The Reno County Board of County Commissioners will meet at 9 a.m. in the Veterans Room of the Reno County Courthouse.

Commissioners are expected to approve several routine items on the consent agenda, including election administration matters and county vehicle purchases.

Among those items is setting the official canvass date for the City of Hutchinson’s March 3 special sales tax election. County staff recommend holding the canvass on Wednesday, March 11, at 8 a.m. in the Reno County Courthouse Annex conference room, in compliance with state election law.

The consent agenda also includes approval of two vehicle purchases from Midwest Superstore as part of the county’s 2026 budget. The Reno County Sheriff’s Office plans to replace aging patrol units with three new 2026 Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles at a total cost of $135,612. The purchases would be funded through the county’s Special Equipment Fund.

Also, on the consent agenda is awarding a bid for a replacement Youth Services van. The county plans to purchase a 2026 Ford Transit 350 for $57,074 to replace a 2010 model that has exceeded its planned service life. The older van would be transferred to county facilities for continued use.

On the business agenda, commissioners are expected to consider approving a $100,000 grant from the Reno County and City of Hutchinson Fights Addiction Fund to Mirror Incorporated. The funding would support Mirror’s Door to Door Access program, which is designed to reduce wait times for residential substance use disorder treatment for individuals struggling with opioid addiction in Reno County.

According to county documents, the program aims to move individuals from assessment into residential treatment within 72 hours, eliminating what officials describe as a current two-month wait for care. The grant would serve as gap funding to assist uninsured or underinsured residents when other funding sources have been exhausted. County officials say the program focuses on low-barrier, immediate access to treatment to help save lives.

Commissioners will also consider a services agreement related to the McNew and Mills Road development project between U.S. Highway 50 and Highway 96. The agreement would authorize Anthem Consulting to act as Reno County’s representative in contacting affected landowners, explaining the project, and negotiating property acquisitions needed for roadway improvements.

In addition, commissioners will receive several annual reports, including updates from the Aging and Public Transportation Department, the Register of Deeds, and the Human Resources Department.

County commission to address vehicle purchases, addiction treatment funding

<a href="https://hutchpost.com/pages/weather">Click here for the KSStorm.info 7-day forecast.&nbsp;</a>

Three-day Outlook

MCPHERSON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 2:30p.m. Wednesday in McPherson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Ford Explorer driven by&nbsp; Angel M.&nbsp;Nichols, 41, Park City, was southbound on Interstate 35 one mile north of Comanche Road.&nbsp; The SUV rear-ended a 2025 Western Star semi driven by Jason R.&nbsp;Monarez, 48, Wichita, who was slowing, moving forward and yielding to traffic ahead.&nbsp;

Nichols was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to the&nbsp;Sedgwick County Regional Forensics Center.&nbsp;Monarez and a passenger Gary C. Larson, 57, Salina, were not injured. All three were properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Kansas woman killed after rear-end crash

HUTCHINSON — Everfull has announced a reduction in meal prices for participants in its Friendship Meals and Meals on Wheels programs.

The cost for both programs has been lowered to $5.00 per meal, following a three-month operational review and cost analysis. The price change was approved by Everfull’s Board of Directors and took effect Monday, Jan. 26, 2026.

Everfull officials say the reduction is intended to help ease financial pressures for participants, particularly during the winter and early spring months. The organization also noted that the lower price may allow former participants who stopped attending due to cost concerns to return.

In addition to the pricing update, Everfull reminded participants that its Hutchinson services have relocated. Beginning Jan. 26, programs moved from their previous site at the Salvation Army to a new location at 401 E. 4th, Suite D, Hutchinson. The new site is on the west side of the former Osco Drug Store building, now occupied by Dollar Tree and Planet Fitness.

Everfull encourages current and former participants to reach out with questions or for additional information by emailing <a>info@everfull.org</a> or calling 620-669-8201.

Everfull provides nutrition services across central Kansas, including congregate dining and home-delivered meals for older adults and others in need.

Everfull lowers prices for Friendship Meals and Meals on Wheels

The Salvation Army in Hutchinson is making a final push to meet its seasonal fundraising goal as the holiday season winds down.

Major Paul James said the local campaign has raised about $249,000, leaving $51,000 still needed with less than a week remaining.

Despite donations slowing after Christmas, James says the need remains high — especially during dangerously cold weather. The Salvation Army recently operated its warming center, providing shelter, transportation, and housing assistance during sub-zero temperatures.

This year, the Salvation Army assisted 979 families, serving more than 1,200 children with blankets, clothing, toys, and food assistance — an increase from last year.

Red Kettle campaign co-chairs David and Christena Weber, who volunteered for the first time, say they were struck by the generosity of the community and the year-round impact of the organization.

