PAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas man found guilty of child sex crimes is headed to prison.

On Friday, District Judge Bruce Gatterman sentenced&nbsp; Justin W. Hammond, 39 of Larned, to 59 months with an additional 37 month consecutive sentence on the additional counts for a total sentence of 96 months in the department of corrections, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.

Hammond will also be subject to lifetime post-release supervision and lifetime offender registration as a sex offender.

In March, a Pawnee County Jury found Hammond Guilty of four counts of Aggravated Indecent Liberty with a Child; sexual intercourse with a child 14 or 15 years of age, and one count of Indecent Liberties with a Child; lewd fondling of child 14 or 15 years of age, following a five-day trial.

The crimes were alleged to have occurred in Pawnee County between July 8, 2018, and December 15, 2018. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation handled the investigation following a referral by the Pawnee County Sheriff.

Hammond declined the opportunity to make a statement to the Court due to pending similar charges in Wyandotte County. 

Following sentencing, the Court denied the defense request to stay the sentence pending appeal. Hammond was immediately remanded into the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff for his eventual delivery to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Prior to sentencing, the Court denied the defense motion for a new trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688158843330.png" alt="Hammond-photo Pawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hammond-photo Pawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY —A Kansas man found guilty of child sex crimes is headed to prison.On Friday, District Judge Bruce Gatterman sentenced&nbsp; Justin W. Hammond, 39 of Larned, to 59 months with an additional 37 month consecutive sentence on the additional counts for a total sentence of 96 months in the department of corrections, according to Pawnee County Attorney Doug McNett.Hammond will also be subject to lifetime post-release supervision and lifetime offender registration as a sex offender.In March, a Pawnee County Jury found Hammond Guilty of four counts of Aggravated Indecent Liberty with a Child; sexual intercourse with a child 14 or 15 years of age, and one count of Indecent Liberties with a Child; lewd fondling of child 14 or 15 years of age, following a five-day trial.The crimes were alleged to have occurred in Pawnee County between July 8, 2018, and December 15, 2018. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation handled the investigation following a referral by the Pawnee County Sheriff.Hammond declined the opportunity to make a statement to the Court due to pending similar charges in Wyandotte County. Following sentencing, the Court denied the defense request to stay the sentence pending appeal. Hammond was immediately remanded into the custody of the Pawnee County Sheriff for his eventual delivery to the Kansas Department of Corrections.Prior to sentencing, the Court denied the defense motion for a new trial.-----------

Kansas man sentenced for sex crimes involving teen

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead have made an arrest.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of North Glendale in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.

Officers arrived on the scene and located 17-year-old Jaron Reed unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.

The teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.

While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The 21- year-old victim was treated by medical staff and dismissed from the hospital and transported to investigations for further questioning.

Detectives learned that Reed and Love met to conduct a drug transaction before multiple shots were fired. Detectives are still working to fully determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting.

Love is being held on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Rebolledo.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688386566244.png" alt="Blurry booking photo of Love-Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Blurry booking photo of Love-Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead have made an arrest.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688315722286.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>At approximately 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of North Glendale in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Officers arrived on the scene and located 17-year-old Jaron Reed unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.The teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries.The 21- year-old victim was treated by medical staff and dismissed from the hospital and transported to investigations for further questioning.Detectives learned that Reed and Love met to conduct a drug transaction before multiple shots were fired. Detectives are still working to fully determine the circumstances leading up to the shooting.Love is being held on a requested charge of first-degree murder, according to Rebolledo.

Suspect jailed for gunfight that left 17-year-old Kan. boy dead

By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>

OLATHE — Standing at the site of a future mental health hospital, Gov. Laura Kelly on Thursday emphasized the benefits Medicaid expansion would have for low-income families struggling with mental health challenges.

The Democratic governor has pushed Medicaid expansion for years, but Republican leaders in the Legislature have blocked legislation from moving forward. By expanding eligibility for health insurance coverage, the governor said, thousands of Kansans could receive mental health treatment.

“The North Star of my second term is making Kansas the best state in the country to live, to work, to raise a family,” Kelly said. “Improving mental health in every community is critical to that goal.”

Kelly appeared with Republican U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran and Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids to emphasize the need to prioritize mental health during a groundbreaking ceremony for a 72-bed Olathe mental health hospital.

The&nbsp;Olathe facility, which will be jointly operated by KVC Health Systems and Children’s Mercy Hospital, will have the capacity to treat more than 3,400 patients annually. The project is supported in part by&nbsp;$12.7 million in funding from federal COVID-19 relief dollars.

The hospital construction comes at a crucial time for Kansas mental health treatment, with the state’s mental health needs far outstripping available mental health beds and psychiatric hospitals.

A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf?eType=ActivityDefinitionInstance&amp;eId=5768b343-b128-4de9-a180-20ed43f570d4">2023 Mental Health America</a>&nbsp;report ranked Kansas last in terms of meeting overall mental health needs, and with the unwinding of&nbsp; pandemic-era health care protections, numbers are expected to worsen.

“I’ve seen the anguish, I’ve seen the fear of families that are struggling to find services and access services for their loved ones. That ultimately is what brings us here,” said Jason Hooper, KVC Health Systems president and CEO.

In Kansas, Medicaid is provided through KanCare and limited to low-income people who have disabilities or children.&nbsp;Medicaid expansion would increase eligibility to adults under the age of 65 with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. If the state broadened enrollment of uninsured adults in KanCare, thousands of lower-income families would be provided with health care options.

Kelly estimated that Medicaid expansion would give 150,000 Kansans access to affordable health care and that&nbsp;nearly one-third of those Kansans currently struggle with mental health issues or substance abuse disorders.

Expanding Medicaid would unlock an estimated billion dollars in annual federal aid. Kansas is one of 10 remaining states that hasn’t adopted expansion.

With the expiration of the federal pandemic emergency declaration, 120,000 Kansans who are already enrolled in Medicaid must re-apply for benefits and are at risk of losing coverage.

“I refuse to give up on this issue,” Kelly said. “I’m going to propose Medicaid expansion for the sixth time when the Legislature reconvenes in January and I hope legislative leadership will do the right thing.”

Her speech comes after another legislative session in which Republican leaders refused to consider a vote on Medicaid expansion.

“Every year, I have tailored the proposal to address concerns expressed by legislative leadership,” Kelly said. “Every year, they’ve moved the goalpost. That can’t keep happening.”

Lawmakers attending the groundbreaking event had mixed views on the matter.

“It’s really neglectful not to be doing it,” said Rep. Mari-Lynn Poskin, D-Leawood. “And I would use a stronger word, but let’s leave it at that because we’re talking about working together.”

With little Democratic input in the GOP-controlled agenda, the fight may be futile.

“I don’t know that it’s a long-term good thing,” said Rep. Carl Turner, R-Leawood, who didn’t elaborate.

Moran and Davids both called for unity at a federal level.

Moran took a little time in his speech to correct Kelly’s usage of the term “federal money” — he prefers to call it “taxpayers’ money” and “money that’s being borrowed.” While he voted against the American Rescue Act, the source of the hospital’s $12.7 million in federal funding, Moran said he approved of the money being used on the hospital.

“I’m celebrating, I hope, with all of you, the recognition that we have the capacity of coming together,” Moran said. “And perhaps as a side note, it would be useful and wouldn’t it be great for the country if Congress and the political climate could reach the same conclusion that working together gets results.”

