WASHINGTON (AP) —A federal judge in Texas has blocked a new rule from the Federal Trade Commission that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/noncompete-workers-ftc-lawsuit-fe91a378e15086402550e0fb10467214">would have made it easier</a>&nbsp;for employees to quit a job and work for a competitor.

In a ruling Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Ada Brown granted a motion for summary judgement filed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other plaintiffs, and rejected the FTC's own petition for a judgement in its favor.

In reaching his decision, Brown concluded that that the FTC “exceeded its statutory authority” in making the rule, which the judge called “arbitrary and capricious." The judge also concluded that the rule would cause irreparable harm.

As a result of the court's decision, the FTC won't be able to enforce its rule, which was set to go into effect on Sept. 4, according to the judge's ruling.

Still, the decision does not prevent the agency from addressing noncompete agreements through “case-by-case” enforcement actions, said Victoria Graham, an FTC spokesperson.

The FTC is also considering appealing the court’s decision, Graham said.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jobs-employers-noncompete-agreements-economy-pay-4d7b3eb8e143cfd52025c7f2f5259fc4">FTC voted in April to prohibit employers nationwide</a>&nbsp;from entering into new noncompete agreements or enforcing existing noncompetes, saying the agreements restrict workers' freedom and suppress wages.

But companies opposing the ban argue they need noncompete agreements to protect business relationships, trade secrets and investments they make to train or recruit employees.

Apart from the Texas case, companies sued the FTC in Florida and Pennsylvania to block the rule.

In the Florida lawsuit, which was brought by a retirement community, the court granted a preliminary injunction, prohibiting enforcement of the rule just for the plaintiff, but not any other company.

In the Pennsylvania lawsuit, the court concluded that the plaintiff, a tree company, failed to show it would be irreparably harmed by the ban and that the company wasn’t likely to win the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713903059519.png" alt="Image FTC" />
 <figcaption>Image FTC</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —A federal judge in Texas has blocked a new rule from the Federal Trade Commission that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/noncompete-workers-ftc-lawsuit-fe91a378e15086402550e0fb10467214">would have made it easier</a>&nbsp;for employees to quit a job and work for a competitor.In a ruling Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Ada Brown granted a motion for summary judgement filed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and other plaintiffs, and rejected the FTC's own petition for a judgement in its favor.In reaching his decision, Brown concluded that that the FTC “exceeded its statutory authority” in making the rule, which the judge called “arbitrary and capricious." The judge also concluded that the rule would cause irreparable harm.As a result of the court's decision, the FTC won't be able to enforce its rule, which was set to go into effect on Sept. 4, according to the judge's ruling.Still, the decision does not prevent the agency from addressing noncompete agreements through “case-by-case” enforcement actions, said Victoria Graham, an FTC spokesperson.The FTC is also considering appealing the court’s decision, Graham said.The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jobs-employers-noncompete-agreements-economy-pay-4d7b3eb8e143cfd52025c7f2f5259fc4">FTC voted in April to prohibit employers nationwide</a>&nbsp;from entering into new noncompete agreements or enforcing existing noncompetes, saying the agreements restrict workers' freedom and suppress wages.But companies opposing the ban argue they need noncompete agreements to protect business relationships, trade secrets and investments they make to train or recruit employees.Apart from the Texas case, companies sued the FTC in Florida and Pennsylvania to block the rule.In the Florida lawsuit, which was brought by a retirement community, the court granted a preliminary injunction, prohibiting enforcement of the rule just for the plaintiff, but not any other company.In the Pennsylvania lawsuit, the court concluded that the plaintiff, a tree company, failed to show it would be irreparably harmed by the ban and that the company wasn’t likely to win the case.

Federal Judge blocks FTC's bid to ban noncompete agreements 

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas mother whose 2-year-old son fatally shot his 4-year-old sister has been sentenced to life in prison.

Mariann Belair, 24, won't be eligible for parole until she's served 25 years under the sentence imposed Tuesday in Shawnee County District Court, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/08/20/topekan-gets-life-sentence-after-her-son-fatally-shoots-her-daughter/74879924007/">reported</a>. Jurors found her guilty in May of aggravated child endangerment and first-degree murder in the commission of a felony.

Belair testified at her trial that she removed a loaded 9mm handgun from her diaper bag and placed it on the couch next to her in October while she was home with her 4-year-old daughter, Lawrencia Perez-Belair, and her 2-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter.

She said she had planned to go get food with her family and was making sure she had everything she needed in the bag. She said Lawrencia then “distracted” her by asking her to shoot a cellphone photo of them together.

Deputy District Attorney Lauren Amrein told jurors that the gun sat on the couch at least 12 minutes before Belair's son, who was about to turn 3, picked it up and shot his sister. She said no reasonable person would have let the gun sit there so long with small children present.

Court records show Belair complained in a handwritten motion that her trial attorney discouraged her from taking a plea that would have resulted in her being sentenced to 10 years and three months in prison.

A new attorney assigned to the case has requested a new trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697371794491.png" alt="Belair photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Belair photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas mother whose 2-year-old son fatally shot his 4-year-old sister has been sentenced to life in prison.Mariann Belair, 24, won't be eligible for parole until she's served 25 years under the sentence imposed Tuesday in Shawnee County District Court, The Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/local/2024/08/20/topekan-gets-life-sentence-after-her-son-fatally-shoots-her-daughter/74879924007/">reported</a>. Jurors found her guilty in May of aggravated child endangerment and first-degree murder in the commission of a felony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697687958408.jpeg" alt="Lawrencia Blair-photo Chapel Oaks Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Lawrencia Blair-photo Chapel Oaks Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>Belair testified at her trial that she removed a loaded 9mm handgun from her diaper bag and placed it on the couch next to her in October while she was home with her 4-year-old daughter, Lawrencia Perez-Belair, and her 2-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter.She said she had planned to go get food with her family and was making sure she had everything she needed in the bag. She said Lawrencia then “distracted” her by asking her to shoot a cellphone photo of them together.Deputy District Attorney Lauren Amrein told jurors that the gun sat on the couch at least 12 minutes before Belair's son, who was about to turn 3, picked it up and shot his sister. She said no reasonable person would have let the gun sit there so long with small children present.Court records show Belair complained in a handwritten motion that her trial attorney discouraged her from taking a plea that would have resulted in her being sentenced to 10 years and three months in prison.A new attorney assigned to the case has requested a new trial.

Kansas mom sentenced after her 2-year-old fatally shot her 4-year-old

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– Flying activity increases this week over the Air Capital with the arrival of aircraft for the 2024 Frontiers in Flight Airshow at McConnell AFB. according to a media release from the air base.

Tuesday and Wednesday, most of McConnell’s aircraft will leave the base for other locations for the week, to perform missions off-station while also making room for airshow activities and setup.

Wednesday marks the arrival of Doc at McConnell. That B-29 Superfortress arrives at approximately 2 p.m.&nbsp; and will be part of the center display for the airshow, along with two KC-135 Stratotankers and two KC-46 Pegasus tankers McConnell.

On Thursday, the Blue Angels arrive at approximately 10 a.m. In addition, a majority of the Airshow’s other aircraft are slated to arrive throughout the day on Thursday. Several of those aircraft are expected to spend extra time flying around the Air Capital, as the base and FAA have worked to open local airspace up to a 10-mile radius around the Dole VA Center, to include the Children’s Hospital, for the pilots to spend time familiarizing themselves with the terrain.

Also on Thursday, at approximately 10:30 p.m., three Army helicopters from Fort Riley are scheduled to arrive, but only after performing night navigation missions en-route to McConnell. The helicopters will be on ground display for the airshow.

On Friday, several small aircraft will arrive from Stearman Field, between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The airshows aerial performers will conduct a practice airshow starting at noon that day, with the Blue Angels taking to the skies at 3 p.m.

On Saturday and Sunday, flying activities begin at noon, and the Blue Angels will again take to the skies at 3 p.m. each day.&nbsp;The airshow runs August 24-25, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at McConnell Air Force Base, with both admission and parking being free.&nbsp;

All attendees over the age of 18 are required to present a state- or federal government-issued photo ID for entry, such as a driver’s license or passport. Non-U.S. citizen over the age of 18 can use a passport or permanent resident alien card for entry.

Guests are allowed and encouraged to bring their own drinking water in a non-glass container, filled, to use and refill throughout the day to help prevent heat injuries.

There will be free water fill locations in the general public parking lot and on the airshow ramp for refilling personal water containers. Those locations are marked on the map, along with cooling tents, port-a-potties and first aid stations.

