SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man's murder and have a suspect in custody.

On Monday, the Topeka Police Department received information of a deceased person in the area of SW 3rd St. and SW Harrison Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

Topeka Police detectives acted on the information and located a man dead in the 200 block of SW Harrison Street.&nbsp; At the time, police investigated this as a suspicious death.

Early Tuesday, police reported the arrest of 26-year-old&nbsp; Serena Sanchez of Topeka and transported her to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. She is being held on requested charges of Murder in the 2nd degree; Intentional, according to Monasmith.

Police have not released victim's name or how he died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678188600989.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Monday-photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Monday-photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a man's murder and have a suspect in custody.On Monday, the Topeka Police Department received information of a deceased person in the area of SW 3rd St. and SW Harrison Street, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678189959780.png" alt="Sanchez photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Sanchez photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Topeka Police detectives acted on the information and located a man dead in the 200 block of SW Harrison Street.&nbsp; At the time, police investigated this as a suspicious death.Early Tuesday, police reported the arrest of 26-year-old&nbsp; Serena Sanchez of Topeka and transported her to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. She is being held on requested charges of Murder in the 2nd degree; Intentional, according to Monasmith.Police have not released victim's name or how he died.

Police: 26-year-old Kansas woman accused of murder

📷: Update: One injured in parking lot shooting at zoo in Manhattan

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma voters will decide Tuesday whether to make the state one of the most conservative to green light cannabis use for adults.

<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">Click here to read the initiative</a>

<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">State Question 820,</a> the result of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-marijuana-oklahoma-general-6f4ba121d09542c4bb3615fdcf56f98d">signature gathering drive</a>&nbsp;last year, is the only item on the statewide ballot. Other conservative states have legalized recreational cannabis use, including Montana in 2020 and Missouri last year, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">several have rejected it</a>, including Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota.

The plan faces opposition from leaders of several faith groups, along with law enforcement and prosecutors, led by former Republican Gov. Frank Keating, an ex-FBI agent, and Terri White, the former head of the state's Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

“We don't want a stoned society,” Keating said Monday, flanked by district attorneys and law enforcement officers from across the state.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">proposal</a>, if passed, would allow anyone over the age of 21 to purchase and possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana, plus concentrates and marijuana-infused products. People could also legally grow up to 12 marijuana plants. Recreational sales would be subjected to a 15% excise tax on top of the standard sales tax. The excise tax would be used to help fund local municipalities, the court system, public schools, substance abuse treatment and the state’s general revenue fund.

The proposal also outlines a judicial process for people to seek expungement or dismissal of prior marijuana-related convictions.

Oklahoma voters already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-mary-fallin-oklahoma-politics-ok-state-wire-70b6fafb4c0f4d2ea920cba5fa227737">approved medical marijuana in 2018</a>&nbsp;by 14 percentage points and the state has one of the most liberal programs in the country, with roughly 10% of the state’s adult population having a medical license.

The low barriers for entry into the industry has led to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-us-news-ap-top-news-ar-state-wire-health-58daeb2ed452710e03ea4542976a620a">flood of growers</a>, processors and dispensary operators competing for a limited number of customers. Supporters also say the state's marijuana industry would be buoyed by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oklahoma-recreational-marijuana-tourism-texas-7f42b209187570a2640f92cf30a3ca3e">rush of out-of-state customers</a>, particularly from Texas, which has close to 8 million people in the Dallas-Fort Worth area just a little more than an hour drive from the Oklahoma border.

“We do have one of the most permissible (medical) programs in the country, but the idea that you have to spend your time and money to go to a doctor and basically buy immunity from criminal prosecution is a pay-to-play system that I just don’t like,” said Ryan Kiesel, a former state lawmaker and one of the organizers of the Yes on 820 campaign.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677941306901.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Oklahoma voters will decide Tuesday whether to make the state one of the most conservative to green light cannabis use for adults.<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">Click here to read the initiative</a><a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">State Question 820,</a> the result of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-marijuana-oklahoma-general-6f4ba121d09542c4bb3615fdcf56f98d">signature gathering drive</a>&nbsp;last year, is the only item on the statewide ballot. Other conservative states have legalized recreational cannabis use, including Montana in 2020 and Missouri last year, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">several have rejected it</a>, including Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota.The plan faces opposition from leaders of several faith groups, along with law enforcement and prosecutors, led by former Republican Gov. Frank Keating, an ex-FBI agent, and Terri White, the former head of the state's Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.“We don't want a stoned society,” Keating said Monday, flanked by district attorneys and law enforcement officers from across the state.The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">proposal</a>, if passed, would allow anyone over the age of 21 to purchase and possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana, plus concentrates and marijuana-infused products. People could also legally grow up to 12 marijuana plants. Recreational sales would be subjected to a 15% excise tax on top of the standard sales tax. The excise tax would be used to help fund local municipalities, the court system, public schools, substance abuse treatment and the state’s general revenue fund.The proposal also outlines a judicial process for people to seek expungement or dismissal of prior marijuana-related convictions.Oklahoma voters already&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-mary-fallin-oklahoma-politics-ok-state-wire-70b6fafb4c0f4d2ea920cba5fa227737">approved medical marijuana in 2018</a>&nbsp;by 14 percentage points and the state has one of the most liberal programs in the country, with roughly 10% of the state’s adult population having a medical license.The low barriers for entry into the industry has led to a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-us-news-ap-top-news-ar-state-wire-health-58daeb2ed452710e03ea4542976a620a">flood of growers</a>, processors and dispensary operators competing for a limited number of customers. Supporters also say the state's marijuana industry would be buoyed by a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/oklahoma-recreational-marijuana-tourism-texas-7f42b209187570a2640f92cf30a3ca3e">rush of out-of-state customers</a>, particularly from Texas, which has close to 8 million people in the Dallas-Fort Worth area just a little more than an hour drive from the Oklahoma border.“We do have one of the most permissible (medical) programs in the country, but the idea that you have to spend your time and money to go to a doctor and basically buy immunity from criminal prosecution is a pay-to-play system that I just don’t like,” said Ryan Kiesel, a former state lawmaker and one of the organizers of the Yes on 820 campaign.

Oklahoma votes today on legalizing marijuana 

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting at a home in southwest Kansas.

Just before 5:30a.m. Monday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 2600 Block of North 3rd Street in Garden City, according to a media release.

First responders found 27-year-old Braxton Lloyd inside a residence with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; EMS transported him to St. Catherine Hospital and later he was transferred to a Wichita hospital where he died.

Investigators determine Lloyd was picked up by a family member after being out for the evening. An altercation ensued between the individuals and another family member at the residence, according to police. 

Lloyd allegedly produced a firearm and threatened family members when he was shot. Police have not reported an arres.

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal shooting at a home in southwest Kansas.Just before 5:30a.m. Monday, police responded to report of a shooting in the 2600 Block of North 3rd Street in Garden City, according to a media release.First responders found 27-year-old Braxton Lloyd inside a residence with a gunshot wound.&nbsp; EMS transported him to St. Catherine Hospital and later he was transferred to a Wichita hospital where he died.Investigators determine Lloyd was picked up by a family member after being out for the evening. An altercation ensued between the individuals and another family member at the residence, according to police. Lloyd allegedly produced a firearm and threatened family members when he was shot. Police have not reported an arres.

Police: 27-year-old dead after altercation at SW Kansas home

SUMNER COUNTY —Authorities continue to investigate the cause of a&nbsp; train derailment in Sumner County.

Just after 5:30 p.m. Saturday, eighteen Union Pacific cars filled with grain derailed north of Wellington,&nbsp;according to Union Pacific spokesperson Robynn Tyvser. There were no injuries, and no HAZMAT was involved.&nbsp;

The track was repaired and reopened to traffic Sunday at about 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;All the rail cars were cleared from the right of way and there were no injuries during that process, according to Tyvser.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678141665059.png" alt="Weekend train derailment in Sumner County -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Weekend train derailment in Sumner County -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SUMNER COUNTY —Authorities continue to investigate the cause of a&nbsp; train derailment in Sumner County.Just after 5:30 p.m. Saturday, eighteen Union Pacific cars filled with grain derailed north of Wellington,&nbsp;according to Union Pacific spokesperson Robynn Tyvser. There were no injuries, and no HAZMAT was involved.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678143422835.png" alt="photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>The track was repaired and reopened to traffic Sunday at about 5:30 p.m.&nbsp;All the rail cars were cleared from the right of way and there were no injuries during that process, according to Tyvser.

Cause of Kansas train derailment remains under investigation

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The influential sister of North Korea’s leader warned Tuesday that her country is ready to take “quick, overwhelming action” against the United States and South Korea, a day after the U.S. flew a nuclear-capable B-52 bomber in a demonstration of strength against the North.

The United States flew the bomber to the Korean Peninsula for a joint drill with South Korean warplanes, and the allies' militaries are also preparing to revive their largest field exercises later this month.

Kim Yo Jong didn’t elaborate on any planned actions in her statement, but North Korea has often test-launched missiles in response to U.S.-South Korean military drills because it views them as an invasion rehearsal.