James says demand for services continues to grow, including utility assistance, hygiene supplies, showers, diapers, and formula. He notes many of those using the showers are working individuals experiencing homelessness.

The Salvation Army also continues to provide veteran services, housing support, and emergency assistance through programs like Pathway of Hope.

Donations to the seasonal campaign are still being accepted, and volunteers are encouraged to get involved year-round.

Salvation Army makes final push as seasonal campaign nears end

HUTCHINSON, Kan. – Wells Aircraft has been named Cirrus Aircraft's Mid-Market Service Center of the Year, a recognition that underscores the organization's commitment to excellence and positions it among the nation's top-performing aircraft service providers.

The award places Wells Aircraft 10th out of 258 Cirrus Service Centers across the United States, a ranking that reflects direct competition with service centers in Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Miami, and every major metropolitan market in the country.

"This award belongs to our team," said Wells Aircraft leadership. "Every day, our mechanics, technicians, and support staff choose to set their standard higher than the industry baseline. This recognition is validation that their dedication and expertise matter."

Attracting National Recognition from a Regional Hub

What distinguishes this achievement is the geography it represents. Despite being located in Hutchinson, Kansas—a small city in the Great Plains—Wells Aircraft draws aircraft owners from across the country. Customers from California, Texas, Florida, and beyond choose to fly their Cirrus aircraft to central Kansas for service, a testament to the trust and reputation the organization has built.

This national draw reflects a broader reality: excellence in aviation service is not determined by location or market size, but by commitment, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to quality.

A Standard That Transcends Geography

Wells Aircraft's achievement demonstrates that world-class service exists outside major metropolitan hubs. The organization competes on a national stage without compromising the values—integrity, professionalism, and genuine service—that define the Midwest.

The team's pursuit of continuous improvement, investment in technician training and certifications, and meticulous attention to detail across every service engagement have established a reputation that resonates far beyond Hutchinson's borders.

Wells Aircraft Named Cirrus Aircraft Mid-Market Service Center of the Year

Individuals looking to sharpen their leadership skills while applying them to an adaptive community challenge related to activating downtowns in Reno County are invited to complete an interest form for the 2026 Transformational Leadership Cohort.

Since 2019, Hutchinson Community Foundation has held a Kansas Leadership Center Leadership Transformation Grant on behalf of Hutchinson and Reno County communities. In that time, more than 150 individuals representing more than 70 Reno County businesses and organizations have attended KLC programs. The grant is part of a collective effort to instill KLC principles that spur relationships, collaboration, and experimentation toward a more connected, resilient, and thriving community for all people. Hutch CF is among 100 organizations across Kansas to be selected as a grant partner this year.

This year’s cohort effort supports priorities identified in the 2024 and 2025 Love Where You Live Resident Perception surveys and the Elevate Reno County Economic Development Strategic Plan.

Fifteen individuals will be selected to form the eight-month cohort, with most sessions held locally in Hutchinson and two multi-day sessions held at KLC in Wichita. Meetings will begin in May and end in December. No previous KLC experience is necessary.

The Transformation Grant leadership team includes Donna Davis, retired nonprofit executive; Denice Gilliland, Hutch Rec; Joel Iwashige, Common Thriving; Elicia Lance, Sunshine Meadows Retirement Community; Kari Mailloux, Hutchinson Community Foundation; and David Sotelo, City of Hutchinson.

The deadline to complete the interest form is Feb. 27. To view the full timeline, program requirements and other details and to fill out the form, visit https://hutchcf.org/initiativesandimpact/leadership-development/klc-cohort.

For questions, contact Kari Mailloux, kari@hutchcf.org or 620-663-5293.

Reno County residents invited to participate in leadership cohort

Wednesday on Phone Forum, a caller asked about delays in trash pick up in Hutchinson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We reached out to Stutzman's refuse, and were told it was a "perfect storm".&nbsp;

Because of last Monday's holiday routes were pushed back a day. So trash that would have been picked up on Friday, those routes were moved to Saturday.&nbsp; Because of the winter storm, they were unable to pick up trash from those customers, and they don't have the fleet to pick up two days of routes on the same day.&nbsp;

Stutzman's tells us that they will get the refuse picked up on Friday of this week. They also said that if you have extra trash, you can place the bags next to the polycart or on top of it and they will pick it up this Friday.&nbsp;

Have a question? Call in on Phone Forum at 669-8888, and we'll get the answer for you.&nbsp;

☎ Phone forum, you asked: Refuse pickup delay

HUTCHINSON — After more than a decade of storytelling, connection, and packed crowds, Talk20 Hutch will hold its final event this Friday, bringing an end to a volunteer-driven community program that has become a signature gathering in Hutchinson.