<a>While that parking is available, there will still be large distances of walking, given the overall size of the flightline. The airshow area itself measures 0.67 miles north to south, and will be full of parked aircraft, booths and displays.</a>

Parking will be provided off-base, in the fields owned by Cessna, north of McConnell, west of Rock Road and south of Pawnee Street. Distance from the regular parking area to the airshow entrance is approximately 0.5 miles. As such, the base has organized busses to be available at the center of the general parking area to transport people to and from there and the airshow entrance (Entry #1 on the Airshow map). These distances, combined with the typical August temperatures in Kansas and the heat-amplifying effects of concrete runways make hydration especially important for airshow attendees and staff.

Accessibility parking is available by filling out the following form online:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#accessibility" target="_blank">https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#accessibility</a>

Those who are approved for this parking will be e-mailed a parking pass, which they will have to print out. That pass will enable parking at select locations on base.

For those bringing small children, wristbands are available at the entry points to the flightline, to allow adults to write a phone number on the band and put it on the child’s wrist. Should the adults and children become separated, that phone number will facilitate a quick reunion with their adults.&nbsp; The Lost Child RV will be located near the Kids Zone and close to the Boeing Dreamlifter.&nbsp; The Dreamlifter will be the largest aircraft on the ramp, on the north end of the runway area and near the STEAM and Kid Zones. Changing stations and a dedicated nursing area will also be nearby.

A full list of items that guests are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#bring" target="_blank">allowed to bring</a>, as well as a list of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#nobring" target="_blank">prohibited items</a>, is available at the airshow website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.frontiersinflight.com/" target="_blank">www.frontiersinflight.com</a>

Aerial performances begin at noon each day. The headline act, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, takes to the skies at approximately 3 p.m. each day of the airshow.

The confirmed aerial performers for the airshow are:

The Budweiser Clydesdales hitch is scheduled to make an appearance at 11:30 a.m., each day of the airshow.

The confirmed aircraft on static display are shown on the airshow map, current as of its publication date. Those aircraft on display will be:

Wichita’s military presence is more than just Air Force, with a number of Reserve and Guard units in the area from across the military branches. The largest of these locally is the Army Reserve’s 451st&nbsp;Expeditionary Sustainment Command, which is headquartered here. The 451st&nbsp;ESC has coordinated the appearance of several Army aviation and ground assets at the event, bringing a little extra steel and firepower for visitors to see. These will include:

<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/">Click here for </a>more information on the air show

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724252189685.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan.&nbsp;– Flying activity increases this week over the Air Capital with the arrival of aircraft for the 2024 Frontiers in Flight Airshow at McConnell AFB. according to a media release from the air base.Tuesday and Wednesday, most of McConnell’s aircraft will leave the base for other locations for the week, to perform missions off-station while also making room for airshow activities and setup.Wednesday marks the arrival of Doc at McConnell. That B-29 Superfortress arrives at approximately 2 p.m.&nbsp; and will be part of the center display for the airshow, along with two KC-135 Stratotankers and two KC-46 Pegasus tankers McConnell.On Thursday, the Blue Angels arrive at approximately 10 a.m. In addition, a majority of the Airshow’s other aircraft are slated to arrive throughout the day on Thursday. Several of those aircraft are expected to spend extra time flying around the Air Capital, as the base and FAA have worked to open local airspace up to a 10-mile radius around the Dole VA Center, to include the Children’s Hospital, for the pilots to spend time familiarizing themselves with the terrain.Also on Thursday, at approximately 10:30 p.m., three Army helicopters from Fort Riley are scheduled to arrive, but only after performing night navigation missions en-route to McConnell. The helicopters will be on ground display for the airshow.On Friday, several small aircraft will arrive from Stearman Field, between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. The airshows aerial performers will conduct a practice airshow starting at noon that day, with the Blue Angels taking to the skies at 3 p.m.On Saturday and Sunday, flying activities begin at noon, and the Blue Angels will again take to the skies at 3 p.m. each day.&nbsp;The airshow runs August 24-25, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at McConnell Air Force Base, with both admission and parking being free.&nbsp;All attendees over the age of 18 are required to present a state- or federal government-issued photo ID for entry, such as a driver’s license or passport. Non-U.S. citizen over the age of 18 can use a passport or permanent resident alien card for entry.Guests are allowed and encouraged to bring their own drinking water in a non-glass container, filled, to use and refill throughout the day to help prevent heat injuries.There will be free water fill locations in the general public parking lot and on the airshow ramp for refilling personal water containers. Those locations are marked on the map, along with cooling tents, port-a-potties and first aid stations.Distances<a>While that parking is available, there will still be large distances of walking, given the overall size of the flightline. The airshow area itself measures 0.67 miles north to south, and will be full of parked aircraft, booths and displays.</a>General ParkingParking will be provided off-base, in the fields owned by Cessna, north of McConnell, west of Rock Road and south of Pawnee Street. Distance from the regular parking area to the airshow entrance is approximately 0.5 miles. As such, the base has organized busses to be available at the center of the general parking area to transport people to and from there and the airshow entrance (Entry #1 on the Airshow map). These distances, combined with the typical August temperatures in Kansas and the heat-amplifying effects of concrete runways make hydration especially important for airshow attendees and staff.Accessibility ParkingAccessibility parking is available by filling out the following form online:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#accessibility" target="_blank">https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#accessibility</a>Those who are approved for this parking will be e-mailed a parking pass, which they will have to print out. That pass will enable parking at select locations on base.Lost ChildrenFor those bringing small children, wristbands are available at the entry points to the flightline, to allow adults to write a phone number on the band and put it on the child’s wrist. Should the adults and children become separated, that phone number will facilitate a quick reunion with their adults.&nbsp; The Lost Child RV will be located near the Kids Zone and close to the Boeing Dreamlifter.&nbsp; The Dreamlifter will be the largest aircraft on the ramp, on the north end of the runway area and near the STEAM and Kid Zones. Changing stations and a dedicated nursing area will also be nearby.Allowed &amp; Prohibited ItemsA full list of items that guests are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#bring" target="_blank">allowed to bring</a>, as well as a list of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/guestinfo#nobring" target="_blank">prohibited items</a>, is available at the airshow website,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.frontiersinflight.com/" target="_blank">www.frontiersinflight.com</a>Aerial Performance TimesAerial performances begin at noon each day. The headline act, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, takes to the skies at approximately 3 p.m. each day of the airshow.Aerial PerformersThe confirmed aerial performers for the airshow are:<ul>
 <li>Blue Angels F/A-18 Super Hornets</li><li>Fat Albert (Blue Angels support C-130J Super Hercules)</li><li>F-35 Lightning Demo Team</li><li>P-51 Heritage Flight</li><li>2x A-10 Thunderbolt II Formation Demo</li><li>Tora Tora Tora</li><li>“Swamp Fox” P-51</li><li>Twin Beech 18 “Matt Younkin”</li><li>Havilland D.H. 115 “Vampire”</li><li>Bill Stien “Edge 540”</li><li>Tom Larkin “Mini Jet”</li><li>Brian Correll “Pitts II”</li><li>KC-135/KC-46 Refuel Demo</li><li>Precision Exotics “Super Cars”</li>
 </ul>ClydesdalesThe Budweiser Clydesdales hitch is scheduled to make an appearance at 11:30 a.m., each day of the airshow.Aircraft on DisplayThe confirmed aircraft on static display are shown on the airshow map, current as of its publication date. Those aircraft on display will be:<ul>
 <li>Doc B-29 Superfortress</li><li>KC-135 Stratotankers</li><li>KC-46 Pegasus</li><li>Fat Albert (C-130J Super Hercules)</li><li>A-10 Thunderbolt IIs</li><li>F-15 Eagles</li><li>F-16 Fighting Falcons</li><li>F-22 Raptors</li><li>F-35 Lightning IIs</li><li>B-1 Lancer</li><li>B-52 Stratofortress</li><li>Navy P-8 Poseidon</li><li>C-17 Globemaster III</li><li>RC-135 Rivet Joint</li><li>T-38 Talons</li><li>T-6 Texans</li><li>T-1A Jayhawk</li><li>T-41 Mescalero (Cessna 172)</li><li>T-53A Kadet II (Cirrus SR-20)</li><li>Boeing Dreamlifter</li><li>A-26 Invader “Lady Liberty”</li><li>LearJet 36A – Around the world&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2024-07-02/learjet-global-circumnavigation-deemed-world-record" target="_blank">record holder</a></li><li>Stearman Biplanes</li>
 </ul>Army Displays:Wichita’s military presence is more than just Air Force, with a number of Reserve and Guard units in the area from across the military branches. The largest of these locally is the Army Reserve’s 451st&nbsp;Expeditionary Sustainment Command, which is headquartered here. The 451st&nbsp;ESC has coordinated the appearance of several Army aviation and ground assets at the event, bringing a little extra steel and firepower for visitors to see. These will include:<ul>
 <li>Light Medium Tactical Vehicle</li><li>High-Mobility, Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV)</li><li>Joint Light Tactical Vehicle</li><li>UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter</li><li>HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter</li><li>CH-47 Chinook helicopter</li>
 </ul><a href="https://www.frontiersinflight.com/">Click here for </a>more information on the air show

Plan ahead if attending McConnell Airshow this weekend

SHERIDAN COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the individuals involved in a second fatal accident that occurred Monday in Sheridan County.