“We keep our eye on the restless military moves by the U.S. forces and the South Korean puppet military and are always on standby to take appropriate, quick and overwhelming action at any time according to our judgment,” Kim Yo Jong said in the statement carried by state media.

“The demonstrative military moves and all sorts of rhetoric by the U.S. and South Korea, which go so extremely frantic as not to be overlooked, undoubtedly provide (North Korea) with conditions for being forced to do something to cope with them,” she said.

Monday’s flyover of the B-52 bomber was the latest in a series of U.S.-South Korean aerial exercises involving powerful U.S. aircraft. The U.S. deployed a long-range U.S. B-1B bomber or multiple B-1Bs to the peninsula a few times earlier this year. South Korea said those drills demonstrated the allies’ ability to make a decisive response to potential North Korean aggressions.

Last Friday, the South Korean and U.S. militaries announced they would conduct a computer-simulated command post training from March 13-23 and restore their largest springtime field exercises that were last held in 2018.

The allies had canceled or scaled back some of their regular drills since 2018 to support now-dormant diplomacy with North Korea and guard against the COVID-19 pandemic. But they’ve been restoring their exercises after North Korea last year conducted a record number of missile tests and openly threatened to use its nuclear weapons in potential conflicts with its rivals.

In a separate statement Tuesday, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry called the flyover of the U.S. B-52 bomber a reckless provocation that pushes the situation on the peninsula “deeper into the bottomless quagmire.” The statement, attributed to the unnamed head of the ministry's foreign news office, said “there is no guarantee that there will be no violent physical conflict” if U.S.-South Korean military provocations continue.

North Korea often unleashes fiery rhetoric in times of heightened animosities with the United States and South Korea. Possible steps North Korea could take include a nuclear test or the launch of a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile targeting the mainland U.S., observers say.

Last month, Kim Yo Jong threatened to turn the Pacific into the North’s firing range. In her statement Tuesday, she said North Korea would consider a possible U.S. attempt to intercept a North Korean ICBM a declaration of war. She cited a South Korean media report saying the U.S. military plans to shoot down a North Korean ICBM if it’s test-launched toward the Pacific.

All known North Korean ICBM tests have been made at steep angles to avoid neighboring countries, and the weapons landed in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678156712150.png" alt="FILE - This photo provided by the North Korean government, Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, delivers a speech during a national meeting against the coronavirus, in Pyongyang, North Korea, Aug. 10, 2022. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP, File)" />
 <figcaption>FILE - This photo provided by the North Korean government, Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, delivers a speech during a national meeting against the coronavirus, in Pyongyang, North Korea, Aug. 10, 2022. Independent journalists were not given access to cover the event depicted in this image distributed by the North Korean government. The content of this image is as provided and cannot be independently verified. (Korean Central News Agency/Korea News Service via AP, File)</figcaption>
 </figure>SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The influential sister of North Korea’s leader warned Tuesday that her country is ready to take “quick, overwhelming action” against the United States and South Korea, a day after the U.S. flew a nuclear-capable B-52 bomber in a demonstration of strength against the North.The United States flew the bomber to the Korean Peninsula for a joint drill with South Korean warplanes, and the allies' militaries are also preparing to revive their largest field exercises later this month.Kim Yo Jong didn’t elaborate on any planned actions in her statement, but North Korea has often test-launched missiles in response to U.S.-South Korean military drills because it views them as an invasion rehearsal.“We keep our eye on the restless military moves by the U.S. forces and the South Korean puppet military and are always on standby to take appropriate, quick and overwhelming action at any time according to our judgment,” Kim Yo Jong said in the statement carried by state media.“The demonstrative military moves and all sorts of rhetoric by the U.S. and South Korea, which go so extremely frantic as not to be overlooked, undoubtedly provide (North Korea) with conditions for being forced to do something to cope with them,” she said.Monday’s flyover of the B-52 bomber was the latest in a series of U.S.-South Korean aerial exercises involving powerful U.S. aircraft. The U.S. deployed a long-range U.S. B-1B bomber or multiple B-1Bs to the peninsula a few times earlier this year. South Korea said those drills demonstrated the allies’ ability to make a decisive response to potential North Korean aggressions.Last Friday, the South Korean and U.S. militaries announced they would conduct a computer-simulated command post training from March 13-23 and restore their largest springtime field exercises that were last held in 2018.The allies had canceled or scaled back some of their regular drills since 2018 to support now-dormant diplomacy with North Korea and guard against the COVID-19 pandemic. But they’ve been restoring their exercises after North Korea last year conducted a record number of missile tests and openly threatened to use its nuclear weapons in potential conflicts with its rivals.In a separate statement Tuesday, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry called the flyover of the U.S. B-52 bomber a reckless provocation that pushes the situation on the peninsula “deeper into the bottomless quagmire.” The statement, attributed to the unnamed head of the ministry's foreign news office, said “there is no guarantee that there will be no violent physical conflict” if U.S.-South Korean military provocations continue.North Korea often unleashes fiery rhetoric in times of heightened animosities with the United States and South Korea. Possible steps North Korea could take include a nuclear test or the launch of a new type of intercontinental ballistic missile targeting the mainland U.S., observers say.Last month, Kim Yo Jong threatened to turn the Pacific into the North’s firing range. In her statement Tuesday, she said North Korea would consider a possible U.S. attempt to intercept a North Korean ICBM a declaration of war. She cited a South Korean media report saying the U.S. military plans to shoot down a North Korean ICBM if it’s test-launched toward the Pacific.All known North Korean ICBM tests have been made at steep angles to avoid neighboring countries, and the weapons landed in the waters between the Korean Peninsula and Japan.

North Korea warns it's ready to act against US, South Korea

LYON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Monday in Lyon County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Peterbilt semi driven by Yuriy Yuryevich Lendel, 35, Nixa, Missouri, was northbound on Interstate 70 just south of the Emporia exit.&nbsp;

The semi drifted onto the shoulder and rear-ended a 2023 Peterbilt semi driven by Darrien Lorenzo Williams, 28, Houston, Texas, that was parked on the shoulder.

Lendel was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Williams to Newman Regional Health. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

LYON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 10:30p.m. Monday in Lyon County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2020 Peterbilt semi driven by Yuriy Yuryevich Lendel, 35, Nixa, Missouri, was northbound on Interstate 70 just south of the Emporia exit.&nbsp;The semi drifted onto the shoulder and rear-ended a 2023 Peterbilt semi driven by Darrien Lorenzo Williams, 28, Houston, Texas, that was parked on the shoulder.Lendel was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Williams to Newman Regional Health. The drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

One dead, one injured after semi rear-ends semi on Kan. Turnpike

KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City man has been sentenced in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to commit nine armed robberies of local businesses in the summer of 2018, as well as an armed robbery in which a convenience store employee was beaten and then fatally shot.

Joe Lee Nichols, 30, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 45 years in federal prison without parole, according to the United State's Attorney.

On March 11, 2022, Nichols pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit robbery, three counts of robbery, and three counts of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Additionally, federal prosecutors used evidence of Nichols’s involvement in a tenth, uncharged armed robbery in which a person was killed as relevant conduct for determining his sentence.

Nichols admitted that he was part of a conspiracy to rob nine businesses at gunpoint between June 1 and July 18, 2018. Nichols also admitted that he was directly involved in the armed robbery of Boost Mobile, 5218 E. Truman Road, on June 12, 2018; the armed robbery of Arrowhead Inn, 6006 E.&nbsp; 31st&nbsp;Street, on July 2, 2018; and the armed robbery of Wood Springs Suites, 11301 Colorado Avenue, on July 14, 2018.

The government presented evidence at Nichols’s sentencing hearing that he was also involved in a tenth, uncharged, armed robbery of Inner-City Oil convenience store, 5901 Swope Parkway, on July 16, 2018. The court determined there was sufficient evidence of Nichols’s involvement to consider the robbery as relevant conduct, which impacted the court’s sentencing decision.

Video surveillance evidence introduced during the sentencing hearing indicated that Nichols pointed a handgun at an employee of Inner-City Oil, who resisted and engaged in a struggle for Nichols’s firearm. Nichols fired his gun multiple times before the employee fell to the floor. The employee then retrieved a handgun and began to fire back at Nichols. Nichols began to stomp and kick at the head and body of the employee, who was still lying on the floor. The employee lost his firearm, which was recovered by Nichols’s accomplice, who then used it to also shoot the store clerk. When they were unable to access the cash register, Nichols and his accomplice left the store. The employee can be seen on the surveillance video, still moving while lying on the floor, until eventually becoming motionless when he died from his injuries. A witness who saw their car leaving the area and discovered the body of the employee immediately called 911.

The surveillance video depicts Nichols leaning on an ice cream freezer with his left hand while assaulting the employee on the floor. Investigators determined that a palm print found on the ice cream freezer belonged to Nichols.&nbsp; Nichols was also identified by his appearance in other robbery videos and by several witnesses who viewed the Inner-City Oil video.