Organizer Kari Mailloux joined the BW Morning Show to reflect on the event’s legacy and explain why now is the right time to conclude the series.

Talk20 Hutch follows the PechaKucha presentation format that originated in Japan: each presenter shows 20 slides, advancing automatically every 20 seconds, for a total of six minutes and 40 seconds per talk. Ten presenters share the stage at each event, creating a fast-paced evening featuring ten distinct stories.

Since launching in January 2014, Talk20 Hutch has hosted 22 editions and featured more than 200 presenters, drawing crowds that at times exceeded 400 people.

“This has been a volunteer gig for me for 12 years,” Mailloux said. “That’s a long run. It’s truly been a labor of love, but it’s also taken a lot of time, energy, and coordination from many people.”

Mailloux credited the Hutchinson Public Library staff — particularly Director Gregg Wamsley and his team — along with co-organizers Ryan Diehl and Jackson Swaim, for making each event possible. While Mailloux helped curate the presenters and shape the program, library staff handled logistics such as room setup, seating, and audiovisual support.

The decision to end Talk20 Hutch was driven largely by life changes among the organizers.

“We’ve all grown up a lot in the last 12 years,” Mailloux said. “Families have grown, jobs have changed, responsibilities have increased. We’re not tired of the event itself — we’re just stretched thin. We decided it was better to end it while it’s still strong and people are still showing up.”

Mailloux said she hopes the final edition serves as inspiration for others to create new ways of bringing the community together.

The final Talk20 Hutch will feature 10 presenters, including nonprofit leaders, musicians, longtime contributors to the event, and Mailloux herself. Among those scheduled to present are Shara Gonzalez of New Beginnings, Alex Johnson with Classical Revolution, Library Director Gregg Wamsley, and videographer Greg Holmes, who recorded the earliest Talk20 events.

For the first time, Mailloux will also take the stage as a presenter.

“I put it off for a long time,” she said. “For me, this is about telling the story of why Talk20 started and how I see community, place-making, and gathering. It’s been hard, but meaningful, to reflect on that journey.”

When asked about standout moments from the past 12 years, Mailloux cited several presentations that left a lasting impression, including stories of recovery, education, creativity, and personal growth — and the unique experience of watching some presenters return years later with new chapters of their lives.

Mailloux also reflected on the absence of co-founder Patsy Terrell, who died suddenly in 2017.

“She never had the chance to give her own Talk20,” Mailloux said. “That’s something I wish could have happened. She had so much energy and joy for bringing people together.”

Despite the decision to conclude the series, Mailloux considers Talk20 Hutch a resounding success.

“That very first night, we expected maybe 100 people,” she said. “Instead, more than 150 showed up, sitting on the floor and standing in the hallways. That told us this community was hungry for connection.”

Even in recent years, Mailloux noted that roughly one-third of each audience consisted of first-time attendees.

The final Talk20 Hutch takes place Friday, January 30, at 7 p.m. at the Hutchinson Public Library. The library will close at 6 p.m. and reopen at 6:30 p.m. for the event.

“This community showed up for 12 years,”&nbsp;Mailloux said. “I’m incredibly proud of that — and grateful.”

Talk20 Hutch to close 12-year run Friday

Here’s the latest booking activity from the Reno County Jail. This information is provided by the Reno County Sheriff’s Office and is not criminal history. The Hutch Post assumes no legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, or completeness, of this information. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. ——————————————&nbsp;&nbsp;

Xander	Ray	Purdy		1/27/2026 10:58&nbsp;AM	Failure to Appear

Christopher	Lee	Bauck		1/27/2026 11:23&nbsp;AM	Probation Violation

Kenneth	Earl	Pittsley		1/27/2026 3:18&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation,&nbsp;					Failure to Appear

Vern	Lloyd	Craig	III	1/27/2026 4:21&nbsp;PM	Probation Violation

Letique	Marie	Stade		1/27/2026 7:47&nbsp;PM	DUI; 1st conv; drugs or combination of drugs

Keedy		Jamie	Michael	1/28/2026 2:01&nbsp;AM	Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant,					Use or Possess with Intent to use Drug Paraphernalia into Human Body

Daily Bookings

DOUGLAS COUNTY — A group of four suspected scammers tried to make&nbsp; Walmart stores in Lawrence their next target, but the responding police officer called in the Kansas Highway Patrol to catch up with them and put an end to their travel plans, according to Lawrence Police.

A Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper, at the request of a Lawrence police, pulled the group over on Interstate 70 just west of Bonner Springs about 10:30 Tuesday night.&nbsp;

 Lawrence Officers then traveled to the scene and found suspected stolen merchandise, more than $6,000 in cash, numerous potentially fraudulent receipts, and evidence that the spree spread through the Kansas City metro area.

It began when officers were dispatched to Walmart on 33rd&nbsp;and Iowa in Lawrence about 9:30pm.&nbsp; The store’s alert asset manager told the officer he knew something was suspicious and had knowledge of similar scams.&nbsp;

We will detail the suspected deception here hoping it arms retailers with information to combat the elaborate scam.

Here’s how it works:&nbsp;The purchaser uses a fake card with specific instructions on the back.&nbsp; One of the cards in this case read, “ATTENTION: If cardholder exceeds daily limit for future transactions cashier must follow 2 step verification: SCAN ALL items, Input EXACT AMOUNT + ENTER to complete transaction.”&nbsp; It is our understanding that the purchaser then only partially slides the card into the payment device and when the cashier presses cash, the drawer opens and a receipt is printed.&nbsp; The cashier then believes the transaction is successful.&nbsp;Several variations of the scam likely exist -- all intended to intimidate and fool cashiers.

During Tuesday night’s interaction, four men approached a variety of cashiers with separate purchases and with returns including receipts. Some purchases were completed and some were not.&nbsp; As cashiers became suspicious, they contacted the asset manager. The manager got a description of the vehicle the men left in and called dispatch.

In total, the group left with about $4,400 worth of cash and merchandise.

The responding officer immediately alerted his fellow Lawrence officers and the Highway Patrol to be on the lookout for the vehicle. Officers ultimately learned that the men were in a car they rented in Michigan. They also recovered receipts worth thousands of dollars from various stores around Kansas City and another Lawarence Walmart.&nbsp; LKPD is in contact with the corresponding police departments and the investigation continues.

Police recover merchandise, cash and detail elaborate scam

WASHINGTON&nbsp;– U.S. Senator Jerry Moran on Wednesday spoke on the Senate floor to honor the victims of the January 29th, 2025, tragedy that occurred nearly a year ago when Flight 5342, originating from Wichita, Kansas, collided with a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter near Reagan National Airport (DCA), resulting in the loss of 67 lives.

“A year later, the memory of this tragedy, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news,”&nbsp;said Sen. Moran.&nbsp;“The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.”“I can’t imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th,”&nbsp;concluded Sen. Moran.&nbsp;

“This week, their loss must feel especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash. Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and cherish their memories.”

Sen. Moran’s full remarks as prepared:

“Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and honor the 67 lives we lost nearly one year ago on January 29th, 2025.“On that night, Flight 5342 took off from Wichita, Kansas and flew toward our nation’s capital with 64 on board.“In Washington, D.C., a Black Hawk helicopter with three Army soldiers would soon be in the air as well.“Flight 5342 was just minutes away from a safe landing at Reagan National Airport, when the plane and Army helicopter collided over the Potomac River.

“Shortly after 9:00 pm, I received a call with the news that a flight from Kansas was involved in an accident in our nation’s capital. As I made my way to Reagan National Airport that night, the banks of the Potomac River were illuminated with lights from emergency responders who were searching the icy water of a crash site.

“At the airport, I was joined by local leaders and newly sworn in Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy. Our conversation that night was one of many that would span the course of the following year trying to understand how an accident like this could occur and how to prevent it from happening again.

“At the airport we learned the tragic news that there were no survivors. Of those who perished, seven were Kansans:“Kiah Duggins – a civil rights attorney and Wichita native – was set to begin teaching at Howard University School of Law.“Lindsey Fields – a professor at Butler Community College and the president-elect of the National Association of Biology Teachers – was traveling to our nation’s capital to advocate for the issues that mattered to her.“Bob and Lori Schrock – farmers from Kiowa, Kansas – were on their way to visit their daughter at college in Pennsylvania.

“Grace Maxwell – an engineering student from Wichita – was returning to college after attending her grandfather’s funeral in Kansas.

“Dustin Miller, an IT professional who grew up in El Dorado and was a lifelong Chiefs fan, told his mom he was going to try to make it back in time to watch his team play in the Super Bowl.“P.J. Diaz, of Wichita, was described by his loved ones as a world traveler who had been to 49 states. He especially loved cruises and had an extra-long cruise planned for later in the year.

“Sadly, 28 members of the U.S. Figure Skating community also lost their lives – young athletes traveling back from a National Development Camp in Wichita with their coaches and family members.“Maxim Naumov, a 24-year-old U.S. figure skater, lost both his parents, in the accident.