According to the Highway Patrol, just after 11 a.m. Trooper Ethan Masterson, 27, Oakley, was responding to a&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/759ff407-0334-4dd7-8000-843c42f9d5e8">fatal accident</a>&nbsp;on KS-23 south of Hoxie when Masterson’s Dodge SUV collided with an SUV at the intersection of 100 S Road and 40 E Road, approximately four miles east of K-23.

The driver of the second SUV, Gerald D. Rahier, 42, Hoxie was killed in the accident.

A passenger, Arielle C. Lemos, 38, Hoxie and two children, ages 4 and 5, all suffered serious injuries and were transported to the&nbsp;Sheridan County Health Complex in Hoxie.

All four people in the SUV were properly restrained at the time of the accident.

The Highway Patrol reported Masterson did have his lights and sirens activated at the time of the accident. He was not injured.

SHERIDAN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal crash involving a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper.

Just after 11 a.m. Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper was responding to a two-vehicle fatality collision involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) that occurred on K-23 between Hoxie and Interstate 70 in Sheridan County, according to a media release from the KHP.

The Trooper was westbound on 100 South Road with emergency lights and siren activated as he approached the intersection at 40 East Road.&nbsp;

The Trooper entered the intersection and struck the driver’s side of a southbound SUV.&nbsp; As a result of the collision, the male driver was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; A female passenger in the front passenger seat and a 1-year-old passenger were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A 3-year-old passenger was air-lifted from the collision scene.&nbsp; The trooper was treated and released from the scene.

The Kansas Highway Patrol Critical Highway Accident Response Team was called to the scene, and this crash remains under investigation at this time.

SHERIDAN COUNTY —The Kansas Highway Patrol has identified the individuals involved in a second fatal accident that occurred Monday in Sheridan County.According to the Highway Patrol, just after 11 a.m. Trooper Ethan Masterson, 27, Oakley, was responding to a&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/759ff407-0334-4dd7-8000-843c42f9d5e8">fatal accident</a>&nbsp;on KS-23 south of Hoxie when Masterson’s Dodge SUV collided with an SUV at the intersection of 100 S Road and 40 E Road, approximately four miles east of K-23.The driver of the second SUV, Gerald D. Rahier, 42, Hoxie was killed in the accident.A passenger, Arielle C. Lemos, 38, Hoxie and two children, ages 4 and 5, all suffered serious injuries and were transported to the&nbsp;Sheridan County Health Complex in Hoxie.All four people in the SUV were properly restrained at the time of the accident.The Highway Patrol reported Masterson did have his lights and sirens activated at the time of the accident. He was not injured.----------SHERIDAN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal crash involving a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper.Just after 11 a.m. Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper was responding to a two-vehicle fatality collision involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) that occurred on K-23 between Hoxie and Interstate 70 in Sheridan County, according to a media release from the KHP.The Trooper was westbound on 100 South Road with emergency lights and siren activated as he approached the intersection at 40 East Road.&nbsp;The Trooper entered the intersection and struck the driver’s side of a southbound SUV.&nbsp; As a result of the collision, the male driver was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; A female passenger in the front passenger seat and a 1-year-old passenger were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A 3-year-old passenger was air-lifted from the collision scene.&nbsp; The trooper was treated and released from the scene.The Kansas Highway Patrol Critical Highway Accident Response Team was called to the scene, and this crash remains under investigation at this time.

KHP IDs victims in crash with Trooper on way to another crash

SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after tracking down a stolen vehicle with a child left inside.

Just after 4 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a reported aggravated robbery of a vehicle near SW 29th and Macvicar Avenue in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.

It was reported that the vehicle was stolen by individuals who are known to the vehicle owner and a child was inside. The child was quickly located in the 3200 block of SW Central Park and was taken into police custody.

A short time later, officers located the stolen vehicle near SE 35th and Indiana in Topeka and initiated a traffic stop. The driver fled and initiated a short pursuit, which ended when the vehicle struck a pole near SE 29th and Minnesota where two suspects ran from the crash. Officers then located and took them into custody. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Around 8:30 a.m., police received the report of an unresponsive man in the 2200 block of SE 29th Street. Officers responded and located the individual, who was transported to a local hospital to be treated for life-threatening injuries. Police investigators believe the two incidents are related.

As a result of the investigation, Lorenzo A. Pattmon III, 21, and Rammelo H. Boatwright, 24, both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department on requested charges Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Child Endangerment.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724243340231.png" alt="Pattmon-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Pattmon-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after tracking down a stolen vehicle with a child left inside.Just after 4 a.m. Tuesday, police responded to a reported aggravated robbery of a vehicle near SW 29th and Macvicar Avenue in Topeka, according to police spokesperson Rosie Nichols.It was reported that the vehicle was stolen by individuals who are known to the vehicle owner and a child was inside. The child was quickly located in the 3200 block of SW Central Park and was taken into police custody.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724243427663.png" alt="Boatwright -photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Boatwright -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>A short time later, officers located the stolen vehicle near SE 35th and Indiana in Topeka and initiated a traffic stop. The driver fled and initiated a short pursuit, which ended when the vehicle struck a pole near SE 29th and Minnesota where two suspects ran from the crash. Officers then located and took them into custody. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.Around 8:30 a.m., police received the report of an unresponsive man in the 2200 block of SE 29th Street. Officers responded and located the individual, who was transported to a local hospital to be treated for life-threatening injuries. Police investigators believe the two incidents are related.As a result of the investigation, Lorenzo A. Pattmon III, 21, and Rammelo H. Boatwright, 24, both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department on requested charges Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Child Endangerment.

Police found vehicle stolen in Kansas with child inside

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Former President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has been active on his social accounts as Democrats gather for their convention in Chicago, but some of his posts don’t have much to do with reality.

Ahead of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-harris-biden-obama-ffb55cee591f8f162ad77b5d6b91152b">Democratic National Convention</a>, he posted a fake image of someone who looks like Vice President Kamala Harris addressing what appears to be a communist rally in Chicago with a depiction of a red banner with a communist symbol. That followed his repost of a phony video of himself dancing next to billionaire Elon Musk, one of his most vocal supporters.

Just before the convention kicked off, he reposted an image of Taylor Swift in an Uncle Sam outfit and accepted her endorsement for his campaign, which she had never given.

They’re the latest examples of how Trump is promoting images produced by artificial intelligence tools to attack his opponents or create illusions of support around his own campaign. It’s in keeping with a long-standing strategy in which Trump amplifies messages – from QAnon adherents to those who deny the results of fair elections -- to score political points and satisfy his base by promoting alternate realities.

Some of the images and videos Trump has shared are cartoonish or obviously fake. Yet the rise in AI-generated content across political social media concerns experts who say it can be used to push more insidious and believable disinformation. As fake images, videos and audio clips created by generative AI models begin to saturate social media, they also risk eroding people’s trust in what they see and hear.

“The AI-generated deepfakes of Taylor Swift are yet another example of AI’s power to create misinformation that deceives and defrauds voters,” said Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen, a progressive consumer rights advocacy group that has pushed for legislation to regulate AI. “The potential harms to our society that could result from such misinformation, including abuses of our elections, are wide-reaching and immensely damaging.”

One AI-generated image in Trump’s Truth Social post, shared on Sunday, showed women in “Swifties for Trump” shirts, a reference to the artist’s devout fans. The fake image showing Swift dressed as Uncle Sam included text saying, “Taylor wants YOU to VOTE for DONALD TRUMP.” In his repost of the image, Trump added, “I accept!”

One of the images Trump shared included a small satire label, though he didn’t clarify whether he meant his post was in jest.

Swift, who remains on her world tour and has a show scheduled Tuesday night in London, has made no endorsement in this year’s U.S. presidential race. Her spokesperson did not return multiple messages seeking comment.

To Republicans outside Trump's orbit, the focus on someone like Swift — one of the most talked about artists in the world — is all about garnering attention for Trump at a time when much of the focus is on Harris and Democrats.