“If we could get this sort of thing happening in D.C., it would be amazing,” Davids said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688315217544.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly renews her call for Medicaid expansion during a June 29, 2023, appearance in Olathe for a new mental health hospital. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly renews her call for Medicaid expansion during a June 29, 2023, appearance in Olathe for a new mental health hospital. (Rachel Mipro/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By RACHEL MIPRO <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/05/kansas-lawmakers-debate-definition-of-female-and-male-for-county-jails/">Kansas Reflector</a>OLATHE — Standing at the site of a future mental health hospital, Gov. Laura Kelly on Thursday emphasized the benefits Medicaid expansion would have for low-income families struggling with mental health challenges.The Democratic governor has pushed Medicaid expansion for years, but Republican leaders in the Legislature have blocked legislation from moving forward. By expanding eligibility for health insurance coverage, the governor said, thousands of Kansans could receive mental health treatment.“The North Star of my second term is making Kansas the best state in the country to live, to work, to raise a family,” Kelly said. “Improving mental health in every community is critical to that goal.”Kelly appeared with Republican U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran and Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids to emphasize the need to prioritize mental health during a groundbreaking ceremony for a 72-bed Olathe mental health hospital.The&nbsp;Olathe facility, which will be jointly operated by KVC Health Systems and Children’s Mercy Hospital, will have the capacity to treat more than 3,400 patients annually. The project is supported in part by&nbsp;$12.7 million in funding from federal COVID-19 relief dollars.The hospital construction comes at a crucial time for Kansas mental health treatment, with the state’s mental health needs far outstripping available mental health beds and psychiatric hospitals.A&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf?eType=ActivityDefinitionInstance&amp;eId=5768b343-b128-4de9-a180-20ed43f570d4">2023 Mental Health America</a>&nbsp;report ranked Kansas last in terms of meeting overall mental health needs, and with the unwinding of&nbsp; pandemic-era health care protections, numbers are expected to worsen.“I’ve seen the anguish, I’ve seen the fear of families that are struggling to find services and access services for their loved ones. That ultimately is what brings us here,” said Jason Hooper, KVC Health Systems president and CEO.<h2>State of Medicaid</h2>In Kansas, Medicaid is provided through KanCare and limited to low-income people who have disabilities or children.&nbsp;Medicaid expansion would increase eligibility to adults under the age of 65 with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. If the state broadened enrollment of uninsured adults in KanCare, thousands of lower-income families would be provided with health care options.Kelly estimated that Medicaid expansion would give 150,000 Kansans access to affordable health care and that&nbsp;nearly one-third of those Kansans currently struggle with mental health issues or substance abuse disorders.Expanding Medicaid would unlock an estimated billion dollars in annual federal aid. Kansas is one of 10 remaining states that hasn’t adopted expansion.With the expiration of the federal pandemic emergency declaration, 120,000 Kansans who are already enrolled in Medicaid must re-apply for benefits and are at risk of losing coverage.“I refuse to give up on this issue,” Kelly said. “I’m going to propose Medicaid expansion for the sixth time when the Legislature reconvenes in January and I hope legislative leadership will do the right thing.”Her speech comes after another legislative session in which Republican leaders refused to consider a vote on Medicaid expansion.“Every year, I have tailored the proposal to address concerns expressed by legislative leadership,” Kelly said. “Every year, they’ve moved the goalpost. That can’t keep happening.”Lawmakers attending the groundbreaking event had mixed views on the matter.“It’s really neglectful not to be doing it,” said Rep. Mari-Lynn Poskin, D-Leawood. “And I would use a stronger word, but let’s leave it at that because we’re talking about working together.”With little Democratic input in the GOP-controlled agenda, the fight may be futile.“I don’t know that it’s a long-term good thing,” said Rep. Carl Turner, R-Leawood, who didn’t elaborate.<h2>all for unity</h2>Moran and Davids both called for unity at a federal level.Moran took a little time in his speech to correct Kelly’s usage of the term “federal money” — he prefers to call it “taxpayers’ money” and “money that’s being borrowed.” While he voted against the American Rescue Act, the source of the hospital’s $12.7 million in federal funding, Moran said he approved of the money being used on the hospital.“I’m celebrating, I hope, with all of you, the recognition that we have the capacity of coming together,” Moran said. “And perhaps as a side note, it would be useful and wouldn’t it be great for the country if Congress and the political climate could reach the same conclusion that working together gets results.”Davids said she agreed with Moran.&nbsp;“If we could get this sort of thing happening in D.C., it would be amazing,” Davids said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Governor’s renewed call for Medicaid expansion emphasizes mental health benefit

ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was arrested last week on fraud charges after an FBI search of his Hays home on June 26, according to a media release from the bureau.

Last week, FBI agents arrested two men who allegedly targeted elderly individuals in a telemarketing scheme by purporting to represent companies who provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. 

Michael Farole, 44, of West Los Angeles, and Christopher Lang, 42, a resident of Hays, were charged this week in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants allegedly convinced victims to pay advance fees in return for services that involved selling or securing the sale or rental of their timeshares.

Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said Hays police officers provided a support role in the FBI search of Lang's home on June 26.

After the victims paid initial fees for services that were never provided, Farole and Lang continued to contact the victims by phone, text and email in attempts to obtain additional fees.

The investigation revealed at least 370 elderly individuals lost over $4.5 million as a result of the fraud. The victims used funds from their social security income, investment and retirement accounts, as well as their savings, to pay the fraudulent companies.

Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, none received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised.

Evidence obtained throughout the investigation indicates that the subjects used the proceeds from their scheme to enrich themselves and to pay for personal expenses and luxury items. Farole was ordered detained at his initial court appearance; Lang has a detention hearing set for next week.

The investigation of Farole and Lang is being conducted by the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, which received assistance from the FBI’s Kansas City Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles.

A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office is raising public awareness about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/safety-resources/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/elder-fraud">elder fraud schemes</a>, which have increased in recent years, and is announcing charges against two men who were arrested June 28, 2023, for allegedly targeting elderly victims. In 2022, adults over the age 60 reported 88,262 complaints to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/" target="_blank">FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center</a>, with a total loss of $3.1 billion. This represents an 84% increase in losses as compared to losses reported in 2021. The average loss per victim was more than $35,000, and more than 5,000 victims lost over $100,000. California leads the nation in the number of elderly victims of fraud, and the collective amount of reported losses incurred in California was $624,509,520 in 2022.

Elder fraud is a form of older adult exploitation where a perpetrator misuses or steals financial assets, savings, income, or personal identifying information from an adult over the age 60, often without their direct knowledge or consent. Fraudsters often use deception to scam older adults by posing as a person in a position of trust (such as a government official) by claiming to have a romantic interest in the victim or by posing as a shrewd investor promising a financial payout.

In 2022, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received almost 10,000 complaints from victims over the age of 60 involving the use of some type of cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Ripple. Losses incurred by these victims totaled over $1 billion. Cryptocurrency is becoming a preferred payment method for all types of scams. Last year, William Webster, a former Director of the FBI and of the CIA, was a victim of elder fraud and worked with the FBI&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">to make a public service</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">announcement</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688408367149.png" alt="Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28. He is currently being held in Jackson County, according to online jail records." />
 <figcaption>Christopher Lang was booked into the Shawnee Co. Jail June 28. He is currently being held in Jackson County, according to online jail records.</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —A Kansas man was arrested last week on fraud charges after an FBI search of his Hays home on June 26, according to a media release from the bureau.Last week, FBI agents arrested two men who allegedly targeted elderly individuals in a telemarketing scheme by purporting to represent companies who provided advertising and other services to current or former timeshare owners. Michael Farole, 44, of West Los Angeles, and Christopher Lang, 42, a resident of Hays, were charged this week in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants allegedly convinced victims to pay advance fees in return for services that involved selling or securing the sale or rental of their timeshares.Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said Hays police officers provided a support role in the FBI search of Lang's home on June 26.After the victims paid initial fees for services that were never provided, Farole and Lang continued to contact the victims by phone, text and email in attempts to obtain additional fees.The investigation revealed at least 370 elderly individuals lost over $4.5 million as a result of the fraud. The victims used funds from their social security income, investment and retirement accounts, as well as their savings, to pay the fraudulent companies.Despite the recurring fees that each victim paid, often reaching the hundreds of thousands over several years, none received the timeshare-related services or proceeds promised.Evidence obtained throughout the investigation indicates that the subjects used the proceeds from their scheme to enrich themselves and to pay for personal expenses and luxury items. Farole was ordered detained at his initial court appearance; Lang has a detention hearing set for next week.The investigation of Farole and Lang is being conducted by the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, which received assistance from the FBI’s Kansas City Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles.A criminal complaint contains allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. <h2>FBI tries to increase fraud awareness</h2>The FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office is raising public awareness about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/safety-resources/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/elder-fraud">elder fraud schemes</a>, which have increased in recent years, and is announcing charges against two men who were arrested June 28, 2023, for allegedly targeting elderly victims. In 2022, adults over the age 60 reported 88,262 complaints to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/" target="_blank">FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center</a>, with a total loss of $3.1 billion. This represents an 84% increase in losses as compared to losses reported in 2021. The average loss per victim was more than $35,000, and more than 5,000 victims lost over $100,000. California leads the nation in the number of elderly victims of fraud, and the collective amount of reported losses incurred in California was $624,509,520 in 2022.Elder fraud is a form of older adult exploitation where a perpetrator misuses or steals financial assets, savings, income, or personal identifying information from an adult over the age 60, often without their direct knowledge or consent. Fraudsters often use deception to scam older adults by posing as a person in a position of trust (such as a government official) by claiming to have a romantic interest in the victim or by posing as a shrewd investor promising a financial payout.In 2022, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received almost 10,000 complaints from victims over the age of 60 involving the use of some type of cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, or Ripple. Losses incurred by these victims totaled over $1 billion. Cryptocurrency is becoming a preferred payment method for all types of scams. Last year, William Webster, a former Director of the FBI and of the CIA, was a victim of elder fraud and worked with the FBI&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">to make a public service</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fbi.gov/video-repository/webster-elder-fraud-psa-040722.mp4/view">announcement</a>.