Nichols is the third defendant to be sentenced in this case. One additional co-defendant has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing and two other defendants remain set for trial in May 2023.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/2/1677514498917.png" alt="Police at the scene of the fatal armed robbery at Inner-City Oil convenience store, 5901 Swope Parkway in July of 2018 photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Police at the scene of the fatal armed robbery at Inner-City Oil convenience store, 5901 Swope Parkway in July of 2018 photo courtesy Fox4Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY— A Kansas City man has been sentenced in federal court for his role in a conspiracy to commit nine armed robberies of local businesses in the summer of 2018, as well as an armed robbery in which a convenience store employee was beaten and then fatally shot.Joe Lee Nichols, 30, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 45 years in federal prison without parole, according to the United State's Attorney.On March 11, 2022, Nichols pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit robbery, three counts of robbery, and three counts of using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Additionally, federal prosecutors used evidence of Nichols’s involvement in a tenth, uncharged armed robbery in which a person was killed as relevant conduct for determining his sentence.Nichols admitted that he was part of a conspiracy to rob nine businesses at gunpoint between June 1 and July 18, 2018. Nichols also admitted that he was directly involved in the armed robbery of Boost Mobile, 5218 E. Truman Road, on June 12, 2018; the armed robbery of Arrowhead Inn, 6006 E.&nbsp; 31st&nbsp;Street, on July 2, 2018; and the armed robbery of Wood Springs Suites, 11301 Colorado Avenue, on July 14, 2018.The government presented evidence at Nichols’s sentencing hearing that he was also involved in a tenth, uncharged, armed robbery of Inner-City Oil convenience store, 5901 Swope Parkway, on July 16, 2018. The court determined there was sufficient evidence of Nichols’s involvement to consider the robbery as relevant conduct, which impacted the court’s sentencing decision.Video surveillance evidence introduced during the sentencing hearing indicated that Nichols pointed a handgun at an employee of Inner-City Oil, who resisted and engaged in a struggle for Nichols’s firearm. Nichols fired his gun multiple times before the employee fell to the floor. The employee then retrieved a handgun and began to fire back at Nichols. Nichols began to stomp and kick at the head and body of the employee, who was still lying on the floor. The employee lost his firearm, which was recovered by Nichols’s accomplice, who then used it to also shoot the store clerk. When they were unable to access the cash register, Nichols and his accomplice left the store. The employee can be seen on the surveillance video, still moving while lying on the floor, until eventually becoming motionless when he died from his injuries. A witness who saw their car leaving the area and discovered the body of the employee immediately called 911.The surveillance video depicts Nichols leaning on an ice cream freezer with his left hand while assaulting the employee on the floor. Investigators determined that a palm print found on the ice cream freezer belonged to Nichols.&nbsp; Nichols was also identified by his appearance in other robbery videos and by several witnesses who viewed the Inner-City Oil video.Nichols is the third defendant to be sentenced in this case. One additional co-defendant has pleaded guilty and awaits sentencing and two other defendants remain set for trial in May 2023.

Kansas City man sentenced for 9 armed robberies 

SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused in a fatal September shooting made a first court appearance this week.

Michael Austin, Jr., 38, Wichita, was charged with 2nd degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. 

Amyion Mcdowell-Mitchell, 18, died in that shooting that occurred following an argument during a party at a home in the 5000 block of Osie in Wichita, according to Wichita Police. Security camera images showed a suspect running from the scene of the crime.

Austin remains in custody on a $250,000 bond.&nbsp; He is due back in court March 13, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677943190851.png" alt="Image from the security camera video released by police" />
 <figcaption>Image from the security camera video released by police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—A Kansas man accused in a fatal September shooting made a first court appearance this week.Michael Austin, Jr., 38, Wichita, was charged with 2nd degree murder, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677942669452.png" alt="Austin-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Austin-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Amyion Mcdowell-Mitchell, 18, died in that shooting that occurred following an argument during a party at a home in the 5000 block of Osie in Wichita, according to Wichita Police. Security camera images showed a suspect running from the scene of the crime.Austin remains in custody on a $250,000 bond.&nbsp; He is due back in court March 13, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. suspect seen on security camera charged with murder

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Wyandotte County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ducati motorcycle driven by Jacob Keith, 29, Kansas City, Mo. was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Missouri State line.

The driver lost control of the motorcycle. It left the roadway to the right and fell off the overpass. Keith was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 3p.m. Monday in Wyandotte County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2013 Ducati motorcycle driven by Jacob Keith, 29, Kansas City, Mo. was eastbound on Interstate 70 just west of the Missouri State line.The driver lost control of the motorcycle. It left the roadway to the right and fell off the overpass. Keith was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Frontier Forensics. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Man dies after motorcycle falls off I-70 overpass in Kansas

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a weekend homicide in Sedgwick County.

Just before 11:30p.m. Saturday, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the area of 4200 S. Clifton to check the welfare of an individual lying in the street, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.

First responders found several bystanders who were providing aid to an individual. The victim has been identified as Evan Harrison, a 24-year-old white male of Wichita.

 Harrison was found to have a gunshot wound and was transported to a local hospital where he later died. This is believed to be an isolated incident.

The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is looking for anyone who may have information about this incident or who may have had contact with Harrison prior to the incident.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a weekend homicide in Sedgwick County.Just before 11:30p.m. Saturday, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to the area of 4200 S. Clifton to check the welfare of an individual lying in the street, according to Sheriff Jeff Easter.First responders found several bystanders who were providing aid to an individual. The victim has been identified as Evan Harrison, a 24-year-old white male of Wichita. Harrison was found to have a gunshot wound and was transported to a local hospital where he later died. This is believed to be an isolated incident.The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is looking for anyone who may have information about this incident or who may have had contact with Harrison prior to the incident.

Homicide: Kan. man found in the street died of gunshot wound

BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 9p.m. Sunday in Butler County.

According to Butler County Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff, a Nissan Pathfinder driven by a 23-year-old from Andover was westbound on SW 70th just east of Andover. The driver made a left turn to travel south on SW Prairie Creed Road in front of an eastbound motorcycle driven by Shane Bushey, 32, of rural Towanda.

The motorcycle struck the SUV at the intersection. Bushey was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; He was wearing a helmet, according to Cundiff. Authorities are working to determine if alcohol was a factor in the crash, according to Cundiff.

BUTLER COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal crash that occurred just before 9p.m. Sunday in Butler County.According to Butler County Undersheriff Daimon Cundiff, a Nissan Pathfinder driven by a 23-year-old from Andover was westbound on SW 70th just east of Andover. The driver made a left turn to travel south on SW Prairie Creed Road in front of an eastbound motorcycle driven by Shane Bushey, 32, of rural Towanda.The motorcycle struck the SUV at the intersection. Bushey was pronounced dead at the scene.&nbsp; He was wearing a helmet, according to Cundiff. Authorities are working to determine if alcohol was a factor in the crash, according to Cundiff.

Sheriff investigating SUV, motorcycle crash that killed Kan. man

CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico (AP) — Gunmen kidnapped four U.S. citizens who crossed into Mexico from Texas last week to buy medicine but were caught in a shootout that killed at least one Mexican citizen, U.S. and Mexican officials said Monday.

The four were in a white minivan with North Carolina license plates. They came under fire on Friday shortly after entering the city of Matamoros from Brownsville, the southernmost tip of Texas near the Gulf coast, the FBI San Antonio Division office said in a statement Sunday.

“All four Americans were placed in a vehicle and taken from the scene by armed men,” the office said. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for the victims' return and the arrest of the kidnappers.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said Monday the four were going to buy medicine, “there was a confrontation between groups, and they were detained,” without offering details.

A woman driving in Matamoros saw what appeared to be the shooting and abduction. She asked not to be identified for fear of reprisal.

The scene illustrates the terror that has prevailed for years in Matamoros, a city dominated by factions of the Gulf cartel who often&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/caribbean-mexico-shootings-health-coronavirus-pandemic-046b8c762155f8b5e5a3f24185d37a5b">fight among themselves</a>. Amid the violence, thousands of Mexicans have disappeared just in Tamaulipas state, where Matamoros is located.

The woman said she saw the white minivan get hit by another vehicle near an intersection, then gunfire rang out.

Another SUV rolled up and several armed men hopped out.

“All of a sudden they (the gunmen) were in front of us,” she said. “I entered a state of shock, nobody honked their horn, nobody moved. Everybody must have been thinking the same thing, ‘if we move they will see us, or they might shoot us.’”

She said the gunmen forced a woman, who was able to walk, into the back of a pickup truck. Another person was carried to the truck by the gunmen but could still move his head.

“The other two they dragged across the pavement, we don't know if they were alive or dead,” she said.

Mexican authorities arrived minutes later.

A video posted to social media Friday shows men with assault rifles and tan body armor loading the four people into the bed of a pickup truck in broad daylight. One was alive and sitting up, but the others appeared to be either dead or wounded.

Shootouts in Matamoros on Friday were so bad that the U.S. Consulate issued an alert about the danger and local authorities warned people to shelter in place. It was not immediately clear how the abductions could have been connected to that violence Friday.

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar said in a statement Monday that the Americans were kidnapped at gunpoint and an “innocent” Mexican citizen died in the attack. He said various U.S. justice agencies were working with their Mexican counterparts to recover the missing. Authorities have provided no other details about who the victims were or where they were from.