“This is how he and the campaign can wrest back news cycles,” said Doug Heye, a longtime Republican spokesperson and operative. "I hesitate to say to their credit, but I think we all know, if you want to be talked about, Taylor Swift is a great way to do it.”

A Harris spokesperson did not respond to questions about Trump's use of images generated by artificial intelligence.

Trump supporters frequently create social media posts and memes using AI-generated images, some of which get shared by the former president.

Before Trump shared the phony Swift images, his supporters had been creating and posting their own AI-generated videos and images of the pop star appearing to support Trump. They also shared numerous images of Harris dressed as a communist leader or addressing a Soviet crowd.

Political operatives have long been concerned about what the rise in artificial intelligence could mean for elections.

Some members of Congress have pushed for legislation to regulate the use of AI-generated images in politics, but no legislation to do so has gotten close to passing. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/">Federal Communications Commission</a>&nbsp;has proposed requiring political advertisers to disclose their use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/artificial-intelligence">artificial intelligence</a>&nbsp;in television and radio ads, but such a rule would not affect the social media platforms.

While several social media companies have rules for labeling AI-generated content, they aren’t always followed. Across platforms, misleading and lifelike images of both Trump and Harris amass millions of views, with some users not recognizing what they are seeing is fake.

Given her influence and millions of fans, Swift has often become a trending political topic during election years.

In 2020, she&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/taylorswift13/status/1313938080290803715?s=20">supported President Joe Biden</a>, writing a month before the election that she was going to be cheering for then-vice presidential nominee Harris, this year’s Democratic nominee, in her debate against then-Vice President Mike Pence. She also was openly critical of Trump ahead of the 2020 election, saying he had stoked “the fires of white supremacy and racism.”

While she has remained on the sidelines so far this year, she has not escaped notice from prominent conservatives who worry about a Swift endorsement of the Democratic presidential ticket.

Fox News’ Jeanine Pirro earlier this year&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Intellect_Vids/status/1752110738745720856">warned</a>&nbsp;Swift not to “get involved in politics.” Fox News’ Sean Hannity&nbsp;<a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/media/4439327-hannity-taylor-swift-biden-endorsement/">urged</a>&nbsp;her to “think twice” about backing Biden when he was running for reelection. And Vivek Ramaswamy, a former GOP presidential candidate and vocal Trump supporter,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1751944730114498838">called</a>&nbsp;Swift and her NFL star boyfriend Travis Kelce “an artificially culturally propped-up couple” who may make “a major presidential endorsement” this fall.

Some of her supporters have responded to Trump’s posts by taking to social media and declaring their intentions to vote for the former president. Trump’s campaign is seizing on that support.

Steven Cheung, Trump’s spokesman, did not address the use of fake images in response to questions, but called “Swifties for Trump" a "massive movement that grows bigger every single day.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724246052211.png" alt="From Donald Trumps Truth Social account" />
 <figcaption>From Donald Trumps Truth Social account</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Former President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;has been active on his social accounts as Democrats gather for their convention in Chicago, but some of his posts don’t have much to do with reality.Ahead of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/democratic-national-convention-harris-biden-obama-ffb55cee591f8f162ad77b5d6b91152b">Democratic National Convention</a>, he posted a fake image of someone who looks like Vice President Kamala Harris addressing what appears to be a communist rally in Chicago with a depiction of a red banner with a communist symbol. That followed his repost of a phony video of himself dancing next to billionaire Elon Musk, one of his most vocal supporters.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1721141680828.png" alt="File photo Donald Trump at the Republic National Convention courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>File photo Donald Trump at the Republic National Convention courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Just before the convention kicked off, he reposted an image of Taylor Swift in an Uncle Sam outfit and accepted her endorsement for his campaign, which she had never given.They’re the latest examples of how Trump is promoting images produced by artificial intelligence tools to attack his opponents or create illusions of support around his own campaign. It’s in keeping with a long-standing strategy in which Trump amplifies messages – from QAnon adherents to those who deny the results of fair elections -- to score political points and satisfy his base by promoting alternate realities.Some of the images and videos Trump has shared are cartoonish or obviously fake. Yet the rise in AI-generated content across political social media concerns experts who say it can be used to push more insidious and believable disinformation. As fake images, videos and audio clips created by generative AI models begin to saturate social media, they also risk eroding people’s trust in what they see and hear.“The AI-generated deepfakes of Taylor Swift are yet another example of AI’s power to create misinformation that deceives and defrauds voters,” said Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen, a progressive consumer rights advocacy group that has pushed for legislation to regulate AI. “The potential harms to our society that could result from such misinformation, including abuses of our elections, are wide-reaching and immensely damaging.”One AI-generated image in Trump’s Truth Social post, shared on Sunday, showed women in “Swifties for Trump” shirts, a reference to the artist’s devout fans. The fake image showing Swift dressed as Uncle Sam included text saying, “Taylor wants YOU to VOTE for DONALD TRUMP.” In his repost of the image, Trump added, “I accept!”One of the images Trump shared included a small satire label, though he didn’t clarify whether he meant his post was in jest.Swift, who remains on her world tour and has a show scheduled Tuesday night in London, has made no endorsement in this year’s U.S. presidential race. Her spokesperson did not return multiple messages seeking comment.To Republicans outside Trump's orbit, the focus on someone like Swift — one of the most talked about artists in the world — is all about garnering attention for Trump at a time when much of the focus is on Harris and Democrats.“This is how he and the campaign can wrest back news cycles,” said Doug Heye, a longtime Republican spokesperson and operative. "I hesitate to say to their credit, but I think we all know, if you want to be talked about, Taylor Swift is a great way to do it.”A Harris spokesperson did not respond to questions about Trump's use of images generated by artificial intelligence.Trump supporters frequently create social media posts and memes using AI-generated images, some of which get shared by the former president.Before Trump shared the phony Swift images, his supporters had been creating and posting their own AI-generated videos and images of the pop star appearing to support Trump. They also shared numerous images of Harris dressed as a communist leader or addressing a Soviet crowd.Political operatives have long been concerned about what the rise in artificial intelligence could mean for elections.Some members of Congress have pushed for legislation to regulate the use of AI-generated images in politics, but no legislation to do so has gotten close to passing. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fcc.gov/">Federal Communications Commission</a>&nbsp;has proposed requiring political advertisers to disclose their use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/artificial-intelligence">artificial intelligence</a>&nbsp;in television and radio ads, but such a rule would not affect the social media platforms.While several social media companies have rules for labeling AI-generated content, they aren’t always followed. Across platforms, misleading and lifelike images of both Trump and Harris amass millions of views, with some users not recognizing what they are seeing is fake.Given her influence and millions of fans, Swift has often become a trending political topic during election years.In 2020, she&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/taylorswift13/status/1313938080290803715?s=20">supported President Joe Biden</a>, writing a month before the election that she was going to be cheering for then-vice presidential nominee Harris, this year’s Democratic nominee, in her debate against then-Vice President Mike Pence. She also was openly critical of Trump ahead of the 2020 election, saying he had stoked “the fires of white supremacy and racism.”While she has remained on the sidelines so far this year, she has not escaped notice from prominent conservatives who worry about a Swift endorsement of the Democratic presidential ticket.Fox News’ Jeanine Pirro earlier this year&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/Intellect_Vids/status/1752110738745720856">warned</a>&nbsp;Swift not to “get involved in politics.” Fox News’ Sean Hannity&nbsp;<a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/media/4439327-hannity-taylor-swift-biden-endorsement/">urged</a>&nbsp;her to “think twice” about backing Biden when he was running for reelection. And Vivek Ramaswamy, a former GOP presidential candidate and vocal Trump supporter,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/VivekGRamaswamy/status/1751944730114498838">called</a>&nbsp;Swift and her NFL star boyfriend Travis Kelce “an artificially culturally propped-up couple” who may make “a major presidential endorsement” this fall.Some of her supporters have responded to Trump’s posts by taking to social media and declaring their intentions to vote for the former president. Trump’s campaign is seizing on that support.Steven Cheung, Trump’s spokesman, did not address the use of fake images in response to questions, but called “Swifties for Trump" a "massive movement that grows bigger every single day.”

Trump’s fake Taylor Swift endorsement is latest embrace of AI-generated images

DOUGLAS COUNTY— One firefighter was injured and residents evacuated following a fire in Lawrence on Monday.&nbsp;

Lawrence Police released a behind the scenes look at the community effort that went into safely evacuating every resident of the Brandon Woods senior liviing community during the fire.

Just after noon Monday, crews&nbsp;responded to a fire at Brandon Woods senior living residence, 1501 Inverness Drive in Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical.

Multiple reports of heavy smoke and fire with flames were reported by residents and bystanders.

