CAUTION- The video of the shooting provided by Wichita Police is very violent.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting during a domestic violence incident and have identified the wounded suspect as 34-year-old George Phillips.

Just after 9p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a domestic violence call with a weapon in the 900 Block of South Rock Road in Wichita, according to Captain Jason Stephens.

A caller told police dispatch that her 37-year-old female friend was being threatened by an ex-husband identified as George Phillips.&nbsp; The caller said Phillips had gone to his ex-wife's apartment and they got into an argument over property. He also threatened to kill her and her children and the caller believed Phillips was armed with a gun.

As officers were responding, they learned Phillips and his ex-wife had gone to a restaurant in the 1200 Block of South Rock Road.&nbsp; The ex-wife sent her friend a social media report that she was in danger.

When officers arrived, they located the vehicle as described in the 911 call and witnessed a physical altercation between the ex-wife and Phillips. He was restraining her and preventing her from getting out of the vehicle as officers approached, according to Stephens. Officers also observed a firearm in Phillips' hand.

Officers gave multiple commands for Phillips to drop the weapon, but he did not comply.

Believing that Phillips was an immediate threat to his ex-wife, officers fired multiple shots and struck him.&nbsp; Officers then pulled Phillips from the car and administered life-saving measures until he could be transported to a local hospital. He is expected to recover, according to Stephens.

The ex-wife received minor injuries including abrasions on her neck and chest from a Phillips who also was armed with a screw driver. No officers were injured.

The officers involved are now on administrative leave pending further investigation, according to Stephens. The KBI is assisting with the investigation and the case will be presented to the United State's Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616183895947.png" alt="Phillips has five previous convictions for aggravated robbery and other that include aggravated burglary, aggravated escape from custody, criminal possession of a firearm and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He had been on parole since December." />
 <figcaption>Phillips has five previous convictions for aggravated robbery and other that include aggravated burglary, aggravated escape from custody, criminal possession of a firearm and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He had been on parole since December.</figcaption>
 </figure>CAUTION- The video of the shooting provided by Wichita Police is very violent.SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting during a domestic violence incident and have identified the wounded suspect as 34-year-old George Phillips.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WCwz-DuK72Y?start=27" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Just after 9p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a domestic violence call with a weapon in the 900 Block of South Rock Road in Wichita, according to Captain Jason Stephens.A caller told police dispatch that her 37-year-old female friend was being threatened by an ex-husband identified as George Phillips.&nbsp; The caller said Phillips had gone to his ex-wife's apartment and they got into an argument over property. He also threatened to kill her and her children and the caller believed Phillips was armed with a gun.As officers were responding, they learned Phillips and his ex-wife had gone to a restaurant in the 1200 Block of South Rock Road.&nbsp; The ex-wife sent her friend a social media report that she was in danger.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616184803913.png" alt="Police security camera image of the firearm recovered at the scene, according to Stephens." />
 <figcaption>Police security camera image of the firearm recovered at the scene, according to Stephens.</figcaption>
 </figure>When officers arrived, they located the vehicle as described in the 911 call and witnessed a physical altercation between the ex-wife and Phillips. He was restraining her and preventing her from getting out of the vehicle as officers approached, according to Stephens. Officers also observed a firearm in Phillips' hand.Officers gave multiple commands for Phillips to drop the weapon, but he did not comply.Believing that Phillips was an immediate threat to his ex-wife, officers fired multiple shots and struck him.&nbsp; Officers then pulled Phillips from the car and administered life-saving measures until he could be transported to a local hospital. He is expected to recover, according to Stephens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616185191282.png" alt="Officers found this screw driver Phillips used as a weapon in the front passenger seat of the vehicle." />
 <figcaption>Officers found this screw driver Phillips used as a weapon in the front passenger seat of the vehicle.</figcaption>
 </figure>The ex-wife received minor injuries including abrasions on her neck and chest from a Phillips who also was armed with a screw driver. No officers were injured.The officers involved are now on administrative leave pending further investigation, according to Stephens. The KBI is assisting with the investigation and the case will be presented to the United State's Attorney's office.

🎥  Police shoot Kan. man who threatened ex-wife with gun

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on numerous charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 2a.m. Thursday, sheriff’s deputies stopped a Honda Civic for a traffic infraction that was northbound near 254th and U.S. Highway 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Further investigation revealed that the pair were allegedly in possession of illegal narcotics. Deputies arrested the driver, Daniel Lee Willits, 44, of Lawrence and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of weapons. 

Deputies also arrested the passenger, Misty Dawn Jane Napier, 24, of Lawrence, and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges for possession of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616162820887.png" alt="Willits photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Willits photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on numerous charges after a traffic stop.Just after 2a.m. Thursday, sheriff’s deputies stopped a Honda Civic for a traffic infraction that was northbound near 254th and U.S. Highway 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Further investigation revealed that the pair were allegedly in possession of illegal narcotics. Deputies arrested the driver, Daniel Lee Willits, 44, of Lawrence and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of weapons. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616162794518.png" alt="Napier photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Napier photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies also arrested the passenger, Misty Dawn Jane Napier, 24, of Lawrence, and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges for possession of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp, according to Morse.

Kan. couple accused of drug possession during traffic stop 

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp; Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that Kansas 2020 individual income tax, fiduciary income tax, and Homestead or Property tax relief refund claim filings are extended to May 17, 2021, bringing our state in line with the Internal Revenue Service tax-filing and payment deadline extension, according to a media release from her office.

Click<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTkuMzczOTM0NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzcmV2ZW51ZS5vcmcvdGF4bm90aWNlcy9ub3RpY2UyMS0wMS5wZGYifQ.3Y16xopNEmScudf_pcuNzi05kp2l9QbQEWw2Q9qtb9E/s/1303160919/br/100408051234-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;here to see Notice 21-01&nbsp;</a>

If a balance due is paid on or before May 17, 2021, penalty and fees will not be imposed. These extensions are outlined and executed through Kansas Department of Revenue Notice 21-01.

“Though COVID-19 cases continue to decline, signaling our return to normalcy, Kansas families are still assessing the full scope of the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Extending the deadline gives needed relief for Kansans to fully account for the pandemic’s impact and complete their state returns accurately.”

No additional forms are required to benefit from the extension. The due dates for Kansas individual estimated tax payments has not changed.

For specific questions about a state tax filing, taxpayers can contact the Kansas Taxpayer Assistance Center at 785-368-8222, Monday through Friday, 8 am-4:45 pm, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOR_TAC@ks.gov" target="_blank">KDOR_TAC@ks.gov</a>.

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp; Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that Kansas 2020 individual income tax, fiduciary income tax, and Homestead or Property tax relief refund claim filings are extended to May 17, 2021, bringing our state in line with the Internal Revenue Service tax-filing and payment deadline extension, according to a media release from her office.Click<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTkuMzczOTM0NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzcmV2ZW51ZS5vcmcvdGF4bm90aWNlcy9ub3RpY2UyMS0wMS5wZGYifQ.3Y16xopNEmScudf_pcuNzi05kp2l9QbQEWw2Q9qtb9E/s/1303160919/br/100408051234-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;here to see Notice 21-01&nbsp;</a>If a balance due is paid on or before May 17, 2021, penalty and fees will not be imposed. These extensions are outlined and executed through Kansas Department of Revenue Notice 21-01.“Though COVID-19 cases continue to decline, signaling our return to normalcy, Kansas families are still assessing the full scope of the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Extending the deadline gives needed relief for Kansans to fully account for the pandemic’s impact and complete their state returns accurately.”No additional forms are required to benefit from the extension. The due dates for Kansas individual estimated tax payments has not changed.For specific questions about a state tax filing, taxpayers can contact the Kansas Taxpayer Assistance Center at 785-368-8222, Monday through Friday, 8 am-4:45 pm, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOR_TAC@ks.gov" target="_blank">KDOR_TAC@ks.gov</a>.