President Joe Biden had been informed of the situation, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Monday. She declined to answer other questions, citing privacy concerns.

Tamaulipas state police said people had been killed and injured Friday, but not how many. The state police said on social media that neither law enforcement nor the military were involved in “two armed incidents between unidentified civilians.”

Victims of violence in Matamoros and other large border cities of Tamaulipas often go uncounted, because the cartels have a history taking bodies of their own with them. Local media often avoid reporting on such incidents out of safety concerns, creating an information vacuum.

Photographs from the scene viewed by The Associated Press show a white minivan with the driver’s side window shot out and all of the doors open, sitting on the side of the road after apparently colliding with red SUV. Multiple people were lying in the street beside it surrounded by rifle-toting gunmen.

Their positions appeared to correspond with the video posted online that was taken from another angle, which showed them being dragged across the street and loaded into the bed of a white pickup. One person who was sitting up in the street walks under their own power to the pickup. At least one other appeared to lift his head from the pavement before being dragged to the truck.

Tamaulipas state’s many border crossings with Texas make it lucrative for the cartels that move drugs, migrants and guns between Mexico and the U.S.

The State Department’s travel warning for Tamaulipas warns U.S. citizens not to travel there. However, being a border city, U.S. citizens who live in Brownsville or elsewhere in Texas frequently cross to visit family, attend medical appointments or shop. It would also be a crossing point for people traveling deeper into Mexico.

Previously, as the headquarters of the powerful Gulf cartel, Matamoros was relatively calm. For years, a night out in Matamoros was also part of the “two-nation vacation” for spring breakers flocking to Texas’ South Padre Island.

But increased cartel violence over the past 10 to 15 years&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-immigration-donald-trump-caribbean-international-news-d3f0b97ae09d49f9842a92c20a70f20a">frightened away much of that business.</a>&nbsp;Sometimes U.S. citizens are swept up in the violence.

Three U.S. siblings disappeared near Matamoros in October 2014 and were later found shot to death and burned. They had disappeared two weeks earlier while visiting their father in Mexico. Their parents said they had been abducted by men dressed in police gear identifying themselves as “Hercules,” a tactical security unit in the violent border city.

CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico (AP) — Gunmen kidnapped four U.S. citizens who crossed into Mexico from Texas last week to buy medicine but were caught in a shootout that killed at least one Mexican citizen, U.S. and Mexican officials said Monday.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ALERT: U.S. Consulate General Matamoros, México (March 3, 2023) <a href="https://t.co/m9o23gPsQx">https://t.co/m9o23gPsQx</a> <a href="https://t.co/nLDz143Eb2">pic.twitter.com/nLDz143Eb2</a>&mdash; Embajada EU en Mex (@USEmbassyMEX) <a href="https://twitter.com/USEmbassyMEX/status/1631772375430709249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The four were in a white minivan with North Carolina license plates. They came under fire on Friday shortly after entering the city of Matamoros from Brownsville, the southernmost tip of Texas near the Gulf coast, the FBI San Antonio Division office said in a statement Sunday.“All four Americans were placed in a vehicle and taken from the scene by armed men,” the office said. The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for the victims' return and the arrest of the kidnappers.Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador said Monday the four were going to buy medicine, “there was a confrontation between groups, and they were detained,” without offering details.A woman driving in Matamoros saw what appeared to be the shooting and abduction. She asked not to be identified for fear of reprisal.The scene illustrates the terror that has prevailed for years in Matamoros, a city dominated by factions of the Gulf cartel who often&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/caribbean-mexico-shootings-health-coronavirus-pandemic-046b8c762155f8b5e5a3f24185d37a5b">fight among themselves</a>. Amid the violence, thousands of Mexicans have disappeared just in Tamaulipas state, where Matamoros is located.The woman said she saw the white minivan get hit by another vehicle near an intersection, then gunfire rang out.Another SUV rolled up and several armed men hopped out.“All of a sudden they (the gunmen) were in front of us,” she said. “I entered a state of shock, nobody honked their horn, nobody moved. Everybody must have been thinking the same thing, ‘if we move they will see us, or they might shoot us.’”She said the gunmen forced a woman, who was able to walk, into the back of a pickup truck. Another person was carried to the truck by the gunmen but could still move his head.“The other two they dragged across the pavement, we don't know if they were alive or dead,” she said.Mexican authorities arrived minutes later.A video posted to social media Friday shows men with assault rifles and tan body armor loading the four people into the bed of a pickup truck in broad daylight. One was alive and sitting up, but the others appeared to be either dead or wounded.Shootouts in Matamoros on Friday were so bad that the U.S. Consulate issued an alert about the danger and local authorities warned people to shelter in place. It was not immediately clear how the abductions could have been connected to that violence Friday.U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar said in a statement Monday that the Americans were kidnapped at gunpoint and an “innocent” Mexican citizen died in the attack. He said various U.S. justice agencies were working with their Mexican counterparts to recover the missing. Authorities have provided no other details about who the victims were or where they were from.President Joe Biden had been informed of the situation, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Monday. She declined to answer other questions, citing privacy concerns.Tamaulipas state police said people had been killed and injured Friday, but not how many. The state police said on social media that neither law enforcement nor the military were involved in “two armed incidents between unidentified civilians.”Victims of violence in Matamoros and other large border cities of Tamaulipas often go uncounted, because the cartels have a history taking bodies of their own with them. Local media often avoid reporting on such incidents out of safety concerns, creating an information vacuum.Photographs from the scene viewed by The Associated Press show a white minivan with the driver’s side window shot out and all of the doors open, sitting on the side of the road after apparently colliding with red SUV. Multiple people were lying in the street beside it surrounded by rifle-toting gunmen.Their positions appeared to correspond with the video posted online that was taken from another angle, which showed them being dragged across the street and loaded into the bed of a white pickup. One person who was sitting up in the street walks under their own power to the pickup. At least one other appeared to lift his head from the pavement before being dragged to the truck.Tamaulipas state’s many border crossings with Texas make it lucrative for the cartels that move drugs, migrants and guns between Mexico and the U.S.The State Department’s travel warning for Tamaulipas warns U.S. citizens not to travel there. However, being a border city, U.S. citizens who live in Brownsville or elsewhere in Texas frequently cross to visit family, attend medical appointments or shop. It would also be a crossing point for people traveling deeper into Mexico.Previously, as the headquarters of the powerful Gulf cartel, Matamoros was relatively calm. For years, a night out in Matamoros was also part of the “two-nation vacation” for spring breakers flocking to Texas’ South Padre Island.But increased cartel violence over the past 10 to 15 years&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mexico-immigration-donald-trump-caribbean-international-news-d3f0b97ae09d49f9842a92c20a70f20a">frightened away much of that business.</a>&nbsp;Sometimes U.S. citizens are swept up in the violence.Three U.S. siblings disappeared near Matamoros in October 2014 and were later found shot to death and burned. They had disappeared two weeks earlier while visiting their father in Mexico. Their parents said they had been abducted by men dressed in police gear identifying themselves as “Hercules,” a tactical security unit in the violent border city.

FBI: 4 kidnapped Americans crossed into Mexico to buy medicine

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident during a police chase in Montgomery County.

Just before 8a.m. Monday, a police officer was running school zone traffic at 1st and McGee in Caney, according to a media release.  This School Crossing is where most of the Caney&nbsp; students cross the street. 

 The Caney Officer clocked a black SUV at 80mph in a 20 mph school zone headed north on McGee Street. 

It was later to be determined that the vehicle was a 2006 Jeep SUV belonging to Richard Bresson of Bartlesville Okla.  Bresson was later identified as the driver of the SUV. The Officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but it continued at a high rate of speed northbound out of Caney. 

 The vehicle was observed running the stop signs at the 4 way stop at U.S.75 and U.S. 166 North of Caney before proceeding North on 75 Highway. 

Caney P.D. continued to chase the vehicle at speeds up to 120 M.P.H.  The suspect vehicle was driving erratically, weaving in and out of traffic, while continuing to attempt to elude officers.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the chase and set up stop sticks in the area of CR 3800 and 75 Highway.  The suspect’s vehicle struck the stop sticks which flattened one tire on the fleeing vehicle but continued northbound on 75 Highway and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office took over the pursuit.

At the intersection of 75 and U.S. 160 the vehicle failed to negotiate the intersection and continued North at the T intersection.  The suspect vehicle traveled north into a tree thicket, ultimately landing upside down. 

 The driver was trapped inside the vehicle and had to be extricated from the vehicle by Independence Rural Fire, before being life flighted to a hospital in Tulsa, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The driver faces requested charges of driving 80 in a 20 MPH School Zone, 125 mph in a 65 mph zone; Reckless driving; Felony Attempt to Elude a Police Officer; Failure to yield at stop sign; Driving left of center; Passing in a no passing zone; Failure to maintain lane; Aggravated assault with a motor vehicle and Improper lane change.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Monday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Jeep driven by&nbsp; Richard Damon&nbsp; Bresson, 38, Miami, Oklahoma, was being perused by law enforcement approaching the U.S. 75 and the U.S. 160 T Intersection one mile west of Independence, Kansas.