FBI: Kan. man arrested in $4.5 million fraud scheme targeting elderly

WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6p..m. Saturday in Wabaunsee County.

A UTV occupied by Chase William Deever of Harveyville and William Jai Mason Holman of Alma and riding in the Independence Holiday Parade at Lake Wabaunsee, according to the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office.

The vehicle traveled off the dam and rolled. One of the men was airlifted to Stormont Vail.&nbsp; America Medical Response transported the other to Stormont Vail.

The accident remains under investigation, according to the Sheriff's Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688402707396.png" alt="Photo Wabaunsee Co. sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wabaunsee Co. sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>WABAUNSEE COUNTY —Two people were injured in an accident just before 6p..m. Saturday in Wabaunsee County.A UTV occupied by Chase William Deever of Harveyville and William Jai Mason Holman of Alma and riding in the Independence Holiday Parade at Lake Wabaunsee, according to the Wabaunsee County Sheriff's Office.The vehicle traveled off the dam and rolled. One of the men was airlifted to Stormont Vail.&nbsp; America Medical Response transported the other to Stormont Vail.The accident remains under investigation, according to the Sheriff's Office.

2 Kan. men injured after UTV travels off dam during parade

CAMDEN COUNTY —A Kansas City man drowned just after 11p.m. Sunday at Lake of the Ozarks.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 56-year-old James D. Roy of Kansas City, was last seen near a moored vessel at the 43 mile mark of the main channel at Bollinger Creek Cove.

It is unknown how Roy entered the water. He did not resurface and was pronounced deceased at Mimosa Beach by the Camden County Medical Examiner.

CAMDEN COUNTY —A Kansas City man drowned just after 11p.m. Sunday at Lake of the Ozarks.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 56-year-old James D. Roy of Kansas City, was last seen near a moored vessel at the 43 mile mark of the main channel at Bollinger Creek Cove.It is unknown how Roy entered the water. He did not resurface and was pronounced deceased at Mimosa Beach by the Camden County Medical Examiner.

Patrol: Kansas City man drowns at Lake of the Ozarks

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fire started by fireworks that injured four people over the weekend.

Just after 10p.m. Saturday crews responded to a building fire at 127 Street and Gardner Road, according to the Northwest Consolidated Fire District Chief Todd Maxton.

When crews arrived, they observed a detached building on fire and fireworks were actively exploding while victims were laying on the ground. 

Firefighters, Johnson County Med Act, Johnson County Park Police and other responding personnel got the victims to safety and provided aid.

Johnson County Med Act transported four people to local hospitals. Two had serious injuries.

The outbuilding was a total loss. The Kansas State Fire Marshal and Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with the investigation, according to Maxton.

Possessing and using fireworks in unincorporated Johnson County is not allowed except for public displays.

Northwest Consolidated Fire District serves DeSoto and northwest Johnson County.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688380811889.png" alt="&nbsp;Photo courtesy Northwest Consolidated Fire District" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;Photo courtesy Northwest Consolidated Fire District</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fire started by fireworks that injured four people over the weekend.Just after 10p.m. Saturday crews responded to a building fire at 127 Street and Gardner Road, according to the Northwest Consolidated Fire District Chief Todd Maxton.When crews arrived, they observed a detached building on fire and fireworks were actively exploding while victims were laying on the ground. Firefighters, Johnson County Med Act, Johnson County Park Police and other responding personnel got the victims to safety and provided aid.Johnson County Med Act transported four people to local hospitals. Two had serious injuries.The outbuilding was a total loss. The Kansas State Fire Marshal and Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with the investigation, according to Maxton.Possessing and using fireworks in unincorporated Johnson County is not allowed except for public displays.Northwest Consolidated Fire District serves DeSoto and northwest Johnson County.

Four hospitalized, building totaled in Kansas fireworks fire

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a mass shooting at a Wichita nightclub have arrested a Missouri man.

Brandon Lee Young, 31, Florissant, Missouri is being held <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740905">on requested charges </a>of aggravated battery; knowingly use a weapon to cause great bodily harm, according to the Sedgwick County booking report.

Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to the City Nightz club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Wichita's Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.

There were eleven people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured. Police took Young into custody.

The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police have also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.

The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday, according to Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple.

Sedgwick County EMS transported five of the victims to area hospitals. Private vehicles transported two others to the hospital.

Police have been called to the nightclub about a dozen times this year for various incidents, including a report of aggravated battery and a drive-by shooting on May 21, according to Police Detective Chris Merceau

He said police met with the club's owner after that incident and discussed the importance of using electronic wands to detect weapons on patrons and surveillance cameras. He said investigators will work to determine if any of those recommendations were followed.

Wichita Police requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688386727947.png" alt="Young-photo Sedgwick County." />
 <figcaption>Young-photo Sedgwick County.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a mass shooting at a Wichita nightclub have arrested a Missouri man.Brandon Lee Young, 31, Florissant, Missouri is being held <a href="https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/InmateSearch/Details.aspx?Id=740905">on requested charges </a>of aggravated battery; knowingly use a weapon to cause great bodily harm, according to the Sedgwick County booking report.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to the City Nightz club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Wichita's Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses.There were eleven people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured. Police took Young into custody.The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police have also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday, according to Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple.Sedgwick County EMS transported five of the victims to area hospitals. Private vehicles transported two others to the hospital.Police have been called to the nightclub about a dozen times this year for various incidents, including a report of aggravated battery and a drive-by shooting on May 21, according to Police Detective Chris MerceauHe said police met with the club's owner after that incident and discussed the importance of using electronic wands to detect weapons on patrons and surveillance cameras. He said investigators will work to determine if any of those recommendations were followed.Wichita Police requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.

Suspect accused in mass shooting at Wichita nightclub

WASHINGTON&nbsp; — President Joe Biden vowed to push ahead with a new plan providing student loan relief for millions of borrowers, while blaming Republican “hypocrisy” for triggering Friday's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">Supreme Court decision</a>&nbsp;that wiped out his original effort.

<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/22-506_nmip.pdf">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the decision

(click below to watch the President discuss the plan)

Biden said his administration had already begun the process of working under the authority of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which he called "the best path that remains to provide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-debt-forgiveness-supreme-court-2d6eec61822b9e7a89ff59453d2486a5">as many borrowers as possible</a>&nbsp;with debt relief.”