“In the wake of this tragedy, Maxim used his love of skating to overcome immense loss and now heads to the 2026 Olympic games, just weeks away, to achieve the lifelong dream he had shared with his parents. We all will be cheering him on.

“A year later, the memory of this night, the deadliest aviation incident that America has witnessed in nearly 25 years, is as painful as it was when we first heard the news. The victims were husbands and wives, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and coworkers.

“As we mourn the victims, we also remember the heroism, solidarity and love displayed that night. Hundreds of first responders worked tirelessly through the night and into the coming days. Strangers offered comfort, and people checked on their neighbors.

“Since January 29th, the families of the victims have tried to find meaning and purpose after the death of their loved ones and worked to eliminate the likelihood of an accident like this ever happening again.

“One family in particular, Tim and Sheri Lilley, lost their son, Sam, a co-pilot for Flight 5342. Following the tragic accident, the Lilley family have used their voice to become advocates for safer skies in honor of their son, Sam.

“I’m grateful for the advocacy of the families of the victims over the last year as they worked to advocate for changes at FAA and congressional legislation like the ROTOR Act.

“Thanks to their support, the Senate advanced this critical legislation last year. This was an important step, but our progress has been stalled in the House. The National Transportation Safety Board’s hearing just yesterday further confirmed that this legislation could have made a difference on January 29th.

“We cannot afford to waste any more time. I urgently insist the House of Representative quickly pass this legislation or amend it and pass it so we can find consensus.

“I want to commend the NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and her team on their thorough investigation into the crash. Their report will guide Congress in the coming weeks in our efforts to ensure the safety of our skies.

“In addition to passing and implementing ROTOR Act, Congress must hold a hearing after the NTSB releases its final written report to review the findings and recommendations of the NTSB, determine what, if any, congressional action is necessary to implement these recommendations and make certain the FAA and Army are making the recommended changes, provide funding for further modernization of our aviation system, advance new technology at the FAA and train and support air traffic controllers.

“We cannot miss the moment to act and ensure lasting change.

“I cannot imagine the pain each of the families of the victims has experienced every day since January 29th. This week, their loss must be felt especially hard as they face the anniversary of the plane crash.&nbsp;

“Tonight, I want to remember those who perished. Sixty-seven lives that ended too soon.

“Today, we resolve to honor their legacy, work to make our skies safer and remember those we loved who lost their lives.”

🎥 Senator Moran honors victims of Flight 5342 one year after DCA tragedy

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats are threatening to block legislation that would fund the Department of Homeland Security and several other agencies Thursday, potentially bringing the government a step closer to a partial shutdown if Republicans and the White House do not agree to new restrictions on President Donald Trump's surge of immigration enforcement.

As the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/no-kings-protest-alex-pretti-minneapolis-immigration-0b34386da0bb3eeac939d9f934680b6c">country reels</a>&nbsp;from the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-ice-b0cec9d1c5bae4b62469011775082300">deaths of two protesters</a>&nbsp;at the hands of federal agents in Minneapolis, irate Senate Democrats laid out a list of demands ahead of a Thursday morning test vote, including that officers take off their masks and identify themselves and obtain warrants for arrest. If those are not met, Democrats say they are prepared to block the wide-ranging spending bill,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/video/democrats-vow-to-oppose-homeland-security-money-increasing-shutdown-chance-7a801adfdd27455082fa9e26e612795d">denying Republicans the votes they need to pass it</a>&nbsp;and triggering a shutdown at midnight on Friday.

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday that Democrats won't provide needed votes until U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is “reined in and overhauled.”

“The American people support law enforcement, they support border security, they do not support ICE terrorizing our streets and killing American citizens,” Schumer said.

There were some signs of possible progress as the White House has appeared open to trying to strike a deal with Democrats to avert a shutdown. The two sides were talking as of Wednesday evening, according to a person familiar with the negotiations who requested anonymity to speak about the private talks. One possible option discussed would be to strip the funding for the Homeland Security Department from the larger bill, as Schumer has requested, and extend it for a short period to allow time for negotiations, the person said. The rest of the bill would fund government agencies until September.

Still, with no agreement yet and an uncertain path ahead, the standoff threatened to plunge the country into another shutdown just two months after Democrats blocked a spending bill over expiring federal health care subsidies, a dispute that closed the government for 43 days as Republicans refused to negotiate.

That shutdown ended when a small group of moderate Democrats broke away to strike a deal with Republicans, but Democrats are more unified this time after the fatal shootings of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/immigration-enforcement-minnesota-protester-alex-pretti-15ade7de6e19cb0291734e85dac763dc">Alex Pretti</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ice-shooting-minneapolis-minnesota-9aa822670b705c89906f2c699f1d16c5">Renee Good</a>&nbsp;by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-administration-alex-pretti-their-own-words-27b7233380c68306a64317b3bf2aa4a3">federal agents</a>.