Kansas extends most 2020 tax filings to May 17

LABETTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Friday in Labette County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Hyundai passenger vehicle driven by Axzivian D. Cummings, 25, Parsons, was southbound in the 9000 Block of Ness Road. 

The driver lost control of the Hyundai while passing another vehicle at a high rate of speed.&nbsp;

The Hyundai entered the east ditch, struck 2 utility poles, rotated counter clockwise and rolled multiple into a field.

Cummings was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LABETTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Friday in Labette County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Hyundai passenger vehicle driven by Axzivian D. Cummings, 25, Parsons, was southbound in the 9000 Block of Ness Road. The driver lost control of the Hyundai while passing another vehicle at a high rate of speed.&nbsp;The Hyundai entered the east ditch, struck 2 utility poles, rotated counter clockwise and rolled multiple into a field.Cummings was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after violent rollover crash

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple drug charges.

Just after 10 a.m. March 18, sheriff's detectives conducted a methamphetamine sting operation involving several persons in Great Bend, according to sheriff Brian Bellendir.

Deputies arrested two suspects near the intersection of 10th and Monroe and a substantial amount of meth and cash were seized. Both were taken into custody without incident and transported to the Barton County Jail.

&nbsp;Jacob Vargas, 25 of Great Bend was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp and an outstanding Barton County District Court warrant. nd Tanner Guyton, age 22 also of Great Bend was booked on on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp. Both are being held in lieu of a $300,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616169804740.jpeg" alt="Vargas photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Vargas photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple drug charges.Just after 10 a.m. March 18, sheriff's detectives conducted a methamphetamine sting operation involving several persons in Great Bend, according to sheriff Brian Bellendir.Deputies arrested two suspects near the intersection of 10th and Monroe and a substantial amount of meth and cash were seized. Both were taken into custody without incident and transported to the Barton County Jail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616169817284.jpeg" alt="Guyton" />
 <figcaption>Guyton</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Jacob Vargas, 25 of Great Bend was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp and an outstanding Barton County District Court warrant. nd Tanner Guyton, age 22 also of Great Bend was booked on on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp. Both are being held in lieu of a $300,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

Kan. deputies arrest 2 during meth sting operation

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has voted to unlatch a gateway to citizenship for young “Dreamers,” migrant farm workers and immigrants who have fled war or natural disasters, giving Democrats wins in the year’s first votes on an issue that faces an uphill climb in the Senate.

On a near party-line 228-197 vote Thursday, lawmakers approved one bill offering legal status to around 2 million “Dreamers,” brought to the U.S. illegally as children, and hundreds of thousands of migrants admitted for humanitarian reasons from a dozen troubled countries.

They then voted 247-174 for a second measure creating similar protections for 1 million farm workers who have worked in the U.S. illegally. The government estimates they comprise half the nation’s agricultural laborers.

In a statement after the votes, President Joe Biden called the action a “critical first step” toward a more sweeping overhaul he’s proposed. He said he wants to work with Congress toward “building a 21st century immigration system that is grounded in dignity, safety, and fairness, and finally enacts the long term solutions we need to create an orderly and humane immigration system.”

Both bills largely hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-ap-top-news-immigration-coronavirus-pandemic-4dcf287375d1a1563deb737988b84dd4">a wall of opposition from Republicans</a>&nbsp;insistent that any immigration legislation bolster security at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/is-us-mexico-border-in-crisis-explained-aea57dde734f5cccb920e0d5d6111e65">the Mexican border</a>, which waves of migrants have tried breaching in recent weeks. The GOP has accused congressional Democrats of ignoring that problem and Biden of fueling it by erasing former President Donald Trump’s restrictive policies, even though that surge began while Trump was still in office.

While “Dreamers” win wide public support and migrant farm workers are a backbone of the agriculture industry, both House bills face gloomy prospects in the evenly split Senate. That chamber’s 50 Democrats will need at least 10 GOP supporters to break Republican filibusters.

The outlook was even grimmer for Biden’s more ambitious goal of legislation making citizenship possible for all 11 million immigrants in the U.S. illegally, easing visa restrictions, improving border security technology and spending billions in Central America to ease problems that prompt people to leave.

Nine House Republicans joined all Democrats in voting for the “Dreamers” measure, but 30 GOP lawmakers backed the farm workers bill, giving it a more bipartisan hue.

Congress has long deadlocked over immigration, which again seems headed toward becoming political ammunition. Republicans could use it to rally conservative voters in upcoming elections, while Democrats could add it to a stack of House-passed measures languishing in the Senate to build support for abolishing that chamber’s bill-killing filibusters.

Democrats said their measures were aimed not at border security but at immigrants who deserve help.

“They’re so much of our country,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said of “Dreamers,” who like many immigrants have held front-line jobs during the pandemic. “These immigrant communities strengthen, enrich and ennoble our nation, and they must be allowed to stay.”

Neither House measure would directly affect those trying to enter from Mexico. Republicans criticized them anyway for lacking border security provisions and used the debate to lambaste Biden, who’s ridden a wave of popularity since taking office and winning a massive COVID-19 relief package.

“It is a Biden border crisis, and it is spinning out of control,” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.

While the number of migrants caught trying to cross the border from Mexico has been rising since last April, the 100,441 encountered last month was the highest figure since March 2019.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9da3a0c7cb6e20dd5fc441a2bd90658e">Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas&nbsp;</a>has said the number is tracking toward a 20-year high.

In another measure of the problem, around 14,000 children and teens are in Customs and Border Protection custody or Health and Human Services Department shelters while officials find relatives or sponsors to take them, Biden administration officials told reporters.

Democrats were making that problem worse, Republicans said, with bills they said entice more immigrants to sneak into the U.S. and provide amnesty to immigrants who break laws to get here.

“We don’t know who these people are. We don’t know what their intentions are,” Rep. Jody Hice, R-Ga., said of immigrant farm workers who might seek legal status. He added, “It’s frightening, it’s irresponsible, it’s endangering American lives.”

During earlier debate on the “Dreamers” bill, Democrats said Republicans were going too far.

“Sometimes I stand in this chamber, and I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone, listening to a number of my Republican colleagues espouse white supremacist ideology to denigrate our ‘Dreamers,’” said Rep. Mondaire Jones, D-N.Y.

Maine Rep. Jared Golden’s vote against the farm workers measure made him the only Democrat to oppose either bill.

The House approved “Dreamer” and farm worker bills in 2019 by similar partisan margins, and both died in what was a Republican-run Senate. Trump, who as president constricted legal and illegal immigration, would have signed neither.

Biden has suspended work on Trump’s wall along the Mexican border, ended his separation of young children from migrant families and allowed apprehended minors to stay in the U.S. as officials decide if they can legally remain. He has also turned away most single adults and families.

The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year. They’d have to meet education and other requirements. “Dreamers” get their name from never-passed proposals in Congress called the DREAM Act.

To attain legal permanent residence, or a green card, they’d have to obtain a higher education degree, serve in the military or be employed for at least three years. Like others with green cards, they could then apply for citizenship after five years.