First responders arrived to find occupants being evacuated by facility staff and Lawrence Kansas Police Department.&nbsp;There was a large amount of dense smoke coming from the structure.

Fire was found in the attic and crews performed venting efforts upon arrival. Additional resources such as department chief officers, the mobile integrated health (MIH) team, and the logistics technician responded to the incident to assist with moving residents to designated safety spaces.

The fire was declared under control at 2:20 p.m. LDCFM crews will continue to perform fire watch on the building overnight.

LDCFM coordinated with the Lawrence Transit Department and LKPD to transport approximately 85 residents to Bella Sera Condominiums. The residents were connected to resources with the Red Cross and Douglas County Emergency Management to identify alternative housing options.

One LKPD officer was transported for smoke inhalation. No other injuries have been reported.

Resources through mutual aid were provided from Douglas County Consolidated Fire District No. 1, Olathe Fire Department, Overland Park Fire Department, and Johnson County MED-ACT. These resources assisted with additional coverage for the City of Lawrence and Douglas County during this incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724105670101.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>DOUGLAS COUNTY— One firefighter was injured and residents evacuated following a fire in Lawrence on Monday.&nbsp;Lawrence Police released a behind the scenes look at the community effort that went into safely evacuating every resident of the Brandon Woods senior liviing community during the fire.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLawrenceKansasPolice%2Fvideos%2F1676278606560133%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=1" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Just after noon Monday, crews&nbsp;responded to a fire at Brandon Woods senior living residence, 1501 Inverness Drive in Lawrence, according to a media release from Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical.Multiple reports of heavy smoke and fire with flames were reported by residents and bystanders.First responders arrived to find occupants being evacuated by facility staff and Lawrence Kansas Police Department.&nbsp;There was a large amount of dense smoke coming from the structure.Fire was found in the attic and crews performed venting efforts upon arrival. Additional resources such as department chief officers, the mobile integrated health (MIH) team, and the logistics technician responded to the incident to assist with moving residents to designated safety spaces.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724105638159.png" alt="Photo Lawrence Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Lawrence Police</figcaption>
 </figure>The fire was declared under control at 2:20 p.m. LDCFM crews will continue to perform fire watch on the building overnight.LDCFM coordinated with the Lawrence Transit Department and LKPD to transport approximately 85 residents to Bella Sera Condominiums. The residents were connected to resources with the Red Cross and Douglas County Emergency Management to identify alternative housing options.One LKPD officer was transported for smoke inhalation. No other injuries have been reported.Resources through mutual aid were provided from Douglas County Consolidated Fire District No. 1, Olathe Fire Department, Overland Park Fire Department, and Johnson County MED-ACT. These resources assisted with additional coverage for the City of Lawrence and Douglas County during this incident.

🎥 Body camera view: Residents evacuated from Kan. senior living center fire

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for help to locate a suspect who didn't show up for a scheduled sentencing hearing for his role in a homicide that occurred in 2023.

According to Wichita Police, 64-year-old&nbsp;Kevin Harris was out on bond&nbsp; and&nbsp; cut off his ankle monitor.

In August of 2023, police arrested Harris of Lawrence after a 16-hour standoff in Lawrence for the death of&nbsp;51-year-old Jose Lumbreras of Wichita.

Just after 11 p.m. August 22, police learned Harris had fled Wichita and was believed to be inside an apartment in the 1400 block of Bristol Terrace in Lawrence, according to Police Sgt. Drew Fennelly

While working to gather more information from Wichita, officers in Lawrence set up a perimeter on the apartment building, and gathered information that led investigators to believe Harris was there.

The Lawrence Police Crisis Response Team was activated and responded to the area, as well our Crisis Response Negotiators and&nbsp; the Unoccupied Aerial Vehicle team.

Crisis Negotiators were able to establish contact with people in the apartment and verified Harris was there. The Lawrence Police tactical team then began methodically evacuating the apartment building when it was clear the suspect was not going to come out, and was allegedly armed.

After multiple hours of discussion, negotiators were able to convince Harris to allow a woman in the apartment to leave.&nbsp; Following multiple additional hours of discussion, negotiators convinced Harris to also leave the apartment and he peacefully surrendered at&nbsp;3:30 p.m., according to Fennelly.

If you know Harris or know where he is call police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723748372094.png" alt="Harris photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Harris photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are asking the public for help to locate a suspect who didn't show up for a scheduled sentencing hearing for his role in a homicide that occurred in 2023.According to Wichita Police, 64-year-old&nbsp;Kevin Harris was out on bond&nbsp; and&nbsp; cut off his ankle monitor.In August of 2023, police arrested Harris of Lawrence after a 16-hour standoff in Lawrence for the death of&nbsp;51-year-old Jose Lumbreras of Wichita.Just after 11 p.m. August 22, police learned Harris had fled Wichita and was believed to be inside an apartment in the 1400 block of Bristol Terrace in Lawrence, according to Police Sgt. Drew FennellyWhile working to gather more information from Wichita, officers in Lawrence set up a perimeter on the apartment building, and gathered information that led investigators to believe Harris was there.The Lawrence Police Crisis Response Team was activated and responded to the area, as well our Crisis Response Negotiators and&nbsp; the Unoccupied Aerial Vehicle team.Crisis Negotiators were able to establish contact with people in the apartment and verified Harris was there. The Lawrence Police tactical team then began methodically evacuating the apartment building when it was clear the suspect was not going to come out, and was allegedly armed.After multiple hours of discussion, negotiators were able to convince Harris to allow a woman in the apartment to leave.&nbsp; Following multiple additional hours of discussion, negotiators convinced Harris to also leave the apartment and he peacefully surrendered at&nbsp;3:30 p.m., according to Fennelly.If you know Harris or know where he is call police.

Kan. man who cut off ankle monitor, skipped sentencing is still missing 

JOHNSON COUNTY —In the first 18-days of August, police in the city of Shawnee, Kansas are investigating multiple reports of auto burglaries. 

Ten occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. on August 14, near 51st Street between Monticello Road and Woodland Drive.

The suspects entered both locked and unlocked vehicles, taking backpacks, wallets, debit/credit cards, cash, and a handgun.

Police released still images are from video surveillance and hope someone might recognize the suspects despite their attempts to conceal their identity.

Anyone with information can call 913-631-2150. If you see something, say something immediately by calling the same number to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724083140087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —In the first 18-days of August, police in the city of Shawnee, Kansas are investigating multiple reports of auto burglaries. Ten occurred between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. on August 14, near 51st Street between Monticello Road and Woodland Drive.The suspects entered both locked and unlocked vehicles, taking backpacks, wallets, debit/credit cards, cash, and a handgun.Police released still images are from video surveillance and hope someone might recognize the suspects despite their attempts to conceal their identity.Anyone with information can call 913-631-2150. If you see something, say something immediately by calling the same number to report suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Series of car burglaries reported in Kansas community

🎥 Highlights of 2nd night at the Democratic National Convention 

KANSAS CITY —Sheriff Deputies seized enough fentanyl during an arrest last week to kill 327,000 people.

On August 15, deputies located and arrested 21-year-old Josiah J. Langston in the 3900 block of N. Skiles Avenue, according to a media release from the Clay County Sheriff.

Deputies were looking for Langston due to a prior warrant he had for drug trafficking. When deputies approached him, he rammed a patrol car in an attempt to flee, but he was unable to. No one was hurt, and deputies took him into custody.

Inside Langston’s vehicle, investigators located 1.5 pounds of powdered fentanyl, and 0.4 pounds of methamphetamine. They also found $2,000 in cash. Just two milligrams of fentanyl can be a lethal dose, meaning the amount of fentanyl seized could have killed nearly two-thirds of the population of Kansas City, Missouri.

Langston has been charged with two counts of first-degree drug trafficking and one count of resisting arrest. This is in addition to his prior drug trafficking charge. He is now in the Clay County Detention Center on a $450,000 bond. More charges – including federal charges – are possible.

This arrest and seizure were a joint operation conducted by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office’s Drug Task Force and Special Operations Squad.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724171004783.png" alt="Langston photo Clay Co." />
 <figcaption>Langston photo Clay Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Sheriff Deputies seized enough fentanyl during an arrest last week to kill 327,000 people.On August 15, deputies located and arrested 21-year-old Josiah J. Langston in the 3900 block of N. Skiles Avenue, according to a media release from the Clay County Sheriff.Deputies were looking for Langston due to a prior warrant he had for drug trafficking. When deputies approached him, he rammed a patrol car in an attempt to flee, but he was unable to. No one was hurt, and deputies took him into custody.Inside Langston’s vehicle, investigators located 1.5 pounds of powdered fentanyl, and 0.4 pounds of methamphetamine. They also found $2,000 in cash. Just two milligrams of fentanyl can be a lethal dose, meaning the amount of fentanyl seized could have killed nearly two-thirds of the population of Kansas City, Missouri.Langston has been charged with two counts of first-degree drug trafficking and one count of resisting arrest. This is in addition to his prior drug trafficking charge. He is now in the Clay County Detention Center on a $450,000 bond. More charges – including federal charges – are possible.This arrest and seizure were a joint operation conducted by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office’s Drug Task Force and Special Operations Squad.