According to a statement from the White House,&nbsp;President Biden and his Administration&nbsp;have took two steps Friday afternoon aimed at providing debt relief for as many borrowers as possible, as fast as possible, and supporting student loan borrowers:

In addition, to protect the most vulnerable borrowers from the worst consequences of missed payments following the payment restart,&nbsp;the Department is instituting a 12-month “on-ramp” to repayment, running from October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024, so that financially vulnerable borrowers who miss monthly payments during this period are not considered delinquent, reported to credit bureaus, placed in default, or referred to debt collection agencies.

These actions reflect the President’s belief that an education beyond high school should be a ticket to the middle class. It also builds on the unprecedented steps President Biden and his Administration have taken to make college more affordable for working and middle-class families and make federal student loans more manageable. The Biden-Harris Administration has:

Debt Relief for As Many Borrowers as Possible, as Fast as Possible The President remains committed to providing relief to low- and middle-income borrowers. For too many Americans, a ticket to the middle-class remains out of reach because of unmanageable student loan debt. COVID-19 exacerbated that challenge – risking tens of millions of borrowers’ financial security and futures because of the economic harms brought on by a once-in-a-century pandemic. Today, the Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/policy/highered/reg/hearulemaking/2023/negregpublichearingannouncement.pdf">initiated rulemaking</a>&nbsp;aimed at opening an alternative path to debt relief for as many borrowers as possible, using the Secretary of Education’s authority under the Higher Education Act. The Department issued a notice, which is the first step in the process of issuing new regulations under this so-called “negotiated rulemaking” process. The notice announces a virtual public hearing on July 18th and solicits written comments from stakeholders on topics to consider. Following the public hearing, the Department will finalize the issues to be addressed through rulemaking and begin the negotiated rulemaking sessions this fall. The Department will complete this rulemaking as quickly as possible.

Lowering Monthly Payments The Biden-Harris Administration today also finalized the most affordable repayment plan ever created, called the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan. This income-driven repayment plan will cut borrowers’ monthly payments in half, allow many borrowers to make $0 monthly payments, save all other borrowers at least $1,000 per year, and ensure borrowers don’t see their balances grow from unpaid interest. Specifically, the plan will:

All student borrowers in repayment will be eligible to enroll in the SAVE plan. They will be able to enroll later this summer, before any monthly payments are due. Borrowers who sign up or are already signed up for the current Revised Pay as You Earn (REPAYE) plan will be automatically enrolled in SAVE once the new plan is implemented. To learn more about the new SAVE plan, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/policy/highered/reg/hearulemaking/2021/idrfactsheetfinal.pdf">the Department of Education’s website.</a>

Ensuring Support for Borrowers Most at Risk To protect the most vulnerable borrowers, the Department is creating a temporary “on-ramp” to protect borrowers from the harshest consequences of late, missed, or partial payments for up to 12 months. While payments will be due and interest will accrue during this period, interest will not capitalize at the end of the on-ramp period. Additionally, borrowers will not be reported to credit bureaus, be considered in default, or referred to collection agencies for late, missed, or partial payments during the on-ramp period. Future monthly bills for borrowers not enrolled in an income-driven repayment plan will be automatically adjusted to reflect the accrued interest during those months. Borrowers who can pay should do so, but this on-ramp period gives borrowers who cannot make payments right away the necessary time to adjust, enabling them to ultimately make their monthly payments and meet their financial obligations on their loans. Borrowers do not need to take any action to qualify for this on-ramp.

WASHINGTON&nbsp; — President Joe Biden vowed to push ahead with a new plan providing student loan relief for millions of borrowers, while blaming Republican “hypocrisy” for triggering Friday's&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">Supreme Court decision</a>&nbsp;that wiped out his original effort.<a href="https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/22-506_nmip.pdf">Click here to read</a>&nbsp;the decision(click below to watch the President discuss the plan)<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KCQAaoyrOgk?start=387" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Biden said his administration had already begun the process of working under the authority of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which he called "the best path that remains to provide&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-debt-forgiveness-supreme-court-2d6eec61822b9e7a89ff59453d2486a5">as many borrowers as possible</a>&nbsp;with debt relief.”According to a statement from the White House,&nbsp;President Biden and his Administration&nbsp;have took two steps Friday afternoon aimed at providing debt relief for as many borrowers as possible, as fast as possible, and supporting student loan borrowers:<ul>
 <li>The Secretary of Education initiated a rulemaking process aimed at opening an alternative path to debt relief for as many working and middle-class borrowers as possible, using the Secretary’s authority under the Higher Education Act. &nbsp;</li><li>The Department of Education (Department) finalized the most affordable repayment plan ever created, ensuring that borrowers will be able to take advantage of this plan this summer—before loan payments are due.&nbsp;Many borrowers will not have to make monthly payments under this plan. Those that do will save more than $1,000 a year.</li>
 </ul>In addition, to protect the most vulnerable borrowers from the worst consequences of missed payments following the payment restart,&nbsp;the Department is instituting a 12-month “on-ramp” to repayment, running from October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024, so that financially vulnerable borrowers who miss monthly payments during this period are not considered delinquent, reported to credit bureaus, placed in default, or referred to debt collection agencies.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Biden-Harris Administration’s student debt relief program would have been good for the American economy. Republican elected officials who sued this Administration blocked all of it. <a href="https://t.co/rKWBqDq6fr">pic.twitter.com/rKWBqDq6fr</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1674961017283936258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 1, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>These actions reflect the President’s belief that an education beyond high school should be a ticket to the middle class. It also builds on the unprecedented steps President Biden and his Administration have taken to make college more affordable for working and middle-class families and make federal student loans more manageable. The Biden-Harris Administration has:<ul>
 <li>Secured the largest increases to Pell Grants in a decade. &nbsp;</li><li>Fixed broken student loan programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness, so borrowers actually get the relief they deserve. &nbsp;</li><li>Approved more than $66 billion in loan cancellation for 2.2 million borrowers across the country, including public service workers and those who have been defrauded by their colleges. &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Debt Relief for As Many Borrowers as Possible, as Fast as Possible The President remains committed to providing relief to low- and middle-income borrowers. For too many Americans, a ticket to the middle-class remains out of reach because of unmanageable student loan debt. COVID-19 exacerbated that challenge – risking tens of millions of borrowers’ financial security and futures because of the economic harms brought on by a once-in-a-century pandemic. Today, the Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/policy/highered/reg/hearulemaking/2023/negregpublichearingannouncement.pdf">initiated rulemaking</a>&nbsp;aimed at opening an alternative path to debt relief for as many borrowers as possible, using the Secretary of Education’s authority under the Higher Education Act. The Department issued a notice, which is the first step in the process of issuing new regulations under this so-called “negotiated rulemaking” process. The notice announces a virtual public hearing on July 18th and solicits written comments from stakeholders on topics to consider. Following the public hearing, the Department will finalize the issues to be addressed through rulemaking and begin the negotiated rulemaking sessions this fall. The Department will complete this rulemaking as quickly as possible.Lowering Monthly Payments The Biden-Harris Administration today also finalized the most affordable repayment plan ever created, called the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan. This income-driven repayment plan will cut borrowers’ monthly payments in half, allow many borrowers to make $0 monthly payments, save all other borrowers at least $1,000 per year, and ensure borrowers don’t see their balances grow from unpaid interest. Specifically, the plan will:<ul>
 <li>For undergraduate loans, cut in half the amount that borrowers have to pay each month from 10% to 5% of discretionary income.</li><li>Raise the amount of income that is considered non-discretionary income and therefore is protected from repayment, guaranteeing that no borrower earning under 225% of the federal poverty level—about the annual equivalent of a $15 minimum wage for a single borrower—will have to make a monthly payment under this plan.</li><li>Forgive loan balances after 10 years of payments, instead of 20 years, for borrowers with original loan balances of $12,000 or less. The Department estimates that this reform will allow nearly all community college borrowers to be debt-free within 10 years.</li><li>Not charge borrowers with unpaid monthly interest, so that unlike other existing income-driven repayment plans, no borrower’s loan balance will grow as long as they make their monthly payments—even when that monthly payment is $0 because their income is low.</li>
 </ul>All student borrowers in repayment will be eligible to enroll in the SAVE plan. They will be able to enroll later this summer, before any monthly payments are due. Borrowers who sign up or are already signed up for the current Revised Pay as You Earn (REPAYE) plan will be automatically enrolled in SAVE once the new plan is implemented. To learn more about the new SAVE plan, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www2.ed.gov/policy/highered/reg/hearulemaking/2021/idrfactsheetfinal.pdf">the Department of Education’s website.</a>Ensuring Support for Borrowers Most at Risk To protect the most vulnerable borrowers, the Department is creating a temporary “on-ramp” to protect borrowers from the harshest consequences of late, missed, or partial payments for up to 12 months. While payments will be due and interest will accrue during this period, interest will not capitalize at the end of the on-ramp period. Additionally, borrowers will not be reported to credit bureaus, be considered in default, or referred to collection agencies for late, missed, or partial payments during the on-ramp period. Future monthly bills for borrowers not enrolled in an income-driven repayment plan will be automatically adjusted to reflect the accrued interest during those months. Borrowers who can pay should do so, but this on-ramp period gives borrowers who cannot make payments right away the necessary time to adjust, enabling them to ultimately make their monthly payments and meet their financial obligations on their loans. Borrowers do not need to take any action to qualify for this on-ramp.