The measure would also grant green cards to an estimated 400,000 immigrants with temporary protected status or deferred enforced departure status, which temporarily allow people fleeing extraordinary problems into the U.S.

The other bill would let immigrant farm workers who’ve worked in the country illegally over the past two years get certified agriculture worker status. That would let them, their spouses and children remain in the U.S. for renewable 5 1/2-year periods.

To earn green cards, they’d have to pay a $1,000 fine and work up to an additional eight years, depending on how long they’ve already held farm jobs.

The legislation would cap wage increases, streamline the H-2A visa process for legal immigrant farm workers and phase in a mandatory system for electronically verifying the legal status of agriculture laborers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616180562006.png" alt="The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year-photo courtesy House Speaker Nancy Pelosi" />
 <figcaption>The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year-photo courtesy House Speaker Nancy Pelosi</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has voted to unlatch a gateway to citizenship for young “Dreamers,” migrant farm workers and immigrants who have fled war or natural disasters, giving Democrats wins in the year’s first votes on an issue that faces an uphill climb in the Senate.On a near party-line 228-197 vote Thursday, lawmakers approved one bill offering legal status to around 2 million “Dreamers,” brought to the U.S. illegally as children, and hundreds of thousands of migrants admitted for humanitarian reasons from a dozen troubled countries.They then voted 247-174 for a second measure creating similar protections for 1 million farm workers who have worked in the U.S. illegally. The government estimates they comprise half the nation’s agricultural laborers.In a statement after the votes, President Joe Biden called the action a “critical first step” toward a more sweeping overhaul he’s proposed. He said he wants to work with Congress toward “building a 21st century immigration system that is grounded in dignity, safety, and fairness, and finally enacts the long term solutions we need to create an orderly and humane immigration system.”Both bills largely hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-ap-top-news-immigration-coronavirus-pandemic-4dcf287375d1a1563deb737988b84dd4">a wall of opposition from Republicans</a>&nbsp;insistent that any immigration legislation bolster security at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/is-us-mexico-border-in-crisis-explained-aea57dde734f5cccb920e0d5d6111e65">the Mexican border</a>, which waves of migrants have tried breaching in recent weeks. The GOP has accused congressional Democrats of ignoring that problem and Biden of fueling it by erasing former President Donald Trump’s restrictive policies, even though that surge began while Trump was still in office.While “Dreamers” win wide public support and migrant farm workers are a backbone of the agriculture industry, both House bills face gloomy prospects in the evenly split Senate. That chamber’s 50 Democrats will need at least 10 GOP supporters to break Republican filibusters.The outlook was even grimmer for Biden’s more ambitious goal of legislation making citizenship possible for all 11 million immigrants in the U.S. illegally, easing visa restrictions, improving border security technology and spending billions in Central America to ease problems that prompt people to leave.Nine House Republicans joined all Democrats in voting for the “Dreamers” measure, but 30 GOP lawmakers backed the farm workers bill, giving it a more bipartisan hue.Congress has long deadlocked over immigration, which again seems headed toward becoming political ammunition. Republicans could use it to rally conservative voters in upcoming elections, while Democrats could add it to a stack of House-passed measures languishing in the Senate to build support for abolishing that chamber’s bill-killing filibusters.Democrats said their measures were aimed not at border security but at immigrants who deserve help.“They’re so much of our country,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said of “Dreamers,” who like many immigrants have held front-line jobs during the pandemic. “These immigrant communities strengthen, enrich and ennoble our nation, and they must be allowed to stay.”Neither House measure would directly affect those trying to enter from Mexico. Republicans criticized them anyway for lacking border security provisions and used the debate to lambaste Biden, who’s ridden a wave of popularity since taking office and winning a massive COVID-19 relief package.“It is a Biden border crisis, and it is spinning out of control,” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.While the number of migrants caught trying to cross the border from Mexico has been rising since last April, the 100,441 encountered last month was the highest figure since March 2019.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9da3a0c7cb6e20dd5fc441a2bd90658e">Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas&nbsp;</a>has said the number is tracking toward a 20-year high.In another measure of the problem, around 14,000 children and teens are in Customs and Border Protection custody or Health and Human Services Department shelters while officials find relatives or sponsors to take them, Biden administration officials told reporters.Democrats were making that problem worse, Republicans said, with bills they said entice more immigrants to sneak into the U.S. and provide amnesty to immigrants who break laws to get here.“We don’t know who these people are. We don’t know what their intentions are,” Rep. Jody Hice, R-Ga., said of immigrant farm workers who might seek legal status. He added, “It’s frightening, it’s irresponsible, it’s endangering American lives.”During earlier debate on the “Dreamers” bill, Democrats said Republicans were going too far.“Sometimes I stand in this chamber, and I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone, listening to a number of my Republican colleagues espouse white supremacist ideology to denigrate our ‘Dreamers,’” said Rep. Mondaire Jones, D-N.Y.Maine Rep. Jared Golden’s vote against the farm workers measure made him the only Democrat to oppose either bill.The House approved “Dreamer” and farm worker bills in 2019 by similar partisan margins, and both died in what was a Republican-run Senate. Trump, who as president constricted legal and illegal immigration, would have signed neither.Biden has suspended work on Trump’s wall along the Mexican border, ended his separation of young children from migrant families and allowed apprehended minors to stay in the U.S. as officials decide if they can legally remain. He has also turned away most single adults and families.The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year. They’d have to meet education and other requirements. “Dreamers” get their name from never-passed proposals in Congress called the DREAM Act.To attain legal permanent residence, or a green card, they’d have to obtain a higher education degree, serve in the military or be employed for at least three years. Like others with green cards, they could then apply for citizenship after five years.The measure would also grant green cards to an estimated 400,000 immigrants with temporary protected status or deferred enforced departure status, which temporarily allow people fleeing extraordinary problems into the U.S.The other bill would let immigrant farm workers who’ve worked in the country illegally over the past two years get certified agriculture worker status. That would let them, their spouses and children remain in the U.S. for renewable 5 1/2-year periods.To earn green cards, they’d have to pay a $1,000 fine and work up to an additional eight years, depending on how long they’ve already held farm jobs.The legislation would cap wage increases, streamline the H-2A visa process for legal immigrant farm workers and phase in a mandatory system for electronically verifying the legal status of agriculture laborers.___

House OKs legal status for farm workers, 'Dreamers'

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The regional body that represents the Presbyterian Church is joining other civil rights organizations in calling for the dismissal of Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith.

The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250031104.html" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Heartland Presbytery said in a letter Thursday that the church wants the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners to hire a new chief who would protect residents equally and discipline officers who “act lawlessly, unethically and without proper respect, especially for Black and Brown people.”

Capt. David Jackson, a spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department, said the chief has no plans to resign.

The letter from the council cited Smith’s “total lack of a working relationship” with Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who has said the department has refused to issue probable cause statements in use-of-force cases.

Representing 81 congregations and 173 ministers in Missouri and Kansas, the council commended some of Smith’s efforts, such as the deployment of body cameras. But it said his “lack of a working relationship” with the Black community was problematic.

