Submitted by 1st Infantry Division

FORT RILEY – The Department of the Army announced the deployment of the 1st Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade to Europe in support of European Allies and partners.&nbsp;

The 1ID CAB will deploy to Europe to replace the 3rd Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade, as part of a regular rotation of forces to support the United States’ commitment to NATO Allies and partners.

The Combat Aviation Brigades’ most recent deployment was in early 2021, throughout areas of Eastern Europe, in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.

“The 1st Combat Aviation Brigade has some of the Army's best Soldiers and Aviators. We have trained diligently over the past year in preparation for our deployment,” said Col. Chad Corrigan, the 1ID CAB commander. “The Demon Brigade is more than ready to deploy to support this mission and continue to strengthen our established relationships with our European Allies and partners.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692382188975.png" alt="Image Courtesy 1st Infantry Division" />
 <figcaption>Image Courtesy 1st Infantry Division</figcaption>
 </figure>Submitted by 1st Infantry DivisionFORT RILEY – The Department of the Army announced the deployment of the 1st Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade to Europe in support of European Allies and partners.&nbsp;The 1ID CAB will deploy to Europe to replace the 3rd Infantry Division Combat Aviation Brigade, as part of a regular rotation of forces to support the United States’ commitment to NATO Allies and partners.The Combat Aviation Brigades’ most recent deployment was in early 2021, throughout areas of Eastern Europe, in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve.“The 1st Combat Aviation Brigade has some of the Army's best Soldiers and Aviators. We have trained diligently over the past year in preparation for our deployment,” said Col. Chad Corrigan, the 1ID CAB commander. “The Demon Brigade is more than ready to deploy to support this mission and continue to strengthen our established relationships with our European Allies and partners.”

Combat Aviation Brigade from Kan. deploys in support of NATO allies

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fire and have made an arrest.

Just after 11:30 a.m. August 15, crews responded to a fire alarm at an apartment at 1312 SW Polk Street in Topeka, according to fire department spokesperson Rosie Nichols. 

&nbsp;Fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the apartment and kept the blaze confined to the building where the fire started.&nbsp;&nbsp;No injuries were reported.

Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set. As a result of the investigation, on Wednesday, police arrested 62-year-old Rose A. Wilson, 62, of Topeka, on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated Arson.

The estimated loss was $500, all of which is associated with content loss. Investigators did find working smoke detectors in the apartment, according to Nichols.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692305589950.png" alt="Wilson photo Shawnee County" />
 <figcaption>Wilson photo Shawnee County</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fire and have made an arrest.Just after 11:30 a.m. August 15, crews responded to a fire alarm at an apartment at 1312 SW Polk Street in Topeka, according to fire department spokesperson Rosie Nichols. &nbsp;Fire crews found smoke and flames coming from the apartment and kept the blaze confined to the building where the fire started.&nbsp;&nbsp;No injuries were reported.Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set. As a result of the investigation, on Wednesday, police arrested 62-year-old Rose A. Wilson, 62, of Topeka, on requested charges of&nbsp;Aggravated Arson.The estimated loss was $500, all of which is associated with content loss. Investigators did find working smoke detectors in the apartment, according to Nichols.&nbsp;

Kansas woman accused of setting apartment fire

WASHINGTON (AP) — A Florida man who used a flagpole to attack officers who were trying to defend the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, was sentenced Thursday to four years in prison.

Michael Steven Perkins, 40, of Plant City, was sentenced in District of Columbia federal court, according to court records. His co-defendant, Joshua Christopher Doolin, 25, of Lakeland, received one year and six months on Wednesday.

Both were convicted earlier this year of felony civil disorder, entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds and disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds.

Doolin was also convicted of theft of government property. Perkins was separately convicted of assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and engaging in acts of physical violence while on the restricted Capitol grounds.

Doolin and Perkins were arrested on June 30, 2021, along with co-defendants Joseph Hutchinson and Olivia Pollock, officials said. A federal judge issued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jan-6-capitol-riot-defendants-fugitives-c5e18267f95c2a5873f6d4fd80ee283f">bench warrants for Hutchinson and Pollock in March</a>&nbsp;after the FBI reported that they had tampered with or removed their ankle monitors and disappeared.

A fifth co-defendant, Jonathan Pollock, has not yet been apprehended, and the FBI is offering a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/tampa/news/press-releases/fbi-increases-reward-offered-for-central-florida-man-wanted-on-charges-from-the-us-capitol-breach">reward of up to $30,000</a>&nbsp;in exchange for information leading to his arrest and conviction.

According to court documents, Doolin and Perkins joined with others in objecting to Democrat Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory over then-President Donald Trump. A mob attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in an attempt to stop Congress from certifying election results for Biden over the Republican Trump, authorities said. Five people died in the violence.

According to evidence and testimony presented at trial, Doolin and Perkins were on the west side of the Capitol on Jan. 6. Hutchinson, pushed from behind by Perkins, charged a line of police officers in an effort to break through the line, prosecutors said.

As officers descended into the crowd to help another officer, Perkins picked up a flagpole and thrust it into the chest of an approaching officer, authorities said. Perkins then raised the flagpole over his head and swung it down, striking two officers in the back of their heads, officials said.

Doolin and Perkins then advanced closer to the Capitol building, where Doolin acquired a Metropolitan Police Department crowd-control spray cannister and a U.S. Capitol Police riot shield, prosecutors said. Doolin eventually re-located to a Capitol building entrance passageway, where he used the stolen riot shield to join the crowd of rioters pushing against the police officers inside the passageway in an effort to break through and enter the Capitol, officials said.

Doolin's attorney said in an email that Doolin plans to appeal his convictions. An attorney for Perkins didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment from The Associated Press.

Since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 people have been arrested for crimes related to the breach of the Capitol, officials said. More than 350 people have been charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692361109183.png" alt="Perkins-photo Dept. of Justice" />
 <figcaption>Perkins-photo Dept. of Justice</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A Florida man who used a flagpole to attack officers who were trying to defend the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, was sentenced Thursday to four years in prison.Michael Steven Perkins, 40, of Plant City, was sentenced in District of Columbia federal court, according to court records. His co-defendant, Joshua Christopher Doolin, 25, of Lakeland, received one year and six months on Wednesday.Both were convicted earlier this year of felony civil disorder, entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds and disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds.Doolin was also convicted of theft of government property. Perkins was separately convicted of assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and engaging in acts of physical violence while on the restricted Capitol grounds.Doolin and Perkins were arrested on June 30, 2021, along with co-defendants Joseph Hutchinson and Olivia Pollock, officials said. A federal judge issued&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jan-6-capitol-riot-defendants-fugitives-c5e18267f95c2a5873f6d4fd80ee283f">bench warrants for Hutchinson and Pollock in March</a>&nbsp;after the FBI reported that they had tampered with or removed their ankle monitors and disappeared.A fifth co-defendant, Jonathan Pollock, has not yet been apprehended, and the FBI is offering a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/tampa/news/press-releases/fbi-increases-reward-offered-for-central-florida-man-wanted-on-charges-from-the-us-capitol-breach">reward of up to $30,000</a>&nbsp;in exchange for information leading to his arrest and conviction.According to court documents, Doolin and Perkins joined with others in objecting to Democrat Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory over then-President Donald Trump. A mob attacked the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in an attempt to stop Congress from certifying election results for Biden over the Republican Trump, authorities said. Five people died in the violence.According to evidence and testimony presented at trial, Doolin and Perkins were on the west side of the Capitol on Jan. 6. Hutchinson, pushed from behind by Perkins, charged a line of police officers in an effort to break through the line, prosecutors said.As officers descended into the crowd to help another officer, Perkins picked up a flagpole and thrust it into the chest of an approaching officer, authorities said. Perkins then raised the flagpole over his head and swung it down, striking two officers in the back of their heads, officials said.Doolin and Perkins then advanced closer to the Capitol building, where Doolin acquired a Metropolitan Police Department crowd-control spray cannister and a U.S. Capitol Police riot shield, prosecutors said. Doolin eventually re-located to a Capitol building entrance passageway, where he used the stolen riot shield to join the crowd of rioters pushing against the police officers inside the passageway in an effort to break through and enter the Capitol, officials said.Doolin's attorney said in an email that Doolin plans to appeal his convictions. An attorney for Perkins didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment from The Associated Press.Since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 people have been arrested for crimes related to the breach of the Capitol, officials said. More than 350 people have been charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Man who attacked officers with flagpole Jan. 6 is going to prison

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that injured a man and teen.