The driver failed to slow for the intersection.&nbsp; The Jeep crossed through the intersection, entered a tree line, rolled multiple times came to rest on its top.

&nbsp;Bresson was airlifted to St. John's Hospital in Tulsa. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Authorities did not released details on what prompted the chase.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678130594020.png" alt="photo courtesy Caney Police" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Caney Police</figcaption>
 </figure>MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident during a police chase in Montgomery County.Just before 8a.m. Monday, a police officer was running school zone traffic at 1st and McGee in Caney, according to a media release. This School Crossing is where most of the Caney&nbsp; students cross the street. The Caney Officer clocked a black SUV at 80mph in a 20 mph school zone headed north on McGee Street. It was later to be determined that the vehicle was a 2006 Jeep SUV belonging to Richard Bresson of Bartlesville Okla. Bresson was later identified as the driver of the SUV. The Officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but it continued at a high rate of speed northbound out of Caney. The vehicle was observed running the stop signs at the 4 way stop at U.S.75 and U.S. 166 North of Caney before proceeding North on 75 Highway. Caney P.D. continued to chase the vehicle at speeds up to 120 M.P.H. The suspect vehicle was driving erratically, weaving in and out of traffic, while continuing to attempt to elude officers.The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the chase and set up stop sticks in the area of CR 3800 and 75 Highway. The suspect’s vehicle struck the stop sticks which flattened one tire on the fleeing vehicle but continued northbound on 75 Highway and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office took over the pursuit.At the intersection of 75 and U.S. 160 the vehicle failed to negotiate the intersection and continued North at the T intersection. The suspect vehicle traveled north into a tree thicket, ultimately landing upside down. The driver was trapped inside the vehicle and had to be extricated from the vehicle by Independence Rural Fire, before being life flighted to a hospital in Tulsa, according to the Kansas Highway Patrol.The driver faces requested charges of driving 80 in a 20 MPH School Zone, 125 mph in a 65 mph zone; Reckless driving; Felony Attempt to Elude a Police Officer; Failure to yield at stop sign; Driving left of center; Passing in a no passing zone; Failure to maintain lane; Aggravated assault with a motor vehicle and Improper lane change.----------------MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Monday in Montgomery County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Jeep driven by&nbsp; Richard Damon&nbsp; Bresson, 38, Miami, Oklahoma, was being perused by law enforcement approaching the U.S. 75 and the U.S. 160 T Intersection one mile west of Independence, Kansas.The driver failed to slow for the intersection.&nbsp; The Jeep crossed through the intersection, entered a tree line, rolled multiple times came to rest on its top.&nbsp;Bresson was airlifted to St. John's Hospital in Tulsa. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.&nbsp; Authorities did not released details on what prompted the chase.

 Driver hospitalized after chase was driving 80 mph in Kan. school zone

NASHVILLE (AP) —Gary Rossington, a co-founder and last surviving original member of Lynyrd Skynyrd who helped write the classic answer song&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iL-jC7XyLeo">“Sweet Home Alabama”</a>&nbsp;and played unforgettable slide guitar on the rock anthem&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqnU_sJ8V-E">“Free Bird,”</a>&nbsp;died Sunday at age 71. No cause of death was given.

“It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today,” the band&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LynyrdSkynyrd/">wrote on Facebook</a>. “Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does."

Rossington cheated death more than once. He survived a car accident in 1976 in which he drove his Ford Torino into a tree, inspiring the band’s song “That Smell.” A year later, he survived the plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backing vocalist Cassie Gaines, with multiple broken bones and internal injuries.

In later years, Rossington underwent quintuple bypass surgery in 2003, suffered a heart attack in 2015, and had numerous subsequent heart surgeries, most recently leaving Lynyrd Skynyrd in July 2021 to recover from another procedure. At recent shows, Rossington would perform portions of the concert and sometimes sat out full gigs.

Rossington was born Dec. 4, 1951, in Jacksonville, Florida, and raised by his mother after his father died. Upon meeting drummer Bob Burns and bassist Larry Junstrom, Rossington and his new friends formed a band, which they tried to juggle amid their love of baseball.

According to their bio in the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame, it was during a fateful Little League game, Ronnie Van Zant hit a line drive into the shoulder blades of spectator Bob Burns and met his future bandmates. Rossington, Burns, Van Zant, and guitarist Allen Collins later gathered at Burns’ Jacksonville home to jam the Rolling Stone’s “Time Is on My Side.”

Adopting Lynyrd Skynyrd as the group’s name — both a reference to a similarly named sports coach at Rossington’s high school and to a character in the 1963 novelty hit “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh” — the band released their debut album "Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-’nérd" in 1973. A collection of country-tinged blues-rock and Southern soul, the album included now-classics like “Tuesday’s Gone,” “Simple Man” and “Gimme Three Steps,” but it was the closing track, the nearly 10-minute “Free Bird,” that became the group’s calling card, due in no small part to Rossington’s evocative slide playing on his Gibson SG.

“Radio didn’t play ‘Free Bird.’ It was on the first album. Back then, it was too long," Rossington told the AP in 1993. "We went back to clubs for enough money to get us to the next club. That went on for a year. We made ‘Second Helping.’ It had ‘Sweet Home Alabama.’ It made the charts. We didn’t know what the charts meant.”

Written by Rossington, Van Zant and Ed King, none of whom were from Alabama, the complicated legacy of “Sweet Home Alabama” followed the band for decades. It was originally written as a response to Neil Young's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVG7U9UDi2E">“Alabama”</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5FCcDEA6mY">“Southern Man,”</a>&nbsp;a critical rebuke of slavery in the South. “Sweet Home Alabama” references both Young and Alabama Gov. George Wallace, but Rossington offered some perspective on those ambiguous lines in a documentary called “If We Leave Here Tomorrow: A Documentary About Lynyrd Skynyrd.”

“A lot of people believed in segregation and all that. We didn’t. We put the ‘boo, boo, boo’ there saying, ‘We don’t like Wallace,’” Rossington said. But he added: "I’m sure if you asked the other guys who are not with us anymore and are up in rock and roll heaven, they have their story of how it came about.”

Young liked the song and wrote in his memoir “Waging Heavy Peace” that his song “Alabama” deserved the shot from Lynyrd Skynyrd. “I don’t like my words when I listen to it. They are accusatory and condescending, not fully thought out, and too easy to misconstrue," he wrote.

Still the band regularly used the Confederate flag in their live shows for decades. Rossington in 2012 told CNN that the band would stop using the flag in shows because of its association with hate groups, but then walked back the comment to say they would continue to use the Confederate flag, alongside the state flag of Alabama and the American flag.

A decade after the plane crash, the band reformed for tribute shows after promoters begged them to tour again. Rossington told the AP in 1991 that getting back together and the idea of writing new songs was scary. “We took time making our minds up (that) we wanted to keep going," said Rossington.

Singer Johnny Van Zant took over his older brother's role in the reunited band in 1987 along with returning members Rossington, King, Leon Wilkeson, Artimus Pyle and Billy Powell. The band's lineup has continued to change in the decades since, with Rossington remaining as one of the sole founders.

“We had a dream,” Rossington told the AP. “That was to make it big like the Beatles or Stones and we did and then what happened happened. Now we’re the only people to carry on for the dreamers.”