🎥Details of new actions to provide debt relief for student loan borrowers

COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary at&nbsp; Paris Park Pool, 600 West 5th Avenue in Arkansas City.

Just before 2:30a.m. June 28, police arrested a 14-year-old from Wichita and a 15-year-old from Arkansas City on requested charges of burglary theft from the concession stand at the pool, according to a media release.

Police will present the case to the Cowley County Attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688264611664.png" alt="Photo courtesy Paris Park Pool" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Paris Park Pool</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a burglary at&nbsp; Paris Park Pool, 600 West 5th Avenue in Arkansas City.Just before 2:30a.m. June 28, police arrested a 14-year-old from Wichita and a 15-year-old from Arkansas City on requested charges of burglary theft from the concession stand at the pool, according to a media release.Police will present the case to the Cowley County Attorney.

Teens accused of burglary at Kansas pool

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the June 23, murder of 17-year-old&nbsp;JaMarcus D. Lane, Jr. that occurred at a home in the 3100 Block of W. Barker Circle have made an arrest.

Police took a juvenile into custody. The Wyandotte County District Attorney charged the juvenile with second-degree intentional murder.

The suspect is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Juvenile Detention Center. 

This is the 11th homicide in Kansas City, Kansas this year. Last year on this date, the city had recorded 21 homicides.This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp;

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating the June 23, murder of 17-year-old&nbsp;JaMarcus D. Lane, Jr. that occurred at a home in the 3100 Block of W. Barker Circle have made an arrest.Police took a juvenile into custody. The Wyandotte County District Attorney charged the juvenile with second-degree intentional murder.The suspect is currently being held in the Wyandotte County Juvenile Detention Center. This is the 11th homicide in Kansas City, Kansas this year. Last year on this date, the city had recorded 21 homicides.This incident is under investigation by the KCKPD Major Case Unit.&nbsp;

Teen charged with murder of 17-year-old at Kansas home

SEDGWICK—Law enforcement authorities continue investigating a shooting inside a Wichita nightclub that has a history of violence.

Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to a club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses on Wichita Police Department social media near the scene of the investigation.

There were nine people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured. Police had one person in custody.

Police have been called to the nightclub about a dozen times this year for various incidents, including a report of aggravated battery and a drive-by shooting on May 21, according to Police Detective Chris Merceau 

SEDGWICK—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting inside a Wichita nightclub.

"Seven people were shot and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club."

There were no fatalities, but there was one critical injury. All the victims were being treated at area hospitals, according Moses. The victims range in age from 21-34 years.

One person was detained by police for questioning, Moses said.

Police encouraged the public to avoid the Old Town area near Washington Street for most of the day as the investigation continues.&nbsp;

Wichita Police, the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department, EMS and Wichita Fire Department all responded to the incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688300318332.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK—Law enforcement authorities continue investigating a shooting inside a Wichita nightclub that has a history of violence.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to a club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses on Wichita Police Department social media near the scene of the investigation.There were nine people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp;&nbsp;No one was killed but one person was critically injured. Police had one person in custody.The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police have also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses. Two additional gunshot victims checked into the hospital later Sunday, according to Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple.Sedgwick County EMS transported five of the victims to area hospitals. Private vehicles transported two others to the hospital.Police have been called to the nightclub about a dozen times this year for various incidents, including a report of aggravated battery and a drive-by shooting on May 21, according to Police Detective Chris Merceau He said police met with the club's owner after that incident and discussed the importance of using electronic wands to detect weapons on patrons and surveillance cameras. He said investigators will work to determine if any of those recommendations were followed.Wichita Police requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.-The AP contributed to this report-------------SEDGWICK—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting inside a Wichita nightclub.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to a club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses on Wichita Police Department social media near the scene of the investigation."Seven people were shot and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club."There were no fatalities, but there was one critical injury. All the victims were being treated at area hospitals, according Moses. The victims range in age from 21-34 years.One person was detained by police for questioning, Moses said.Police encouraged the public to avoid the Old Town area near Washington Street for most of the day as the investigation continues.&nbsp;Wichita Police, the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department, EMS and Wichita Fire Department all responded to the incident.

Kan. nightclub in mass shooting has a history of violent incidents

PARIS — France has mobilized tens of thousands of police officers in an effort to head off widespread urban rioting following the deadly police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel M. that shocked the nation.

The office of French Interior&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">Minister Gerald Darmanin said 45,000 police officers</a>&nbsp;were again deployed Sunday night in the streets to counter anger over discrimination against people who trace their roots to former French colonies and live in low-income neighborhoods. Nahel is of Algerian descent and was shot in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.

According to the statement from the U.S. Embassy in Paris, U.S. citizens should continue to avoid mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity as they can turn violent and result in clashes. 

Some cities continue to impose curfews. As always, it is a good practice to notify friends or family of your whereabouts. Note that public transportation is being affected.

President Emmanuel Macron held a special security meeting Sunday night and plans to meet Monday with the heads of both houses of parliament and Tuesday with the mayors of 220 towns and cities affected by the protests, said a participant in the meeting, who spoke anonymously in line with French government practices. Macron also wants to start a detailed, longer-term assessment of the reasons that led to the unrest, the official said.

Highlighting the seriousness of the rioting, Macron has delayed what would have been the first state visit to Germany by a French president in 23 years, which had been scheduled to start Sunday evening.

The interior ministry said police made 49 arrests nationwide Sunday, French media reported, down significantly from 719 arrests the day before. More than 3,000 people have been detained overall&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">following a mass security deployment</a>. Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured in the violence, although authorities haven’t said how many protesters have been hurt.

French authorities were appalled on Sunday after a burning car struck the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of L’Hay-les-Roses. Several police stations and town halls have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days, but such a personal attack on a mayor’s home is unusual.

Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his children were injured in the 1:30 a.m. attack while they slept and he was in the town hall monitoring the violence. Jeanbrun, of the conservative opposition Republicans party, said the attack represented a new stage of “horror and ignominy” in the unrest.