Deputies seize enough fentanyl to kill two-thirds of Kansas City

CHICAGO — Convention roll call votes can be staid and cheesy, but Democrats turned theirs into the ultimate dance party on Tuesday.

DJ Cassidy stood onstage in what appeared to be a double-breasted satin suit of royal blue, spinning a special song for each state and territory awarding their delegates to Vice President Kamala Harris at the&nbsp;Democratic National Convention.

With the music of&nbsp;Carry on my Wayward Son&nbsp;by the rock band Kansas blasting through the United Center, Jeannna Repass, Chairperson of the Kansas Democratic Party shouted, "from the center of America, the sunflower state where our farmers feed America, where we elect strong women who govern from the middle." "As the first black chair of Kansas, I am proud to cast our 39 votes for the first black woman president Kamala Harris."

Kansas District 19 Representative Stephanie Clayton of Overland Park shared the moment on social media.

&nbsp;Repass, state Democrat Vice Chair Shaun Junkins and the members of the delegation cheered and danced.

Under Democratic Party rules, only Harris garnered enough signatures to be entered into nomination. Votes for any other person or uncommitted votes were tallied as “present” during the virtual roll call earlier this month. Tuesday night’s “celebratory” vote is following that earlier roll call’s vote total.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724201126887.png" alt="Jeannna Repass, Chairperson of the Kansas Democratic Party and Vice Chair Shaun Junkins , far right, cheer as the votes are announced for Harris-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Jeannna Repass, Chairperson of the Kansas Democratic Party and Vice Chair Shaun Junkins , far right, cheer as the votes are announced for Harris-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>CHICAGO — Convention roll call votes can be staid and cheesy, but Democrats turned theirs into the ultimate dance party on Tuesday.DJ Cassidy stood onstage in what appeared to be a double-breasted satin suit of royal blue, spinning a special song for each state and territory awarding their delegates to Vice President Kamala Harris at the&nbsp;Democratic National Convention.With the music of&nbsp;Carry on my Wayward Son&nbsp;by the rock band Kansas blasting through the United Center, Jeannna Repass, Chairperson of the Kansas Democratic Party shouted, "from the center of America, the sunflower state where our farmers feed America, where we elect strong women who govern from the middle." "As the first black chair of Kansas, I am proud to cast our 39 votes for the first black woman president Kamala Harris."Kansas District 19 Representative Stephanie Clayton of Overland Park shared the moment on social media.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">So proud to be from Kansas, where we elect strong women who govern from the Middle! 💙💙💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/JeannaRepass?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JeannaRepass</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GovLauraKelly?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovLauraKelly</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DNC2024CHICAGO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DNC2024CHICAGO</a> <a href="https://t.co/VeaWOe1Teh">pic.twitter.com/VeaWOe1Teh</a>&mdash; Stephanie Clayton (@SSCJoCoKs) <a href="https://twitter.com/SSCJoCoKs/status/1826051336745660514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>&nbsp;Repass, state Democrat Vice Chair Shaun Junkins and the members of the delegation cheered and danced.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724201148043.png" alt="Image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Under Democratic Party rules, only Harris garnered enough signatures to be entered into nomination. Votes for any other person or uncommitted votes were tallied as “present” during the virtual roll call earlier this month. Tuesday night’s “celebratory” vote is following that earlier roll call’s vote total.

Kansas gives all 39 votes for Harris at Democratic National Convention

Just after 11a.m. Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper was responding to a two-vehicle fatality collision involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) that occurred on K-23 between Hoxie and Interstate 70 in Sheridan County, according to a media release from the KHP.

The Trooper was westbound on 100 South Road with emergency lights and siren activated as he approached the intersection at 40 East Road.&nbsp; 

The Trooper entered the intersection and struck the driver’s side of a southbound SUV.&nbsp; As a result of the collision, the male driver was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; A female passenger in the front passenger seat and a 1-year-old passenger were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A 3-year-old passenger was air lifted from the collision scene.&nbsp; The Trooper was treated and released from the scene.

SHERIDAN COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a fatal crash involving a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper.Just after 11a.m. Monday, a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper was responding to a two-vehicle fatality collision involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) that occurred on K-23 between Hoxie and Interstate 70 in Sheridan County, according to a media release from the KHP.The Trooper was westbound on 100 South Road with emergency lights and siren activated as he approached the intersection at 40 East Road.&nbsp; The Trooper entered the intersection and struck the driver’s side of a southbound SUV.&nbsp; As a result of the collision, the male driver was pronounced deceased.&nbsp; A female passenger in the front passenger seat and a 1-year-old passenger were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A 3-year-old passenger was air lifted from the collision scene.&nbsp; The Trooper was treated and released from the scene.The Kansas Highway Patrol Critical Highway Accident Response Team was called to the scene, and this crash remains under investigation at this time.

KHP involved in fatal crash with SUV in rural Kansas 

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (AP) — Prosecutors have dropped charges against a man who was accused of fatally shooting a pregnant woman after she went to a suburban Kansas City mall to shop for baby clothes.

Michael Mansur, a spokesperson for the Jackson County prosecutor’s office, said Monday that not enough evidence had been obtained to prove the charges filed against 21-year-old MarkAnthony Greer beyond a reasonable doubt.

Authorities believe there were multiple people who fired shots after two groups got into an argument&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-mall-shooting-woman-died-acc584001f4a1d003911ef00a233968c">at Independence Center</a>&nbsp;on Nov. 10. Four people were shot, including 19-year-old Karla Brown, who was four months pregnant when she was killed.

Hampering the investigation was the fact that police were not able to find any of the guns that were used, forcing investigators to rely on gun casings and blood spatter, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article287956705.html">Kansas City Star reported</a>.

Greer initially was charged with three counts of unlawful use of a weapon and three counts of armed criminal action in the shooting. One of the charges later was upgraded to second-degree murder.

But Mansur&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article291202975.html">told</a>&nbsp;The Kansas City Star that the county’s investigation will continue, and a different set of charges could still follow.

Courts records said Green and Brown entered the mall with different groups of people. Brown dropped back and sat in a chair before a disagreement between the groups turned violent. Brown was shot in the head and died about a week later.

At the time of the shooting, Greer told investigators he had been present at the mall but was not armed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1700172176646.png" alt="Karla Brown photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Karla Brown photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>INDEPENDENCE, Mo. (AP) — Prosecutors have dropped charges against a man who was accused of fatally shooting a pregnant woman after she went to a suburban Kansas City mall to shop for baby clothes.Michael Mansur, a spokesperson for the Jackson County prosecutor’s office, said Monday that not enough evidence had been obtained to prove the charges filed against 21-year-old MarkAnthony Greer beyond a reasonable doubt.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699966010607.png" alt="Greer as shown is his November Jackson Co. booking photo" />
 <figcaption>Greer as shown is his November Jackson Co. booking photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities believe there were multiple people who fired shots after two groups got into an argument&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/missouri-mall-shooting-woman-died-acc584001f4a1d003911ef00a233968c">at Independence Center</a>&nbsp;on Nov. 10. Four people were shot, including 19-year-old Karla Brown, who was four months pregnant when she was killed.Hampering the investigation was the fact that police were not able to find any of the guns that were used, forcing investigators to rely on gun casings and blood spatter, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article287956705.html">Kansas City Star reported</a>.Greer initially was charged with three counts of unlawful use of a weapon and three counts of armed criminal action in the shooting. One of the charges later was upgraded to second-degree murder.But Mansur&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article291202975.html">told</a>&nbsp;The Kansas City Star that the county’s investigation will continue, and a different set of charges could still follow.Courts records said Green and Brown entered the mall with different groups of people. Brown dropped back and sat in a chair before a disagreement between the groups turned violent. Brown was shot in the head and died about a week later.At the time of the shooting, Greer told investigators he had been present at the mall but was not armed.

Charges dropped: Man accused of fatally shooting woman at KC area mall

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a connection between a fatal traffic crash and domestic incident in Wichita.