Civil rights leaders have wanted Smith to resign or be fired for years, and the calls gained momentum after social justice demonstrations in Kansas City last summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606271500828.png" alt="KC Police Chief Rick Smith" />
 <figcaption>KC Police Chief Rick Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — The regional body that represents the Presbyterian Church is joining other civil rights organizations in calling for the dismissal of Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith.The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250031104.html" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Heartland Presbytery said in a letter Thursday that the church wants the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners to hire a new chief who would protect residents equally and discipline officers who “act lawlessly, unethically and without proper respect, especially for Black and Brown people.”Capt. David Jackson, a spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department, said the chief has no plans to resign.The letter from the council cited Smith’s “total lack of a working relationship” with Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who has said the department has refused to issue probable cause statements in use-of-force cases.Representing 81 congregations and 173 ministers in Missouri and Kansas, the council commended some of Smith’s efforts, such as the deployment of body cameras. But it said his “lack of a working relationship” with the Black community was problematic.Civil rights leaders have wanted Smith to resign or be fired for years, and the calls gained momentum after social justice demonstrations in Kansas City last summer.

Church council calls for resignation of Kansas City police chief

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 606 to a total of 299,510, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4842, an increase of 5.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 606 to a total of 299,510, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4842, an increase of 5.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616173399995.png" alt="Friday March 19, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday March 19, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

GEARY COUNTY (AP) — Authorities in northeast Kansas say the body of an Arkansas man was found on the shoulder of Interstate 70, and the Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating. The Geary County Sheriff’s Office initially received a call around 5:15 a.m. Thursday about a person down by the interstate near Fort Riley. 

Kansas troopers responded and found the body of 18-year-old Bennet Trotter, of West Memphis, Arkansas, on the eastbound shoulder of the interstate. Investigators believe Trotter had been walking along the road when he was hit by one or more vehicles that left the scene. 

No arrests had been reported or suspects named in the case by Friday morning.

GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities found the body of a man early Thursday morning along Interstate 70 in Geary County. 

Just after 5 a.m.,&nbsp; a motorist discovered a deceased male on the eastbound shoulder of Interstate 70 near Fort Riley&nbsp; between the exits off of the interstate to Fort Riley and K-18 Highway, according to Trooper Ben Gardner with the Kansas Highway Patrol.

As of 9:50 a.m. Thursday one eastbound lane of the interstate was shut down. KHP is trying to identify the deceased man or any vehicle or vehicles that may have been involved which left the scene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616080085524.png" alt="Traffic slows on I-70 just after 10 a.m. Thursday near the investigation. -image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>Traffic slows on I-70 just after 10 a.m. Thursday near the investigation. -image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY (AP) — Authorities in northeast Kansas say the body of an Arkansas man was found on the shoulder of Interstate 70, and the Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating. The Geary County Sheriff’s Office initially received a call around 5:15 a.m. Thursday about a person down by the interstate near Fort Riley. Kansas troopers responded and found the body of 18-year-old Bennet Trotter, of West Memphis, Arkansas, on the eastbound shoulder of the interstate. Investigators believe Trotter had been walking along the road when he was hit by one or more vehicles that left the scene. No arrests had been reported or suspects named in the case by Friday morning.-------GEARY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities found the body of a man early Thursday morning along Interstate 70 in Geary County. Just after 5 a.m.,&nbsp; a motorist discovered a deceased male on the eastbound shoulder of Interstate 70 near Fort Riley&nbsp; between the exits off of the interstate to Fort Riley and K-18 Highway, according to Trooper Ben Gardner with the Kansas Highway Patrol.As of 9:50 a.m. Thursday one eastbound lane of the interstate was shut down. KHP is trying to identify the deceased man or any vehicle or vehicles that may have been involved which left the scene.

KHP IDs body of man found dead on I-70

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminds taxpayers 
that the most convenient way to check on a tax refund is by using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool at IRS.gov or through the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go Mobile App</a>.

Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours 
after an e-filed return is received. In addition, Where's My 
Refund&nbsp;provides a personalized date after the return is processed and a 
refund is approved.

Now more than ever, the safest and best way to file a complete and accurate tax return and get a refund is to file <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a>. Taxpayers can visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing">IRS.gov/filing</a> for more details about <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">Free File Fillable Forms</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">free tax preparation sites</a>. E-filing is also available through a trusted <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">tax professional</a>.

While most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, some may take longer because the return requires additional review.

There are several reasons a tax refund may take long:

The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.

Taxpayers claiming the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">Recovery Rebate Credit</a>
 on their tax return will not cause a delay in the processing of that 
tax return. However, it is important that taxpayers claim the correct 
amount. If a correction is needed, there may be a slight delay in 
processing the return and the IRS will send a notice explaining any 
change made. Refunds may be delayed while the IRS makes any necessary 
corrections.

Taxpayers can use Where's My Refund?&nbsp;to start checking on the status 
of their return within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of an
 electronically filed return or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a 
paper return. The tool's tracker displays progress through three phases:

To use it a taxpayer must <a href="https://sa.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp">enter</a>
 their Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer 
Identification Number) , their filing status and the exact whole dollar 
amount of their refund. The IRS updates "Where's My Refund?&nbsp;once a day, 
usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently.

Calling IRS doesn't speed up refund timing

Calling the IRS won't expedite a tax refund. The information 
available on Where's My Refund?&nbsp;is the same information available to IRS
 telephone assistors.

Most taxpayers who want to prepare their own returns can file electronically for free with <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>. Alternatively, taxpayers who qualify can get <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">free tax help from trained volunteers</a> at community sites around the country.

Some people mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by 
ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax 
preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their 
refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund.

Taxpayers can use several options to help find a paid tax preparer. One resource is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a>, which includes a list of consumer tips for selecting a tax professional.

The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 is a free searchable and sortable database. It includes the name, city,
 state and zip code of credentialed return preparers who are CPAs, 
enrolled agents or attorneys, as well as those who have completed the 
requirements for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>. A search of the database can help taxpayers verify credentials and qualifications of tax professionals.

Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and 
easy-to-use tools online at IRS.gov anytime. No appointment required and
 no waiting on hold.