There’s a lot of “unanimity and shared purpose” within the Democratic caucus, Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith said after a lunch meeting Wednesday.

“Boil it all down, what we are talking about is that these lawless ICE agents should be following the same rules that your local police department does," Smith said. "There has to be accountability.”

Amid the administration’s immigration crackdown, Schumer said Democrats are asking the White House to “end roving patrols” in cities and coordinate with local law enforcement on immigration arrests, including requiring tighter rules for warrants.

Democrats also want an enforceable code of conduct so agents are held accountable when they violate rules. Schumer said agents should be required to have “masks off, body cameras on” and carry proper identification, as is common practice in most law enforcement agencies.

The Democratic caucus is united in those “common sense reforms” and the burden is on Republicans to accept them, Schumer said, as he has pushed for the Homeland spending to be separated out to avoid a broader shutdown.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has indicated that he might be open to considering some of the Democrats' demands, but he encouraged Democrats and the White House to talk and find agreement.

As the two sides negotiated, it was still unclear whether they could agree on anything that would satisfy Democrats who want Trump's aggressive crackdown to end.

The White House had invited some Democrats for a discussion to better understand their positions and avoid a partial government shutdown, a senior White House official said, but the meeting did not happen. The official requested anonymity to discuss the private invitation.

The House&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/homeland-security-government-funding-bills-d7ca791c2d1aa81d2982239f81bc86be">passed</a>&nbsp;the six remaining funding bills last week and sent them to the Senate as a package, making it more difficult to strip out the homeland security portion as Democrats have demanded. Republicans could break the package apart with the consent of all 100 senators or through a series of votes that would extend past the Friday deadline.

Even if the Senate can resolve the issue, House Republicans have said they do not want any changes to the bill they have passed. In a letter to Trump on Tuesday, the conservative House Freedom Caucus wrote that its members stand with the president and ICE.

“The package will not come back through the House without funding for the Department of Homeland Security,” according to the letter.

Several Republican senators have said they would be fine with Democrats’ request to separate the Homeland Security funds for further debate and pass the other bills in the package. But it might be more difficult to for Democrats to find broad GOP support for their demands on ICE.

North Carolina Sen. Thom Tillis said he’s OK with separating the bills, but is opposed to the Democrats’ proposal to require the immigration enforcement officers to unmask and show their faces, even as he blamed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for decisions that he said are “tarnishing” the agency’s reputation.

“You know, there’s a lot of vicious people out there, and they’ll take a picture of your face, and the next thing you know, your children or your wife or your husband are being threatened at home," Tillis said. "And that’s just the reality of the world that we’re in.”

Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas said that “what happened over the weekend is a tragedy,” but Democrats shouldn't punish Americans with a shutdown and a “political stunt.”

“It is truly a moral moment,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn. “I think we need to take a stand.”

Associated Press writer Michelle Price in Washington contributed to this report.

Dems poised to trigger government shutdown if demands for ICE reform not met

KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court for robbing a local bank with the use of a firearm.

Richie E. Manley, 50, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough, to one count of aiding and abetting bank robbery, along with one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, according to the United State's Attorney.

On Oct. 3, 2024, at approximately 10:43 a.m., Richie E. Manley&nbsp;entered a bank in Kansas City, Missouri.&nbsp; While speaking to a bank teller, Manley&nbsp;pulled out a handgun, later determined to be a Smith and Wesson, Model SD, .40 caliber pistol, and told the tellers “give me your money.” While pointing the pistol at the tellers, Manley told the tellers to give him the “hundreds.” The tellers provided the money from the bank drawers and Manley&nbsp;took the money and fled the bank. The bank reported an estimated loss of $2,155 from the robbery. The bank was federally insured by the FDIC.

Under federal statutes, Manley is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to life in federal prison without parole. The minimum and maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

Armed suspect told KC bank teller to give me the “hundreds”

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a chase in central Kansas.

&nbsp;On Tuesday evening, police were dispatched to&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center for the report of a stolen vehicle, according to Salina Police&nbsp;Police Lt. Andrew Zeigler.

&nbsp;A silver&nbsp;2018 Ford Edge (valued at $20,000)&nbsp;was missing from the hospital's parking garage.&nbsp;A debit card and checkbook had also been left in the vehicle.&nbsp; It was determined the cards had been used at a couple of convenience stores in Salina.