Just after 3:30a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting call at the 9500 block of East Champions Street in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

First responders located a 42-year-old victim with a gunshot wound to his upper body and the 18-year-old victim with gunshot wounds to his torso and left forearm. 

EMS transported both victims&nbsp;to a local hospital in serious condition but with non-life-threatening injuries. The victims were reported in stable condition Thursday evening, according to Rebolledo.

The investigation revealed that the victims got into a verbal argument outside the residence and at one point during the incident, both victims produced handguns and started to shoot at each other.

The investigators are still working to fully determine what led up to the shooting.&nbsp; Police released no names or additional details.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting that injured a man and teen.Just after 3:30a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a shooting call at the 9500 block of East Champions Street in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.First responders located a 42-year-old victim with a gunshot wound to his upper body and the 18-year-old victim with gunshot wounds to his torso and left forearm. EMS transported both victims&nbsp;to a local hospital in serious condition but with non-life-threatening injuries. The victims were reported in stable condition Thursday evening, according to Rebolledo.The investigation revealed that the victims got into a verbal argument outside the residence and at one point during the incident, both victims produced handguns and started to shoot at each other.The investigators are still working to fully determine what led up to the shooting.&nbsp; Police released no names or additional details.

Police: Kan. man, teen settle argument with gunfight 

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that in order to stay ahead of&nbsp;the progression of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology, she has directed Executive Branch agencies to adopt a statewide generative AI policy, according to a media release from her office.

&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8wOC9QODIwMC4wMC1HZW5lcmF0aXZlLUFydGlmaWNpYWwtSW50ZWxsaWdlbmNlLVNpZ25lZC5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODE3LjgxMjg2MDMxIn0.hokEvcv46zzbzO_okmiCBJ5v6Br8rs1-U1zG2oosPqw/s/1303160919/br/224431701019-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to view the full policy

The policy, created and introduced by the Kansas Office of Information Technology Services (OITS), outlines how Kansas can responsibly embrace and use the technology while also protecting the State of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It is essential that we be proactive in finding the best way to use any technology that can pose risks to Kansans’ data and privacy,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;"With the adoption of this policy, Kansas serves as a model for what an enterprising, effective government can do to stay at the forefront of technological advancements." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The policy comes as state and federal elected officials across the country grapple with the challenges of generative AI, which are computer-based tools used to automate certain tasks. With this policy, Kansas is staying ahead of the curve as many states continue to consider ways to regulate the use of generative AI.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The full potential of generative AI has yet to be seen,”&nbsp;said Interim Chief Information Technology Officer and Chief Information Security Officer Jeff Maxon. “We have only scratched the surface in our understanding of what this technology can do. With the adoption of this policy, it allows agencies to safely explore how we can use generative AI to enhance our work and, ultimately, better serve Kansans.”&nbsp;

The policy serves as the primary governing document for the usage of generative AI for users or related activities by the entities. This policy applies to all business uses involving the State of Kansas, including but not limited to the development of software code, written documentation (i.e., policy, legislation, or regulations), and correspondence (such as memorandums, letters, text messages, and emails), research, the summarization and proofreading of documents, and the making of business decisions.&nbsp;

The policy outlines that responses created from generative AI outputs must be reviewed for accuracy, appropriateness, privacy, and security before being acted upon or disseminated. It also lays out that state information and/or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZWJpdC5rcy5nb3YvaXRlYy9yZXNvdXJjZXMvcG9saWNpZXMvaXRlYy04MDEwLWEta2Fuc2FzLWRhdGEtcmV2aWV3LWJvYXJkLXN0YW5kYXJkcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTcuODEyODYwMzEifQ.gKGXzIa8Ah78_HlN2A-TdBMcOR8-mgbbKZi1QVEBZx8/s/1303160919/br/224431701019-l" target="_blank">Restricted Use Information (RUI)</a>&nbsp;shall not be provided when interacting with generative AI.&nbsp;

Agencies are to ensure contractors disclose in their contracts the use of generative AI or integrations with generative AI platforms. Contractors are also prohibited from using State of Kansas RUI or other confidential data in generative AI queries or for building or training proprietary generative AI programs unless explicitly approved. Contractors utilizing generative AI to build software must demonstrate positive control over all data input into the system.&nbsp;

Software code generative by generative AI shall only be implemented after the entity has identified and mitigated all business and security risks related to its use. All usage of software code generated by generative AI shall be annotated.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689956124232.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that in order to stay ahead of&nbsp;the progression of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technology, she has directed Executive Branch agencies to adopt a statewide generative AI policy, according to a media release from her office.&nbsp;Click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZ292ZXJub3Iua2Fuc2FzLmdvdi93cC1jb250ZW50L3VwbG9hZHMvMjAyMy8wOC9QODIwMC4wMC1HZW5lcmF0aXZlLUFydGlmaWNpYWwtSW50ZWxsaWdlbmNlLVNpZ25lZC5wZGYiLCJidWxsZXRpbl9pZCI6IjIwMjMwODE3LjgxMjg2MDMxIn0.hokEvcv46zzbzO_okmiCBJ5v6Br8rs1-U1zG2oosPqw/s/1303160919/br/224431701019-l" target="_blank">here</a>&nbsp;to view the full policyThe policy, created and introduced by the Kansas Office of Information Technology Services (OITS), outlines how Kansas can responsibly embrace and use the technology while also protecting the State of Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;"It is essential that we be proactive in finding the best way to use any technology that can pose risks to Kansans’ data and privacy,”&nbsp;Governor Laura Kelly said.&nbsp;"With the adoption of this policy, Kansas serves as a model for what an enterprising, effective government can do to stay at the forefront of technological advancements." &nbsp;&nbsp;The policy comes as state and federal elected officials across the country grapple with the challenges of generative AI, which are computer-based tools used to automate certain tasks. With this policy, Kansas is staying ahead of the curve as many states continue to consider ways to regulate the use of generative AI.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The full potential of generative AI has yet to be seen,”&nbsp;said Interim Chief Information Technology Officer and Chief Information Security Officer Jeff Maxon. “We have only scratched the surface in our understanding of what this technology can do. With the adoption of this policy, it allows agencies to safely explore how we can use generative AI to enhance our work and, ultimately, better serve Kansans.”&nbsp;The policy serves as the primary governing document for the usage of generative AI for users or related activities by the entities. This policy applies to all business uses involving the State of Kansas, including but not limited to the development of software code, written documentation (i.e., policy, legislation, or regulations), and correspondence (such as memorandums, letters, text messages, and emails), research, the summarization and proofreading of documents, and the making of business decisions.&nbsp;The policy outlines that responses created from generative AI outputs must be reviewed for accuracy, appropriateness, privacy, and security before being acted upon or disseminated. It also lays out that state information and/or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vZWJpdC5rcy5nb3YvaXRlYy9yZXNvdXJjZXMvcG9saWNpZXMvaXRlYy04MDEwLWEta2Fuc2FzLWRhdGEtcmV2aWV3LWJvYXJkLXN0YW5kYXJkcyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA4MTcuODEyODYwMzEifQ.gKGXzIa8Ah78_HlN2A-TdBMcOR8-mgbbKZi1QVEBZx8/s/1303160919/br/224431701019-l" target="_blank">Restricted Use Information (RUI)</a>&nbsp;shall not be provided when interacting with generative AI.&nbsp;Agencies are to ensure contractors disclose in their contracts the use of generative AI or integrations with generative AI platforms. Contractors are also prohibited from using State of Kansas RUI or other confidential data in generative AI queries or for building or training proprietary generative AI programs unless explicitly approved. Contractors utilizing generative AI to build software must demonstrate positive control over all data input into the system.&nbsp;Software code generative by generative AI shall only be implemented after the entity has identified and mitigated all business and security risks related to its use. All usage of software code generated by generative AI shall be annotated.&nbsp;

Kansas issues statewide AI policy for government agencies

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their investigating after an&nbsp;8-year-old girl died after a school bus struck and killed her in Wichita.

