had prior injuries consistent with that.&nbsp; The woman survived the incident, according to the sheriff's office.Thomas R. Crownover, 41, Kansas City is being held in the Clay County Jail on a $100,000 bond. He has been charged with of attempted voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action.&nbsp;

Kansas City man charged with first-of-its-kind crime in Missouri

LABETTE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Labette County Sheriff’s Office have been investigating the murders of 39-year-old Jason M. Bakken and 43-year-old Leanda R. Pound, of Mound Valley, Kansas, since they were discovered deceased in October of 2022.

Governor Laura Kelly has issued an executive order offering a $5,000 reward to anyone who provides information to investigators that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murders.

Bakken and Pound were found by a friend on Oct. 3, 2022, shot and killed in their home at 693 16000 Rd., in Mound Valley. Investigators believe the murders may have occurred up to a month prior to their discovery.

Anyone with information about these crimes, no matter how small the detail might seem, is asked to contact the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Labette County Sheriff’s Office at 620-795-2565.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716326924424.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>LABETTE COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) and the Labette County Sheriff’s Office have been investigating the murders of 39-year-old Jason M. Bakken and 43-year-old Leanda R. Pound, of Mound Valley, Kansas, since they were discovered deceased in October of 2022.Governor Laura Kelly has issued an executive order offering a $5,000 reward to anyone who provides information to investigators that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for the murders.Bakken and Pound were found by a friend on Oct. 3, 2022, shot and killed in their home at 693 16000 Rd., in Mound Valley. Investigators believe the murders may have occurred up to a month prior to their discovery.Anyone with information about these crimes, no matter how small the detail might seem, is asked to contact the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Labette County Sheriff’s Office at 620-795-2565.

KBI: Reward offered in unsolved murder of Kansas couple

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Tuesday, Winfried(Wynn) Butler, former mayor of the city of Manhattan, made <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/3b983dcc-7663-43b1-8898-59c00fd570da">his first appearance at Manhattan Municipal Court for alleged DUI</a>.

Butler appeared in court with his lawyer. Butler pled not guilty to the charge of <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/73dca288-9ecb-43c8-a9d3-bf22b0b2f5e0">driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;.</a>

Butler is charged with DUI following an incident on May 8th, when his vehicle entered Candlewood Liquor store.

<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/1eb1632e-ed16-4249-a414-541d6af70f9e">Butler resigned from his position as mayor</a> on May 9th, following his arrest.

Butler's next court appearance is Wednesday, June 26th at 4:00pm at the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/mvK7sAk4m8KrEvFq7">Manhattan Municipal Court</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716305106763.png" alt="Wynn Butler waiting outside Manhattan Municipal Court, photo submitted&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Wynn Butler waiting outside Manhattan Municipal Court, photo submitted&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Tuesday, Winfried(Wynn) Butler, former mayor of the city of Manhattan, made <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/3b983dcc-7663-43b1-8898-59c00fd570da">his first appearance at Manhattan Municipal Court for alleged DUI</a>.Butler appeared in court with his lawyer. Butler pled not guilty to the charge of <a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/73dca288-9ecb-43c8-a9d3-bf22b0b2f5e0">driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715272569983.png" alt="Image of crash damage courtesy Caldlewood Liquor Store" />
 <figcaption>Image of crash damage courtesy Caldlewood Liquor Store</figcaption>
 </figure>Butler is charged with DUI following an incident on May 8th, when his vehicle entered Candlewood Liquor store.<a href="https://littleapplepost.com/posts/1eb1632e-ed16-4249-a414-541d6af70f9e">Butler resigned from his position as mayor</a> on May 9th, following his arrest.Butler's next court appearance is Wednesday, June 26th at 4:00pm at the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/mvK7sAk4m8KrEvFq7">Manhattan Municipal Court</a>.&nbsp;

Former Manhattan mayor enters plea for alleged DUI crash into liquor store

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-ebrahim-raisi-obituary-helicopter-crash-107ffb888540ef022a84ec719b81398c">President Ebrahim Raisi</a>&nbsp;and the country’s foreign minister were found dead Monday hours after their helicopter crashed in fog, leaving the Islamic Republic without two key leaders as extraordinary tensions grip the wider Middle East.

On his social media account, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall wrote, "Reminder: Raisi, the President of the Iranian terrorist regime was pure evil. He has the blood of innocent people on his hands. No sympathy from me."

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say in the Shiite theocracy, quickly named a little-known vice president as caretaker and insisted the government was in control, but the deaths marked yet another blow to a country beset by pressures at home and abroad.

Iran has offered no cause for the crash nor suggested sabotage brought down the helicopter, which fell in mountainous terrain in a sudden, intense fog.

In Tehran, Iran’s capital, businesses were open and children attended school Monday. However, there was a noticeable presence of both uniformed and plainclothes security forces.

Later in the day, hundreds of mourners crowded into downtown Vali-e-Asr square holding posters of Raisi and waving Palestinian flags. Some men clutched prayer beads and were visibly crying. Women wearing black chadors gathered together holding photos of the dead leader.

“We were shocked that we lost such a character, a character that made Iran proud, and humiliated the enemies,” said Mohammad Beheshti, 36.

The crash comes as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;roils the region. Iran-backed Hamas led the attack that started the conflict, and Hezbollah, also supported by Tehran, has fired rockets at Israel. Last month, Iran launched its own&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-mideast-tensions-4-19-2024-a7ccbae2e2844bab089e8e4377a24ddb">unprecedented drone-and-missile attack</a>&nbsp;on Israel.