This news release is part of a group of IRS tips called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>. The guide is designed to help taxpayers as they near the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-day-for-individuals-extended-to-may-17-treasury-irs-extend-filing-and-payment-deadline">May 17, 2021, tax filing deadline</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminds taxpayers 
that the most convenient way to check on a tax refund is by using the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;tool at IRS.gov or through the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go Mobile App</a>.Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours 
after an e-filed return is received. In addition, Where's My 
Refund&nbsp;provides a personalized date after the return is processed and a 
refund is approved.<h2>Go paperless</h2>Now more than ever, the safest and best way to file a complete and accurate tax return and get a refund is to file <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a>. Taxpayers can visit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing">IRS.gov/filing</a> for more details about <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/e-file-providers/free-file-fillable-forms">Free File Fillable Forms</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">free tax preparation sites</a>. E-filing is also available through a trusted <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">tax professional</a>.<h2>Refund timing</h2>While most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, some may take longer because the return requires additional review.<h2>There are several reasons a tax refund may take long:</h2><ul>
 <li>The return may include errors or be incomplete.</li><li>The return could be affected by identity theft or fraud.</li><li>The return includes a claim for the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.</li><li>The time between the IRS issuing the refund and the bank posting it
 to an account since many banks do not process payments on weekends or 
holidays.</li>
 </ul>The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.Taxpayers claiming the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/recovery-rebate-credit">Recovery Rebate Credit</a>
 on their tax return will not cause a delay in the processing of that 
tax return. However, it is important that taxpayers claim the correct 
amount. If a correction is needed, there may be a slight delay in 
processing the return and the IRS will send a notice explaining any 
change made. Refunds may be delayed while the IRS makes any necessary 
corrections.<h2>Fast and easy refund updates</h2>Taxpayers can use Where's My Refund?&nbsp;to start checking on the status 
of their return within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of an
 electronically filed return or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a 
paper return. The tool's tracker displays progress through three phases:<ol>
 <li>Return Received;</li><li>Refund Approved; and</li><li>Refund Sent.</li>
 </ol>To use it a taxpayer must <a href="https://sa.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp">enter</a>
 their Social Security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer 
Identification Number) , their filing status and the exact whole dollar 
amount of their refund. The IRS updates "Where's My Refund?&nbsp;once a day, 
usually overnight, so there's no need to check more frequently.<h2>Calling IRS doesn't speed up refund timing</h2>Calling the IRS won't expedite a tax refund. The information 
available on Where's My Refund?&nbsp;is the same information available to IRS
 telephone assistors.Most taxpayers who want to prepare their own returns can file electronically for free with <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free">IRS Free File</a>. Alternatively, taxpayers who qualify can get <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-qualifying-taxpayers">free tax help from trained volunteers</a> at community sites around the country.<h2>Ignore refund myths</h2>Some people mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by 
ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax 
preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their 
refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund.<h2>Filing options</h2>Taxpayers can use several options to help find a paid tax preparer. One resource is <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/choosing-a-tax-professional">Choosing a Tax Professional</a>, which includes a list of consumer tips for selecting a tax professional.The <a href="https://irs.treasury.gov/rpo/rpo.jsf">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>
 is a free searchable and sortable database. It includes the name, city,
 state and zip code of credentialed return preparers who are CPAs, 
enrolled agents or attorneys, as well as those who have completed the 
requirements for the IRS <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-professionals/annual-filing-season-program">Annual Filing Season Program</a>. A search of the database can help taxpayers verify credentials and qualifications of tax professionals.Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and 
easy-to-use tools online at IRS.gov anytime. No appointment required and
 no waiting on hold.This news release is part of a group of IRS tips called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>. The guide is designed to help taxpayers as they near the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-day-for-individuals-extended-to-may-17-treasury-irs-extend-filing-and-payment-deadline">May 17, 2021, tax filing deadline</a>.

IRS: Use the Where’s My Refund? tool or app to check tax refund status

TREGO COUNTY —A northwest Kansas man was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences and will spend at least the next 50 years in prison after a Trego County jury found him guilty of raping a 6 year-old last year.

In January a jury found Nathan Russ, 36, WaKeeney, guilty of two counts of rape and one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Russ was arrested in Illinois in July of last year after police in WaKeeney were alerted to possible child abuse.

Following the jury trial Russ was sentenced to two life sentences for rape and 25 years to life for the aggravated indecent liberties with a child conviction earlier this month

The two rape convictions fall under Jessica’s Law which require a life sentence. They will run consecutive with one another, so Russ with serve back-to-back life sentences. The aggravated indecent liberties with a child conviction will run concurrent to the life sentences.

Under Kansas law Russ will not be eligible for parole for 50 year

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

On January 31, 2020 the WaKeeney Police Department was called to the Trego Grade School for the suspicion of possible child abuse of a 6 year old child, according to a media release.

  The WaKeeney Police Department conducted an investigation and charges were filed by the Trego County Attorney’s Office against Nathan R. Russ, 35, WaKeeney, for Rape and Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child both off-grid felonies. 

Russ was arrested in Illinois and was transported to the Trego County Jail where he is currently being held. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616165604698.png" alt="Russ in his February 2021 photo KBI offender registry" />
 <figcaption>Russ in his February 2021 photo KBI offender registry</figcaption>
 </figure>TREGO COUNTY —A northwest Kansas man was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences and will spend at least the next 50 years in prison after a Trego County jury found him guilty of raping a 6 year-old last year.In January a jury found Nathan Russ, 36, WaKeeney, guilty of two counts of rape and one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.Russ was arrested in Illinois in July of last year after police in WaKeeney were alerted to possible child abuse.Following the jury trial Russ was sentenced to two life sentences for rape and 25 years to life for the aggravated indecent liberties with a child conviction earlier this month<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1594429291210.png" alt="Russ in 2020 Trego County booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Russ in 2020 Trego County booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The two rape convictions fall under Jessica’s Law which require a life sentence. They will run consecutive with one another, so Russ with serve back-to-back life sentences. The aggravated indecent liberties with a child conviction will run concurrent to the life sentences.Under Kansas law Russ will not be eligible for parole for 50 year----------------TREGO COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect for alleged child sex crimes.On January 31, 2020 the WaKeeney Police Department was called to the Trego Grade School for the suspicion of possible child abuse of a 6 year old child, according to a media release. The WaKeeney Police Department conducted an investigation and charges were filed by the Trego County Attorney’s Office against Nathan R. Russ, 35, WaKeeney, for Rape and Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child both off-grid felonies. Russ was arrested in Illinois and was transported to the Trego County Jail where he is currently being held.

NW Kansas man sentenced for child rape

Missouri is hosting a Mega Vaccination event at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20.



This mega vaccination event will assist local providers in meeting the higher vaccine demand of the Kansas City region.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616163967350.png" alt="Partnering with Jackson County Health Department, Truman Medical Center, Ride Kansas City Transit, the Chiefs and other local leaders to host a mega vaccination event at GEAH Field at Arrowhead Stadium -photo Governor Mike Parson" />
 <figcaption>Partnering with Jackson County Health Department, Truman Medical Center, Ride Kansas City Transit, the Chiefs and other local leaders to host a mega vaccination event at GEAH Field at Arrowhead Stadium -photo Governor Mike Parson</figcaption>
 </figure>Missouri is hosting a Mega Vaccination event at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Friday, March 19 and Saturday, March 20.
<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616098052706.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
This mega vaccination event will assist local providers in meeting the higher vaccine demand of the Kansas City region.

Mega vaccination event underway at Arrowhead Stadium

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City suburb has been ordered to turn over records related to the 2018 police killing of a teenager after the media sued&nbsp;for the documents.

&nbsp;A judge found that that the severance agreement for former Overland Park officer Clayton Jenison must be disclosed under the Kansas Open Records Act.

Jenison, who was paid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d4cb99f7d309451b7a4499f53ab19c67">$70,000</a>&nbsp;through the agreement, didn’t face charges for fatally shooting 17-year-old John Albers as he was backing a minivan out of his family’s garage. The officer had responded to the home because the teen was believed to be suicidal.

Kansas City Star Editor Mike Fannin said the ruling underscores that the government doesn’t get to withhold public records. “In a tragic case such as this one, sunshine is vital,” he said.

The teen’s mom, Sheila Albers, said the ruling means there will be some justice for her son. The family previously reached a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/af71e84e02ea41b8af098e2dee11ec4f">$2.3 million settlement&nbsp;</a>with the city in a wrongful death lawsuit.

Overland Park spokesman Sean Reilly said the city may comment later. The city could appeal the order, but would have to wait until the judge rules on attorneys fees.