Just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday, Sedgwick County Deputies responded to the 3300 block of East Locust where a Derby School District 260, 2012 Yellow Blue Bird School Bus struck&nbsp;8-year-old Harmoney Harper of Wichita, according to Robin Bush with the Sheriff's Department.&nbsp; The girl was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators believe the child ran into the street and was struck by the oncoming bus while it was driving eastbound on Locust. No charges are anticipated at this time, according to Bush.&nbsp; The family has established an <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/harmony-funeral-fund?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=sms&amp;utm_source=customer">online fundraiser</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692292678760.png" alt="Harmony Harper-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>Harmony Harper-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities continue their investigating after an&nbsp;8-year-old girl died after a school bus struck and killed her in Wichita.Just before 7:30a.m. Wednesday, Sedgwick County Deputies responded to the 3300 block of East Locust where a Derby School District 260, 2012 Yellow Blue Bird School Bus struck&nbsp;8-year-old Harmoney Harper of Wichita, according to Robin Bush with the Sheriff's Department.&nbsp; The girl was pronounced dead at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692221177825.png" alt="Sheriff's deputies at the scene of the fatal accident early Wednesday-photo courtesy KWCH TV" />
 <figcaption>Sheriff's deputies at the scene of the fatal accident early Wednesday-photo courtesy KWCH TV</figcaption>
 </figure>Investigators believe the child ran into the street and was struck by the oncoming bus while it was driving eastbound on Locust. No charges are anticipated at this time, according to Bush.&nbsp; The family has established an <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/harmony-funeral-fund?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&amp;utm_medium=sms&amp;utm_source=customer">online fundraiser</a>.

Sheriff: No charges expected in accident that killed Kan. girl

SEDGWICK COUNTY —For second time in three months, law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism at the Great Plains Transportation Museum, 700 East Douglas in Wichita.

On July 22, vandals caused thousands of dollars in damage at the museum and police need the public's help&nbsp;with information on suspects.

In May, vandals damaged museum equipment on display adjacent to the Union Station platform level in Old Town including a locomotive, passenger car, two cabooses and a converted passenger car used as a repair and fabrication shop. A museum building window was also smashed.&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department apprehended three suspects for those crimes.

If you have any information about the suspect in the recent vandalism, please call Crime Stoppers of Wichita/Sedgwick County at 316-267-2111 or download the free P3 App to submit an ANNONYMOUS tip.If your tip leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a CASH reward of up to $2500!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692316679027.png" alt="Photos Great Plains Transportation Museum" />
 <figcaption>Photos Great Plains Transportation Museum</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —For second time in three months, law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism at the Great Plains Transportation Museum, 700 East Douglas in Wichita.On July 22, vandals caused thousands of dollars in damage at the museum and police need the public's help&nbsp;with information on suspects.In May, vandals damaged museum equipment on display adjacent to the Union Station platform level in Old Town including a locomotive, passenger car, two cabooses and a converted passenger car used as a repair and fabrication shop. A museum building window was also smashed.&nbsp;The Wichita Police Department apprehended three suspects for those crimes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692316657209.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>If you have any information about the suspect in the recent vandalism, please call Crime Stoppers of Wichita/Sedgwick County at 316-267-2111 or download the free P3 App to submit an ANNONYMOUS tip.If your tip leads to an arrest, you could be eligible for a CASH reward of up to $2500!

Vandals cause damage again at Kansas museum

PAWNEE COUNTY — A corrections officer at the Larned State Correctional Facility accused of&nbsp;distribution of a controlled substance at the Facility made his first court appearance in court Thursday.

 Jessie Smith, II, 51 of Larned,&nbsp;&nbsp;is charged with Possession of 63.0 Grams of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; and Traffic in Contraband in a Correctional Facility by an Employee, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

 The charges are alleged to have occurred at the Larned State Correctional Facility on August 13, 2023. He was arrested without incident following an internal investigation by the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Smith faces between 92 months and 144 months in the custody of the Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history.

Smith was released on a supervised bond. A Preliminary Hearing has been scheduled for August 31, according to McNett

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692292868798.png" alt="Smith-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Smith-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY — A corrections officer at the Larned State Correctional Facility accused of&nbsp;distribution of a controlled substance at the Facility made his first court appearance in court Thursday. Jessie Smith, II, 51 of Larned,&nbsp;&nbsp;is charged with Possession of 63.0 Grams of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; and Traffic in Contraband in a Correctional Facility by an Employee, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett. The charges are alleged to have occurred at the Larned State Correctional Facility on August 13, 2023. He was arrested without incident following an internal investigation by the Kansas Department of Corrections.Smith faces between 92 months and 144 months in the custody of the Department of Corrections depending on his criminal history.Smith was released on a supervised bond. A Preliminary Hearing has been scheduled for August 31, according to McNett

Jail officer accused of distributing meth at Larned Correctional Facility

NEW YORK (AP) —The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate climbed this week to its highest level in more than 20 years, grim news for would-be homebuyers already challenged by a housing market that remains competitive due to a dearth of homes for sale.

Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the average rate on the benchmark 30-year home loan rose to 7.09% from 6.96% last week. A year ago, the rate averaged 5.13%.

It’s the fourth consecutive weekly increase for the average rate and the highest since early April 2002, when it averaged 7.13%. The last time the average rate was above 7% was last November, when it stood at 7.08%.

High rates can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already unaffordable to many Americans.

“With prices even higher than they were a year ago in many markets, crossing the 7% mortgage rate threshold again could be what sets in motion a major contraction in the housing market this fall,” said Lisa Sturtevant, chief economist for Bright MLS.

The latest increase in rates follows a sharp uptick in the 10-year Treasury yield, which has been above 4% this month and climbing. The yield, which lenders use to price rates on mortgages and other loans, touched its highest level since October on Thursday morning, and it’s close to where it was in 2007.

The yield has been rising as bond traders react to more reports showing the U.S. economy remains remarkably resilient, which could keep upward pressure on inflation, giving the Federal Reserve reason to keep interest rates higher for longer.

“The economy continues to do better than expected and the 10-year Treasury yield has moved up, causing mortgage rates to climb,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. “Demand has been impacted by affordability headwinds, but low inventory remains the root cause of stalling home sales.”

High inflation drove the Federal Reserve to raise its benchmark interest rate 11 times since March 2022, lifting the fed funds rate to the highest level in 22 years.

Mortgage rates don’t necessarily mirror the Fed’s rate increases, but tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. Investors’ expectations for future inflation, global demand for U.S. Treasurys and what the Fed does with interest rates can influence rates on home loans.

The average rate on a 30-year mortgage remains more than double what it was two years ago, when it was just 2.86%. Those ultra-low rates spurred a wave of home sales and refinancing. The sharply higher rates now are contributing to a dearth of available homes, as homeowners who locked in those lower borrowing costs two years ago are now reluctant to sell and jump into a higher rate on a new property.

The lack of housing supply is also a big reason&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-1cab95227f68f2acd36919e6f4594d45">home sales are down 23% through the first half of this year.</a>

The average rate on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with those refinancing their homes, rose to 6.46% from 6.34% last week. A year ago, it averaged 4.55%, Freddie Mac said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647549682911.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;High rates can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already unaffordable to many Americans. photo by James Bell" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;High rates can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already unaffordable to many Americans. photo by James Bell</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) —The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate climbed this week to its highest level in more than 20 years, grim news for would-be homebuyers already challenged by a housing market that remains competitive due to a dearth of homes for sale.Mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday that the average rate on the benchmark 30-year home loan rose to 7.09% from 6.96% last week. A year ago, the rate averaged 5.13%.It’s the fourth consecutive weekly increase for the average rate and the highest since early April 2002, when it averaged 7.13%. The last time the average rate was above 7% was last November, when it stood at 7.08%.High rates can add hundreds of dollars a month in costs for borrowers, limiting how much they can afford in a market already unaffordable to many Americans.“With prices even higher than they were a year ago in many markets, crossing the 7% mortgage rate threshold again could be what sets in motion a major contraction in the housing market this fall,” said Lisa Sturtevant, chief economist for Bright MLS.The latest increase in rates follows a sharp uptick in the 10-year Treasury yield, which has been above 4% this month and climbing. The yield, which lenders use to price rates on mortgages and other loans, touched its highest level since October on Thursday morning, and it’s close to where it was in 2007.The yield has been rising as bond traders react to more reports showing the U.S. economy remains remarkably resilient, which could keep upward pressure on inflation, giving the Federal Reserve reason to keep interest rates higher for longer.“The economy continues to do better than expected and the 10-year Treasury yield has moved up, causing mortgage rates to climb,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. “Demand has been impacted by affordability headwinds, but low inventory remains the root cause of stalling home sales.”High inflation drove the Federal Reserve to raise its benchmark interest rate 11 times since March 2022, lifting the fed funds rate to the highest level in 22 years.Mortgage rates don’t necessarily mirror the Fed’s rate increases, but tend to track the yield on the 10-year Treasury note. Investors’ expectations for future inflation, global demand for U.S. Treasurys and what the Fed does with interest rates can influence rates on home loans.The average rate on a 30-year mortgage remains more than double what it was two years ago, when it was just 2.86%. Those ultra-low rates spurred a wave of home sales and refinancing. The sharply higher rates now are contributing to a dearth of available homes, as homeowners who locked in those lower borrowing costs two years ago are now reluctant to sell and jump into a higher rate on a new property.The lack of housing supply is also a big reason&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/housing-home-sales-real-estate-home-prices-1cab95227f68f2acd36919e6f4594d45">home sales are down 23% through the first half of this year.</a>The average rate on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, popular with those refinancing their homes, rose to 6.46% from 6.34% last week. A year ago, it averaged 4.55%, Freddie Mac said.