A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-election-ebrahim-raisi-judiciary-turnout-middle-east-4d60554fd608a5dea2c76a303ec352d8">hard-liner who formerly led the country’s judiciary</a>, Raisi, 63, was viewed as a protege of Khamenei. During his tenure, relations continued to deteriorate with the West as Iran enriched uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels and supplied bomb-carrying drones to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia for its war in Ukraine</a>.

His government has also faced years of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-protests-morality-police-explainer-b53475eda867a4158ac5032fe1b3e62e">mass protests</a>&nbsp;over the ailing economy and women’s rights.

The crash killed all eight people aboard a Bell 212 helicopter that Iran purchased in the early 2000s, according to the state-run IRNA news agency. Among the dead were Iranian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-obit-hossein-amirabdollahian-helicopter-crash-foreign-minister-857a066350eb64709648e1830c34bc23">Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian</a>, the governor of Iran’s East Azerbaijan province, a senior cleric from Tabriz, a Revolutionary Guard official and three crew members, IRNA said.

Iran has flown Bell helicopters extensively since the shah’s era. But aircraft in Iran face a shortage of parts because of Western sanctions, and often fly without safety checks. Against that backdrop, former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif sought to blame the United States for the crash.

“One of the main culprits of yesterday’s tragedy is the United States, which ... embargoed the sale of aircraft and aviation parts to Iran and does not allow the people of Iran to enjoy good aviation facilities,” Zarif told The Associated Press.

Ali Vaez, Iran project director with the International Crisis Group, said that while U.S. sanctions have deprived Iran of the ability to renew and repair its fleet for decades, "one can’t overlook human error and the weather’s role in this particular accident.’’

Richard Aboulafia, an aerospace analyst and consultant, said Iran likely is tapping the black market for parts, but questioned whether Iran has the maintenance skills to keep older helicopters flying safely.

“Black-market parts and whatever local maintenance capabilities they’ve got — that’s not a good combination,” he said.

There are 15 Bell 212 helicopters with an average age of 35 years currently registered in Iran that could be in active use or in storage, according to aviation data firm Cirium.

State TV gave no immediate cause for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/helicopter-iranian-president-crash">the crash</a>&nbsp;in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province. Footage released by IRNA showed the crash site, across a steep valley in a green mountain range.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the U.S. continues to monitor the situation surrounding the “very unfortunate helicopter crash” but has no insight into the cause. “I don’t necessarily see any broader regional security impacts at this point in time,” he said.

White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Raisi's death is not expected to have any substantive impact on difficult U.S.-Iran relations, or Iran’s support of Hamas, Hezbollah and the Yemen-based Houthi rebels.

“We have to assume that the supreme leader is the one who makes these decisions and the supreme leader, as he did in the last so-called election, made sure to stack the deck with only candidates that met his mandates,” Kirby said.

He called the accusation that U.S. sanctions contributed to the crash “baseless,” adding: “Every country, no matter who they are has a responsibility, their own responsibility to ensure the safety and reliability of its equipment.”

For now, Khamenei has named the first vice president, Mohammad Mokhber, as caretaker, in line with the constitution. The election for a successor is to be held on June 28, IRNA said. Raisi’s funeral will take place Thursday in Mashhad, the city where he was born, with other funerals to be held on Tuesday, state TV said.

It said Ali Bagheri Kani, a nuclear negotiator for Iran, will serve as the country’s acting foreign minister.

Condolences&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/92ce7ff3851e632f8d347e253d38143b">poured in</a>&nbsp;from allies after Iran confirmed there were no survivors. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on the social media platform X that his country “stands with Iran in this time of sorrow." Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement released by the Kremlin, described Raisi “as a true friend of Russia.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, China’s Xi Jinping and Syrian President Bashar Assad also offered condolences. Azerbaijan’s president, Ilham Aliyev, said he and his government were “deeply shocked.” Raisi was returning Sunday from Iran’s border with Azerbaijan, where he had inaugurated a dam with Aliyev, when the crash happened.

The death also stunned Iranians, and Khamenei declared five days of public mourning. But many have been ground down by the collapse of the country’s rial currency and worries about regional conflicts spinning out of control with Israel or Pakistan, which Iran exchanged fire with this year.

“He tried to carry out his duties well, but I don’t think he was as successful as he should have been,” said Mahrooz Mohammadi Zadeh, 53, a resident of Tehran.

Khamenei stressed the business of Iran’s government would continue no matter what — but Raisi’s death raised the specter of what will happen after the 85-year-old supreme leader either resigns or dies. The final say in all matters of state rests with his office and only two men have held the position since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Raisi had been discussed as a contender. The only other person suggested was Khamenei’s 55-year-old son, Mojtaba. However, concerns have been raised over the position going to a family member, particularly after the revolution overthrew the hereditary Pahlavi monarchy of the shah.

An emergency meeting of Iran’s Cabinet issued a statement pledging it would follow Raisi’s path and that “with the help of God and the people, there will be no problem with management of the country.”

Raisi&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-iran-iran-nuclear-biden-inauguration-fe35a7b837d2b7966840cf14030f9073">won Iran’s 2021 presidential election</a>, in a vote that saw the lowest turnout in the Islamic Republic’s history. He was sanctioned by the U.S. in part over his involvement in the execution of thousands of political prisoners in 1988 at the end of the bloody Iran-Iraq war.

Mass protests in the country have raged for years. The most recent involved the 2022 death of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eu-sakharov-prize-masha-amini-5a24ba82e8b7819afae72e9dff4bc25e">Mahsa Amini,</a>&nbsp;a woman detained over her allegedly loose headscarf, or hijab. The monthslong security crackdown that followed the demonstrations killed more than 500 people and saw over 22,000 detained.