NASHVILLE (AP) —Gary Rossington, a co-founder and last surviving original member of Lynyrd Skynyrd who helped write the classic answer song&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iL-jC7XyLeo">“Sweet Home Alabama”</a>&nbsp;and played unforgettable slide guitar on the rock anthem&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CqnU_sJ8V-E">“Free Bird,”</a>&nbsp;died Sunday at age 71. No cause of death was given.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FLynyrdSkynyrd%2Fposts%2Fpfbid02jkWSTqfygP7cVGb4dWBge5ggpWTQRf6MmVwozNhaWQ8McgqTHEs4sWKYdwwswyrCl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="292" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>“It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today,” the band&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LynyrdSkynyrd/">wrote on Facebook</a>. “Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does."Rossington cheated death more than once. He survived a car accident in 1976 in which he drove his Ford Torino into a tree, inspiring the band’s song “That Smell.” A year later, he survived the plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, and backing vocalist Cassie Gaines, with multiple broken bones and internal injuries.In later years, Rossington underwent quintuple bypass surgery in 2003, suffered a heart attack in 2015, and had numerous subsequent heart surgeries, most recently leaving Lynyrd Skynyrd in July 2021 to recover from another procedure. At recent shows, Rossington would perform portions of the concert and sometimes sat out full gigs.Rossington was born Dec. 4, 1951, in Jacksonville, Florida, and raised by his mother after his father died. Upon meeting drummer Bob Burns and bassist Larry Junstrom, Rossington and his new friends formed a band, which they tried to juggle amid their love of baseball.According to their bio in the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame, it was during a fateful Little League game, Ronnie Van Zant hit a line drive into the shoulder blades of spectator Bob Burns and met his future bandmates. Rossington, Burns, Van Zant, and guitarist Allen Collins later gathered at Burns’ Jacksonville home to jam the Rolling Stone’s “Time Is on My Side.”Adopting Lynyrd Skynyrd as the group’s name — both a reference to a similarly named sports coach at Rossington’s high school and to a character in the 1963 novelty hit “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh” — the band released their debut album "Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-’nérd" in 1973. A collection of country-tinged blues-rock and Southern soul, the album included now-classics like “Tuesday’s Gone,” “Simple Man” and “Gimme Three Steps,” but it was the closing track, the nearly 10-minute “Free Bird,” that became the group’s calling card, due in no small part to Rossington’s evocative slide playing on his Gibson SG.“Radio didn’t play ‘Free Bird.’ It was on the first album. Back then, it was too long," Rossington told the AP in 1993. "We went back to clubs for enough money to get us to the next club. That went on for a year. We made ‘Second Helping.’ It had ‘Sweet Home Alabama.’ It made the charts. We didn’t know what the charts meant.”Written by Rossington, Van Zant and Ed King, none of whom were from Alabama, the complicated legacy of “Sweet Home Alabama” followed the band for decades. It was originally written as a response to Neil Young's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVG7U9UDi2E">“Alabama”</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5FCcDEA6mY">“Southern Man,”</a>&nbsp;a critical rebuke of slavery in the South. “Sweet Home Alabama” references both Young and Alabama Gov. George Wallace, but Rossington offered some perspective on those ambiguous lines in a documentary called “If We Leave Here Tomorrow: A Documentary About Lynyrd Skynyrd.”“A lot of people believed in segregation and all that. We didn’t. We put the ‘boo, boo, boo’ there saying, ‘We don’t like Wallace,’” Rossington said. But he added: "I’m sure if you asked the other guys who are not with us anymore and are up in rock and roll heaven, they have their story of how it came about.”Young liked the song and wrote in his memoir “Waging Heavy Peace” that his song “Alabama” deserved the shot from Lynyrd Skynyrd. “I don’t like my words when I listen to it. They are accusatory and condescending, not fully thought out, and too easy to misconstrue," he wrote.Still the band regularly used the Confederate flag in their live shows for decades. Rossington in 2012 told CNN that the band would stop using the flag in shows because of its association with hate groups, but then walked back the comment to say they would continue to use the Confederate flag, alongside the state flag of Alabama and the American flag.A decade after the plane crash, the band reformed for tribute shows after promoters begged them to tour again. Rossington told the AP in 1991 that getting back together and the idea of writing new songs was scary. “We took time making our minds up (that) we wanted to keep going," said Rossington.Singer Johnny Van Zant took over his older brother's role in the reunited band in 1987 along with returning members Rossington, King, Leon Wilkeson, Artimus Pyle and Billy Powell. The band's lineup has continued to change in the decades since, with Rossington remaining as one of the sole founders.“We had a dream,” Rossington told the AP. “That was to make it big like the Beatles or Stones and we did and then what happened happened. Now we’re the only people to carry on for the dreamers.”__

Lynyrd Skynyrd’s last surviving original member has died

DICKINSON COUNTY— Lw enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a chase on Interstate 70.

Just after noon Thursday, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop with a 2021 Toyota passenger car for traffic infractions on Interstate 70 in Dickinson County, according to sheriff Jerry Davis.

The Toyota accelerated rapidly in an attempt to flee and the deputy initiated a pursuit. The Toyota swerved toward patrol vehicles during the pursuit and then exited Interstate 70 and went south on Jeep Road. 

The Toyota attempted to turn onto a gravel driveway in the 2000 Block of Jeep Road but crashed into the ditch and then proceeded to drive into a field. 

The vehicle eventually came to a stop and the male driver later identified as 37-year-old Joel Edward Hayes of Colorado Springs exited the vehicle ran but was apprehended after a short distance.

&nbsp;A passenger in the vehicle identified as 29-year-old Brenna Alison Fitzgerald of Peyton Colorado was taken into custody and transported to the Abilene Hospital due to injuries received when the Toyota traveled through the ditch.&nbsp;

Further investigation resulted in the recovery of numerous stolen tools from Colorado Springs, two firearms, over 9,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills believed to contain fentanyl, 1.4 lbs of methamphetamine, 84 grams of heroin, 34 grams of marijuana, and numerous items of drug paraphernalia.

Deputies booked Hayes into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute opioids, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, aggravated battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of stolen property, criminal damage to property, and aggravated assault on a Law Enforcement Office. Hayes was also arrested on a warrant that was issued in El Paso County, Colorado for fail to appear on drug and weapon related charges.

&nbsp;After her treatment at the hospital, Fitzgerald was booked into the Dickinson County jail on requested charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute opioids, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal possession of a weapon, possession of stolen property.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1678114370566.png" alt="Hayes-photo Dickinson Co." />
 <figcaption>Hayes-photo Dickinson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY— Lw enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple allegations after a chase on Interstate 70.Just after noon Thursday, a sheriff's deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop with a 2021 Toyota passenger car for traffic infractions on Interstate 70 in Dickinson County, according to sheriff Jerry Davis.The Toyota accelerated rapidly in an attempt to flee and the deputy initiated a pursuit. The Toyota swerved toward patrol vehicles during the pursuit and then exited Interstate 70 and went south on Jeep Road. The Toyota attempted to turn onto a gravel driveway in the 2000 Block of Jeep Road but crashed into the ditch and then proceeded to drive into a field. The vehicle eventually came to a stop and the male driver later identified as 37-year-old Joel Edward Hayes of Colorado Springs exited the vehicle ran but was apprehended after a short distance.&nbsp;A passenger in the vehicle identified as 29-year-old Brenna Alison Fitzgerald of Peyton Colorado was taken into custody and transported to the Abilene Hospital due to injuries received when the Toyota traveled through the ditch.&nbsp;Further investigation resulted in the recovery of numerous stolen tools from Colorado Springs, two firearms, over 9,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills believed to contain fentanyl, 1.4 lbs of methamphetamine, 84 grams of heroin, 34 grams of marijuana, and numerous items of drug paraphernalia.Deputies booked Hayes into the Dickinson County Jail on requested charges of flee or attempt to elude law enforcement, possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute opioids, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, aggravated battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of stolen property, criminal damage to property, and aggravated assault on a Law Enforcement Office. Hayes was also arrested on a warrant that was issued in El Paso County, Colorado for fail to appear on drug and weapon related charges.&nbsp;After her treatment at the hospital, Fitzgerald was booked into the Dickinson County jail on requested charges of possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute opioids, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal possession of a weapon, possession of stolen property.

Deputies find pills with fentanyl, stolen property after I-70 chase

By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/28/who-let-the-dogs-in-kansas-breweries-and-health-officials-clash-over-indoors-pet-ban/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas government officials clashed last week over education, with Gov.&nbsp;Laura Kelly promoting the full funding of special education and other politicians emphasizing private schools as a way to educate Kansas youths.

“I believe that they built schools before they built churches,” Kelly said during a Thursday Zoom meeting with education officials on special education funding. “If you’re from Kansas, you know what that means. That’s an incredibly high priority that Kansans put on education from the get-go. They even put it in the Constitution.”&nbsp;

Kelly has&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/21/kansas-governor-renews-push-to-invest-in-special-education-services/">done a series of events</a>&nbsp;to promote increased funding, as Kansas special education has been underfunded for years. Under Kansas law, the state has to provide 92% of the extra costs of special education, but the Legislature hasn’t met this requirement since 2011. The current level of funding sits around 71% statewide, according to the Kansas Association of School Boards. Districts have had to divert funds from general education programs to pay for special education costs.&nbsp;

Kelly’s proposed budget would add $72.4 million for special education every year for the next five years to meet the statutory requirement. While the federal government is supposed to provide up to 40% of the funding as stipulated by legislation passed in 1990, only about 13% has been provided.

Kelly said she was fully aware that the federal government needed to do more, and was working with other governors to address the issue with Washington lawmakers.&nbsp;

“I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to get that fully funded mechanism back in place out of Washington, DC but in the meantime, we still have a responsibility here,” Kelly said.&nbsp;

She urged concerned Kansans to get parents and legislators involved with their local special education programs and school systems. Funding public education in general hasn’t gained much traction in the Legislature, with several lawmakers expressing concern about public school content and transparency.

During a Thursday House K-12 Education Budget Committee hearing, Chair Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, gave a hearing on an education bill that will be gutted and reworked Monday, rendering testimony moot.

“Monday, we will work the empty shell of Senate Bill 83,” Williams said. “So that is Monday. The content, for those that asked, I told them, ‘Don’t even worry about the content,’ is what we’re having the hearing on today.”

The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb83/">original version of the bill&nbsp;</a>would have expanded eligibility for a private school scholarship tax credit program. Some people giving testimony said there were transparency issues with the gutting, given that they couldn’t accurately testify&nbsp;when they didn’t know the final content of the bill.