While the lawsuit is continuing as a result, Overland Park could release the documents at any point.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601028395769.png" alt="Police on the scene of the fatal shooting -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the fatal shooting -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>OVERLAND PARK, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas City suburb has been ordered to turn over records related to the 2018 police killing of a teenager after the media sued&nbsp;for the documents.&nbsp;A judge found that that the severance agreement for former Overland Park officer Clayton Jenison must be disclosed under the Kansas Open Records Act.Jenison, who was paid&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/d4cb99f7d309451b7a4499f53ab19c67">$70,000</a>&nbsp;through the agreement, didn’t face charges for fatally shooting 17-year-old John Albers as he was backing a minivan out of his family’s garage. The officer had responded to the home because the teen was believed to be suicidal.Kansas City Star Editor Mike Fannin said the ruling underscores that the government doesn’t get to withhold public records. “In a tragic case such as this one, sunshine is vital,” he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601028453799.png" alt="John Albers photo courtesy McGilley Memorial Chapel" />
 <figcaption>John Albers photo courtesy McGilley Memorial Chapel</figcaption>
 </figure>The teen’s mom, Sheila Albers, said the ruling means there will be some justice for her son. The family previously reached a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/af71e84e02ea41b8af098e2dee11ec4f">$2.3 million settlement&nbsp;</a>with the city in a wrongful death lawsuit.Overland Park spokesman Sean Reilly said the city may comment later. The city could appeal the order, but would have to wait until the judge rules on attorneys fees.While the lawsuit is continuing as a result, Overland Park could release the documents at any point.

Judge orders release of records in fatal Kan. police shooting 

JACKSON COUNTY —A 40-year-old Kansas City man has been charged in connection with the homicide of a nearly 4-month old child who suffered multiple skull fractures and other trauma-related injuries, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

According to court records, on March 9, police were dispatched&nbsp; to the 5400 block of Harrison Street in Kansas City on a reported infant not breathing. The defendant told police the child had been sick and at 3 a.m. the child was breathing. 

At 6 a.m., the child was bluish and not breathing. Police noted injuries to the child not consistent with a natural death. At the hospital, it was determined the child had suffered life-threatening physical trauma, including a forehead contusion, multiple skull fractures, a brain bleed and chest trauma.&nbsp;

In addition, the child's grandmother 39-year-old Carly George faces a felony charge of Hindering Prosecution of a Felony.

In a statement issued Thursday, Baker said:  "The death of this child is an awful tragedy and horrible crime. The heart wrenching nature may lead us to feel despair. I hope any despair prompts us to report and protect kids from abuse. The link below provides COMBAT-funded assistance in our community."

Prosecutors requested a cash bond of $500,000 for Beck and $100,000 cash for George.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616100806043.png" alt="Beck-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Beck-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —A 40-year-old Kansas City man has been charged in connection with the homicide of a nearly 4-month old child who suffered multiple skull fractures and other trauma-related injuries, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.According to court records, on March 9, police were dispatched&nbsp; to the 5400 block of Harrison Street in Kansas City on a reported infant not breathing. The defendant told police the child had been sick and at 3 a.m. the child was breathing. At 6 a.m., the child was bluish and not breathing. Police noted injuries to the child not consistent with a natural death. At the hospital, it was determined the child had suffered life-threatening physical trauma, including a forehead contusion, multiple skull fractures, a brain bleed and chest trauma.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616101044753.png" alt="Carly George photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Carly George photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>In addition, the child's grandmother 39-year-old Carly George faces a felony charge of Hindering Prosecution of a Felony.In a statement issued Thursday, Baker said: "The death of this child is an awful tragedy and horrible crime. The heart wrenching nature may lead us to feel despair. I hope any despair prompts us to report and protect kids from abuse. The link below provides COMBAT-funded assistance in our community."Prosecutors requested a cash bond of $500,000 for Beck and $100,000 cash for George.

2 charged in death of 4-month-old in Kansas City

WASHINGTON (AP) — With the U.S. closing in on President Joe Biden’s goal of injecting 100 million coronavirus vaccinations weeks ahead of his target date, the White House said the nation is now in position to help supply neighbors Canada and Mexico with millions of lifesaving shots.

The Biden administration on Thursday revealed the outlines of a plan to “loan” a limited number of vaccines to Canada and Mexico as the president announced the U.S. is on the cusp of meeting his 100-day injection goal “way ahead of schedule.”

“&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-pandemic-politics-877bcedb60014ff93a5908b971766c1e">I’m proud to announce that tomorrow, 58 days into our administration, we will have met our goal</a>,” Biden said. He promised to unveil a new vaccination target next week, as the U.S. is on pace to have enough of the three currently authorized vaccines to cover the entire adult population just 10 weeks from now.

Ahead of Biden’s remarks, the White House said it was finalizing plans to send a combined 4 million doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico and Canada in its first export of shots. Press secretary Jen Psaki said the details of the “loan” were still being worked out, but 2.5 million doses would go to Mexico and 1.5 million would be sent to Canada.

“Our first priority remains vaccinating the U.S. population,” Psaki said. But she added that “ensuring our neighbors can contain the virus is a mission critical step, is mission critical to ending the pandemic.

The AstraZeneca vaccine has not yet been authorized for use in the U.S. but has been by the World Health Organization. Tens of millions of doses have been stockpiled in the U.S., waiting for emergency use authorization, and that has sparked an international outcry that lifesaving vaccine is being withheld when it could be used elsewhere. The White House said just 7 million of the AstraZeneca doses are ready for shipment.

The initial run of doses manufactured in the U.S. are owned by the federal government under the terms of agreements reached with drugmakers, and the Biden administration has faced calls from allies across the globe to release the AstraZeneca shots for immediate use. Biden has also fielded direct requests from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to buy vaccines produced in the United States.

Global public health advocates say wealthy nations like the U.S. need to do far more to help stem the spread of the pandemic. The World Health Organization on Thursday issued a report that fewer than 7 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in Africa thus far. That’s the equivalent of what the U.S. administers in a matter of days.

Biden did move to have the U.S. contribute financially to the United Nations- and World Health Organization-backed COVAX alliance, which will share vaccine with more than 90 lower- and middle-income nations, but the U.S. has yet to commit to sharing any doses.

From his first days in office, Biden has set clear — and achievable — metrics for U.S. success, whether they be vaccinations or school reopenings, as part of an apparent strategy of underpromising, then overdelivering. Aides believe that exceeding his goals breeds trust in government after the Trump administration’s sometimes-fanciful rhetoric on the virus.

The 100 million-dose goal was first announced on Dec. 8, days before the U.S. had even one authorized vaccine for COVID-19, let alone the three that have now received emergency authorization. Still, it was generally seen within reach, if optimistic.

By the time Biden was inaugurated on Jan. 20, the U.S. had already administered 20 million shots at a rate of about 1 million per day, bringing complaints at the time that Biden’s goal was not ambitious enough. He quickly revised it upward to 150 million doses in his first 100 days.

Now the U.S. is injecting an average of about 2.2 million doses each day — and the pace is likely to dramatically rise later this month in conjunction with an expected surge in supply of the vaccines.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, injections of 96 million doses have been reported to the agency since Biden’s inauguration, but those reports lag the actual date of administration. Vaccination trend lines pointed to Biden breaking the 100 million mark on Thursday, with the numbers likely to be confirmed by the CDC as soon as Friday.

The president has moved to speed up deliveries of vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson, as well as to expand the number of places to get shots and people who can administer them, with a focus on increasing the nation’s capacity to inject doses as supply constraints lift.

The risk in setting too rosy expectations is that an administration might become defined by its failure to meet them, such as in May 2020, when President Donald Trump said the nation had “prevailed” over the virus.