Officers investigated the store and collected surveillance footage, as they spotted the vehicle in the&nbsp;1000 block of Park Street in Salina. When law enforcement arrived to the location, the vehicle fled and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle traveled through several yards in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Park Street and ended in an alleyway nearby. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Brent Corwin of Salina, then fled on foot and officers followed. A K9 was released and apprehended Corwin in the backyard of a residence on West Ash Street. Police booked Corwin into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of Theft, Obstruction and more.

K9 tracks down suspect who took car from Kan. hospital parking garage

LONDON (AP) — The crime was in London, the suspect was Russian and the witness who saw the beating on a video call was in the United States and happened to be the youngest son of U.S. President Donald Trump.

Barron Trump called police in the British capital and his intervention more than a year ago led Wednesday to the assault conviction of Matvei Rumiantsev, who admitted he was jealous of his girlfriend's friendship with Trump.

Trump said he placed a late night FaceTime call to the victim, a woman he met on social media, and was startled when it was answered by a bare-chested man.

“This view lasted maybe one second and I was racing with adrenaline,” Trump told police. “The camera was then flipped to the victim getting hit while crying, stating something in Russian.”

The call was hung up after a few seconds and Trump then phoned London police in a recording in which Trump desperately pleaded for help as the dispatcher insisted he answer basic questions about the victim.

"How do you know her?” the operator asked after a back-and-forth dialog.

“I don’t think these details matter, she’s getting beat up," Trump said.

“Can you stop being rude and actually answer my questions?" the dispatcher said. "If you want to help the person, you’ll answer my questions clearly and precisely, thank you. So how do you know her?”

Police went to the address on Jan. 18 and arrested Rumiantsev, 22, a receptionist who lived in London.

He was acquitted in Snaresbrook Crown Court of rape and choking the woman on the night Trump called police, and an additional rape and assault alleged in November 2024.

Rumiantsev testified that he was jealous of Trump but that he also felt badly for him because he thought that his girlfriend was leading him on.

Defense lawyer Sasha Wass said that Trump didn't know the woman had a boyfriend and questioned how much he could have seen in five or seven seconds of video.

Wass said that the woman exploited her ties to Trump to make her boyfriend envious in a “relationship full of dramas.”

Trump, 19, the only child of Donald and Melania Trump, didn't testify in the case.

Justice Bennathan advised jurors before they began deliberating to treat Barron Trump's accounts — on the recording of his call to police and his follow-up email to investigators — with caution because he hadn't been subjected to cross-examination.

“If he had done so, no doubt, he could have been asked about things such as whether he ever got a good view of what happened, whether he actually saw (the woman) being assaulted, or jumped to this conclusion on the basis of her screams," Bennathan said. “He might also have been asked whether his perception was biased because he was close friends with (her)."

Rumiantsev was also convicted of perverting the course of justice, because he sent the woman a letter from jail asking her to retract her allegations. He's scheduled to be sentenced on March 27.

Assailant convicted after Barron Trump calls London police to report crime

OSAGE COUNTY—On Wednesday, all three Osage County deputies who were injured in the line of duty on November 15th have returned to full duty.

"Over the past several months, the Osage County community has prayed, checked in, sent cards, brought food, and shown more support than we could ever put into words. Those prayers, that encouragement, and that kindness mattered more than you know—not just to the deputies, but to their families and to this entire Sheriff’s Office."

"These three deputies showed incredible strength, resilience, and determination through their recovery. Watching them fight to heal and return to the work they love has been nothing short of inspiring."

"We are blessed to have them back where they belong—serving the citizens of Osage County."

"Thank you to everyone who stood with us during this time. Your support helped us through, and today we are sharing some very good news with you."

"Osage County is lucky to have deputies like these."

On Saturday morning Nov. 15, the Osage County Sheriff's Office and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) were dispatched to a domestic disturbance at 11222 S. Topeka Ave. in Osage County after a female resident called 911, according to a media release from the KBI.

Law enforcement encountered a male suspect, identified as Stephen M. McMillan, 22, outside the residence. During the encounter, gunfire was exchanged. Three deputies and two KHP troopers fired during the incident. In the shooting, three deputies, one trooper, the suspect and a male resident were struck. The male resident was identified as the suspect's 77-year-old grandfather.

Multiple law enforcement agencies responded, cleared the residence, and rendered aid to the injured. All law enforcement officers were transported to Stormont-Vail Regional Health Center. The trooper was later transferred to KU Medical Center. The suspect's grandfather, 77, was also injured and taken to the hospital. McMillan was pronounced deceased at the scene.&nbsp;

Kan. deputies injured during domestic incident are back at work

WASHINGTON (AP) —The Department of Homeland Security said Wednesday that two federal agents involved in Petti’s shooting have been on leave since Saturday.