In March, a United Nations investigative panel found that Iran was responsible for the “physical violence” that led to Amini’s death.

Raisi is the second Iranian president to die in office. In 1981, a bomb blast killed President Mohammad Ali Rajai in the chaotic days after the country’s Islamic Revolution.

Iran holds regular elections for president and parliament with universal suffrage.

But the supreme leader has final say on all major policies, serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and controls the powerful Revolutionary Guard.

The supreme leader also appoints half of the 12-member Guardian Council, a clerical body that vets candidates for president, parliament and the Assembly of Experts, an elected body of jurists in charge of choosing the supreme leader.

In theory, the clerics oversee the republic to ensure it complies with Islamic law. In practice, the supreme leader carefully manages the ruling system to balance competing interests, advance his own priorities and ensure that no one challenges the Islamic Republic or his role atop it.

Raisi, a hard-liner who was seen as a protege of Khamenei, was elected president in 2021 after the Guardian Council blocked any other well-known candidate from running against him, and turnout was the lowest in the history of the Islamic Republic. He succeeded Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate who had served as president for the past eight years and defeated Raisi in 2017.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-president-ebrahim-raisi-426c6f4ae2dd1f0801c73875bb696f48">After Raisi's death</a>, in accordance with Iran's constitution, Vice President Mohammad Mokhber,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-mohammad-mokhber-raisi-crash-2cf93c2e6fb11f9c2aff13fed133db41">a relative unknown</a>, became caretaker president, with elections mandated within 50 days. That vote will likely be carefully managed to produce a president who maintains the status quo.

That means Iran will continue to impose some degree of Islamic rule and crack down on dissent. It will enrich uranium,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/helicopter-iranian-president-crash#0000018f-9639-df52-abef-dfbd7a3b0000">support armed groups across the Middle East</a>&nbsp;and view the West with deep suspicion.

Presidents come and go, some more moderate than others, but each operates under the structure of the ruling system.

If any major change occurs in Iran, it is likely to come after the passing of Khamenei, when a new supreme leader will be chosen for only the second time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Khamenei succeeded the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, in 1989.

The next supreme leader will be chosen by the 88-seat Assembly of Experts, who are elected every eight years from candidates vetted by the Guardian Council.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-parliamentary-election-results-low-turnout-845fabad51eb26bf7fef8087c030f8f8">In the most recent election</a>, in March, Rouhani was barred from running, while Raisi won a seat.

Any discussion of the succession, or machinations related to it, occur far from the public eye, making it hard to know who may be in the running. But the two people seen by analysts as most likely to succeed Khamenei were Raisi and the supreme leader's own son, Mojtaba, 55, a Shiite cleric who has never held government office.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE SUPREME LEADER'S SON SUCCEEDS HIM?

Leaders of the Islamic Republic going back to the 1979 revolution have portrayed their system as superior, not only to the democracies of a decadent West, but to the military dictatorships and monarchies that prevail across the Middle East.

The transfer of power from the supreme leader to his son could spark anger, not only among Iranians who are already critical of clerical rule, but supporters of the system who might see it as un-Islamic.

Western sanctions linked to the nuclear program&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-sanctions-persian-carpet-sales-kashan-717d118d8fb0e2787fa5c3d2b3c1850c">have devastated Iran's economy</a>. And the enforcement of Islamic rule, which grew more severe under Raisi, has further alienated women and young people.

The Islamic Republic has faced several waves of popular protests in recent years, most recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-protests-morality-police-explainer-b53475eda867a4158ac5032fe1b3e62e">after the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini</a>, who had been arrested for allegedly not covering her hair in public. More than 500 people were killed and over 22,000 were detained in a violent crackdown.