At the time, the country had seen about 80,000 deaths from the virus. This week, the U.S. death toll topped 538,000. Trump’s lax approach and lack of credibility also contributed to poor adherence to public safety rules among the American public.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616102627812.png" alt="President Joe Biden speaks about COVID-19 vaccinations from the East Room Thursday photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden speaks about COVID-19 vaccinations from the East Room Thursday photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — With the U.S. closing in on President Joe Biden’s goal of injecting 100 million coronavirus vaccinations weeks ahead of his target date, the White House said the nation is now in position to help supply neighbors Canada and Mexico with millions of lifesaving shots.The Biden administration on Thursday revealed the outlines of a plan to “loan” a limited number of vaccines to Canada and Mexico as the president announced the U.S. is on the cusp of meeting his 100-day injection goal “way ahead of schedule.”“&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-pandemic-politics-877bcedb60014ff93a5908b971766c1e">I’m proud to announce that tomorrow, 58 days into our administration, we will have met our goal</a>,” Biden said. He promised to unveil a new vaccination target next week, as the U.S. is on pace to have enough of the three currently authorized vaccines to cover the entire adult population just 10 weeks from now.Ahead of Biden’s remarks, the White House said it was finalizing plans to send a combined 4 million doses of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to Mexico and Canada in its first export of shots. Press secretary Jen Psaki said the details of the “loan” were still being worked out, but 2.5 million doses would go to Mexico and 1.5 million would be sent to Canada.“Our first priority remains vaccinating the U.S. population,” Psaki said. But she added that “ensuring our neighbors can contain the virus is a mission critical step, is mission critical to ending the pandemic.The AstraZeneca vaccine has not yet been authorized for use in the U.S. but has been by the World Health Organization. Tens of millions of doses have been stockpiled in the U.S., waiting for emergency use authorization, and that has sparked an international outcry that lifesaving vaccine is being withheld when it could be used elsewhere. The White House said just 7 million of the AstraZeneca doses are ready for shipment.The initial run of doses manufactured in the U.S. are owned by the federal government under the terms of agreements reached with drugmakers, and the Biden administration has faced calls from allies across the globe to release the AstraZeneca shots for immediate use. Biden has also fielded direct requests from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to buy vaccines produced in the United States.Global public health advocates say wealthy nations like the U.S. need to do far more to help stem the spread of the pandemic. The World Health Organization on Thursday issued a report that fewer than 7 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in Africa thus far. That’s the equivalent of what the U.S. administers in a matter of days.Biden did move to have the U.S. contribute financially to the United Nations- and World Health Organization-backed COVAX alliance, which will share vaccine with more than 90 lower- and middle-income nations, but the U.S. has yet to commit to sharing any doses.From his first days in office, Biden has set clear — and achievable — metrics for U.S. success, whether they be vaccinations or school reopenings, as part of an apparent strategy of underpromising, then overdelivering. Aides believe that exceeding his goals breeds trust in government after the Trump administration’s sometimes-fanciful rhetoric on the virus.The 100 million-dose goal was first announced on Dec. 8, days before the U.S. had even one authorized vaccine for COVID-19, let alone the three that have now received emergency authorization. Still, it was generally seen within reach, if optimistic.By the time Biden was inaugurated on Jan. 20, the U.S. had already administered 20 million shots at a rate of about 1 million per day, bringing complaints at the time that Biden’s goal was not ambitious enough. He quickly revised it upward to 150 million doses in his first 100 days.Now the U.S. is injecting an average of about 2.2 million doses each day — and the pace is likely to dramatically rise later this month in conjunction with an expected surge in supply of the vaccines.According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, injections of 96 million doses have been reported to the agency since Biden’s inauguration, but those reports lag the actual date of administration. Vaccination trend lines pointed to Biden breaking the 100 million mark on Thursday, with the numbers likely to be confirmed by the CDC as soon as Friday.The president has moved to speed up deliveries of vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson &amp; Johnson, as well as to expand the number of places to get shots and people who can administer them, with a focus on increasing the nation’s capacity to inject doses as supply constraints lift.The risk in setting too rosy expectations is that an administration might become defined by its failure to meet them, such as in May 2020, when President Donald Trump said the nation had “prevailed” over the virus.At the time, the country had seen about 80,000 deaths from the virus. This week, the U.S. death toll topped 538,000. Trump’s lax approach and lack of credibility also contributed to poor adherence to public safety rules among the American public.

Biden: U.S. to hit 100 million vaccination goal ahead of schedule

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of arson fire and have made an arrest.

Just before 7:30a.m. Thursday, firefighters responded to a structure fire&nbsp; at 1645 SW 37th Terrace in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Todd Harrison.

&nbsp;Upon arrival, fire crews found nothing showing from the exterior of the three story apartment building. Firefighters located a fire on the bottom floor in common hallway. Damages were estimated at $250.00 to the structure, there was no content loss.

Just after 11:30a.m., firefighters responded to 3802 S. Topeka Blvd in reference to a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a fire burning on the exterior of a building. The fire was quickly extinguished. Damages are estimated at $500.00 to the structure and $500.00 to its contents.

Just over an hour later firefighters were called back to 1645 SW 37th Terrace and found a fire on the third floor common hallway and an estimated $250.00 in damages.

There were no injuries or fatalities reported with these fire incidents.

A fire investigation’s Unit determined the origin and cause for all three fires as intentionally set. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified and investigators arrested 43-year-old Jenny Lynn on requested charges of arson and interference. She was transported and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Investigators are working to determine if the suspect is connected to any other fires.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616151096122.png" alt="Lynn photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Lynn photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities investigating a series of arson fire and have made an arrest.Just before 7:30a.m. Thursday, firefighters responded to a structure fire&nbsp; at 1645 SW 37th Terrace in Topeka, according to Fire Marshal Todd Harrison.&nbsp;Upon arrival, fire crews found nothing showing from the exterior of the three story apartment building. Firefighters located a fire on the bottom floor in common hallway. Damages were estimated at $250.00 to the structure, there was no content loss.Just after 11:30a.m., firefighters responded to 3802 S. Topeka Blvd in reference to a structure fire. Firefighters arrived to find a fire burning on the exterior of a building. The fire was quickly extinguished. Damages are estimated at $500.00 to the structure and $500.00 to its contents.Just over an hour later firefighters were called back to 1645 SW 37th Terrace and found a fire on the third floor common hallway and an estimated $250.00 in damages.There were no injuries or fatalities reported with these fire incidents.A fire investigation’s Unit determined the origin and cause for all three fires as intentionally set. During the course of the investigation a suspect was identified and investigators arrested 43-year-old Jenny Lynn on requested charges of arson and interference. She was transported and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.Investigators are working to determine if the suspect is connected to any other fires.

Fire Marshal: Kansas woman accused of setting three fires

LYON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Thursday in Lyon County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Honda Civic driven by DeVawn T. Mitchell, 23, Emporia,&nbsp;was eastbound on 6th Avenue at Chestnut in the left lane.&nbsp;

The Honda was fleeing law enforcement and rear-ended a 2009 Ford F150 driven by Steven A. Henry, 64, Emporia.

The pickup then struck a power pole and came to rest off the right side of the roadway.