Home buyers in shock: Mortgage rates hit 21-year high

FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for alleged human trafficking.

On Tuesday, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an address in Finney County in reference to a landlord versus tenant dispute, according to a media release.

Deputies learned the situation involved immigrants from multiple countries being housed at the residence for work. Preliminary investigation discovered the occupants, including some minor children, weren’t being paid or cared for properly. 

This information led to an investigation into human trafficking. Multiple search warrants were applied for and granted for the identified addresses where at least 16 individuals were found, some of which were minors.

Deputies arrested 32-year-old Jose Castillo-Alegria and 38-year-old Betty Palomino on requested charges of human trafficking for transporting at least sixteen individuals into Finney County and housing them at several properties in and around the Garden City, Finney County, KS area for the purposes of labor.

Castillo-Alegria is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking; Recruit/Harbor/Transport Child &gt; 14• Human Trafficking; Threaten to Withhold Food, Shelter, or Clothes, Crimes of Human Smuggling and Aggravated Human Smuggling

Palomino is jailed on requested charges:of Aggravated Human Trafficking; Recruit/Harbor/Transport Child &gt; 14• Human Trafficking; Threaten to Withhold Food, Shelter, or Clothes and&nbsp; Interference of a Law Enforcement Officer

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692228909410.png" alt="Castillo-Alegria-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Castillo-Alegria-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects for alleged human trafficking.On Tuesday, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an address in Finney County in reference to a landlord versus tenant dispute, according to a media release.Deputies learned the situation involved immigrants from multiple countries being housed at the residence for work. Preliminary investigation discovered the occupants, including some minor children, weren’t being paid or cared for properly. This information led to an investigation into human trafficking. Multiple search warrants were applied for and granted for the identified addresses where at least 16 individuals were found, some of which were minors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692229054475.png" alt="Palomino-photo Finney Co." />
 <figcaption>Palomino-photo Finney Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies arrested 32-year-old Jose Castillo-Alegria and 38-year-old Betty Palomino on requested charges of human trafficking for transporting at least sixteen individuals into Finney County and housing them at several properties in and around the Garden City, Finney County, KS area for the purposes of labor.Castillo-Alegria is being held in the Finney County Jail on requested charges of Aggravated Human Trafficking; Recruit/Harbor/Transport Child &gt; 14• Human Trafficking; Threaten to Withhold Food, Shelter, or Clothes, Crimes of Human Smuggling and Aggravated Human SmugglingPalomino is jailed on requested charges:of Aggravated Human Trafficking; Recruit/Harbor/Transport Child &gt; 14• Human Trafficking; Threaten to Withhold Food, Shelter, or Clothes and&nbsp; Interference of a Law Enforcement Officer

Sheriff: Children among SW Kan. human trafficking victims 

JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple drug allegations.

Just before 1:30 A.M. August 14,, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2007 Honda Odyssey for an alleged traffic violation near 330th Road and U.S. Highway 75. according to Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp; 

During the traffic stop, the driver, Melissa Marie Marshall, 32, of Twin Falls, Idaho, allegedly provided a false name and date of birth to the deputy.&nbsp; &nbsp;

During the stop, a probable cause search of the vehicle led to the discovery of distribution amounts of methamphetamine and psychedelic mushrooms, as well as hallucinogenic drugs and multiple items of drug paraphernalia. 

In addition, a firearm was also recovered from the vehicle. Marshall and the front seat passenger, Joshua Clay McCoy, 42, of Topeka was arrested.

Marshall was jailed on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of hallucinogenic drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony interference with law enforcement, criminal use of weapons and driving without a driver’s license.

McCoy was arrested on a requested charge for distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of hallucinogenic drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and interference with law enforcement.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692189700918.png" alt="McCoy-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>McCoy-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY, Kan. —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple drug allegations.Just before 1:30 A.M. August 14,, a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2007 Honda Odyssey for an alleged traffic violation near 330th Road and U.S. Highway 75. according to Sheriff Tim Morse.&nbsp; During the traffic stop, the driver, Melissa Marie Marshall, 32, of Twin Falls, Idaho, allegedly provided a false name and date of birth to the deputy.&nbsp; &nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692189676767.png" alt="Marshall-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Marshall-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the stop, a probable cause search of the vehicle led to the discovery of distribution amounts of methamphetamine and psychedelic mushrooms, as well as hallucinogenic drugs and multiple items of drug paraphernalia. In addition, a firearm was also recovered from the vehicle. Marshall and the front seat passenger, Joshua Clay McCoy, 42, of Topeka was arrested.Marshall was jailed on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of hallucinogenic drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony interference with law enforcement, criminal use of weapons and driving without a driver’s license.McCoy was arrested on a requested charge for distribution of methamphetamine, distribution of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of hallucinogenic drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and interference with law enforcement.

Kan. deputy found psychedelic mushrooms, meth during traffic stop

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting.

Just after 12:30 a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to 11600 block of Richmond Avenue on a reported sound of shots, while enroute the call was upgraded to a shooting, according to&nbsp;Captain Corey Carlisle. At the scene, officers located a boy later identified as 15-year-0ld Tywonn S. Greene lying in the parking lot suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. EMS arrived on scene and declared him deceased.&nbsp;&nbsp; There is a subject of interest in custody. Detectives are not seeking any other subjects.&nbsp; Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to process the scene and to recover any evidence and speak to any potential witnesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting.Just after 12:30 a.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to 11600 block of Richmond Avenue on a reported sound of shots, while enroute the call was upgraded to a shooting, according to&nbsp;Captain Corey Carlisle. At the scene, officers located a boy later identified as 15-year-0ld Tywonn S. Greene lying in the parking lot suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. EMS arrived on scene and declared him deceased.&nbsp;&nbsp; There is a subject of interest in custody. Detectives are not seeking any other subjects.&nbsp; Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to process the scene and to recover any evidence and speak to any potential witnesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Homicide: 15-year-old dead in Kansas City shooting

WASHINGTON (AP) — A Canadian woman was sentenced to nearly 22 years in prison in Washington Thursday in the mailing of a threatening letter containing the poison ricin to then-President Donald Trump at the White House.

Pascale Ferrier, 56, had pleaded guilty to violating biological weapons prohibitions in letters sent to Trump and to police officials in Texas, where she had been jailed in 2019 after refusing to leave a park area as it closed.

Her defense attorney Eugene Ohm said Ferrier has no criminal record prior that and is an “inordinately intelligent” French immigrant who had earned a master’s degree in engineering and raised two children as a single parent.

But in September 2020, prosecutors said Ferrier made the ricin, a potentially deadly poison derived from processing castor beans, then mailed it to Trump with a letter that referred to him as “The Ugly Tyrant Clown” and read in part: “If it doesn’t work, I’ll find better recipe for another poison, or I might use my gun when I’ll be able to come. Enjoy! FREE REBEL SPIRIT.”

The letter from Pascale Ferrier, which also told Trump “give up and remove your application for this election,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-us-news-arrests-quebec-politics-f4806754642c2075a4ddb1f04d4441f5">was intercepted</a>&nbsp;at a mail sorting facility in September 2020, before it could reach the White House.

She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-arrests-canada-donald-trump-2a1c3de40cebc39dab6a4e04d342e631">was arrested</a>&nbsp;trying to enter a border crossing in Buffalo, New York, carrying a gun, a knife and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, authorities said. Investigators also found eight similar letters to Texas officials.

In a winding speech, Ferrier told the judge that she considers herself a “peaceful and genuinely kind person,” but gets angry about problems like unfairness, abuses of power and “stupid rules." She spoke about feeling like she had done little to support her values while raising her children, and considered herself to be an “activist” rather than a “terrorist.”

“I want to find peaceful means to achieve my goals,” she said.

U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich handed down the 262-month sentence outlined in a plea agreement with prosecutors, which also requires Ferrier to leave the country once she is released and be under supervised release for life if she ever returns to the U.S.