Raisi's death may make the transition to a new supreme leader trickier, and it could spark more unrest.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716289391651.png" alt="People hold up posters of President Ebrahim Raisi during a mourning ceremony for him at Vali-e-Asr square in downtown Tehran, Iran, Monday, May 20, 2024. Iranian President Raisi and the country's foreign minister were found dead Monday hours after their helicopter crashed in fog, leaving the Islamic Republic without two key leaders as extraordinary tensions grip the wider Middle East. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)" />
 <figcaption>People hold up posters of President Ebrahim Raisi during a mourning ceremony for him at Vali-e-Asr square in downtown Tehran, Iran, Monday, May 20, 2024. Iranian President Raisi and the country's foreign minister were found dead Monday hours after their helicopter crashed in fog, leaving the Islamic Republic without two key leaders as extraordinary tensions grip the wider Middle East. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)</figcaption>
 </figure>DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-ebrahim-raisi-obituary-helicopter-crash-107ffb888540ef022a84ec719b81398c">President Ebrahim Raisi</a>&nbsp;and the country’s foreign minister were found dead Monday hours after their helicopter crashed in fog, leaving the Islamic Republic without two key leaders as extraordinary tensions grip the wider Middle East.On his social media account, Kansas U.S. Senator Roger Marshall wrote, "Reminder: Raisi, the President of the Iranian terrorist regime was pure evil. He has the blood of innocent people on his hands. No sympathy from me."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Reminder: Raisi, the President of the Iranian terrorist regime was pure evil. He has the blood of innocent people on his hands. No sympathy from me. <a href="https://t.co/ev5FPseR1s">pic.twitter.com/ev5FPseR1s</a>&mdash; Dr. Roger Marshall (@RogerMarshallMD) <a href="https://twitter.com/RogerMarshallMD/status/1792660277780987999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say in the Shiite theocracy, quickly named a little-known vice president as caretaker and insisted the government was in control, but the deaths marked yet another blow to a country beset by pressures at home and abroad.Iran has offered no cause for the crash nor suggested sabotage brought down the helicopter, which fell in mountainous terrain in a sudden, intense fog.In Tehran, Iran’s capital, businesses were open and children attended school Monday. However, there was a noticeable presence of both uniformed and plainclothes security forces.Later in the day, hundreds of mourners crowded into downtown Vali-e-Asr square holding posters of Raisi and waving Palestinian flags. Some men clutched prayer beads and were visibly crying. Women wearing black chadors gathered together holding photos of the dead leader.“We were shocked that we lost such a character, a character that made Iran proud, and humiliated the enemies,” said Mohammad Beheshti, 36.The crash comes as the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war">Israel-Hamas war</a>&nbsp;roils the region. Iran-backed Hamas led the attack that started the conflict, and Hezbollah, also supported by Tehran, has fired rockets at Israel. Last month, Iran launched its own&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-israel-mideast-tensions-4-19-2024-a7ccbae2e2844bab089e8e4377a24ddb">unprecedented drone-and-missile attack</a>&nbsp;on Israel.A&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-election-ebrahim-raisi-judiciary-turnout-middle-east-4d60554fd608a5dea2c76a303ec352d8">hard-liner who formerly led the country’s judiciary</a>, Raisi, 63, was viewed as a protege of Khamenei. During his tenure, relations continued to deteriorate with the West as Iran enriched uranium closer than ever to weapons-grade levels and supplied bomb-carrying drones to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine">Russia for its war in Ukraine</a>.His government has also faced years of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-protests-morality-police-explainer-b53475eda867a4158ac5032fe1b3e62e">mass protests</a>&nbsp;over the ailing economy and women’s rights.The crash killed all eight people aboard a Bell 212 helicopter that Iran purchased in the early 2000s, according to the state-run IRNA news agency. Among the dead were Iranian&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-obit-hossein-amirabdollahian-helicopter-crash-foreign-minister-857a066350eb64709648e1830c34bc23">Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian</a>, the governor of Iran’s East Azerbaijan province, a senior cleric from Tabriz, a Revolutionary Guard official and three crew members, IRNA said.Iran has flown Bell helicopters extensively since the shah’s era. But aircraft in Iran face a shortage of parts because of Western sanctions, and often fly without safety checks. Against that backdrop, former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif sought to blame the United States for the crash.“One of the main culprits of yesterday’s tragedy is the United States, which ... embargoed the sale of aircraft and aviation parts to Iran and does not allow the people of Iran to enjoy good aviation facilities,” Zarif told The Associated Press.Ali Vaez, Iran project director with the International Crisis Group, said that while U.S. sanctions have deprived Iran of the ability to renew and repair its fleet for decades, "one can’t overlook human error and the weather’s role in this particular accident.’’Richard Aboulafia, an aerospace analyst and consultant, said Iran likely is tapping the black market for parts, but questioned whether Iran has the maintenance skills to keep older helicopters flying safely.“Black-market parts and whatever local maintenance capabilities they’ve got — that’s not a good combination,” he said.There are 15 Bell 212 helicopters with an average age of 35 years currently registered in Iran that could be in active use or in storage, according to aviation data firm Cirium.State TV gave no immediate cause for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/helicopter-iranian-president-crash">the crash</a>&nbsp;in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province. Footage released by IRNA showed the crash site, across a steep valley in a green mountain range.U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the U.S. continues to monitor the situation surrounding the “very unfortunate helicopter crash” but has no insight into the cause. “I don’t necessarily see any broader regional security impacts at this point in time,” he said.White House national security spokesman John Kirby said Raisi's death is not expected to have any substantive impact on difficult U.S.-Iran relations, or Iran’s support of Hamas, Hezbollah and the Yemen-based Houthi rebels.“We have to assume that the supreme leader is the one who makes these decisions and the supreme leader, as he did in the last so-called election, made sure to stack the deck with only candidates that met his mandates,” Kirby said.He called the accusation that U.S. sanctions contributed to the crash “baseless,” adding: “Every country, no matter who they are has a responsibility, their own responsibility to ensure the safety and reliability of its equipment.”For now, Khamenei has named the first vice president, Mohammad Mokhber, as caretaker, in line with the constitution. The election for a successor is to be held on June 28, IRNA said. Raisi’s funeral will take place Thursday in Mashhad, the city where he was born, with other funerals to be held on Tuesday, state TV said.It said Ali Bagheri Kani, a nuclear negotiator for Iran, will serve as the country’s acting foreign minister.Condolences&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/92ce7ff3851e632f8d347e253d38143b">poured in</a>&nbsp;from allies after Iran confirmed there were no survivors. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a post on the social media platform X that his country “stands with Iran in this time of sorrow." Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a statement released by the Kremlin, described Raisi “as a true friend of Russia.”Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, China’s Xi Jinping and Syrian President Bashar Assad also offered condolences. Azerbaijan’s president, Ilham Aliyev, said he and his government were “deeply shocked.” Raisi was returning Sunday from Iran’s border with Azerbaijan, where he had inaugurated a dam with Aliyev, when the crash happened.The death also stunned Iranians, and Khamenei declared five days of public mourning. But many have been ground down by the collapse of the country’s rial currency and worries about regional conflicts spinning out of control with Israel or Pakistan, which Iran exchanged fire with this year.“He tried to carry out his duties well, but I don’t think he was as successful as he should have been,” said Mahrooz Mohammadi Zadeh, 53, a resident of Tehran.Khamenei stressed the business of Iran’s government would continue no matter what — but Raisi’s death raised the specter of what will happen after the 85-year-old supreme leader either resigns or dies. The final say in all matters of state rests with his office and only two men have held the position since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.Raisi had been discussed as a contender. The only other person suggested was Khamenei’s 55-year-old son, Mojtaba. However, concerns have been raised over the position going to a family member, particularly after the revolution overthrew the hereditary Pahlavi monarchy of the shah.An emergency meeting of Iran’s Cabinet issued a statement pledging it would follow Raisi’s path and that “with the help of God and the people, there will be no problem with management of the country.”Raisi&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/middle-east-iran-iran-nuclear-biden-inauguration-fe35a7b837d2b7966840cf14030f9073">won Iran’s 2021 presidential election</a>, in a vote that saw the lowest turnout in the Islamic Republic’s history. He was sanctioned by the U.S. in part over his involvement in the execution of thousands of political prisoners in 1988 at the end of the bloody Iran-Iraq war.Mass protests in the country have raged for years. The most recent involved the 2022 death of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/eu-sakharov-prize-masha-amini-5a24ba82e8b7819afae72e9dff4bc25e">Mahsa Amini,</a>&nbsp;a woman detained over her allegedly loose headscarf, or hijab. The monthslong security crackdown that followed the demonstrations killed more than 500 people and saw over 22,000 detained.In March, a United Nations investigative panel found that Iran was responsible for the “physical violence” that led to Amini’s death.Raisi is the second Iranian president to die in office. In 1981, a bomb blast killed President Mohammad Ali Rajai in the chaotic days after the country’s Islamic Revolution.Here's a look at what comes next.HOW DOES IRAN'S GOVERNMENT WORK?Iran holds regular elections for president and parliament with universal suffrage.But the supreme leader has final say on all major policies, serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and controls the powerful Revolutionary Guard.The supreme leader also appoints half of the 12-member Guardian Council, a clerical body that vets candidates for president, parliament and the Assembly of Experts, an elected body of jurists in charge of choosing the supreme leader.In theory, the clerics oversee the republic to ensure it complies with Islamic law. In practice, the supreme leader carefully manages the ruling system to balance competing interests, advance his own priorities and ensure that no one challenges the Islamic Republic or his role atop it.Raisi, a hard-liner who was seen as a protege of Khamenei, was elected president in 2021 after the Guardian Council blocked any other well-known candidate from running against him, and turnout was the lowest in the history of the Islamic Republic. He succeeded Hassan Rouhani, a relative moderate who had served as president for the past eight years and defeated Raisi in 2017.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-president-ebrahim-raisi-426c6f4ae2dd1f0801c73875bb696f48">After Raisi's death</a>, in accordance with Iran's constitution, Vice President Mohammad Mokhber,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-mohammad-mokhber-raisi-crash-2cf93c2e6fb11f9c2aff13fed133db41">a relative unknown</a>, became caretaker president, with elections mandated within 50 days. That vote will likely be carefully managed to produce a president who maintains the status quo.That means Iran will continue to impose some degree of Islamic rule and crack down on dissent. It will enrich uranium,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/helicopter-iranian-president-crash#0000018f-9639-df52-abef-dfbd7a3b0000">support armed groups across the Middle East</a>&nbsp;and view the West with deep suspicion.WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR SUCCESSION?Presidents come and go, some more moderate than others, but each operates under the structure of the ruling system.If any major change occurs in Iran, it is likely to come after the passing of Khamenei, when a new supreme leader will be chosen for only the second time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Khamenei succeeded the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, in 1989.The next supreme leader will be chosen by the 88-seat Assembly of Experts, who are elected every eight years from candidates vetted by the Guardian Council.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-parliamentary-election-results-low-turnout-845fabad51eb26bf7fef8087c030f8f8">In the most recent election</a>, in March, Rouhani was barred from running, while Raisi won a seat.Any discussion of the succession, or machinations related to it, occur far from the public eye, making it hard to know who may be in the running. But the two people seen by analysts as most likely to succeed Khamenei were Raisi and the supreme leader's own son, Mojtaba, 55, a Shiite cleric who has never held government office.WHAT HAPPENS IF THE SUPREME LEADER'S SON SUCCEEDS HIM?Leaders of the Islamic Republic going back to the 1979 revolution have portrayed their system as superior, not only to the democracies of a decadent West, but to the military dictatorships and monarchies that prevail across the Middle East.The transfer of power from the supreme leader to his son could spark anger, not only among Iranians who are already critical of clerical rule, but supporters of the system who might see it as un-Islamic.Western sanctions linked to the nuclear program&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-sanctions-persian-carpet-sales-kashan-717d118d8fb0e2787fa5c3d2b3c1850c">have devastated Iran's economy</a>. And the enforcement of Islamic rule, which grew more severe under Raisi, has further alienated women and young people.The Islamic Republic has faced several waves of popular protests in recent years, most recently&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/iran-protests-morality-police-explainer-b53475eda867a4158ac5032fe1b3e62e">after the 2022 death of Mahsa Amini</a>, who had been arrested for allegedly not covering her hair in public. More than 500 people were killed and over 22,000 were detained in a violent crackdown.Raisi's death may make the transition to a new supreme leader trickier, and it could spark more unrest.

