Des Moines (AP) —The Mega Millions jackpot climbed to an estimated $1.05 billion Friday night, only the fifth time in the history of the game that the grand prize has reached into the billions.

No one managed to beat the massive odds and match all six numbers for Friday's estimated $940 million jackpot. The numbers drawn were: 5, 10, 28, 52, 63 and the gold ball 18.

There have been 29 straight draws without a Mega Millions jackpot winner since the last grand prize ticket on April 18.

The $1.05 billion prize up for grabs in the next drawing Tuesday night would be for a sole winner choosing to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">paid through an annuity</a>, with annual payments over 30 years. Jackpot winners almost always opt for a lump sum payment, which for Tuesday’s drawing would be an estimated $527.9 million.

The potential jackpot is the fourth-largest in the game and the fifth over $1 billion, Mega Millions said in a statement early Saturday.

Although there were no jackpot winners, one ticket in Pennsylvania was worth $5 million and another in the state connected for $1 million. There also were $1 million winners in Arizona, California and New York, Mega Millions said.

It has been less than two weeks since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-winner-california-9f0e98a47c96c2b3087a68b33195dd50">someone in Los Angeles</a>&nbsp;won a $1.08 billion Powerball prize that ranked as the sixth-largest in U.S. history. The winner of the prize is still a mystery.

Lottery jackpots grow so large because the odds of winning are so small. For Mega Millions, the odds of winning the jackpot are about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-mega-millions-winning-odds-numbers-a3e5a8e8e7ed15d7500c1d6acdab6785">1 in 302.6 million.</a>

Winners also would be subject to federal taxes, and many states also tax lottery winnings.

Mega Millions is played in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Des Moines (AP) —The Mega Millions jackpot climbed to an estimated $1.05 billion Friday night, only the fifth time in the history of the game that the grand prize has reached into the billions.No one managed to beat the massive odds and match all six numbers for Friday's estimated $940 million jackpot. The numbers drawn were: 5, 10, 28, 52, 63 and the gold ball 18.There have been 29 straight draws without a Mega Millions jackpot winner since the last grand prize ticket on April 18.The $1.05 billion prize up for grabs in the next drawing Tuesday night would be for a sole winner choosing to be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-annuity-vs-cash-0e741f164106c0f4dba89707c5763c99">paid through an annuity</a>, with annual payments over 30 years. Jackpot winners almost always opt for a lump sum payment, which for Tuesday’s drawing would be an estimated $527.9 million.The potential jackpot is the fourth-largest in the game and the fifth over $1 billion, Mega Millions said in a statement early Saturday.Although there were no jackpot winners, one ticket in Pennsylvania was worth $5 million and another in the state connected for $1 million. There also were $1 million winners in Arizona, California and New York, Mega Millions said.It has been less than two weeks since&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-jackpot-winner-california-9f0e98a47c96c2b3087a68b33195dd50">someone in Los Angeles</a>&nbsp;won a $1.08 billion Powerball prize that ranked as the sixth-largest in U.S. history. The winner of the prize is still a mystery.Lottery jackpots grow so large because the odds of winning are so small. For Mega Millions, the odds of winning the jackpot are about&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/powerball-mega-millions-winning-odds-numbers-a3e5a8e8e7ed15d7500c1d6acdab6785">1 in 302.6 million.</a>Winners also would be subject to federal taxes, and many states also tax lottery winnings.Mega Millions is played in 45 states, Washington, D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Mega Millions jackpot climbs to $1.05 billion; another drawing and no big winner

AUBURN, Maine (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;— buoyed by new signs the economy is continuing on the upswing — took a swipe on Friday at House Republicans' flirtations with an impeachment inquiry, quipping that GOP lawmakers may decide to impeach him because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-federal-reserve-interest-rates-economy-c48791d3e506b30b643cedec34bab290">inflation is cooling down</a>.

(click below to watch the President's comments)

Standing in a textile manufacturing facility in Auburn Biden pointed to inflation statistics that showed the U.S. has the lowest rate of price increases among the world's biggest economies. Though he was careful to say he was not taking a victory lap on the economy, Biden suggested that his Republican opponents in Congress may need to find a fresh line of attack against him because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-bidenomics-jobs-inflation-8d03a90a06b566e441f0b3f2284cd6a9">improving economic circumstances</a>.