The U.S. Embassy suggested actions to take:

U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following:

<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Embassy Paris, France</a>

<a href="mailto:CitizenInfo@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfo@state.gov</a>

<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/marseille/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov</a>

<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/strasbourg/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizeninfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">USAStrasbourg@state.gov</a>

State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html" target="_blank">France Country Specific Information&nbsp;</a> Enroll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://step.state.gov/step/" target="_blank">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;(STEP) to receive security updates

PARIS — France has mobilized tens of thousands of police officers in an effort to head off widespread urban rioting following the deadly police shooting of 17-year-old Nahel M. that shocked the nation.The office of French Interior&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">Minister Gerald Darmanin said 45,000 police officers</a>&nbsp;were again deployed Sunday night in the streets to counter anger over discrimination against people who trace their roots to former French colonies and live in low-income neighborhoods. Nahel is of Algerian descent and was shot in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.According to the statement from the U.S. Embassy in Paris, U.S. citizens should continue to avoid mass gatherings and areas of significant police activity as they can turn violent and result in clashes. Some cities continue to impose curfews. As always, it is a good practice to notify friends or family of your whereabouts. Note that public transportation is being affected.President Emmanuel Macron held a special security meeting Sunday night and plans to meet Monday with the heads of both houses of parliament and Tuesday with the mayors of 220 towns and cities affected by the protests, said a participant in the meeting, who spoke anonymously in line with French government practices. Macron also wants to start a detailed, longer-term assessment of the reasons that led to the unrest, the official said.Highlighting the seriousness of the rioting, Macron has delayed what would have been the first state visit to Germany by a French president in 23 years, which had been scheduled to start Sunday evening.The interior ministry said police made 49 arrests nationwide Sunday, French media reported, down significantly from 719 arrests the day before. More than 3,000 people have been detained overall&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/france-police-shooting-protests-paris-nanterre-nahel-220e30e596ed6ad28e152be3df03ec98">following a mass security deployment</a>. Hundreds of police and firefighters have been injured in the violence, although authorities haven’t said how many protesters have been hurt.French authorities were appalled on Sunday after a burning car struck the home of the mayor of the Paris suburb of L’Hay-les-Roses. Several police stations and town halls have been targeted by fires or vandalism in recent days, but such a personal attack on a mayor’s home is unusual.Mayor Vincent Jeanbrun said his wife and one of his children were injured in the 1:30 a.m. attack while they slept and he was in the town hall monitoring the violence. Jeanbrun, of the conservative opposition Republicans party, said the attack represented a new stage of “horror and ignominy” in the unrest.The U.S. Embassy suggested actions to take:<ul>
 <li>Avoid demonstrations and protest activity</li><li>Avoid areas with significant police activity</li><li>If unavoidable, protect yourself/find shelter</li><li>Follow the advice of police and local authorities</li><li>Monitor local media for updates</li><li>Be aware of your surroundings</li>
 </ul>U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following:<ul>
 <li><a href="http://www.france24.com/en/" target="_blank">http://www.france24.com/en/&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="http://en.rfi.fr/france/" target="_blank">http://en.rfi.fr/france/&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://www.thelocal.fr/%20" target="_blank">https://www.thelocal.fr/&nbsp;</a></li>
 </ul>Assistance:<a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/" target="_blank">U.S. Embassy Paris, France</a>+33 (1) 43 12 22 22<a href="mailto:CitizenInfo@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfo@state.gov</a><a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/marseille/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Marseille, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">CitizenInfoMarseille@state.gov</a><a href="https://fr.usembassy.gov/embassy-consulates/strasbourg/" target="_blank">U.S. Consulate General Strasbourg, France</a> +33 (1) 43 12 22 22 <a href="mailto:CitizeninfoMarseille@state.gov" target="_blank">USAStrasbourg@state.gov</a>State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html" target="_blank">France Country Specific Information&nbsp;</a> Enroll in the&nbsp;<a href="https://step.state.gov/step/" target="_blank">Smart Traveler Enrollment Program&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;(STEP) to receive security updates

U.S. Embassy continues to alert Americans traveling in France

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces a charge of Animal Abuse, an E felony, in connection with a dog's abuse and death in October 2022, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Ryan R. Jackson, 30, faces Property Damage 1st Degree and Animal Abuse.

According to court records, in October 2022, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on a disturbance. Officers were told by a caller that the defendant had just told him that he had messed up the caller's home and harmed his dog, named Rom. 

Officers on the scene observed a white and grey bulldog in the roadway. The dog had numerous injuries and was bleeding from the mouth and face. The dog was unable to move. The dog later succumbed to his injuries. Inside the residence, officers found heavy damage. Kitchen cabinets were ripped out of the wall.

KC Pet Project responded to the scene of the dog's abuse and transported the injured animal to Blue Pearl Emergency Animal Hospital for treatment.

The animal abuses charges were filed in April 2023. An arrest warrant was signed June 22. The following day, Jackson was involved in a fatal shooting near 10th and Locust in Downtown Kansas City. Jackson faces charges of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action in that case and is being held without bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688215396434.png" alt="Jackson is being held without bond in Jackson County Detention Center" />
 <figcaption>Jackson is being held without bond in Jackson County Detention Center</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City man faces a charge of Animal Abuse, an E felony, in connection with a dog's abuse and death in October 2022, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Ryan R. Jackson, 30, faces Property Damage 1st Degree and Animal Abuse.According to court records, in October 2022, Kansas City police were dispatched to a residence on a disturbance. Officers were told by a caller that the defendant had just told him that he had messed up the caller's home and harmed his dog, named Rom. Officers on the scene observed a white and grey bulldog in the roadway. The dog had numerous injuries and was bleeding from the mouth and face. The dog was unable to move. The dog later succumbed to his injuries. Inside the residence, officers found heavy damage. Kitchen cabinets were ripped out of the wall.KC Pet Project responded to the scene of the dog's abuse and transported the injured animal to Blue Pearl Emergency Animal Hospital for treatment.The animal abuses charges were filed in April 2023. An arrest warrant was signed June 22. The following day, Jackson was involved in a fatal shooting near 10th and Locust in Downtown Kansas City. Jackson faces charges of Murder 2nd Degree and Armed Criminal Action in that case and is being held without bond.

Murder suspect also accused in deadly abuse of dog

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man found guilty of murdering his twin brother and his sister-in-law has been sentenced for the crime.

District Judge Jeffrey Goering sentenced Luis Alvarado-Meraz, 33 of Wichita, to life without parole, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On January 14, 2015, Alvarado-Meraz shot his brother 24-year-old Manuel and Manuel’s wife 22-year-old Lucero Rodriquez.

 Alvarado-Meraz was found guilty of capital murder on October 5, 2018.

The delay in sentencing was the result of the filing of multiple post-trial motions which required days of evidentiary hearings over the course of several years. Ultimately, the defendant’s motion for a new trial was denied over four years after he was convicted at trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1688071148693.png" alt="Alvarado-Meraz-photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Alvarado-Meraz-photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A man found guilty of murdering his twin brother and his sister-in-law has been sentenced for the crime.District Judge Jeffrey Goering sentenced Luis Alvarado-Meraz, 33 of Wichita, to life without parole, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.On January 14, 2015, Alvarado-Meraz shot his brother 24-year-old Manuel and Manuel’s wife 22-year-old Lucero Rodriquez. Alvarado-Meraz was found guilty of capital murder on October 5, 2018.The delay in sentencing was the result of the filing of multiple post-trial motions which required days of evidentiary hearings over the course of several years. Ultimately, the defendant’s motion for a new trial was denied over four years after he was convicted at trial.

Kan. man found guilty of murder in 2018 finally sentenced 

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead.

Officers arrived on the scene and located a 17-year-old victim unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.

While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries. 

Detectives learned that the 17-year-old and the 21-year-old had an encounter before multiple shots were fired. Police did not report an arrest or additional details early Sunday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688315722286.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the investigation -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly gunfight that left a teen dead.At approximately 6:30 p.m. Saturday, officers were dispatched to report of a shooting in the 900 block of North Glendale in Wichita, according to Officer Juan Rebolledo.Officers arrived on the scene and located a 17-year-old victim unconscious and not breathing with several gunshot wounds to his upper body. Officers began providing life-saving efforts until EMS arrived.The teen was pronounced deceased at the scene.While officers were processing the scene a 21-year-old male victim arrived at a local hospital with a gunshot wound to his hand. The 21-year-old victim had serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The 21- year-old victim was treated by medical staff and dismissed from the hospital and transported to investigations for further questioning.Detectives learned that the 17-year-old and the 21-year-old had an encounter before multiple shots were fired. Police did not report an arrest or additional details early Sunday.