Kansas U.S. Senator: No sympathy for death of Iran's president

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a stabbing have made an arrest.

Just before 5:00 p.m. Sunday, police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 700 block of NE Poplar in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Kerry Connell.&nbsp; First responders locate a man suffering from a non-life-threatening injury. American Medical Response transported to a local area hospital.

As a result of the investigation, Paula A. Lewellyn, 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause great body harm/disfigure/death and Interference with Law enforcement officer; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution. Lewellyn and the victim were known to each other, according to Connell.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716232218894.png" alt="Lewellyn-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lewellyn-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a stabbing have made an arrest.Just before 5:00 p.m. Sunday, police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 700 block of NE Poplar in Topeka, according to Police Lt. Kerry Connell.&nbsp; First responders locate a man suffering from a non-life-threatening injury. American Medical Response transported to a local area hospital.As a result of the investigation, Paula A. Lewellyn, 50, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of Aggravated battery; Knowingly use weapon cause great body harm/disfigure/death and Interference with Law enforcement officer; obstruct/resist/oppose felony warrant service or execution. Lewellyn and the victim were known to each other, according to Connell.

Kansas woman accused of knife attack that sent man to hospital

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have two suspects in custody.

After 12:15 a.m. on Thursday, deputies were checking the security of a business in the 5500 block of SW Randolph Avenue, according to Shawnee County Sheriff's Deputy Abigail Christian. Deputies found indications of recent damage to the property and evidence of a suspected burglary. Evidence was collected and they continued surveillance of the property.

The Sheriff’s Office said around 4:40 a.m., a black 2000 Mercury Mountaineer arrived and parked near the area where deputies observed the damage to the property. Multiple law enforcement officers surrounded the property and deployed a drone. A few minutes later, an individual wearing a face mask and carrying a pry bar emerged from the property and was immediately arrested. A second individual located inside the suspect vehicle was also arrested at the scene.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, Zackery W. Slover, 42, and Richard M. Lane, 42, both of Topeka, were booked into the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snco.us/doc/" target="_blank">Shawnee County Department of Corrections</a>&nbsp;on requested charges of burglary.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716151885045.png" alt="Lane-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lane-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary and have two suspects in custody.After 12:15 a.m. on Thursday, deputies were checking the security of a business in the 5500 block of SW Randolph Avenue, according to Shawnee County Sheriff's Deputy Abigail Christian. Deputies found indications of recent damage to the property and evidence of a suspected burglary. Evidence was collected and they continued surveillance of the property.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716151826361.png" alt="Slover -photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Slover -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sheriff’s Office said around 4:40 a.m., a black 2000 Mercury Mountaineer arrived and parked near the area where deputies observed the damage to the property. Multiple law enforcement officers surrounded the property and deployed a drone. A few minutes later, an individual wearing a face mask and carrying a pry bar emerged from the property and was immediately arrested. A second individual located inside the suspect vehicle was also arrested at the scene.According to the Sheriff’s Office, Zackery W. Slover, 42, and Richard M. Lane, 42, both of Topeka, were booked into the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snco.us/doc/" target="_blank">Shawnee County Department of Corrections</a>&nbsp;on requested charges of burglary.

Kansas burglary suspect caught carrying a pry bar

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a weekend arrest.

Just after 12a.m. Saturday, police arrested 38-year-old Brandon Colson of Manhattan in the 1000 block of Laramie Street, according to the RIleyi County Police Department activity report.

Colson was arrested on requested charges of abuse of a child. 

 Total bond was set at $100,000. Colson was confined at the time of this report.&nbsp;Colson has previous convictions for burglary, forgery and aggravated escape from custody, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716215407983.png" alt="Colson has previous convictions for burglary, forgery and aggravated escape from custody, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Colson has previous convictions for burglary, forgery and aggravated escape from custody, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after a weekend arrest.Just after 12a.m. Saturday, police arrested 38-year-old Brandon Colson of Manhattan in the 1000 block of Laramie Street, according to the RIleyi County Police Department activity report.Colson was arrested on requested charges of abuse of a child. Total bond was set at $100,000. Colson was confined at the time of this report.&nbsp;Colson has previous convictions for burglary, forgery and aggravated escape from custody, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections

Manhattan man accused of child abuse 

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after an arrest.

Just before 4p.m. Sunday, police arrested 26-year-old Trevor Smith of Conway Springs, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Smith was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for 8 counts of sale/distribution of a controlled substance. Smith remains jail on a bond of $8,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;He has a previous conviction for drug distribution,&nbsp; possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716214505277.png" alt="Smith-photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Smith-photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new allegations after an arrest.Just before 4p.m. Sunday, police arrested 26-year-old Trevor Smith of Conway Springs, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Smith was arrested on a Riley County District Court warrant for 8 counts of sale/distribution of a controlled substance. Smith remains jail on a bond of $8,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;He has a previous conviction for drug distribution,&nbsp; possession, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

RCPD reports arrest of alleged drug dealer

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after another alleged DUI arrest.

Just after 4:30p.m. on Saturday, police arrested 39-year-old Russell Harmon in the 400 block of 3rd Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. &nbsp;Harmon was arrested on the probable cause offense of driving under the influence- 4th or subsequent conviction.&nbsp;

On May 5, the RCPD reported Harmon's arrest on similar allegations.

Harmon remains jailed on a $5,000 bond.&nbsp;  In 2014, the Kansas Department of Corrections reported Harmon was in their custody for Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs - 3rd or subsequent conviction, for a conviction in Wabaunsee County.

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after another alleged DUI arrest.Just after 4:30p.m. on Saturday, police arrested 39-year-old Russell Harmon in the 400 block of 3rd Street in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. &nbsp;Harmon was arrested on the probable cause offense of driving under the influence- 4th or subsequent conviction.&nbsp;On May 5, the RCPD reported Harmon's arrest on similar allegations.Harmon remains jailed on a $5,000 bond.&nbsp; In 2014, the Kansas Department of Corrections reported Harmon was in their custody for Driving under influence of alcohol or drugs - 3rd or subsequent conviction, for a conviction in Wabaunsee County.