“Maybe they’ll decide to impeach me because it’s coming down,” Biden said. “I don’t know. I'd love that one.”

Earlier this week, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-impeachment-mccarthy-hannity-78e4c7efeb030b29e1576f868257179b">made his most direct remarks yet</a>&nbsp;that GOP lawmakers could launch an impeachment inquiry into Biden over unproven claims of financial misconduct related to Hunter Biden, the president's son. However, the California Republican has acknowledged privately that it's too soon to know whether the president was aware of — much less involved in — his son's financial dealings in a way that would rise to the level of impeachable conduct.

While McCarthy publicly floated the inquiry this week, the White House has engaged little with those efforts, instead focused on promoting “Bidenomics" and the president's domestic agenda. Aides have repeatedly played down any inquiry as a hypothetical and pointed out the hesitation among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kevin-mccarthy">McCarthy's</a>&nbsp;own ranks about pursuing impeachment against the president.

“We're not going to get into what House Republicans want to do, may not do, hypotheticals, that's on them,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on Air Force One en route to Maine earlier Friday. “What I can speak to is exactly what we're doing today, right? We're going to Maine. We're going to be able to talk about an issue that matters to Americans: investing in America, manufacturing, bringing good union-paying jobs back to America.”

Indeed, that was the focus of the White House on Friday, as Biden used the trip to Maine to sign an executive order that would encourage companies to manufacture new inventions in the United States. It was Biden's first trip to the state as president.

“I'm not here to declare victory on the economy. We have more work to do,” Biden said. But “we have a plan for turning things around. ‘Bidenomics’ is just another way of saying restoring the American dream.”

The Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-maine-23bf8249bea27763dcfdae77f5bd611f">won three out of the state's four electoral votes</a>&nbsp;in 2020 and is seeking to shore up his support in the state. Maine allocates its electoral votes by congressional district, and Biden lost the vote in the state's 2nd District, which provided the only electoral vote in New England for then-President Donald Trump, a Republican.

By going to that district on Friday, Biden sought to show its blue-collar voters that he's committed to them, as a single electoral vote could be critical in a narrow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">2024 presidential election</a>.

Democrats can compete in Maine's 2nd District as Rep. Jared Golden has been its congressman since 2019. But Golden has also been one of the Democratic lawmakers who has openly criticized Biden over his handling of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-kevin-mccarthy-debt-limit-aee6d1dd48f53bedadfe1212e231f48f">debt limit talks</a>&nbsp;this year and the administration's forgiveness of student debt that has since been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-student-loan-forgiveness-borrowers-76423b2951d89074cbb78f14b24af105">overturned by the Supreme Court</a>. Despite distancing himself from the White House on some policies, Golden traveled with Biden on Air Force One on Friday.

And shortly before Biden spoke at Auburn Manufacturing Inc., Golden noted to the audience that “it's no secret” he doesn't always agree with the president's agenda but that he “proudly” supports Bidenomics.

Republicans have said that Biden's policies have led to higher inflation. Consumer prices climbed to a four-decade high last summer, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-interest-rates-economy-federal-reserve-53d93610b5ccaacd097853593f29bc26">inflation has eased</a>&nbsp;over the past 12 months to a rate of 3% annually.

“&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-economy-bidenomics-jobs-speech-inflation-1fcefdcbb66cb980db85b24accdfbaa6">Bidenomics</a>&nbsp;is hurting working people in my district," said Maine state Rep. Joshua Morris, a Republican. "The cost of groceries, heating oil, gas, health care and electricity have gone up as a result of Joe Biden’s policies. He should be apologizing to us while he’s here, not bragging.”

The National Republican Congressional Committee went on the attack against Golden, calling him “Joe Biden's loyal foot soldier” who had backed inflation-boosting policies earlier in his presidency.

The White House outlined the executive order being signed by Biden, which would improve the transparency of federal research and development programs to meet the administration's goals for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-technology-democracy-congress-government-and-politics-46c5be6252376e5018163d6647f2cfe8">domestic manufacturing</a>. The order asks agencies to weigh U.S. national security and economic interests when determining if domestic manufacturing requirements should be broadened.

The order also urges federal agencies to consider domestic production when investing in research and development and to use their own legal authorities to encourage manufacturing new technologies in the U.S. But when goods cannot be made in the U.S., the order instructs the Commerce Department to create a clearer and timelier process for receiving a waiver.