The judge noted a “real disconnect" between the Canadian grandmother who has worked toward another degree while behind bars and the crimes Ferrier pleaded guilty to. “That isn't really activism, that's productive,” she said.

Prosecutor Michael Freedman said the sentence was an “appropriately harsh punishment” that sends a clear message.

“There is absolutely no place for politically motivated violence in the United States of America,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1600785018276.png" alt="Pascale Ferrier" />
 <figcaption>Pascale Ferrier</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A Canadian woman was sentenced to nearly 22 years in prison in Washington Thursday in the mailing of a threatening letter containing the poison ricin to then-President Donald Trump at the White House.Pascale Ferrier, 56, had pleaded guilty to violating biological weapons prohibitions in letters sent to Trump and to police officials in Texas, where she had been jailed in 2019 after refusing to leave a park area as it closed.Her defense attorney Eugene Ohm said Ferrier has no criminal record prior that and is an “inordinately intelligent” French immigrant who had earned a master’s degree in engineering and raised two children as a single parent.But in September 2020, prosecutors said Ferrier made the ricin, a potentially deadly poison derived from processing castor beans, then mailed it to Trump with a letter that referred to him as “The Ugly Tyrant Clown” and read in part: “If it doesn’t work, I’ll find better recipe for another poison, or I might use my gun when I’ll be able to come. Enjoy! FREE REBEL SPIRIT.”The letter from Pascale Ferrier, which also told Trump “give up and remove your application for this election,”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-us-news-arrests-quebec-politics-f4806754642c2075a4ddb1f04d4441f5">was intercepted</a>&nbsp;at a mail sorting facility in September 2020, before it could reach the White House.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692295294433.png" alt="RCMP officers in St. Hubert, Canada, prepare to enter an apartment complex in connection with the mailing of ricin to President Trump -photo courtesy Royal Canadian Mounted Police" />
 <figcaption>RCMP officers in St. Hubert, Canada, prepare to enter an apartment complex in connection with the mailing of ricin to President Trump -photo courtesy Royal Canadian Mounted Police</figcaption>
 </figure>She&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-york-arrests-canada-donald-trump-2a1c3de40cebc39dab6a4e04d342e631">was arrested</a>&nbsp;trying to enter a border crossing in Buffalo, New York, carrying a gun, a knife and hundreds of rounds of ammunition, authorities said. Investigators also found eight similar letters to Texas officials.In a winding speech, Ferrier told the judge that she considers herself a “peaceful and genuinely kind person,” but gets angry about problems like unfairness, abuses of power and “stupid rules." She spoke about feeling like she had done little to support her values while raising her children, and considered herself to be an “activist” rather than a “terrorist.”“I want to find peaceful means to achieve my goals,” she said.U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich handed down the 262-month sentence outlined in a plea agreement with prosecutors, which also requires Ferrier to leave the country once she is released and be under supervised release for life if she ever returns to the U.S.The judge noted a “real disconnect" between the Canadian grandmother who has worked toward another degree while behind bars and the crimes Ferrier pleaded guilty to. “That isn't really activism, that's productive,” she said.Prosecutor Michael Freedman said the sentence was an “appropriately harsh punishment” that sends a clear message.“There is absolutely no place for politically motivated violence in the United States of America,” he said.

Woman sentenced for sending poisoned letter to Trump in White House

IOLA, Kansas—Nine people including 8 women inmates from the Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) were injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Thursday in Allen County.

The TCF inmates had just finished their 3-11 p.m. shift at the Russell Stover plant in Iola and were returning to Topeka, according to David Thompson with the Kansas Department of Corrections.

The&nbsp; transport bus carrying 21 inmates&nbsp;&nbsp;turned onto Highway 169 and collided with a semi.&nbsp; The bus driver was seriously injured and transported to a Kansas City area hospital.

Eight inmates ere injured including 3 with bone fractures. All eight are expected to recover, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

The 13 other residents reported no injuries and were transported back to the worksite. As a precautionary measure, they were sent to a local hospital for assessment.

KDOC continues to work with law enforcement to determine the cause of the accident.

The Topeka Correctional Facility is the only correctional facility for female adults operated by the Kansas Department of Corrections. The current population is 762 women.

IOLA, Kansas—Nine people including 8 women inmates from the Topeka Correctional Facility (TCF) were injured in an accident just before 1a.m. Thursday in Allen County.The TCF inmates had just finished their 3-11 p.m. shift at the Russell Stover plant in Iola and were returning to Topeka, according to David Thompson with the Kansas Department of Corrections.The&nbsp; transport bus carrying 21 inmates&nbsp;&nbsp;turned onto Highway 169 and collided with a semi.&nbsp; The bus driver was seriously injured and transported to a Kansas City area hospital.Eight inmates ere injured including 3 with bone fractures. All eight are expected to recover, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.The 13 other residents reported no injuries and were transported back to the worksite. As a precautionary measure, they were sent to a local hospital for assessment.KDOC continues to work with law enforcement to determine the cause of the accident.The Topeka Correctional Facility is the only correctional facility for female adults operated by the Kansas Department of Corrections. The current population is 762 women.

Kan. women inmates injured in bus, semi crash leaving job site

By ARIANA FIGUEROA&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — The Department of Justice and Department of Education&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ocr-questionsandanswers-tvi-20230814.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">jointly released guidance&nbsp;</a>this week&nbsp;to colleges and universities about how to consider race in admissions decisions, following the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2023/06/29/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-use-of-affirmative-action-in-college-admissions/">Supreme Court’s summer decision</a>&nbsp;that struck down affirmative action in higher education.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, on a call with reporters, said higher education institutions can continue to participate in targeted outreach programs in underserved communities as a way to recruit students from a diverse background.

“Remember, nothing in the court’s decision denied the value of diversity in education,” he said.

Cardona said in the coming weeks, the agency will issue a report that outlines comprehensive strategies for colleges and universities to “lawfully cultivate diverse applicant pools and achieve (a) diverse student body.”

“These resources provide some clarity about the admissions practices for achieving racial diversity that remain lawful,” Cardona said.

On June 29, in a 6-3 decision, the conservative bloc of the Supreme Court ruled that the admissions processes at Harvard University and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ncnewsline.com/2023/06/29/unc-leaders-faculty-and-political-leaders-react-to-u-s-supreme-court-decision-on-admissions/">the University of North Carolina</a>&nbsp;violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment because those institutions considered race in acceptances.

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-20230814.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">guidance</a>&nbsp;acknowledges that following the Supreme Court’s decision,&nbsp; higher institutions may have to redouble “efforts to recruit and retain talented students from underserved communities, including those with large numbers of students of color.” Some of those efforts might also include a “greater focus on fostering a sense of belonging for students currently enrolled,” according to the guidance.

Colleges and universities can also partner with school districts in underserved communities by “supporting improved access to high quality advanced courses, and investing time and resources into programs that identify and nurture students’ potential.” By doing so, “colleges and universities can ensure that more students will be prepared to apply to colleges and universities, gain admission, succeed, and graduate,” the department said.

Associate Attorney General of the United States Vanita Gupta said on the call with reporters that the Supreme Court’s decision “should not be used as an excuse to turn away from long-standing efforts to make those institutions more inclusive.”

“On the top line issue of considering race and admissions, colleges and universities can and should continue to ensure that their doors are open to those students of all backgrounds, including students of color, who possess the characteristics necessary to succeed and contribute on college campuses and in the world,” Gupta said.

The guidance clarifies that the court’s decision does not prevent higher education institutions from reviewing data on race and ethnicity, but that “institutions should ensure that the racial demographics of the applicant pool do not influence admissions decisions.”

The top Democrat on the U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee, Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia, said in a statement that Monday’s guidance “can serve as a resource to help colleges and universities understand the Court’s decision as they commit to pursue diverse campuses.”

He added that the Department of Education should also investigate “how race unjustly permeates many other policies and practices in our educational system.”