Manhattan man accused of DUI for 2nd time this month

SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is assisting the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation after two bodies were located near the 300 Block of River Road in rural Sumner County, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Sheriff’s Office has identified several suspects in the case. Authorities have not reported an arrest.

 One of the bodies was located on May 10,&nbsp; the other on May 13.&nbsp; Both bodies were transported to the Sedgwick County Regional Forensic Science Center for further testing and examination. &nbsp;

On Friday, the sheriff's office received confirmation through DNA testing on the identities of the two deceased individuals as 30-year-old Monica R. Williams and 24-year-old Kevin M. Ledesma. Both had been reporteed missing and were last seen&nbsp;at a residence in the 9500 block South Hydraulic in Wichita on January 1, 2024. The sheriff's office also reported there were homicide victims.

The circumstances in which Williams and Ledesma were killed remains under investigation by the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715979738614.png" alt="Williams photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Williams photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is assisting the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation after two bodies were located near the 300 Block of River Road in rural Sumner County, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff's Lt. Nathan Gibbs.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Sheriff’s Office has identified several suspects in the case. Authorities have not reported an arrest. One of the bodies was located on May 10,&nbsp; the other on May 13.&nbsp; Both bodies were transported to the Sedgwick County Regional Forensic Science Center for further testing and examination. &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715980197399.png" alt="Kevin Ledesma-photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections" />
 <figcaption>Kevin Ledesma-photo Kansas Dept. of Corrections</figcaption>
 </figure>On Friday, the sheriff's office received confirmation through DNA testing on the identities of the two deceased individuals as 30-year-old Monica R. Williams and 24-year-old Kevin M. Ledesma. Both had been reporteed missing and were last seen&nbsp;at a residence in the 9500 block South Hydraulic in Wichita on January 1, 2024. The sheriff's office also reported there were homicide victims.The circumstances in which Williams and Ledesma were killed remains under investigation by the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.

Police ID suspects after 2 bodies found in rural Kansas homicide

TOPEKA– A Kansas woman was sentenced to&nbsp; 20 years in prison after being found guilty of multiple charges related to drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.

According to court documents, a federal jury convicted Theresa Hight, 60, of Topeka, of one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, and two counts of distribution of a controlled substance. 

The jury found Hight not guilty of one count of distribution and posses with the intent to distribute controlled substances.

Three additional co-defendants pled guilty in the case. Shelli Lynn Zarazua, 59, of Topeka pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances. On May 1, 2024, Zarazua was sentenced to 120 months in prison.

Anabell Madrigal, 58, of Chula Vista, California, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and on April 24, 2024, was sentenced to 24 months in prison.

Allen Joseph Baker, 45, of Topeka pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and on May 1, 2024, was sentenced to 105 months in prison.

In March 2021, law enforcement officers received information that a courier was scheduled to drop off illegal narcotics at Hight’s residence in Topeka. While conducting surveillance, officers observed Madrigal arrive at the house. After a short time inside, Madrigal, Zarazua, Hight, and Baker all left in separate vehicles. Officers conducted traffic stops on each of the suspects. They found a pound of methamphetamine on Baker’s person as well as 17 bundles of methamphetamine in his vehicle. Hight had an ounce of methamphetamine and digital scales. 

Officers discovered three bundles of cash concealed in the panels of Madrigal’s vehicle. The total weight delivered on this occasion was approximately 20 pounds. Officers learned this was the second delivery which occurred at Hight’s residence.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715891161331.png" alt="Hight has a dozen previous convictions that include forgery, ID theft and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-" />
 <figcaption>Hight has a dozen previous convictions that include forgery, ID theft and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections-</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA– A Kansas woman was sentenced to&nbsp; 20 years in prison after being found guilty of multiple charges related to drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.According to court documents, a federal jury convicted Theresa Hight, 60, of Topeka, of one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, and two counts of distribution of a controlled substance. The jury found Hight not guilty of one count of distribution and posses with the intent to distribute controlled substances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715891543438.png" alt="Zarazua-from a previous arrest in Chase Co." />
 <figcaption>Zarazua-from a previous arrest in Chase Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Three additional co-defendants pled guilty in the case. Shelli Lynn Zarazua, 59, of Topeka pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances. On May 1, 2024, Zarazua was sentenced to 120 months in prison.Anabell Madrigal, 58, of Chula Vista, California, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and on April 24, 2024, was sentenced to 24 months in prison.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715891328064.png" alt="Baker photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Baker photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>Allen Joseph Baker, 45, of Topeka pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and on May 1, 2024, was sentenced to 105 months in prison.In March 2021, law enforcement officers received information that a courier was scheduled to drop off illegal narcotics at Hight’s residence in Topeka. While conducting surveillance, officers observed Madrigal arrive at the house. After a short time inside, Madrigal, Zarazua, Hight, and Baker all left in separate vehicles. Officers conducted traffic stops on each of the suspects. They found a pound of methamphetamine on Baker’s person as well as 17 bundles of methamphetamine in his vehicle. Hight had an ounce of methamphetamine and digital scales. Officers discovered three bundles of cash concealed in the panels of Madrigal’s vehicle. The total weight delivered on this occasion was approximately 20 pounds. Officers learned this was the second delivery which occurred at Hight’s residence.The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case.

Prison for members of Kansas meth sales ring

KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City father and son have been indicted by a federal grand jury for selling firearms without a license, illegally possessing firearms, and drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.