<a href="https://apnews.com/4cb4f3c0b1e94c9eb6d923640c6fa140">Auburn Manufacturing Inc.</a>, where Biden spoke Friday, is a maker of heat- and fire-resistant fabrics for industries that include shipbuilding, oil refining and electricity generation. The company challenged China for its unfair trade practices regarding amorphous silica fabric, or ASF, which is a heat-resistant material.

Biden was also scheduled to appear at a fundraiser in Freeport, Maine, later Friday.

AUBURN, Maine (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/joe-biden">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;— buoyed by new signs the economy is continuing on the upswing — took a swipe on Friday at House Republicans' flirtations with an impeachment inquiry, quipping that GOP lawmakers may decide to impeach him because&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-federal-reserve-interest-rates-economy-c48791d3e506b30b643cedec34bab290">inflation is cooling down</a>.(click below to watch the President's comments)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F647526017316344%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=661" width="560" height="314" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Standing in a textile manufacturing facility in Auburn Biden pointed to inflation statistics that showed the U.S. has the lowest rate of price increases among the world's biggest economies. Though he was careful to say he was not taking a victory lap on the economy, Biden suggested that his Republican opponents in Congress may need to find a fresh line of attack against him because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-bidenomics-jobs-inflation-8d03a90a06b566e441f0b3f2284cd6a9">improving economic circumstances</a>.“Maybe they’ll decide to impeach me because it’s coming down,” Biden said. “I don’t know. I'd love that one.”Earlier this week, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-impeachment-mccarthy-hannity-78e4c7efeb030b29e1576f868257179b">made his most direct remarks yet</a>&nbsp;that GOP lawmakers could launch an impeachment inquiry into Biden over unproven claims of financial misconduct related to Hunter Biden, the president's son. However, the California Republican has acknowledged privately that it's too soon to know whether the president was aware of — much less involved in — his son's financial dealings in a way that would rise to the level of impeachable conduct.While McCarthy publicly floated the inquiry this week, the White House has engaged little with those efforts, instead focused on promoting “Bidenomics" and the president's domestic agenda. Aides have repeatedly played down any inquiry as a hypothetical and pointed out the hesitation among&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/kevin-mccarthy">McCarthy's</a>&nbsp;own ranks about pursuing impeachment against the president.“We're not going to get into what House Republicans want to do, may not do, hypotheticals, that's on them,” White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters on Air Force One en route to Maine earlier Friday. “What I can speak to is exactly what we're doing today, right? We're going to Maine. We're going to be able to talk about an issue that matters to Americans: investing in America, manufacturing, bringing good union-paying jobs back to America.”Indeed, that was the focus of the White House on Friday, as Biden used the trip to Maine to sign an executive order that would encourage companies to manufacture new inventions in the United States. It was Biden's first trip to the state as president.“I'm not here to declare victory on the economy. We have more work to do,” Biden said. But “we have a plan for turning things around. ‘Bidenomics’ is just another way of saying restoring the American dream.”The Democrat&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-joe-biden-donald-trump-elections-maine-23bf8249bea27763dcfdae77f5bd611f">won three out of the state's four electoral votes</a>&nbsp;in 2020 and is seeking to shore up his support in the state. Maine allocates its electoral votes by congressional district, and Biden lost the vote in the state's 2nd District, which provided the only electoral vote in New England for then-President Donald Trump, a Republican.By going to that district on Friday, Biden sought to show its blue-collar voters that he's committed to them, as a single electoral vote could be critical in a narrow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2024-presidential-candidates-who-is-running-e89fbfee94e7e7980594a9ce3994fec7">2024 presidential election</a>.Democrats can compete in Maine's 2nd District as Rep. Jared Golden has been its congressman since 2019. But Golden has also been one of the Democratic lawmakers who has openly criticized Biden over his handling of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/president-joe-biden-kevin-mccarthy-debt-limit-aee6d1dd48f53bedadfe1212e231f48f">debt limit talks</a>&nbsp;this year and the administration's forgiveness of student debt that has since been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/supreme-court-student-loan-forgiveness-borrowers-76423b2951d89074cbb78f14b24af105">overturned by the Supreme Court</a>. Despite distancing himself from the White House on some policies, Golden traveled with Biden on Air Force One on Friday.And shortly before Biden spoke at Auburn Manufacturing Inc., Golden noted to the audience that “it's no secret” he doesn't always agree with the president's agenda but that he “proudly” supports Bidenomics.Republicans have said that Biden's policies have led to higher inflation. Consumer prices climbed to a four-decade high last summer, but&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/inflation-prices-interest-rates-economy-federal-reserve-53d93610b5ccaacd097853593f29bc26">inflation has eased</a>&nbsp;over the past 12 months to a rate of 3% annually.“&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-economy-bidenomics-jobs-speech-inflation-1fcefdcbb66cb980db85b24accdfbaa6">Bidenomics</a>&nbsp;is hurting working people in my district," said Maine state Rep. Joshua Morris, a Republican. "The cost of groceries, heating oil, gas, health care and electricity have gone up as a result of Joe Biden’s policies. He should be apologizing to us while he’s here, not bragging.”The National Republican Congressional Committee went on the attack against Golden, calling him “Joe Biden's loyal foot soldier” who had backed inflation-boosting policies earlier in his presidency.The White House outlined the executive order being signed by Biden, which would improve the transparency of federal research and development programs to meet the administration's goals for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/biden-technology-democracy-congress-government-and-politics-46c5be6252376e5018163d6647f2cfe8">domestic manufacturing</a>. The order asks agencies to weigh U.S. national security and economic interests when determining if domestic manufacturing requirements should be broadened.The order also urges federal agencies to consider domestic production when investing in research and development and to use their own legal authorities to encourage manufacturing new technologies in the U.S. But when goods cannot be made in the U.S., the order instructs the Commerce Department to create a clearer and timelier process for receiving a waiver.<a href="https://apnews.com/4cb4f3c0b1e94c9eb6d923640c6fa140">Auburn Manufacturing Inc.</a>, where Biden spoke Friday, is a maker of heat- and fire-resistant fabrics for industries that include shipbuilding, oil refining and electricity generation. The company challenged China for its unfair trade practices regarding amorphous silica fabric, or ASF, which is a heat-resistant material.Biden was also scheduled to appear at a fundraiser in Freeport, Maine, later Friday.___