“This is important because race-conscious admissions policies were able to provide a counterbalance to factors — such as inequitable K-12 schools, racially biased admissions tests, and developmental and legacy admissions — that have discriminatory impact against students of color,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/9/1569013305712.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By ARIANA FIGUEROA&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/03/30/u-s-judge-rules-insurers-dont-have-to-cover-many-free-preventive-health-services/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — The Department of Justice and Department of Education&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/ocr-questionsandanswers-tvi-20230814.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">jointly released guidance&nbsp;</a>this week&nbsp;to colleges and universities about how to consider race in admissions decisions, following the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://tennesseelookout.com/2023/06/29/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-use-of-affirmative-action-in-college-admissions/">Supreme Court’s summer decision</a>&nbsp;that struck down affirmative action in higher education.Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, on a call with reporters, said higher education institutions can continue to participate in targeted outreach programs in underserved communities as a way to recruit students from a diverse background.“Remember, nothing in the court’s decision denied the value of diversity in education,” he said.Cardona said in the coming weeks, the agency will issue a report that outlines comprehensive strategies for colleges and universities to “lawfully cultivate diverse applicant pools and achieve (a) diverse student body.”“These resources provide some clarity about the admissions practices for achieving racial diversity that remain lawful,” Cardona said.On June 29, in a 6-3 decision, the conservative bloc of the Supreme Court ruled that the admissions processes at Harvard University and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://ncnewsline.com/2023/06/29/unc-leaders-faculty-and-political-leaders-react-to-u-s-supreme-court-decision-on-admissions/">the University of North Carolina</a>&nbsp;violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment because those institutions considered race in acceptances.The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-20230814.pdf?utm_content=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_name=&amp;utm_source=govdelivery&amp;utm_term=">guidance</a>&nbsp;acknowledges that following the Supreme Court’s decision,&nbsp; higher institutions may have to redouble “efforts to recruit and retain talented students from underserved communities, including those with large numbers of students of color.” Some of those efforts might also include a “greater focus on fostering a sense of belonging for students currently enrolled,” according to the guidance.Colleges and universities can also partner with school districts in underserved communities by “supporting improved access to high quality advanced courses, and investing time and resources into programs that identify and nurture students’ potential.” By doing so, “colleges and universities can ensure that more students will be prepared to apply to colleges and universities, gain admission, succeed, and graduate,” the department said.Associate Attorney General of the United States Vanita Gupta said on the call with reporters that the Supreme Court’s decision “should not be used as an excuse to turn away from long-standing efforts to make those institutions more inclusive.”“On the top line issue of considering race and admissions, colleges and universities can and should continue to ensure that their doors are open to those students of all backgrounds, including students of color, who possess the characteristics necessary to succeed and contribute on college campuses and in the world,” Gupta said.The guidance clarifies that the court’s decision does not prevent higher education institutions from reviewing data on race and ethnicity, but that “institutions should ensure that the racial demographics of the applicant pool do not influence admissions decisions.”The top Democrat on the U.S. House Education and Workforce Committee, Rep. Bobby Scott of Virginia, said in a statement that Monday’s guidance “can serve as a resource to help colleges and universities understand the Court’s decision as they commit to pursue diverse campuses.”He added that the Department of Education should also investigate “how race unjustly permeates many other policies and practices in our educational system.”“This is important because race-conscious admissions policies were able to provide a counterbalance to factors — such as inequitable K-12 schools, racially biased admissions tests, and developmental and legacy admissions — that have discriminatory impact against students of color,” he said.

Biden administration provides guidance on diversity in college admissions 

White House expresses concern for raid. Magistrate who signed search warrant faces complaint.

BY:&nbsp;SHERMAN SMITH AND TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach says state authorities reviewing alleged crimes associated with the raid of a Marion newspaper are interested in whether someone breached the Kansas Criminal Justice Information System.

Police raided the Marion County Record last week after the newspaper received information from a confidential source about the criminal history of a restaurant owner who wanted a liquor license.

In an interview with reporters Wednesday, Kobach said county officials asked the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to “get involved” after news of the raid brought widespread attention and scrutiny.

“The KBI was not, of course, involved in these searches and was not notified of the searches prior to their taking place,” Kobach said.

He said the KBI agreed to review the case because there were allegations of improper access to information in the KCJIS, and the KBI is the custodian of that system.

KCJIS is a secure system of connected data sources that supports the electronic exchange of information for local, state and national criminal justice interests. Access to KCJIS is restricted to authorized criminal justice agencies and non-criminal justice agencies with a need and right to know.

“That was another reason the KBI responded affirmatively to get involved,” Kobach said.

“Their role as I understand it is not an evaluation of constitutional claims about the raid,” he added.

Marion County Record publisher Eric Meyer praised KBI director Tony Mattivi for his efforts to coordinate the return of property taken from the newspaper office. The computers, cellphones, hard drivers, router and other materials were signed over Wednesday afternoon to a forensic expert who is working for the newspaper. Meyer said he wanted to know whether authorities had accessed those devices after confiscating them in the Aug. 11 raid.

Magistrate Judge Laura Viar signed the search warrant that&nbsp;Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody used to seize the newspaper’s equipment, records about the restaurant owner, utility bills, and other materials. Police who searched Meyer’s home also took photos of his personal bank records. He lived with his 98-year-old mother, who co-owned the paper. The stress of the raid contributed to her death a day later, Meyer said.

On Wednesday, county attorney Joel Ensey said he had determined there was “insufficient evidence” to support the search and seizure.

PEN America, which advocates for free speech, said in a statement that the prosecutor’s decision and the return of newspaper property was “a first step toward accountability in this unconscionable breach of press freedom.”

“Local police tragically cannot undo the death of the newspaper’s 98-year-old co-owner, Joan Meyer, who collapsed and died after police rifled through papers and seized materials from her home,” the organization said. “Nor can the police reverse the damage that has resulted to the newspaper staff, its confidential sources, and the chill on press freedom writ large from the raid.”

<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/17/kansas-reporters-shield-law-passed-by-huge-majorities-should-have-prevented-raid-on-marion-paper/">State and federal law protects journalists</a>&nbsp;and news organizations from police raids. Journalism advocates couldn’t find another example of police raiding a newsroom anywhere in the United States.

It still isn’t clear what evidence Cody provided to support the search warrant, or why Viar signed it.

Topeka resident Keri Strahler has filed a formal complaint against Viar with the Kansas Commission on Judicial Conduct, which has the authority to investigate allegations of judicial misconduct or disability in state courts.

Her complaint notes the legal protections for journalists and Ensey’s finding of insufficient evidence for the search.

“I humbly beg for your attention to Judge Laura Viar’s mental capacity in her decision to seemingly circumvent federal law,” Strahler wrote in the complaint.

(click below to listen to the White House press secretary's statment)

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Wednesday that the raid on the Marion County Record office raises “a lot of concerns and a lot of questions for us.”

She said freedom of the press “is the core value when we think about our democracy. When you think about the cornerstone of our democracy, the freedom of press is right there.”

“We’ll continue to reaffirm and protect this fundamental right enshrined in the First Amendment,” Jean-Pierre added. “And so, you can certainly count on us to continue to do that.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692291997309.png" alt=" Marion County Record reporter Phyllis Zorn and Sheriff Jeff Soyez stand outside the evidence room where an undersheriff signs over newspaper property to a forensic expert. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption> Marion County Record reporter Phyllis Zorn and Sheriff Jeff Soyez stand outside the evidence room where an undersheriff signs over newspaper property to a forensic expert. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>White House expresses concern for raid. Magistrate who signed search warrant faces complaint.</h2>BY:&nbsp;SHERMAN SMITH AND TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach says state authorities reviewing alleged crimes associated with the raid of a Marion newspaper are interested in whether someone breached the Kansas Criminal Justice Information System.Police raided the Marion County Record last week after the newspaper received information from a confidential source about the criminal history of a restaurant owner who wanted a liquor license.In an interview with reporters Wednesday, Kobach said county officials asked the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to “get involved” after news of the raid brought widespread attention and scrutiny.“The KBI was not, of course, involved in these searches and was not notified of the searches prior to their taking place,” Kobach said.He said the KBI agreed to review the case because there were allegations of improper access to information in the KCJIS, and the KBI is the custodian of that system.KCJIS is a secure system of connected data sources that supports the electronic exchange of information for local, state and national criminal justice interests. Access to KCJIS is restricted to authorized criminal justice agencies and non-criminal justice agencies with a need and right to know.“That was another reason the KBI responded affirmatively to get involved,” Kobach said.“Their role as I understand it is not an evaluation of constitutional claims about the raid,” he added.Marion County Record publisher Eric Meyer praised KBI director Tony Mattivi for his efforts to coordinate the return of property taken from the newspaper office. The computers, cellphones, hard drivers, router and other materials were signed over Wednesday afternoon to a forensic expert who is working for the newspaper. Meyer said he wanted to know whether authorities had accessed those devices after confiscating them in the Aug. 11 raid.Magistrate Judge Laura Viar signed the search warrant that&nbsp;Marion Police Chief Gideon Cody used to seize the newspaper’s equipment, records about the restaurant owner, utility bills, and other materials. Police who searched Meyer’s home also took photos of his personal bank records. He lived with his 98-year-old mother, who co-owned the paper. The stress of the raid contributed to her death a day later, Meyer said.On Wednesday, county attorney Joel Ensey said he had determined there was “insufficient evidence” to support the search and seizure.PEN America, which advocates for free speech, said in a statement that the prosecutor’s decision and the return of newspaper property was “a first step toward accountability in this unconscionable breach of press freedom.”“Local police tragically cannot undo the death of the newspaper’s 98-year-old co-owner, Joan Meyer, who collapsed and died after police rifled through papers and seized materials from her home,” the organization said. “Nor can the police reverse the damage that has resulted to the newspaper staff, its confidential sources, and the chill on press freedom writ large from the raid.”<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/08/17/kansas-reporters-shield-law-passed-by-huge-majorities-should-have-prevented-raid-on-marion-paper/">State and federal law protects journalists</a>&nbsp;and news organizations from police raids. Journalism advocates couldn’t find another example of police raiding a newsroom anywhere in the United States.It still isn’t clear what evidence Cody provided to support the search warrant, or why Viar signed it.Topeka resident Keri Strahler has filed a formal complaint against Viar with the Kansas Commission on Judicial Conduct, which has the authority to investigate allegations of judicial misconduct or disability in state courts.Her complaint notes the legal protections for journalists and Ensey’s finding of insufficient evidence for the search.“I humbly beg for your attention to Judge Laura Viar’s mental capacity in her decision to seemingly circumvent federal law,” Strahler wrote in the complaint.(click below to listen to the White House press secretary's statment)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F6579634838818472%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=3711" 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>White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Wednesday that the raid on the Marion County Record office raises “a lot of concerns and a lot of questions for us.”She said freedom of the press “is the core value when we think about our democracy. When you think about the cornerstone of our democracy, the freedom of press is right there.”“We’ll continue to reaffirm and protect this fundamental right enshrined in the First Amendment,” Jean-Pierre added. “And so, you can certainly count on us to continue to do that.”