Kansas State Board of Education member Ann Mah spoke in support of public education and mentioned the lack of information.&nbsp;

“With the lack of transparency, we’re not really sure what you’re going to work, but I thought we might just remind you of a couple of things, and point out a couple of things and hope that what I talked about actually hits what you’re going to vote on,” Mah said during the hearing.&nbsp;

The committee has been criticized for a lack of transparency before, including when lawmakers&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/17/kansas-parental-rights-legislation-folded-into-unrelated-bill/">rolled parental rights legislation</a>&nbsp;into an unrelated bill without giving the public an opportunity to voice their concerns about the legislation.

Critics have said hasty hearings and the education bills worked by the committee, along with parental rights rhetoric, are meant to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/13/kansas-education-advocates-see-vouchers-and-hostility-as-attempts-to-undermine-public-schools/">promote distrust of school districts</a>&nbsp;and public education.

Williams and Vice Chair Rep. Brenda Landwehr, a Wichita Republican, pushed back on Mah’s transparency concerns. Landwehr emphasized the legality of the process.&nbsp;

“We’re just having a hearing on this bill because that’s the process so that then we have a shell,” Landwehr said. “There will not be anything put in that bill that really hasn’t been discussed in this committee. So it’ll be bills previously heard. And it’s legal. It’s been declared legal. And we’re fine to do that, so being accused of not being transparent is disingenuous.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1673623244745.png" alt="&nbsp;Special education programs have been underfunded for years. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Special education programs have been underfunded for years. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/28/who-let-the-dogs-in-kansas-breweries-and-health-officials-clash-over-indoors-pet-ban/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas government officials clashed last week over education, with Gov.&nbsp;Laura Kelly promoting the full funding of special education and other politicians emphasizing private schools as a way to educate Kansas youths.“I believe that they built schools before they built churches,” Kelly said during a Thursday Zoom meeting with education officials on special education funding. “If you’re from Kansas, you know what that means. That’s an incredibly high priority that Kansans put on education from the get-go. They even put it in the Constitution.”&nbsp;Kelly has&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/21/kansas-governor-renews-push-to-invest-in-special-education-services/">done a series of events</a>&nbsp;to promote increased funding, as Kansas special education has been underfunded for years. Under Kansas law, the state has to provide 92% of the extra costs of special education, but the Legislature hasn’t met this requirement since 2011. The current level of funding sits around 71% statewide, according to the Kansas Association of School Boards. Districts have had to divert funds from general education programs to pay for special education costs.&nbsp;Kelly’s proposed budget would add $72.4 million for special education every year for the next five years to meet the statutory requirement. While the federal government is supposed to provide up to 40% of the funding as stipulated by legislation passed in 1990, only about 13% has been provided.Kelly said she was fully aware that the federal government needed to do more, and was working with other governors to address the issue with Washington lawmakers.&nbsp;“I’ll continue to work with my colleagues to get that fully funded mechanism back in place out of Washington, DC but in the meantime, we still have a responsibility here,” Kelly said.&nbsp;She urged concerned Kansans to get parents and legislators involved with their local special education programs and school systems. Funding public education in general hasn’t gained much traction in the Legislature, with several lawmakers expressing concern about public school content and transparency.During a Thursday House K-12 Education Budget Committee hearing, Chair Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, gave a hearing on an education bill that will be gutted and reworked Monday, rendering testimony moot.“Monday, we will work the empty shell of Senate Bill 83,” Williams said. “So that is Monday. The content, for those that asked, I told them, ‘Don’t even worry about the content,’ is what we’re having the hearing on today.”The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2023_24/measures/sb83/">original version of the bill&nbsp;</a>would have expanded eligibility for a private school scholarship tax credit program. Some people giving testimony said there were transparency issues with the gutting, given that they couldn’t accurately testify&nbsp;when they didn’t know the final content of the bill.Kansas State Board of Education member Ann Mah spoke in support of public education and mentioned the lack of information.&nbsp;“With the lack of transparency, we’re not really sure what you’re going to work, but I thought we might just remind you of a couple of things, and point out a couple of things and hope that what I talked about actually hits what you’re going to vote on,” Mah said during the hearing.&nbsp;The committee has been criticized for a lack of transparency before, including when lawmakers&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/17/kansas-parental-rights-legislation-folded-into-unrelated-bill/">rolled parental rights legislation</a>&nbsp;into an unrelated bill without giving the public an opportunity to voice their concerns about the legislation.Critics have said hasty hearings and the education bills worked by the committee, along with parental rights rhetoric, are meant to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/02/13/kansas-education-advocates-see-vouchers-and-hostility-as-attempts-to-undermine-public-schools/">promote distrust of school districts</a>&nbsp;and public education.Williams and Vice Chair Rep. Brenda Landwehr, a Wichita Republican, pushed back on Mah’s transparency concerns. Landwehr emphasized the legality of the process.&nbsp;“We’re just having a hearing on this bill because that’s the process so that then we have a shell,” Landwehr said. “There will not be anything put in that bill that really hasn’t been discussed in this committee. So it’ll be bills previously heard. And it’s legal. It’s been declared legal. And we’re fine to do that, so being accused of not being transparent is disingenuous.”

As Kan. gov. emphasizes funding for special ed, lawmakers focus on private schools

Sheriff Brian C. Hill announces four females are in custody following the execution of a narcotics related search warrant in the 5300 block of SW Reeder Street this morning. Just after 9a.m. Friday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Task Force served a narcotics related search warrant in the 5300 block of SW Reeder Street.

During the search, deputies and officers located numerous illegal counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and multiple drug paraphernalia items.

The following individuals were located inside the residence and were arrested for outstanding warrants including 47-year-old Stacy D. Stinnett; 20-year-old Keanna D. Douglas, 20; 45-year-old Stephanie A. Graham all of Topeka.

Gisella K. Pryor, 56, of Topeka was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677937269445.png" alt="Stinnett-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Stinnett-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Sheriff Brian C. Hill announces four females are in custody following the execution of a narcotics related search warrant in the 5300 block of SW Reeder Street this morning. Just after 9a.m. Friday, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Task Force served a narcotics related search warrant in the 5300 block of SW Reeder Street.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677937530106.png" alt="Douglas-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Douglas-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the search, deputies and officers located numerous illegal counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and multiple drug paraphernalia items.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677937460286.png" alt="Graham-Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Graham-Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>The following individuals were located inside the residence and were arrested for outstanding warrants including 47-year-old Stacy D. Stinnett; 20-year-old Keanna D. Douglas, 20; 45-year-old Stephanie A. Graham all of Topeka. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677937410558.png" alt="Pryor-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Pryor-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Gisella K. Pryor, 56, of Topeka was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing of drug paraphernalia.

4 Kansas women arrested after search warrant at Kan. home

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Tens of thousands of Texans from the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth area routinely drive across the Red River to gamble in glitzy, Las Vegas-style tribal casinos or to relax at cabins or swim and ski in lakes that dot southern Oklahoma.

Soon, they could come north for another draw: recreational marijuana.

Oklahoma voters will decide Tuesday whether to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-marijuana-oklahoma-general-ee1bab3b4b25fda860d1477ac109e077">approve a ballot measure</a>&nbsp;that legalizes consuming the plant for adults 21 and older. The conservative state already has one of the nation's most robust medical marijuana programs, and industry proponents hope an influx of Texas consumers will be a boon for a market that's become saturated.

“There are thousands and thousands of Texans who are increasingly coming to Oklahoma as a tourist destination,” said Ryan Kiesel, a former state lawmaker and one of the organizers of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">State Question 820</a>. “I want to be able to sell legal, regulated and taxed marijuana to those Texans over the age of 21, and take their tax dollars and invest them in Oklahoma schools and Oklahoma health care.”

The population of the booming Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex alone — closing in on 8 million people — is nearly double that of the entire state of Oklahoma.

Oklahoma is expected to see an increase of $1.8 billion in recreational sales that would generate about $434 million in excise tax revenue alone from 2024 to 2028 if the measure passes, according to an&nbsp;<a href="https://vicentellp.com/img/content/downloads/An_Economic_Impact_and_Tax_Analysis_of_Oklahoma_State_Question_820.pdf">economic impact study</a>&nbsp;sponsored by the cannabis industry. By far the largest number of out-of-state consumers would be from Texas, followed by Arkansas and Kansas, the report shows.

Oklahoma already has one of the most liberal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-us-news-ap-top-news-ar-state-wire-health-58daeb2ed452710e03ea4542976a620a">medical marijuana programs</a>&nbsp;in the country, with roughly 10% of the state's adult population having a medical license. Unlike most other states, Oklahoma has no list of qualifying medical conditions, allows patients to get a recommendation from a doctor online, and gives licenses that are valid for two years.

Supporters of SQ 820 initially tried to get the question on the November ballot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-marijuana-special-oklahoma-e99404c21e880093fd2093d20581d5ff">delay in verifying the signatures</a>&nbsp;led to Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt calling for a special election just for that proposal.

People in the industry say Oklahoma's low barrier to entry led to thousands of licensed growers, processors and dispensary operators competing for a limited number of patients. While inflation is causing the cost of many products to go up, marijuana prices at dispensaries have plummeted, and many operators are going out of business. A website for cannabis-related sales shows thousands of Oklahoma grow operations and dispensaries up for sale.