Nathan Caldwell, Sr., also known as “Prince Bossalinie,” 52, and Nathan Caldwell, Jr., 32, were charged in a 29-count indictment that was returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Tuesday, May 7. That indictment was unsealed and made public upon their arrest and initial court appearances.

The federal indictment alleges the Caldwells have aided and abetted each other to engage in the business of dealing in firearms, although they are not licensed dealers, since Dec. 20, 2023.

Nathan Caldwell, Sr., is also charged with 10 counts of being a felon in possession of firearms, eight counts of distributing methamphetamine, one count of distributing cocaine, one count of distributing marijuana, and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

Nathan Caldwell, Jr., is also charged with three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and three counts of distributing marijuana.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.

Nathan Caldwell, Sr., has two prior felony convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm and prior felony convictions for aiding a felon, attempted aggravated assault, attempted possession of cocaine, conspiracy to commit robbery, and possessing cocaine.

Nathan Caldwell, Jr., has a prior felony conviction for assault.

The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716153098128.png" alt="Nathan Caldwell, Jr. -Photo Wyandotte Co." />
 <figcaption>Nathan Caldwell, Jr. -Photo Wyandotte Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – A Kansas City father and son have been indicted by a federal grand jury for selling firearms without a license, illegally possessing firearms, and drug trafficking, according to the United State's Attorney.Nathan Caldwell, Sr., also known as “Prince Bossalinie,” 52, and Nathan Caldwell, Jr., 32, were charged in a 29-count indictment that was returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Tuesday, May 7. That indictment was unsealed and made public upon their arrest and initial court appearances.The federal indictment alleges the Caldwells have aided and abetted each other to engage in the business of dealing in firearms, although they are not licensed dealers, since Dec. 20, 2023.Nathan Caldwell, Sr., is also charged with 10 counts of being a felon in possession of firearms, eight counts of distributing methamphetamine, one count of distributing cocaine, one count of distributing marijuana, and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.Nathan Caldwell, Jr., is also charged with three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and three counts of distributing marijuana.Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.Nathan Caldwell, Sr., has two prior felony convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm and prior felony convictions for aiding a felon, attempted aggravated assault, attempted possession of cocaine, conspiracy to commit robbery, and possessing cocaine.Nathan Caldwell, Jr., has a prior felony conviction for assault.The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

Kansas City father and son accused of illegally selling guns

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

Just after 11a.m. on Thursday, an officer on patrol stopped a Ford Explorer SUV in the 500 block Green Street in Atchison on a traffic violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The officer subsequently determined that the driver identified as 49-year-old Robert “Jamie” Ford of Atchison was driving while suspended. It was also determined that his two passengers 36-year-old Shellene Keil and 36-year-old Melissa Butler both of Atchison had outstanding warrants for their arrests. 

During the investigation at the scene, all three occupants of the vehicle were found to be in possession of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. They were all three taken to the County Jail.

Shellene D. Keil is being held on requested charges of possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court, and a District Court warrant for a theft that occurred at Stop and Go at 4th and U.S. 59 in September 2023.

Melissa I. Butler is in jail on requested charges of possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court.&nbsp;

Robert James Ford remains jailed for driving while suspended, possession of fentanyl, and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715962831390.png" alt="Ford photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Ford photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating three suspects on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 11a.m. on Thursday, an officer on patrol stopped a Ford Explorer SUV in the 500 block Green Street in Atchison on a traffic violation, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The officer subsequently determined that the driver identified as 49-year-old Robert “Jamie” Ford of Atchison was driving while suspended. It was also determined that his two passengers 36-year-old Shellene Keil and 36-year-old Melissa Butler both of Atchison had outstanding warrants for their arrests. During the investigation at the scene, all three occupants of the vehicle were found to be in possession of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia. They were all three taken to the County Jail.Shellene D. Keil is being held on requested charges of possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court, and a District Court warrant for a theft that occurred at Stop and Go at 4th and U.S. 59 in September 2023.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716066095944.png" alt="Butler photo Atchison Co." />
 <figcaption>Butler photo Atchison Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Melissa I. Butler is in jail on requested charges of possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a Municipal Court warrant for failure to appear in court.&nbsp;Robert James Ford remains jailed for driving while suspended, possession of fentanyl, and possession of drug paraphernalia.&nbsp;

Police found 3 with fentanyl during Kansas traffic stop

JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.

Just after 5 a.m. May, 13, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop near 142nd and U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 During the traffic stop, the deputy observed illegal drug contraband.  The driver, Brandon Dean Vleck, 40, of Greeley, Colorado, was arrested on requested charges of possession of a stolen firearm, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, criminal use of weapons, possession of anabolic steroids, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715867982687.png" alt="Vleck photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Vleck photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a traffic stop.Just after 5 a.m. May, 13, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop near 142nd and U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic infraction, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. During the traffic stop, the deputy observed illegal drug contraband. The driver, Brandon Dean Vleck, 40, of Greeley, Colorado, was arrested on requested charges of possession of a stolen firearm, criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, criminal use of weapons, possession of anabolic steroids, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff: Colorado man caught with stolen gun, drugs in Kansas

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.

On Thursday, police in Garden City arrested 35-year-old Richard San Juan in connection to sex crimes reported to have occurred involving a 14-year-old girl known to him. 

He is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges that include&nbsp;&nbsp;multiple counts of Indecent Liberties with a Child. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1715956182462.png" alt="San Juan-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>San Juan-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On Thursday, police in Garden City arrested 35-year-old Richard San Juan in connection to sex crimes reported to have occurred involving a 14-year-old girl known to him. He is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges that include&nbsp;&nbsp;multiple counts of Indecent Liberties with a Child.