The announcement came as Trump seemed to signal a willingness to ease tensions in Minneapolis after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/shooting-minneapolis-protests-ice-immigration-41437baa4b349279cf8abfaf1076162c">a second deadly shooting</a>&nbsp;by federal immigration agents, though there seemed to be little evidence of any significant changes following weeks of harsh rhetoric and clashes with protesters.

The strain was evident when Trump made a leadership change by&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/gregory-bovino-immigration-minneapolis-d90e0f478f1119d773989196b3db393e">sending his top border adviser</a>&nbsp;to Minnesota to take charge of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/immigration">the immigration crackdown</a>. That was followed by seemingly conciliatory remarks about the Democratic governor and mayor.

Trump said he and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/tim-walz">Gov. Tim Walz</a>, whom he criticized for weeks, were on “a similar wavelength” following a phone call. After a conversation with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jacob-frey-omar-fateh-minneapolis-mayor-e8d2d9ae7d0a12834c5c18a1648a92b6">Mayor Jacob Frey</a>, the president praised the discussion and declared that “lots of progress is being made.”

DHS: Agents involved in shooting of Alex Pretti are on administrative leave 

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Federal Reserve pushed the pause button on its interest rate cuts Wednesday, leaving its key rate unchanged at about 3.6% after lowering it three times last year.

The central bank said in a statement that there are signs the job market has stabilized while it also said growth was “solid,” an upgrade from last month’s characterization as “modest.”

With the economy growing at a healthy pace and no signs of deterioration in hiring, Fed officials likely see little reason to rush any further rate cuts. While most policymakers do expect to reduce borrowing costs further this year, many want to see evidence that stubbornly-elevated inflation is moving closer to the central bank’s target of 2%. According to the Fed’s preferred measure, inflation was&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-economy-consumers-ac538fd750b4622ee7fa439ef8021783">2.8% in November</a>, slightly higher than a year ago.

Two officials dissented from the decision, with Governors Stephen Miran and Christopher Waller preferring another quarter-point reduction. President Donald Trump appointed Miran in September, and he had dissented at the three previous meetings in favor of a half-point cut. Waller is under consideration by the White House to replace Chair Jerome Powell, whose term ends in May.

The Fed’s decision to stand pat will likely fuel further criticism from Trump, who has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-economy-federal-reserve-4821bb5d0baa9980c4c69ab26fab3ab4">assailed Powell</a>&nbsp;for months for not sharply cutting short-term rates. When the Fed reduces its key rate, it tends to lower borrowing costs for things like mortgages, car loans, and business borrowing, though those rates are also influenced by market forces.

A key issue facing the Fed is how long it will remain on hold. The rate-setting committee remains split between those officials opposed to further cuts until inflation comes down, and those who want to lower rates to further support hiring.

In December, just 12 of the 19 participants in the committee's meetings&nbsp;<a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/fomcprojtabl20251210.htm">supported</a>&nbsp;at least one more rate cut this year. Most economists forecast the Fed will cut twice this year, most likely at the June meeting or later.

One issue still overhanging the Fed when it comes to policy is the administration's trade policy and its tariffs on many U.S. trade partners. Powell was asked at a press conference following the rate decision if the impact of tariffs had already moved through inflation. He said “a lot of it has,” and added that the Fed generally sees the import taxes as a one-time price increase.

“The expectation is that we will see the effects of tariffs flowing through goods prices peaking and then starting to come down, assuming there are no new major tariff increases,” said Powell, adding that this was the trend the U.S. central bank expects “to see over the course of this year.”

Fed officials meet this week in the shadow of unprecedented pressure from the Trump White House. Powell&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-subpoena-bf4fc6c690fa248fbc531bc9bc7f1758">said Jan. 11</a>&nbsp;that the Fed had received subpoenas from the Justice Department as part of a criminal investigation into his congressional testimony about a $2.5 billion building renovation. Powell in an unusually blunt video statement said the subpoenas were a pretext to punish the Fed for not cutting rates more quickly. At a press conference after the Fed issued its rate decision, Powell declined to add anything to the earlier statement.

And last week, the Supreme Court took up Trump's attempt from last year to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-lisa-cook-trump-6fca3d2fbb54ba204cc91398e6a7b020">fire Fed governor Lisa Cook</a>&nbsp;over allegations of mortgage fraud, which&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lisa-cook-trump-fed-independence-firing-d06dfb46fbd300195c3cedc8cb5adadb">she denies</a>. No president has fired a governor in the Fed’s 112-year history. The justices at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-cook-federal-reserve-powell-a8572f8a1f62cf653e822a64c714d05a">an oral argument</a>&nbsp;appeared to be leaning toward allowing her to stay in her job until the case is resolved.

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