🎥Biden jokes Republicans may impeach him because inflation cooling

WASHINGTON – Heartland Tri-State Bank of Elkhart, Kansas, was closed Friday by the Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver, according to a media release from the FDIC.

To protect depositors, the FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Dream First Bank, National Association, of Syracuse, Kansas, to assume all of the deposits of Heartland Tri-State Bank.

The bank has four branches including a location at 116 South Lincoln in Arlington; 601 Morton in Elkhart; 114 North Main in Attica and 212 Washington in Rolla.

The four branches will reopen as branches of Dream First Bank, National Association, on Monday, July 31, under normal business hours. 

Over the weekend, depositors of Heartland Tri-State Bank can access their money by writing checks or using ATM or debit cards. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual.

Depositors of Heartland Tri-State Bank will become depositors of Dream First Bank, National Association, so customers do not need to change their banking relationship in order to retain their deposit insurance coverage. Customers of Heartland Tri-State Bank should continue to use their existing branch until they receive notice from Dream First Bank, National Association, that it has completed systems changes to allow its branch offices to process their accounts as well.

As of March 31, 2023, Heartland Tri-State Bank had approximately $139 million in total assets and $130 million in total deposits. In addition to assuming all of the deposits, Dream First Bank, National Association, agreed to purchase essentially all of the failed bank’s assets.

The FDIC and Dream First Bank, National Association, are also entering into a commercial&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdic.gov/resources/resolutions/bank-failures/failed-bank-list/lossshare/">shared-loss agreement</a>&nbsp;on the loans it purchased of the former Heartland Tri-State Bank. The FDIC as receiver and Dream First Bank, National Association, will share in the losses and potential recoveries on the loans covered by the shared-loss agreement, which is projected to maximize recoveries on the assets by keeping them in the private sector. The agreement is also expected to minimize disruptions for loan customers.

Customers with questions about the transaction should call the FDIC toll-free at 1-866-431-1725. The phone number will be operational this evening until 9:00 p.m. Central Time (CT); on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT; on Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m. CT; on Monday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. CT; and thereafter from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT. Interested parties also can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdic.gov/resources/resolutions/bank-failures/failed-bank-list/heartlandtristate.html">visit the FDIC’s website</a>.