"They allowed for a free-market cannabis industry, and that’s what everyone wanted, but now we need more customers,” said Chip Baker, a grower who also runs a marijuana garden supply shop in Oklahoma City. “There needs to be an influx of people here to buy this product. It’s just simple math.”

Kevin Pattah, a Michigan native who came to Oklahoma to get into the cannabis business, now operates six Mango Cannabis retail locations across the state. He said the price of 1-gram cartridges of marijuana concentrate that retailed for $60-$70 in 2019 is now going for $20. Prices for marijuana flower and other products also have plunged.

“There’s so much product on the market, and there’s only so much demand. It hurts everyone,” said Pattah, whose dispensary features a prominent digital screen with a countdown to Tuesday's vote. "We've felt the heat as well.

“Our average ticket was $130 at one point. Now they're spending an average of $60. So, it's less than half now.”

Pattah said the expansion of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-marijuana-nd-state-wire-utah-mo-state-wire-fc8269d59d084ceab360f2fcd9456ec6">legalized sales in Michigan in 2018</a>&nbsp;was a huge boon to medical operators in that state, particularly those who ran dispensaries near its border with Ohio and Indiana.

While many in Oklahoma's cannabis industry are eager for recreational sales, opponents include a group of clergy, law enforcement and prosecutors led by former Republican Gov. Frank Keating, an ex-FBI agent. Current Gov. Kevin Stitt and nearly all the Republicans in the Oklahoma Senate also have announced their opposition.

Opponents cite an increase in the amount of Oklahoma marijuana being exported out of state and sold on the black market, as well as criminal activity associated with some marijuana grows, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-shootings-marijuana-homicide-oklahoma-f6922f0e9b96cac4b25867bf698be6e9">execution-style slayings of four Chinese nationals</a>&nbsp;at an illegal marijuana farm in rural Oklahoma.

“SQ 820 throws a match into the middle of what already is a powder keg in rural Oklahoma,” said Logan County Sheriff Damon Devereaux, president of the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association.

Not everyone in law enforcement is overly concerned about legalized marijuana. Sheriff Ray Sappington in Cooke County, Texas, which borders Oklahoma and includes a major north-south interstate, I-35, said that while his deputies may end up arresting more people for bringing marijuana into Texas from Oklahoma, it's not his top priority.

“Our issues are not marijuana, to be honest with you,” said Sappington, who said most people caught with less than 2 ounces of cannabis are issued a citation and released. “Fentanyl is so deadly, and we're facing that all across the nation. That's the battle. It's not marijuana.”

Still, marijuana legalization is a non-starter in the Texas Capitol and is poised to stay that way as Republican Gov. Greg Abbott settles into a new four-year term. That has left marijuana supporters in Texas looking elsewhere — including with ballot measures in some cities. In November, five Texas cities approved referendums to decriminalize marijuana possession. One was Denton, less than an hour’s drive from the Oklahoma border.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/3/1677941306901.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Tens of thousands of Texans from the bustling Dallas-Fort Worth area routinely drive across the Red River to gamble in glitzy, Las Vegas-style tribal casinos or to relax at cabins or swim and ski in lakes that dot southern Oklahoma.Soon, they could come north for another draw: recreational marijuana.Oklahoma voters will decide Tuesday whether to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/elections-marijuana-oklahoma-general-ee1bab3b4b25fda860d1477ac109e077">approve a ballot measure</a>&nbsp;that legalizes consuming the plant for adults 21 and older. The conservative state already has one of the nation's most robust medical marijuana programs, and industry proponents hope an influx of Texas consumers will be a boon for a market that's become saturated.“There are thousands and thousands of Texans who are increasingly coming to Oklahoma as a tourist destination,” said Ryan Kiesel, a former state lawmaker and one of the organizers of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sos.ok.gov/documents/questions/820.pdf">State Question 820</a>. “I want to be able to sell legal, regulated and taxed marijuana to those Texans over the age of 21, and take their tax dollars and invest them in Oklahoma schools and Oklahoma health care.”The population of the booming Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex alone — closing in on 8 million people — is nearly double that of the entire state of Oklahoma.Oklahoma is expected to see an increase of $1.8 billion in recreational sales that would generate about $434 million in excise tax revenue alone from 2024 to 2028 if the measure passes, according to an&nbsp;<a href="https://vicentellp.com/img/content/downloads/An_Economic_Impact_and_Tax_Analysis_of_Oklahoma_State_Question_820.pdf">economic impact study</a>&nbsp;sponsored by the cannabis industry. By far the largest number of out-of-state consumers would be from Texas, followed by Arkansas and Kansas, the report shows.Oklahoma already has one of the most liberal&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-us-news-ap-top-news-ar-state-wire-health-58daeb2ed452710e03ea4542976a620a">medical marijuana programs</a>&nbsp;in the country, with roughly 10% of the state's adult population having a medical license. Unlike most other states, Oklahoma has no list of qualifying medical conditions, allows patients to get a recommendation from a doctor online, and gives licenses that are valid for two years.Supporters of SQ 820 initially tried to get the question on the November ballot, but a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2022-midterm-elections-health-marijuana-special-oklahoma-e99404c21e880093fd2093d20581d5ff">delay in verifying the signatures</a>&nbsp;led to Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt calling for a special election just for that proposal.People in the industry say Oklahoma's low barrier to entry led to thousands of licensed growers, processors and dispensary operators competing for a limited number of patients. While inflation is causing the cost of many products to go up, marijuana prices at dispensaries have plummeted, and many operators are going out of business. A website for cannabis-related sales shows thousands of Oklahoma grow operations and dispensaries up for sale."They allowed for a free-market cannabis industry, and that’s what everyone wanted, but now we need more customers,” said Chip Baker, a grower who also runs a marijuana garden supply shop in Oklahoma City. “There needs to be an influx of people here to buy this product. It’s just simple math.”Kevin Pattah, a Michigan native who came to Oklahoma to get into the cannabis business, now operates six Mango Cannabis retail locations across the state. He said the price of 1-gram cartridges of marijuana concentrate that retailed for $60-$70 in 2019 is now going for $20. Prices for marijuana flower and other products also have plunged.“There’s so much product on the market, and there’s only so much demand. It hurts everyone,” said Pattah, whose dispensary features a prominent digital screen with a countdown to Tuesday's vote. "We've felt the heat as well.“Our average ticket was $130 at one point. Now they're spending an average of $60. So, it's less than half now.”Pattah said the expansion of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-marijuana-nd-state-wire-utah-mo-state-wire-fc8269d59d084ceab360f2fcd9456ec6">legalized sales in Michigan in 2018</a>&nbsp;was a huge boon to medical operators in that state, particularly those who ran dispensaries near its border with Ohio and Indiana.While many in Oklahoma's cannabis industry are eager for recreational sales, opponents include a group of clergy, law enforcement and prosecutors led by former Republican Gov. Frank Keating, an ex-FBI agent. Current Gov. Kevin Stitt and nearly all the Republicans in the Oklahoma Senate also have announced their opposition.Opponents cite an increase in the amount of Oklahoma marijuana being exported out of state and sold on the black market, as well as criminal activity associated with some marijuana grows, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/business-shootings-marijuana-homicide-oklahoma-f6922f0e9b96cac4b25867bf698be6e9">execution-style slayings of four Chinese nationals</a>&nbsp;at an illegal marijuana farm in rural Oklahoma.“SQ 820 throws a match into the middle of what already is a powder keg in rural Oklahoma,” said Logan County Sheriff Damon Devereaux, president of the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association.Not everyone in law enforcement is overly concerned about legalized marijuana. Sheriff Ray Sappington in Cooke County, Texas, which borders Oklahoma and includes a major north-south interstate, I-35, said that while his deputies may end up arresting more people for bringing marijuana into Texas from Oklahoma, it's not his top priority.“Our issues are not marijuana, to be honest with you,” said Sappington, who said most people caught with less than 2 ounces of cannabis are issued a citation and released. “Fentanyl is so deadly, and we're facing that all across the nation. That's the battle. It's not marijuana.”Still, marijuana legalization is a non-starter in the Texas Capitol and is poised to stay that way as Republican Gov. Greg Abbott settles into a new four-year term. That has left marijuana supporters in Texas looking elsewhere — including with ballot measures in some cities. In November, five Texas cities approved referendums to decriminalize marijuana possession. One was Denton, less than an hour’s drive from the Oklahoma border.If approved, Oklahoma would be the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marijuana-legalization-2022-midterm-elections-c693f5e23e0faf2f39168df6a2f80ab2">22nd state to legalize cannabis</a>&nbsp;and likely the most conservative, following defeats of similar proposals in Arkansas, North Dakota and South Dakota last year. Under Oklahoma's plan, anyone over the age of 21 would be able to purchase and possess up to 1 ounce of marijuana, plus concentrates and marijuana-infused products. People could also legally grow up to 12 marijuana plants. Recreational sales would be subjected to a 15% excise tax on top of the standard sales tax. The excise tax would be used to help fund local municipalities, the court system, public schools, substance abuse treatment and the state’s general revenue fund.The proposal also outlines a judicial process for people to seek expungement or dismissal of prior marijuana-related convictions.