AG: KBI looking into possible data breach in Kan. newspaper case

BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating one of their own for alleged child sex crimes.

On Tuesday, the El Dorado Police Department with the assistance of Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children's Task Force and the Butler County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation reported by way of a cyber tip, received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), alleging the sexual exploitation of children through the use of electronic devices, according to a media release from El Dorado Police. This investigation led to the arrest of<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=742109"> 38-year-old Joel Womochil</a> of El Dorado, and requested charges have been submitted through the Butler County District Court.&nbsp;

Womochil resigned as Burns police chief last week and the city is searching for a new police chief, according to the mayor's office. The El Dorado Police Department is dedicated to investigating these crimes to aid in the protection of children in our community. We are pleased to announce that the El Dorado Police Department is now an affiliate with the Internet Crimes Against Children task force. This will greatly benefit the community in addressing this particular heinous crime. Cyber tips can be made&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missingkids.org/?fbclid=IwAR0wNcuj449euF80f6rMkqx3d-HDnEA7kovoMv_-hGkb8GNkJcM6IoMS_vk" target="_blank">https://www.missingkids.org/</a>&nbsp;or via phone at 1-800-843-5678 Or you can contact El Dorado Crime Stoppers through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/community/mobile/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR34oVDTu0OKxJF6M4KrrXReaPAmVACTm6v5G_ewC77wkRuXd25OiEodsmo" target="_blank">https://www.p3tips.com/co</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692237873123.png" alt="Womochil is in custody in Sedgwick County-photo El Dorado Police." />
 <figcaption>Womochil is in custody in Sedgwick County-photo El Dorado Police.</figcaption>
 </figure>BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating one of their own for alleged child sex crimes.On Tuesday, the El Dorado Police Department with the assistance of Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children's Task Force and the Butler County Sheriff’s Office conducted an investigation reported by way of a cyber tip, received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), alleging the sexual exploitation of children through the use of electronic devices, according to a media release from El Dorado Police. This investigation led to the arrest of<a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=742109"> 38-year-old Joel Womochil</a> of El Dorado, and requested charges have been submitted through the Butler County District Court.&nbsp;Womochil resigned as Burns police chief last week and the city is searching for a new police chief, according to the mayor's office. The El Dorado Police Department is dedicated to investigating these crimes to aid in the protection of children in our community. We are pleased to announce that the El Dorado Police Department is now an affiliate with the Internet Crimes Against Children task force. This will greatly benefit the community in addressing this particular heinous crime. Cyber tips can be made&nbsp;<a href="https://www.missingkids.org/?fbclid=IwAR0wNcuj449euF80f6rMkqx3d-HDnEA7kovoMv_-hGkb8GNkJcM6IoMS_vk" target="_blank">https://www.missingkids.org/</a>&nbsp;or via phone at 1-800-843-5678 Or you can contact El Dorado Crime Stoppers through&nbsp;<a href="https://www.p3tips.com/community/mobile/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR34oVDTu0OKxJF6M4KrrXReaPAmVACTm6v5G_ewC77wkRuXd25OiEodsmo" target="_blank">https://www.p3tips.com/co</a>

Kansas police chief resigns and is accused of child sex crimes

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

The July 16, storm that moved through Great Bend caused plenty of damage to individual homes. To entities with several properties, expenses grew exponentially. At Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Great Bend Superintendent Khris Thexton said, so far, the district is estimating at least $1.3 million in damages.

"I guess if there's a silver lining to this situation, I think we got our increase in premium covered," he said, "except they'll probably get us again next year, along with everybody else."

The brunt of the costs is tied to the roof at Lincoln Elementary on the west side of town. A new HVAC unit was recently installed on the roof and the exterior metal casing was damaged. The soft roofing material was also damaged by the softball-size hail, and the current estimate for replacement is $1.1 million. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said he did not think it would be quite that high.

"When you start thinking about our capital outlay, we've got seven-plus buildings," he said. "If it takes a million dollars just to replace an elementary roof, our middle school is twice that size. That's a lot of money that comes out of our capital outlay that we would have to replace all those roofs."

The district's hail and wind damage deductible is $25,000. Estimates on Park Elementary's roof came in at $134,000, and a roof repair at the middle school is $40,000. Temporary roof repair costs came in at $18,000, other structural repairs cost $1,800, and spoiled food at the central kitchen cost $675.

Many of the district's vehicles were parked at the Education Center on Patton Road and suffered intensive damage. That estimate sits at $25,000.

"We're saying $25,000 as an estimate," Popp said. "I think that's way low. There are a lot of brand-new vehicles that have softball size dents in them. I'm thinking that's going to be a lot higher."

USD 428 will also pay an estimated $4,700 for additional employee hours for cleanup. Board President Jacquie Disque thanked the many employees that were cleaning up at district properties immediately after the storm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692204488309.jpeg" alt="The July 16 storm over Great Bend peeled back a section of roof on Park Elementary School on the east side of town. On the west side, Lincoln Elementary's roof suffered even more damage." />
 <figcaption>The July 16 storm over Great Bend peeled back a section of roof on Park Elementary School on the east side of town. On the west side, Lincoln Elementary's roof suffered even more damage.</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe July 16, storm that moved through Great Bend caused plenty of damage to individual homes. To entities with several properties, expenses grew exponentially. At Monday's USD 428 Board of Education meeting, Great Bend Superintendent Khris Thexton said, so far, the district is estimating at least $1.3 million in damages."I guess if there's a silver lining to this situation, I think we got our increase in premium covered," he said, "except they'll probably get us again next year, along with everybody else."The brunt of the costs is tied to the roof at Lincoln Elementary on the west side of town. A new HVAC unit was recently installed on the roof and the exterior metal casing was damaged. The soft roofing material was also damaged by the softball-size hail, and the current estimate for replacement is $1.1 million. Assistant Superintendent John Popp said he did not think it would be quite that high."When you start thinking about our capital outlay, we've got seven-plus buildings," he said. "If it takes a million dollars just to replace an elementary roof, our middle school is twice that size. That's a lot of money that comes out of our capital outlay that we would have to replace all those roofs."The district's hail and wind damage deductible is $25,000. Estimates on Park Elementary's roof came in at $134,000, and a roof repair at the middle school is $40,000. Temporary roof repair costs came in at $18,000, other structural repairs cost $1,800, and spoiled food at the central kitchen cost $675.Many of the district's vehicles were parked at the Education Center on Patton Road and suffered intensive damage. That estimate sits at $25,000."We're saying $25,000 as an estimate," Popp said. "I think that's way low. There are a lot of brand-new vehicles that have softball size dents in them. I'm thinking that's going to be a lot higher."USD 428 will also pay an estimated $4,700 for additional employee hours for cleanup. Board President Jacquie Disque thanked the many employees that were cleaning up at district properties immediately after the storm.