The FDIC estimates that the cost to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance/deposit-insurance-fund/">Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF)</a>&nbsp;will be $54.2 million. Compared to other alternatives, Dream First Bank, National Association’s, acquisition was the least costly resolution for the DIF, an insurance fund created by Congress in 1933 and managed by the FDIC to protect the deposits at the nation’s banks.

This is the fifth U.S. bank failure of 2023, following the collapse of First Republic Bank, Signature Bank, Silicon Valley Bank and Silvergate Bank. There were no bank failures the past two years.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690597696044.png" alt="Google image" />
 <figcaption>Google image</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON – Heartland Tri-State Bank of Elkhart, Kansas, was closed Friday by the Kansas Office of the State Bank Commissioner, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver, according to a media release from the FDIC.To protect depositors, the FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Dream First Bank, National Association, of Syracuse, Kansas, to assume all of the deposits of Heartland Tri-State Bank.The bank has four branches including a location at 116 South Lincoln in Arlington; 601 Morton in Elkhart; 114 North Main in Attica and 212 Washington in Rolla.The four branches will reopen as branches of Dream First Bank, National Association, on Monday, July 31, under normal business hours. Over the weekend, depositors of Heartland Tri-State Bank can access their money by writing checks or using ATM or debit cards. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual.Depositors of Heartland Tri-State Bank will become depositors of Dream First Bank, National Association, so customers do not need to change their banking relationship in order to retain their deposit insurance coverage. Customers of Heartland Tri-State Bank should continue to use their existing branch until they receive notice from Dream First Bank, National Association, that it has completed systems changes to allow its branch offices to process their accounts as well.As of March 31, 2023, Heartland Tri-State Bank had approximately $139 million in total assets and $130 million in total deposits. In addition to assuming all of the deposits, Dream First Bank, National Association, agreed to purchase essentially all of the failed bank’s assets.The FDIC and Dream First Bank, National Association, are also entering into a commercial&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdic.gov/resources/resolutions/bank-failures/failed-bank-list/lossshare/">shared-loss agreement</a>&nbsp;on the loans it purchased of the former Heartland Tri-State Bank. The FDIC as receiver and Dream First Bank, National Association, will share in the losses and potential recoveries on the loans covered by the shared-loss agreement, which is projected to maximize recoveries on the assets by keeping them in the private sector. The agreement is also expected to minimize disruptions for loan customers.Customers with questions about the transaction should call the FDIC toll-free at 1-866-431-1725. The phone number will be operational this evening until 9:00 p.m. Central Time (CT); on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT; on Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m. CT; on Monday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. CT; and thereafter from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT. Interested parties also can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdic.gov/resources/resolutions/bank-failures/failed-bank-list/heartlandtristate.html">visit the FDIC’s website</a>.The FDIC estimates that the cost to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fdic.gov/resources/deposit-insurance/deposit-insurance-fund/">Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF)</a>&nbsp;will be $54.2 million. Compared to other alternatives, Dream First Bank, National Association’s, acquisition was the least costly resolution for the DIF, an insurance fund created by Congress in 1933 and managed by the FDIC to protect the deposits at the nation’s banks.This is the fifth U.S. bank failure of 2023, following the collapse of First Republic Bank, Signature Bank, Silicon Valley Bank and Silvergate Bank. There were no bank failures the past two years.

Kansas bank becomes 5th U.S. bank failure in 2023 

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

Just after 5 p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in 3400 block of Roberts Street, according to&nbsp;Captain Corey Carlisle. First responders located an adult man on the side walk suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. EMS arrived on scene and declared him deceased. Police had no suspect in custody late Friday. Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to the scene to recover any evidence and speaking to any potential witnesses. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information provided to TIPS which leads to an arrest in the case.

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a deadly shooting. Just after 5 p.m. Friday, police were dispatched to report of a shooting in 3400 block of Roberts Street, according to&nbsp;Captain Corey Carlisle. First responders located an adult man on the side walk suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. EMS arrived on scene and declared him deceased. Police had no suspect in custody late Friday. Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Personnel responded to the scene to recover any evidence and speaking to any potential witnesses. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information provided to TIPS which leads to an arrest in the case.