At 6:39 p.m. Monday, police responded to a domestic disturbance involving gunshots at 6200 E. Harry in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Department spokesman Andrew Ford. One minute later, at 6:40 p.m., officers were also dispatched to a traffic crash in the 700 block of S. Woodland, where vehicle driven by&nbsp; 36-year-old Joshua Books of Wichita was northbound on Woodlawn and struck a tree.

 An off-duty firefighter who witnessed the accident immediately provided life-saving measures until police and EMS arrived. Sedgwick EMS continued the life-saving efforts; however, Brooks was pronounced deceased at the scene at 7:27 p.m., according to Ford.

Preliminary information from witnesses suggests that Brooks was the individual who fled the scene of the disturbance on E. Harry involving gunshots, according to Ford. 

A firearm was recovered from the vehicle involved in the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and an official cause of death will be determined pending the autopsy from the Medical Examiner's Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724163152232.png" alt="First responders at the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the crash scene -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a connection between a fatal traffic crash and domestic incident in Wichita.At 6:39 p.m. Monday, police responded to a domestic disturbance involving gunshots at 6200 E. Harry in Wichita, according to Wichita Police Department spokesman Andrew Ford. One minute later, at 6:40 p.m., officers were also dispatched to a traffic crash in the 700 block of S. Woodland, where vehicle driven by&nbsp; 36-year-old Joshua Books of Wichita was northbound on Woodlawn and struck a tree. An off-duty firefighter who witnessed the accident immediately provided life-saving measures until police and EMS arrived. Sedgwick EMS continued the life-saving efforts; however, Brooks was pronounced deceased at the scene at 7:27 p.m., according to Ford.Preliminary information from witnesses suggests that Brooks was the individual who fled the scene of the disturbance on E. Harry involving gunshots, according to Ford. A firearm was recovered from the vehicle involved in the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and an official cause of death will be determined pending the autopsy from the Medical Examiner's Office.

Police: Kan. man who died in crash fled after shots fired in domestic incident

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A campaign to bring a casino to the Missouri tourist destination of the Lake of the Ozarks on Tuesday sued to get the proposal on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ballot-measures-sports-betting-minimum-wage-0c0a28e5176a647b47aaca5a5d287628">November's ballot.</a>

The secretary of state’s office last week said the campaign did not collect enough voter signatures for the constitutional amendment to go before voters.

But the Osage River and Gaming Convention said it collected plenty of signatures.

“Verifying every signature on multiple initiative petitions this summer has been a very long process for election officials and we realize mistakes happen," the group said in a statement. "However, ORGC has always been confident their initiative petition contained a sufficient number of valid signatures from legal voters to qualify for placement on the November 5, 2024, general election ballot and are now asking the Court to do so.”

The state constitution allows casinos only on the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. The petition seeks authorization for one casino on the Osage River, which feeds into the Lake of the Ozarks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569530951374.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A campaign to bring a casino to the Missouri tourist destination of the Lake of the Ozarks on Tuesday sued to get the proposal on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/abortion-ballot-measures-sports-betting-minimum-wage-0c0a28e5176a647b47aaca5a5d287628">November's ballot.</a>The secretary of state’s office last week said the campaign did not collect enough voter signatures for the constitutional amendment to go before voters.But the Osage River and Gaming Convention said it collected plenty of signatures.“Verifying every signature on multiple initiative petitions this summer has been a very long process for election officials and we realize mistakes happen," the group said in a statement. "However, ORGC has always been confident their initiative petition contained a sufficient number of valid signatures from legal voters to qualify for placement on the November 5, 2024, general election ballot and are now asking the Court to do so.”The state constitution allows casinos only on the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. The petition seeks authorization for one casino on the Osage River, which feeds into the Lake of the Ozarks.

Campaign to bring casino to Lake of the Ozarks sues to get measure on ballot

By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

GARDEN CITY — Community colleges across Kansas are reporting an increase in students living on campus as classes resume for the fall semester.

According to the Kansas Association of Community Colleges, institutions in the southwest quadrant of the state reached 100% capacity for on-campus housing a few weeks before the scheduled start of classes.

At Garden City Community College, director of residential life Chip Schuler said housing on campus is full as of Monday with about 440 students, an increase from last year’s figure of 380 students. Schuler said he believes the increase is tied to new offerings at the college, such as the John Deere agricultural technology program and a new STEM Success Center with robotics and chemistry labs.

On the eastern side of the state, officials from both Butler Community College in El Dorado and Allen County Community College in Allen report on-campus housing are full. Labette Community College president Mark Watkins said in a statement that campus dorms for LCC are 93% full as of Aug. 7 and expected to rise. Independence Community College and Kansas City, Kansas, Community College also are at capacity for on-campus living, according to KACC.

KACC representatives also said overall student enrollment was up across Kansas community colleges, although the official headcounts for state institutions have not been finalized. Student headcount data for the fall semester is tallied and presented in late September.

DJ Messerly and Mike Shipman,&nbsp;friends from Chapman in Dickinson County, said they chose Garden City Community College for its affordability and range of programs. Shipman is enrolled in the automotive technology program, while Messerly is studying sports science. Both are living on campus in dormitory halls.

“A lot of the kids we’ve met are all from like, this area (southwest Kansas),” Shipman said. “Besides international students, we’re probably the farthest kids from Kansas to come here.”

Messerly said on-campus living is good for long-distance students who may not have friends at the college they’re attending. He recommends taking part in campus activities as a social ice breaker.

“Just go out and talk to people,” Messerly said. “Especially in the dorms, everyone’s out from like 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. I’m really introverted usually, but that makes it easier (to make friends).”

New students at GCCC took part in orientation activities Sunday amid 105-degree heat. Recent high school graduates and transfer students toured the campus to get acquainted with their classrooms and meet their instructors. Schuler said the first week of the semester involves “a lot of paperwork” for him to complete as students get comfortable with their room assignments and course schedules.

“We’re just trying to get everybody in and settled,” Schuler said. “It’s a great situation to be in.”

Briana Hernandez and Johana Lira are studying nursing at GCCC. Because they are Garden City residents, they are not required to live on campus. They said affordability and convenience are the two biggest reasons why they chose to attend their local community college over a four-year university.

“There’s lots of opportunities here to try new stuff and be open-minded,” Lira said.

Both Lira and Hernandez said it feels strange transitioning from high school life to the hustle and bustle of college.

“It’s very much, like: ‘Figure it out on your own,’ ” Lira said.

“It’s more about yourself, no more parents being behind you,” Hernandez said. “This is where your adult life starts.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724171440171.png" alt="New students at Garden City Community College pet Aspen the comfort dog during fall semester orientation Aug. 18, 2024. Community colleges across Kansas are reporting increased numbers of students living on campus. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>New students at Garden City Community College pet Aspen the comfort dog during fall semester orientation Aug. 18, 2024. Community colleges across Kansas are reporting increased numbers of students living on campus. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/aj-dome/">AJ DOME</a>&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>GARDEN CITY — Community colleges across Kansas are reporting an increase in students living on campus as classes resume for the fall semester.According to the Kansas Association of Community Colleges, institutions in the southwest quadrant of the state reached 100% capacity for on-campus housing a few weeks before the scheduled start of classes.At Garden City Community College, director of residential life Chip Schuler said housing on campus is full as of Monday with about 440 students, an increase from last year’s figure of 380 students. Schuler said he believes the increase is tied to new offerings at the college, such as the John Deere agricultural technology program and a new STEM Success Center with robotics and chemistry labs.On the eastern side of the state, officials from both Butler Community College in El Dorado and Allen County Community College in Allen report on-campus housing are full. Labette Community College president Mark Watkins said in a statement that campus dorms for LCC are 93% full as of Aug. 7 and expected to rise. Independence Community College and Kansas City, Kansas, Community College also are at capacity for on-campus living, according to KACC.KACC representatives also said overall student enrollment was up across Kansas community colleges, although the official headcounts for state institutions have not been finalized. Student headcount data for the fall semester is tallied and presented in late September.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724171604993.png" alt="DJ Messerly, left, and Mike Shipman, both natives of Chapman, review their courses at Garden City Community College during orientation Aug. 18, 2024. Messerly and Shipman chose the southwest Kansas community college for its affordability and range of programs. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>DJ Messerly, left, and Mike Shipman, both natives of Chapman, review their courses at Garden City Community College during orientation Aug. 18, 2024. Messerly and Shipman chose the southwest Kansas community college for its affordability and range of programs. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>DJ Messerly and Mike Shipman,&nbsp;friends from Chapman in Dickinson County, said they chose Garden City Community College for its affordability and range of programs. Shipman is enrolled in the automotive technology program, while Messerly is studying sports science. Both are living on campus in dormitory halls.“A lot of the kids we’ve met are all from like, this area (southwest Kansas),” Shipman said. “Besides international students, we’re probably the farthest kids from Kansas to come here.”Messerly said on-campus living is good for long-distance students who may not have friends at the college they’re attending. He recommends taking part in campus activities as a social ice breaker.“Just go out and talk to people,” Messerly said. “Especially in the dorms, everyone’s out from like 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. I’m really introverted usually, but that makes it easier (to make friends).”New students at GCCC took part in orientation activities Sunday amid 105-degree heat. Recent high school graduates and transfer students toured the campus to get acquainted with their classrooms and meet their instructors. Schuler said the first week of the semester involves “a lot of paperwork” for him to complete as students get comfortable with their room assignments and course schedules.“We’re just trying to get everybody in and settled,” Schuler said. “It’s a great situation to be in.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724171645742.jpeg" alt="Students traverse Garden City Community College during a fall semester orientation event Aug. 18, 2024. This week marks the start of fall classes at most state colleges and universities. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Students traverse Garden City Community College during a fall semester orientation event Aug. 18, 2024. This week marks the start of fall classes at most state colleges and universities. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Briana Hernandez and Johana Lira are studying nursing at GCCC. Because they are Garden City residents, they are not required to live on campus. They said affordability and convenience are the two biggest reasons why they chose to attend their local community college over a four-year university.“There’s lots of opportunities here to try new stuff and be open-minded,” Lira said.Both Lira and Hernandez said it feels strange transitioning from high school life to the hustle and bustle of college.“It’s very much, like: ‘Figure it out on your own,’ ” Lira said.“It’s more about yourself, no more parents being behind you,” Hernandez said. “This is where your adult life starts.”