Henry was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberts Blue Barnett funeral home. EMS transported Mitchell to&nbsp;Newman Regional Health Center. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

LYON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 2:30p.m. Thursday in Lyon County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Honda Civic driven by DeVawn T. Mitchell, 23, Emporia,&nbsp;was eastbound on 6th Avenue at Chestnut in the left lane.&nbsp;The Honda was fleeing law enforcement and rear-ended a 2009 Ford F150 driven by Steven A. Henry, 64, Emporia.The pickup then struck a power pole and came to rest off the right side of the roadway.Henry was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Roberts Blue Barnett funeral home. EMS transported Mitchell to&nbsp;Newman Regional Health Center. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

Kan. man dies after crash pushed pickup into power pole

ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after an arrest.

Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police officers conducted an investigation that began in the downtown Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.

The investigation led officers to the area of 6th and Park&nbsp; in Atchison where they recovered evidence that included controlled substances and drug paraphernalia. They also arrested 35-year-old Jerami Schmelzle on charges of possession of heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is being held on a $10,000 bond, according to Wilson.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616085383131.png" alt=" SCHMELZLE photo Atchison County" />
 <figcaption> SCHMELZLE photo Atchison County</figcaption>
 </figure>ATCHISON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on drug charges after an arrest.Just before 1a.m. Tuesday, police officers conducted an investigation that began in the downtown Atchison, according to Police Chief Mike Wilson.The investigation led officers to the area of 6th and Park&nbsp; in Atchison where they recovered evidence that included controlled substances and drug paraphernalia. They also arrested 35-year-old Jerami Schmelzle on charges of possession of heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is being held on a $10,000 bond, according to Wilson.

Police arrest Kansas man for alleged heroin possession

SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after finding 50 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop.

Just before 10a.m. Thursday deputies conducted a traffic stop on a silver minivan at Interstate 70 and SE California Avenue, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

 During the investigation, deputies deployed a K9 that helped them locate illegal narcotics including approximately 50 pounds of methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $375,000.&nbsp; 

They also arrested a 57-year-old man on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine.&nbsp; &nbsp;Authorities did not release the suspect's name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/10/1571317554423.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY –Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect after finding 50 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop.Just before 10a.m. Thursday deputies conducted a traffic stop on a silver minivan at Interstate 70 and SE California Avenue, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. During the investigation, deputies deployed a K9 that helped them locate illegal narcotics including approximately 50 pounds of methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $375,000.&nbsp; They also arrested a 57-year-old man on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine.&nbsp; &nbsp;Authorities did not release the suspect's name.

Kan. deputies find 50 pounds of meth worth $375K 

MISSION, Kan. (AP) — More than 100 roads are closed across largely rural areas of Missouri as waters rise following recent rain, putting officials on guard as repairs continue on some levees that were damaged previously. 

National Weather Service hydrologist Scott Watson said the flooding “is pretty typical of what we see in most springs.” It comes after 2 to 6 inches of rain fell over the past week in an area stretching from Nebraska down through eastern Kansas and into parts of Missouri. 

Watson said levees are holding up and most of the areas taking on water are unprotected lowland and agricultural areas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616104351249.png" alt="photo Missouri State Highway Patrol" />
 <figcaption>photo Missouri State Highway Patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>MISSION, Kan. (AP) — More than 100 roads are closed across largely rural areas of Missouri as waters rise following recent rain, putting officials on guard as repairs continue on some levees that were damaged previously. National Weather Service hydrologist Scott Watson said the flooding “is pretty typical of what we see in most springs.” It comes after 2 to 6 inches of rain fell over the past week in an area stretching from Nebraska down through eastern Kansas and into parts of Missouri. Watson said levees are holding up and most of the areas taking on water are unprotected lowland and agricultural areas.

Recent rains close more than 100 roads across Missouri

WASHINGTON (AP) — Students who were defrauded by their colleges and received only partial relief from their federal loans could now see them fully canceled, the Biden administration announced Thursday, reversing a Trump administration policy.

The change could lead to $1 billion in loans being canceled for 72,000 borrowers, all of whom attended for-profit schools, the Education Department said.

“Borrowers deserve a simplified and fair path to relief when they have been harmed by their institution’s misconduct,” said Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “A close review of these claims and the associated evidence showed these borrowers have been harmed, and we will grant them a fresh start from their debt.”

The department said it was rescinding the formula used by the Trump administration to determine partial relief and putting in place “a streamlined path to receiving full loan discharges.”

The decision applies to students who already had their claims approved and received only partial relief, the department said.

A senior department official briefing reporters said the agency was continuing to review both the backlog of claims yet to be decided and those that have been denied.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616100370459.png" alt="Education Secretary Miguel Cardona during a press briefing Wednesday-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Education Secretary Miguel Cardona during a press briefing Wednesday-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Students who were defrauded by their colleges and received only partial relief from their federal loans could now see them fully canceled, the Biden administration announced Thursday, reversing a Trump administration policy.The change could lead to $1 billion in loans being canceled for 72,000 borrowers, all of whom attended for-profit schools, the Education Department said.“Borrowers deserve a simplified and fair path to relief when they have been harmed by their institution’s misconduct,” said Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “A close review of these claims and the associated evidence showed these borrowers have been harmed, and we will grant them a fresh start from their debt.”The department said it was rescinding the formula used by the Trump administration to determine partial relief and putting in place “a streamlined path to receiving full loan discharges.”The decision applies to students who already had their claims approved and received only partial relief, the department said.A senior department official briefing reporters said the agency was continuing to review both the backlog of claims yet to be decided and those that have been denied.The department described Thursday’s action as “a first step” and said it would be looking at rewriting the regulations down the road.In addition to having their loans fully canceled, students will be reimbursed for any payments made on the loans and have their eligibility for federal student aid reinstated. The department said it also would ask credit bureaus to remove any negative ratings tied to the loans.“Abandoning partial relief is a strong start for a narrow subset of borrowers, but what we need from the Education Department is an overhaul of the current borrower defense process,” said Toby Merrill, director of the Project on Predatory Student Lending, which represents former students at for-profit colleges.“The previous administration turned borrower defense into a total sham that was rigged to deny claims without any true consideration,” Merrill said. “The Biden-Harris administration must now address these failings or else perpetuate a system that is stacked against the very students they are supposed to protect.”Career Education Colleges and Universities, an industry lobbying group, said it had no comment on the Biden administration’s actions.The borrower defense to repayment program allows students to have their federal loans canceled if they were defrauded by their colleges. The Obama administration had expanded the program aimed at helping students who attended for-profit colleges. But President Donald Trump’s education secretary,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ab84626294d6faa0494e9c5ac7f6421e">Betsy DeVos, pulled it back</a>, saying it had become too easy for students to have their loans erased, and revised the program to make it harder for them to get relief, including providing only partial cancellation of the loans.Congress voted to overturn DeVos’ changes last March, but it was vetoed by Trump.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/00c9b70689a3a5fdcb54e63661608b11">Nearly two dozen state attorneys general had sued the Trump administration</a>&nbsp;over its implementation of the borrower defense to repayment program, which allows borrowers to have their loans canceled if their colleges made false claims to get them to enroll. One of the plaintiffs in that suit was California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, who was confirmed Thursday as President Joe Biden’s health secretary.The lawsuit, which was filed last July, argued that DeVos had changed the policy without justification, failed to provide a meaningful process for students to get their loans forgiven and created “arbitrary impediments” for them, including forcing them to prove that their schools knowingly misled them.Sen. Patty Murray, who heads the Senate committee overseeing education, said DeVos used “faulty math” to deny student full relief. Rep. Bobby Scott, chair of the House Committee on Education and Labor, called it “a nonsensical formula.”“This announcement is life-changing for tens of thousands of people across the country,” Scott said.