Police: 17-year-old dead after gunfight in Wichita

There were seven people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp; Police have one person in custody.

The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses.

Police encouraged the public to avoid the Old Town area near Washington Street for most of the day as the investigation continues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688300318332.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Sunday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting inside a Wichita nightclub.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to a club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses on Wichita Police Department social media near the scene of the investigation.There were seven people with gunshot wounds and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club.&nbsp; Police have one person in custody.The investigation indicates there were at least four firearms discharged inside the club. Police have also seized an additional four firearms as part of the investigation.The shooting victims included a 21-year-old man, 26-year-old man, 24-year-old woman, 34-year-old man, 21-year-old woman, 30-year-old man, 24-year-old man. The traumatic injury victims were a 31-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, according to Moses.Sedgwick County EMS transported five of the victims to area hospitals. Private vehicles transported two others to the hospital.Wichita Police requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to assist with the investigation.Police encouraged the public to avoid the Old Town area near Washington Street for most of the day as the investigation continues.-------------SEDGWICK—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a shooting inside a Wichita nightclub.Just before 1a.m. Sunday, police responded to a club in the 200 Block of North Washington in Old Town, according to Police Lt. Aaron Moses on Wichita Police Department social media near the scene of the investigation."Seven people were shot and two people were trampled during the mass exodus out of the club."There were no fatalities, but there was one critical injury. All the victims were being treated at area hospitals, according Moses. The victims range in age from 21-34 years.One person was detained by police for questioning, Moses said.Police encouraged the public to avoid the Old Town area near Washington Street for most of the day as the investigation continues.&nbsp;Wichita Police, the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department, EMS and Wichita Fire Department all responded to the incident.

1 in custody: 9 hospitalized after shooting at Kan. night club

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids grabbed a shovel and flipped a chunk of dirt with state and local officials to mark the start of a $61 million road project in support of the 4,000-job Panasonic Energy electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant.

The state’s Eisenhower transportation construction fund and required matching contributions from municipal government were earmarked to address a 4.5-mile stretch of road needed to handle the surge in traffic around the manufacturing plant. The goal is to finish in 2024 conversion of a two-lane asphalt road to a divided four-lane roadway with curb, gutter and sidewalks near the Kansas 10 building site.

“Folks traveling to the Panasonic plant in the future will be able to do so safely and efficiently,” said Davids, a Democrat who serves the 3rd District that includes the Panasonic location. “Panasonic’s $4 billion investment is a game changer for our community, but we must make sure our public systems, from housing to education to infrastructure, can keep up with this growth.”

She was joined at the event Thursday by U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, Gov. Laura Kelly, De Soto Mayor Rick Walker, Johnson County assistant manager Aaron Otto, Clarkson Construction president Bill Clarkson, and Allan Swan, deputy leader of Panasonic’s Global Mobility Energy Division.

“This project is a testament to the state, county and city working together to invest in the success of Panasonic and attract new businesses to the area,” Moran said.

Davids said the photo-opportunity ceremony was a physical reminder of the elevated level of coordination necessary to make the best use of massive private and public investment in the Johnson County battery plant.

In May, Davids initiated a series of conversations among local officials, community leaders and federal administrators with community development expertise relevant to the Panasonic project. The first in the series involved Angela Belden Martinez, regional director for U.S. Economic Development Association’s office in Denver.

Davids said the objective was to build bridges so local officials had the best opportunity to learn about and secure federal aid. Sometimes, she said, cities and counties didn’t learn about availability of federal funding until it was too late to apply or experienced frustration with the cumbersome application process.

The Economic Development Association, for example, could support city governments with project planning grants, Davids said.

“I’m doing everything I can to make sure the federal government is an active partner in moving this project forward,” she said. “One of the key ways I can do that is by convening national, regional and local stakeholders to keep things on track.”

Kelly said the Panasonic project announced one year ago represented the largest private investment in Kansas history. The state of Kansas, through a series of economic development programs, was expected to provide about $800 million in incentives to Panasonic.

“This De Soto project is one more example of why Kansas is truly a winning investment for companies small, large and mega-sized,” the governor said. “Kansas is delivering the transportation infrastructure improvements needed to support the Panasonic facility during its construction and to serve employees, suppliers, and shippers once it is up and running.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1688258712941.png" alt="U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, second from left, joined state and local officials to highlight investment of $61 million in road upgrades to serve the $4 billion Panasonic battery plant to be built in De Soto. Davids is conducting a series of meetings to bring local and federal officials together to address infrastructure, education, housing and other challenges raised by the project. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, second from left, joined state and local officials to highlight investment of $61 million in road upgrades to serve the $4 billion Panasonic battery plant to be built in De Soto. Davids is conducting a series of meetings to bring local and federal officials together to address infrastructure, education, housing and other challenges raised by the project. (Submitted/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/grieving-moms-plea-to-kansas-lawmakers-do-something-this-epidemic-is-killing-our-kids/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids grabbed a shovel and flipped a chunk of dirt with state and local officials to mark the start of a $61 million road project in support of the 4,000-job Panasonic Energy electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant.The state’s Eisenhower transportation construction fund and required matching contributions from municipal government were earmarked to address a 4.5-mile stretch of road needed to handle the surge in traffic around the manufacturing plant. The goal is to finish in 2024 conversion of a two-lane asphalt road to a divided four-lane roadway with curb, gutter and sidewalks near the Kansas 10 building site.“Folks traveling to the Panasonic plant in the future will be able to do so safely and efficiently,” said Davids, a Democrat who serves the 3rd District that includes the Panasonic location. “Panasonic’s $4 billion investment is a game changer for our community, but we must make sure our public systems, from housing to education to infrastructure, can keep up with this growth.”She was joined at the event Thursday by U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, Gov. Laura Kelly, De Soto Mayor Rick Walker, Johnson County assistant manager Aaron Otto, Clarkson Construction president Bill Clarkson, and Allan Swan, deputy leader of Panasonic’s Global Mobility Energy Division.“This project is a testament to the state, county and city working together to invest in the success of Panasonic and attract new businesses to the area,” Moran said.Davids said the photo-opportunity ceremony was a physical reminder of the elevated level of coordination necessary to make the best use of massive private and public investment in the Johnson County battery plant.In May, Davids initiated a series of conversations among local officials, community leaders and federal administrators with community development expertise relevant to the Panasonic project. The first in the series involved Angela Belden Martinez, regional director for U.S. Economic Development Association’s office in Denver.Davids said the objective was to build bridges so local officials had the best opportunity to learn about and secure federal aid. Sometimes, she said, cities and counties didn’t learn about availability of federal funding until it was too late to apply or experienced frustration with the cumbersome application process.The Economic Development Association, for example, could support city governments with project planning grants, Davids said.“I’m doing everything I can to make sure the federal government is an active partner in moving this project forward,” she said. “One of the key ways I can do that is by convening national, regional and local stakeholders to keep things on track.”Kelly said the Panasonic project announced one year ago represented the largest private investment in Kansas history. The state of Kansas, through a series of economic development programs, was expected to provide about $800 million in incentives to Panasonic.“This De Soto project is one more example of why Kansas is truly a winning investment for companies small, large and mega-sized,” the governor said. “Kansas is delivering the transportation infrastructure improvements needed to support the Panasonic facility during its construction and to serve employees, suppliers, and shippers once it is up and running.”

Kan. rep. strives to link local, federal officials in support of $4B Panasonic project

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Montgomery County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F550 driven by Gaylan D. Hamilton, 71, Elk City, was responding to a medical call with emergency lights activated, northbound on Franklin Street

The vehicle made a wide turn and struck 72-year-old Victoria L. Eddington of Elk City who sitting in her chair on the west side of&nbsp; the street.

She was pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other injuries reported.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 10p.m. Saturday in Montgomery County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2004 Ford F550 driven by Gaylan D. Hamilton, 71, Elk City, was responding to a medical call with emergency lights activated, northbound on Franklin StreetThe vehicle made a wide turn and struck 72-year-old Victoria L. Eddington of Elk City who sitting in her chair on the west side of&nbsp; the street.She was pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other injuries reported.