Great Bend schools deal with more than $1M in July 16 storm damage

COFFEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a phone scam.

According to police a Burlington, Kansas woman&nbsp; was scammed out of $1,100 August 8.

 She received a call from someone posing as David Thirolf with PayPal. The man told her someone had taken money from her account but he could help her get it back and catch the thief. 

He told her to purchase prepaid cards and give him the information on the back of them. 

She went to Dollar General and Family Dollar and purchased one Gamestop card at each store. 

The victim claims she only gave Thirolf information off one card, but when police checked the cards, all the money was gone from both cards.

COFFEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a phone scam.According to police a Burlington, Kansas woman&nbsp; was scammed out of $1,100 August 8. She received a call from someone posing as David Thirolf with PayPal. The man told her someone had taken money from her account but he could help her get it back and catch the thief. He told her to purchase prepaid cards and give him the information on the back of them. She went to Dollar General and Family Dollar and purchased one Gamestop card at each store. The victim claims she only gave Thirolf information off one card, but when police checked the cards, all the money was gone from both cards.

Police: Kansas woman lost $1,100 in Paypal scam

KANSAS CITY– A man popularly known as Kansas City Chiefs superfan “ChiefsAholic” was indicted by a federal grand jury Wednesday for robbing several financial institutions and laundering the proceeds through area casinos, according to the United State's Attorney.

Xaviar Michael Babudar, 29, was charged in a 19-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo. The indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Babudar on May 24, 2023, and includes additional charges.

Babudar, who lived a nomadic existence at various locations around the Kansas City metropolitan area, enjoyed a robust social media presence as Kansas City Chiefs superfan Twitter user @ChiefsAholic, attending most games dressed as a wolf in Chiefs clothing. According to the indictment, Babudar’s ability to attend these games and sustain this lifestyle was funded by his perpetration of a string of bank and credit union robberies throughout 2022. Babudar laundered the robbery proceeds through area casinos, and used the robbery proceeds to attend numerous Chiefs home and away games. He also placed various wagers on the outcomes of Chiefs games. During this time, the indictment says, Babudar did not report any wages earned in the states of Missouri or Kansas.

The indictment charges Babudar with three counts of armed bank robbery, one count of bank theft, 11 counts of money laundering, and four counts of transporting stolen property across state lines.

Babudar allegedly stole $70,000 from the Clive, Iowa, branch of Great Western Bank on March 2, 2022. He then carried this money to Missouri, depositing it in two separate transactions into his personal savings account.

Babudar allegedly stole $170,860 from the Omaha, Nebraska, branch of First National Bank of Omaha on April 28, 2022. Omaha police officers recovered $163,560 following the theft.

Babudar allegedly stole $303,845 from the West Des Moines, Iowa, branch of First Class Community Credit Union on July 13, 2022. In the course of this robbery, Babudar allegedly brandished what appeared to be a silver and black firearm, jumped over the teller counter, and demanded that the bank employees open the bank vault. He carried this money back to Missouri, and the next day deposited $23,000 into his savings account. He used some of the proceeds to make various casino chip purchases over the next three months at casinos in Missouri and Illinois, then cashed out his winnings and deposited them into his savings account.

Babudar allegedly stole $125,900 from the Nashville, Tennessee, branch of The Tennessee Credit Union on Nov. 17, 2022. In the course of this robbery, Babudar allegedly brandished what appeared to be a silver and black firearm, climbed over the teller counter, and demanded that the bank employees take him to the bank vault. A few days later, he used some of the stolen money to purchase $20,000 in casino chips in multiple transactions from a local casino.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689010403536.png" alt="Babudar from an earlier arrest in Tulsa County" />
 <figcaption>Babudar from an earlier arrest in Tulsa County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY– A man popularly known as Kansas City Chiefs superfan “ChiefsAholic” was indicted by a federal grand jury Wednesday for robbing several financial institutions and laundering the proceeds through area casinos, according to the United State's Attorney.Xaviar Michael Babudar, 29, was charged in a 19-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo. The indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Babudar on May 24, 2023, and includes additional charges.Babudar, who lived a nomadic existence at various locations around the Kansas City metropolitan area, enjoyed a robust social media presence as Kansas City Chiefs superfan Twitter user @ChiefsAholic, attending most games dressed as a wolf in Chiefs clothing. According to the indictment, Babudar’s ability to attend these games and sustain this lifestyle was funded by his perpetration of a string of bank and credit union robberies throughout 2022. Babudar laundered the robbery proceeds through area casinos, and used the robbery proceeds to attend numerous Chiefs home and away games. He also placed various wagers on the outcomes of Chiefs games. During this time, the indictment says, Babudar did not report any wages earned in the states of Missouri or Kansas.The indictment charges Babudar with three counts of armed bank robbery, one count of bank theft, 11 counts of money laundering, and four counts of transporting stolen property across state lines.Babudar allegedly stole $70,000 from the Clive, Iowa, branch of Great Western Bank on March 2, 2022. He then carried this money to Missouri, depositing it in two separate transactions into his personal savings account.Babudar allegedly stole $170,860 from the Omaha, Nebraska, branch of First National Bank of Omaha on April 28, 2022. Omaha police officers recovered $163,560 following the theft.Babudar allegedly stole $303,845 from the West Des Moines, Iowa, branch of First Class Community Credit Union on July 13, 2022. In the course of this robbery, Babudar allegedly brandished what appeared to be a silver and black firearm, jumped over the teller counter, and demanded that the bank employees open the bank vault. He carried this money back to Missouri, and the next day deposited $23,000 into his savings account. He used some of the proceeds to make various casino chip purchases over the next three months at casinos in Missouri and Illinois, then cashed out his winnings and deposited them into his savings account.Babudar allegedly stole $125,900 from the Nashville, Tennessee, branch of The Tennessee Credit Union on Nov. 17, 2022. In the course of this robbery, Babudar allegedly brandished what appeared to be a silver and black firearm, climbed over the teller counter, and demanded that the bank employees take him to the bank vault. A few days later, he used some of the stolen money to purchase $20,000 in casino chips in multiple transactions from a local casino.Babudar allegedly stole $25,000 from the Clive, Iowa, branch of First Interstate Bank on Nov. 30, 2022. Following two unsuccessful robberies of the Wings Financial Credit Union in Savage, Minn., and the Royal Credit Union in Apple Valley, Minn., on Nov. 29, 2022, the indictment says, Babudar returned to Clive, Iowa. The Great Western Bank that he had robbed on March 2, 2022, had become a branch of First Interstate Bank. In the course of this robbery, Babudar allegedly brandished what appeared to be a silver and black firearm, jumped over the teller counter, and ordered the bank employees at gunpoint to open the bank vault. Babudar then carried the stolen money back to Missouri, where he deposited a portion of it into his personal checking account.Babudar was charged in Tulsa County, Okla., with the robbery of the Tulsa Teachers Federal Credit Union on Dec. 16, 2022. Babudar was released on bond in February 2023.Months earlier, the indictment says, Babudar had placed two winning bets at the Argosy Casino in Alton, Ill. On June 10, 2022, Babudar bet $5,000 that Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes II would win the Most Valuable Player at Super Bowl LVII, which would pay out $45,000 should that occur. Babudar also bet $5,000 that the Kansas City Chiefs would win Super Bowl LVII, which would pay out $55,000 should that occur. When the Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl on Feb. 12, 2023, and Mahomes won the Most Valuable Player award, Babudar won $100,000. Argosy Casino mailed Babudar a $100,000 check in early March 2023.Days later, the indictment says, Babudar cut his ankle monitor and fled from Oklahoma. Babudar evaded law enforcement until his arrest in Sacramento on July 7, 2023. He remains detained in federal custody without bond.Following Babudar’s arrest in Oklahoma last December, FBI investigators began reviewing bank records, casino transaction records, and sensitive financial reporting to determine the breadth and scope of additional potential criminal activities. According to the affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, Babudar purchased and redeemed more than $1 million in chips from various casinos in Missouri, Kansas, and Illinois between April and December 2022. Investigators also reviewed previously unsolved bank robberies throughout the Midwest during that time frame. Babudar’s cell phone was placed in the same cities and locations for these previously unsolved bank robberies and attempted robberies, the affidavit says.