Police find shooting victim dead on Kansas City sidewalk

SHAWNEE COUNTY—The man accused in the fatal shooting of a 2-month-old in Topeka is now in a Kansas jail.

Early Thursday, 29-year-old Alfred A. Smith was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to online jail records. He is being held without bond.

On July 20, Smith was booked into the Greene County Missouri jail on unrelated charges, according to online booking records.

On July 14,&nbsp; police were&nbsp;dispatched to a Topeka hospital after a victim identified as 2-month-old Alonzoe K. Smith arrived with an apparent gunshot wound, according to Lt. Ronnie Connell.

The infant had arrived and was being treated for a life threatening injury. and later died.&nbsp; &nbsp; The shooting occurred in the 1000 Block of SW Mulvane Street.&nbsp; Soon after the child's death, police asked the public to locate Smith.&nbsp; Police have not indicated charges he faces in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1689903649893.png" alt="Smith was captured in Missouri -photo Greene Co." />
 <figcaption>Smith was captured in Missouri -photo Greene Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—The man accused in the fatal shooting of a 2-month-old in Topeka is now in a Kansas jail.Early Thursday, 29-year-old Alfred A. Smith was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to online jail records. He is being held without bond.On July 20, Smith was booked into the Greene County Missouri jail on unrelated charges, according to online booking records.On July 14,&nbsp; police were&nbsp;dispatched to a Topeka hospital after a victim identified as 2-month-old Alonzoe K. Smith arrived with an apparent gunshot wound, according to Lt. Ronnie Connell.The infant had arrived and was being treated for a life threatening injury. and later died.&nbsp; &nbsp; The shooting occurred in the 1000 Block of SW Mulvane Street.&nbsp; Soon after the child's death, police asked the public to locate Smith.&nbsp; Police have not indicated charges he faces in the case.

Man accused in murder of 2-month-old moved to Kansas jail

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8308045a-8f59-4aeb-b39e-4577414e55f8">READ:&nbsp;Leadsled KKOA Spectacular in town July 27-30</a>

Thursday marked the kickoff of the 43rd Annual KKOA Leadsled Spectacular in Oakdale Park. As is tradition hundreds of customized cars, trucks, and everything in between made their way down Santa Fe Avenue for the Sundown Cruise.&nbsp;

In case you didn't get a chance to make it downtown, or you just wanted to escape the heat, Eagle Communications has you covered. Click the link above to see the entire parade. 

Commentary for the parade was provided by 910 KINA's Chris Caddle and Jerry Hinrikus.&nbsp;

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/8308045a-8f59-4aeb-b39e-4577414e55f8">READ:&nbsp;Leadsled KKOA Spectacular in town July 27-30</a><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a9oLB32_t_4" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>By SALINA POSTThursday marked the kickoff of the 43rd Annual KKOA Leadsled Spectacular in Oakdale Park. As is tradition hundreds of customized cars, trucks, and everything in between made their way down Santa Fe Avenue for the Sundown Cruise.&nbsp;In case you didn't get a chance to make it downtown, or you just wanted to escape the heat, Eagle Communications has you covered. Click the link above to see the entire parade. Commentary for the parade was provided by 910 KINA's Chris Caddle and Jerry Hinrikus.&nbsp;

🎥 KKOA Sundown Cruise in Salina 

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

On July 25, law enforcement officers with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit and Douglas County Sheriff’s Nexus Unit executed a narcotics related search warrant in the 400 block of SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.

 During the investigation, investigators found illegal narcotics including meth.

Tammi S. Moore, 57, and Jesse D. Jones, 31, both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into them Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Moore is being held on requested charges that include distribution of stimulants, possession of drug paraphernalia and use of a communication device in commission of a felony drug violation. Jones remains jailed on a requested charge of distribution of stimulants and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690464285105.png" alt="Jones-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Jones-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on drug allegationsOn July 25, law enforcement officers with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit and Douglas County Sheriff’s Nexus Unit executed a narcotics related search warrant in the 400 block of SW Western Avenue in Topeka, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. During the investigation, investigators found illegal narcotics including meth.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690464195704.png" alt="Moore-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Moore-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Tammi S. Moore, 57, and Jesse D. Jones, 31, both of Topeka, were arrested and booked into them Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Moore is being held on requested charges that include distribution of stimulants, possession of drug paraphernalia and use of a communication device in commission of a felony drug violation. Jones remains jailed on a requested charge of distribution of stimulants and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Two Kansans accused of selling methamphetamine

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the homicide of 80-year-old Margaret O’Neil of Wichita.