Kan. woman dies after struck by vehicle responding to emergency call

WASHINGTON (AP) — As a Black student who was raised by a single mother, Makia Green believes she benefited from a program that gave preference to students of color from economically disadvantaged backgrounds when she was admitted over a decade ago to the University of Rochester.

As a borrower who still owes just over $20,000 on her undergraduate student loans, she had been counting on President Joe Biden's promised debt relief to wipe nearly all of that away.

Now, the student loan cancellation plan has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">dismantled by the U.S. Supreme Court</a>, which on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-race-f83d6318017ec9b9029b12ee2256e744">struck down affirmative action</a>&nbsp;in college admissions. Both policies disproportionately help Black students. To Green and many other people of color, the efforts to roll them back reflect a larger backlash to racial progress in higher education.

“I feel like working people have been through enough — I have been through enough,” said Green, a community organizer. “From a pandemic, an uprising, a recession, the cost of living price going up. I deserved some relief.”

The rulings could also have political consequences among a generation of young voters of color who took Biden at his word when he campaigned on canceling debt.

“Despite today’s upsetting ruling, we demand that the Biden Administration delivers on the promise of student loan debt relief,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson, in a statement. “Education has long been regarded as a path toward generational wealth, economic liberation, and securing the American dream. Let’s be clear — student debt is killing that dream.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1566222092492.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — As a Black student who was raised by a single mother, Makia Green believes she benefited from a program that gave preference to students of color from economically disadvantaged backgrounds when she was admitted over a decade ago to the University of Rochester.As a borrower who still owes just over $20,000 on her undergraduate student loans, she had been counting on President Joe Biden's promised debt relief to wipe nearly all of that away.Now, the student loan cancellation plan has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">dismantled by the U.S. Supreme Court</a>, which on Thursday&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-race-f83d6318017ec9b9029b12ee2256e744">struck down affirmative action</a>&nbsp;in college admissions. Both policies disproportionately help Black students. To Green and many other people of color, the efforts to roll them back reflect a larger backlash to racial progress in higher education.“I feel like working people have been through enough — I have been through enough,” said Green, a community organizer. “From a pandemic, an uprising, a recession, the cost of living price going up. I deserved some relief.”The rulings could also have political consequences among a generation of young voters of color who took Biden at his word when he campaigned on canceling debt.“Despite today’s upsetting ruling, we demand that the Biden Administration delivers on the promise of student loan debt relief,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson, in a statement. “Education has long been regarded as a path toward generational wealth, economic liberation, and securing the American dream. Let’s be clear — student debt is killing that dream.”The president's plan&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-biden-plan-d9c8e18774a744187c9af634bf4eb728">forgave up to $10,000</a>&nbsp;in federal student debt for borrowers, and doubled the debt relief to $20,000 for borrowers who also received Pell Grants. About half of the average debt held by Black and Hispanic borrowers would have been wiped out, according to the White House.Six Republican-led states filed a legal challenge questioning whether the president, a Democrat, had authority to forgive the debt. On Friday, the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-supreme-court-653c2e9c085863bdbf81f125f87669fa">Supreme Court held</a>&nbsp;the administration needed Congress’ endorsement before undertaking so costly a program.In the affirmative action cases, the court was considering the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/voting-rights-ketanji-brown-jackson-us-supreme-court-college-admissions-affirmative-action-196ab930c799bcdc8b2a4a220641dd48">race-conscious admissions policies</a>&nbsp;that many selective colleges have used for decades to help build diversity on their campuses. The cases were brought by a conservative activist who argues the Constitution forbids the use of race in college admissions.Together, the cases are crushing to Black Americans, the Rev. Al Sharpton said.“The reality is race plays a factor in admissions, from pre-K to post-doctorate, and institutions just saw their best tool for fairness outlawed,” Sharpton said.On student loans, Sharpton said: “Generations of Black youth were sold a bill of goods that higher education was a pathway out of poverty – only to be saddled with crushing debt that never lets them see their dreams fully realized.”Both cases focused on policies that address historic racial disparities in access to higher education, as&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-covid-health-education-07bf5c4ff1928793f01e907a63cafa36">Black borrowers</a>&nbsp;tend to take on disproportionately more debt to afford college, said Dominique Baker, an education policy professor at Southern Methodist University.Backlash to racial progress tends to follow periods of social change and advancement, Baker said. In a study published in 2019, Baker found states were more likely to adopt bans on affirmative action when white enrollment at public flagship universities dropped.“These are policy tools that have an explicit aim around reducing the power of white supremacy,” Baker said. The two court challenges, she said, can be seen “as linked backlash to two attempts towards racial justice.”Green, who grew up in a low-income household in Harlem, New York, graduated from Rochester with about $40,000 in federal loan debt. Some of that was erased under a public service forgiveness program when she completed two terms with Americorps, and she whittled it down further with monthly installments until the government&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loans-debt-forgiveness-supreme-court-default-0eb5a2bdb0ed4cfbd9663f822dfd457c">paused repayment</a>&nbsp;due to the pandemic. Payments will&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-payment-pause-end-642276f724b30890669a60ea2c0bbfd5">restart in September</a>.Green said she sees both court cases as connected to conservative&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/lgbtq-race-ban-schools-4c4df1728f5265eee3684268035570c2">attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion programs</a>. Critics say opposition to such programs is rooted in questions of fairness and in white grievances over the advancement of nonwhite people.“This is white supremacy at work,” Green said. “This is a long tactic of conservative, white supremacist-leaning groups to use education and limit Black people’s access to education, as a way to further control and oppress us.”In the 1960s and 1970s, many colleges developed affirmative action plans to address the fact that many predominantly white schools struggled to attract people from historically disadvantaged and underrepresented communities. Policies were also created to promote greater inclusion of women.Since the late 1970s, the Supreme Court had three times&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-supreme-court-race-and-ethnicity-racial-injustice-education-higher-8bd85791095f617f6fa66c1552670f3d">upheld affirmative action</a>&nbsp;in college admissions on grounds that institutions have a compelling interest to address past discrimination that shut nonwhite students out of higher learning. Justices had also agreed with arguments that more diverse student bodies promoted cross-racial understanding.Some students and advocates worried about how the ruling would affect diversity on campuses.Tarina Ahuja, a rising senior at Harvard College, said being part of a diverse student body has been a crucial part of her undergraduate experience. She recalled classes where students discussed their lived experiences on topics such as police violence, colonialism and labor movements — discussions that would have fallen flat without a diverse range of student perspectives.In anticipation of a ruling against race-conscious admissions, some colleges have been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-college-admissions-1d37af28939a533551cff45fa577ceb0">considering adding more essays</a>&nbsp;to get a better picture of an applicant’s background — an approach seemingly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/college-admissions-affirmative-action-race-0ec3f355ea77828d9a7aa07fa1b2ebde">endorsed by Thursday's Supreme Court ruling</a>. Others have been planning to boost recruiting in racially diverse areas. But in states that have already banned affirmative action, similar efforts at selective colleges have&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-affirmative-action-diversity-5551cdb2b7206cd9112433e858be4d59">largely failed to maintain diversity gains</a>.Jonathan Loc, a graduate student at Harvard who helped organize teach-ins in support of affirmative action, said that for students of color, it's impossible to speak about their lives without mentioning race, whether through hardships faced or simply their pride in their cultural heritage.“I grew up as the son of refugees in a low-income community and a single-parent family burdened with the model minority myth,” he said. “But I think that that kind of narrative also helps me to be an Asian American focused on racial justice, focused on making sure that everyone who has a unique story related to their racial background or any background has that story heard.”It will be important for colleges to find ways to show they see the students as more than a number on paper, said Damon Hewitt, president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.“We need the schools to say, 'Look, the court says we can’t consider race, but we still see you,'” said Hewitt, whose organization defended affirmative action before the Supreme Court in October.___The Associated Press education team receives support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. The AP is solely responsible for all content.___