Kansas community colleges report increase in students living on campus as fall semester begins

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects on drug allegations.

On&nbsp;&nbsp;August 15, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 500 Block NE Grattan Street. related to an ongoing investigation, according to a media release.

While conducting the search warrant, officers located fentanyl, heroin methamphetamine, marijuana, THC gummies and drug paraphernalia.

As a result, Patricia Miller, 43; Phillip Minton, 41; Jason Hokanson, 37&nbsp;and Ashley Johnson, 33, all of Topeka were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.

Patricia Miller was booked on requested charges of Possession of an opiate (3 counts)&nbsp;Possession of marijuana and&nbsp;Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Phillip Minton is being held on requested charges of Possession of an opiate and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Jason Hokanson is jailed on requested charges of Possession of an opiate (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Arrest Warrant. Ashley Johnson was jailed on a requested charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723924871431.png" alt="Johnson photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Johnson photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating four suspects on drug allegations.On&nbsp;&nbsp;August 15, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit served a search warrant in the 500 Block NE Grattan Street. related to an ongoing investigation, according to a media release.While conducting the search warrant, officers located fentanyl, heroin methamphetamine, marijuana, THC gummies and drug paraphernalia.As a result, Patricia Miller, 43; Phillip Minton, 41; Jason Hokanson, 37&nbsp;and Ashley Johnson, 33, all of Topeka were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723924843250.png" alt="Miller photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Miller photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia Miller was booked on requested charges of Possession of an opiate (3 counts)&nbsp;Possession of marijuana and&nbsp;Possession of Drug Paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723925000365.png" alt="Minton photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Minton photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Phillip Minton is being held on requested charges of Possession of an opiate and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723925035668.png" alt="Hokanson" />
 <figcaption>Hokanson</figcaption>
 </figure>Jason Hokanson is jailed on requested charges of Possession of an opiate (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Arrest Warrant. Ashley Johnson was jailed on a requested charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Kansas drug bust: Fentanyl, heroin and THC gummies 

WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced Monday to 293 months in prison for using his former position as chief executive officer (CEO) of a bank to embezzle tens of millions of dollars in a cryptocurrency scheme which led the bank to fail at a complete loss of equity for investors, according to the United State's Attorney.

&nbsp;Shan Hanes, 53, of Elkhart pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement by a bank officer, according to court documents.

While the CEO of Heartland Tri-State Bank (HTSB) in Elkhart, Kansas, Hanes initiated 11 outgoing wire transfers between May 2023 and July 2023 totaling $47.1 million of Heartland’s funds to a cryptocurrency wallet in a cryptocurrency scheme referred to as “pig butchering.” The funds were transferred to multiple cryptocurrency accounts controlled by unidentified third parties during the time HTSB was insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The FDIC absorbed the $47.1 million loss. Hanes’ fraudulent actions caused HTSB to fail and the bank investors to lose $9 million.

A federal judge ordered that restitution be finalized at a separate hearing within the next 90 days. “Hanes’ greed knew no bounds. He trespassed his professional obligations, his personal relationships, and federal law. Not only did Shan Hanes betray Heartland Bank and its investors, but his illegal schemes also jeopardized confidence in financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Kate E. Brubacher. “Today’s sentence is a measure of justice for the victims, and a statement that the U.S. Department of Justice will hold those accountable who violate positions of trust for their own gain.”

“Mr. Hanes, as the CEO of Heartland Tri-State Bank, held the trust and confidence of the community of Elkhart, KS, but he violated that trust. He attempted to benefit financially by embezzling funds from the bank. His idea to get rich quick, in all reality, was a pig butchering scheme. His involvement in this scheme ultimately led to the bank’s collapse. His job, the bank’s job was to protect its customers and identify fraudulent scams – not to participate in them,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus of the FBI Kansas City Field Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/5/1716594323085.png" alt="Shan Hanes&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Shan Hanes&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced Monday to 293 months in prison for using his former position as chief executive officer (CEO) of a bank to embezzle tens of millions of dollars in a cryptocurrency scheme which led the bank to fail at a complete loss of equity for investors, according to the United State's Attorney.&nbsp;Shan Hanes, 53, of Elkhart pleaded guilty to one count of embezzlement by a bank officer, according to court documents.While the CEO of Heartland Tri-State Bank (HTSB) in Elkhart, Kansas, Hanes initiated 11 outgoing wire transfers between May 2023 and July 2023 totaling $47.1 million of Heartland’s funds to a cryptocurrency wallet in a cryptocurrency scheme referred to as “pig butchering.” The funds were transferred to multiple cryptocurrency accounts controlled by unidentified third parties during the time HTSB was insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). The FDIC absorbed the $47.1 million loss. Hanes’ fraudulent actions caused HTSB to fail and the bank investors to lose $9 million.A federal judge ordered that restitution be finalized at a separate hearing within the next 90 days. “Hanes’ greed knew no bounds. He trespassed his professional obligations, his personal relationships, and federal law. Not only did Shan Hanes betray Heartland Bank and its investors, but his illegal schemes also jeopardized confidence in financial institutions,” said U.S. Attorney Kate E. Brubacher. “Today’s sentence is a measure of justice for the victims, and a statement that the U.S. Department of Justice will hold those accountable who violate positions of trust for their own gain.”“Mr. Hanes, as the CEO of Heartland Tri-State Bank, held the trust and confidence of the community of Elkhart, KS, but he violated that trust. He attempted to benefit financially by embezzling funds from the bank. His idea to get rich quick, in all reality, was a pig butchering scheme. His involvement in this scheme ultimately led to the bank’s collapse. His job, the bank’s job was to protect its customers and identify fraudulent scams – not to participate in them,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephen Cyrus of the FBI Kansas City Field Office.“As the CEO, the defendant had a duty to conduct business honestly but instead abused that trust and committed insider fraud, contributing to the failure of a bank and causing catastrophic losses to bank customers who relied on the bank for the safekeeping of their savings,” said Korey Brinkman, Special-Agent-in-Charge of FHFA-OIG’s Central Region. “We will continue to vigorously investigate criminal offenses involving frauds that impact the integrity, safety, and soundness of Federal Home Loan Banks and member banks. We are proud to partner with our colleagues and the United States Attorney’s Office with this investigation.” “Shan Hanes was sentenced today for his role in a $47.1 million embezzlement scheme that ultimately caused Heartland Tri-State Bank to fail,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin R. Bundy of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG) Kansas City Region. “We are pleased to join our law enforcement partners in bringing Mr. Hanes to justice, and we will continue to investigate and hold accountable bank insiders who violate their positions of trust and threaten to undermine the safety and soundness of our Nation’s financial institutions.”“Today’s sentencing makes clear that bank executives who undermine the safety and soundness of community banks will be brought to justice,” said Jon Ellwanger, Special Agent in Charge, WesternRegion, Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “We are proud to have worked with our federal law enforcement partners to achieve this result, and we thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting this case and holding Mr. Hanes accountable for his crimes.”The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), Federal Reserve Board - Office of Inspector General (FRB-OIG), and Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General ((FHFA-OIG) investigated the case