Just before 6:30 a.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a check welfare call in the 4800 block of N. Portwest in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. 

Officers arrived on the scene and were informed that O'Neil did not answer the door for a friend, which was out of the ordinary. Officers saw through a window that she was lying on the kitchen floor and forced entry into the residence to render aid.

 It appeared that she was fatally shot multiple times.

Oneil's son, 57-year-old Michael O’Neil of Wichita, was found inside the residence with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

 At this time, investigators believe that this incident is a murder-suicide.

Anyone with information on the incident, is asked please contact Wichita Police Detectives at 316-268-4407, the See Something Say Something Hotline at 316-519-2282, or call in an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.

This is the sixth homicide in Wichita this week.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the homicide of 80-year-old Margaret O’Neil of Wichita.Just before 6:30 a.m. Friday, police were dispatched to a check welfare call in the 4800 block of N. Portwest in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan. Officers arrived on the scene and were informed that O'Neil did not answer the door for a friend, which was out of the ordinary. Officers saw through a window that she was lying on the kitchen floor and forced entry into the residence to render aid. It appeared that she was fatally shot multiple times.Oneil's son, 57-year-old Michael O’Neil of Wichita, was found inside the residence with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. At this time, investigators believe that this incident is a murder-suicide.Anyone with information on the incident, is asked please contact Wichita Police Detectives at 316-268-4407, the See Something Say Something Hotline at 316-519-2282, or call in an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.This is the sixth homicide in Wichita this week.

Homicide: 80-year-old Kan. woman found dead in her home

GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the distribution of controlled substances through a retailer in Junction City.

Just after 2p.m.&nbsp; Thursday, the Geary County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant in connection with an investigation into the distribution of controlled substance at Space Out Smoke and Vape, 433 East Chestnut in Junction City.&nbsp;

During the search, the Sheriff's Office located approximately 1450 items containing the controlled substance THC(tetrahydrocannabinol) and approximately 1200 items of drug paraphernalia specific to the possession and/or consumption of illegal substances.

The Sheriff's Office says some of the items seized were packaged similar to legitimate candy items, but had a high concentration of THC.

The Sheriff's Office encourages parents to&nbsp;be aware of what your children and young adults are consuming as these items could cause serious health issues.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690568630625.jpeg" alt="Photos Geary Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Geary Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the distribution of controlled substances through a retailer in Junction City.Just after 2p.m.&nbsp; Thursday, the Geary County Sheriff's Office served a search warrant in connection with an investigation into the distribution of controlled substance at Space Out Smoke and Vape, 433 East Chestnut in Junction City.&nbsp;During the search, the Sheriff's Office located approximately 1450 items containing the controlled substance THC(tetrahydrocannabinol) and approximately 1200 items of drug paraphernalia specific to the possession and/or consumption of illegal substances.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690569548808.jpeg" alt="-Geary Co SO search warrant finds items with high concentration of THC packaged to resemble legitimate candy" />
 <figcaption>-Geary Co SO search warrant finds items with high concentration of THC packaged to resemble legitimate candy</figcaption>
 </figure>The Sheriff's Office says some of the items seized were packaged similar to legitimate candy items, but had a high concentration of THC.The Sheriff's Office encourages parents to&nbsp;be aware of what your children and young adults are consuming as these items could cause serious health issues.

Sheriff: Kan. vape shop sold THC items packaged like candy

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Friday in Ellsworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Mark E. Carte, 50, Henderson, Nevada, was outside of his vehicle while Troopers were conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 70 just east of Kansas 14- Lincoln exit.

Carte ran to the north into the eastbound lanes of the interstate. A 2022 Volvo semi driven by Corey Turner, 55, Terrell, Texas, struck Carte.&nbsp;

The semi came to rest in the center median. EMS transported Carte to Salina Regional Health Center. Turner was not injured.

ELLSWORTH COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 8:30a.m. Friday in Ellsworth County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported Mark E. Carte, 50, Henderson, Nevada, was outside of his vehicle while Troopers were conducting a traffic stop on Interstate 70 just east of Kansas 14- Lincoln exit.Carte ran to the north into the eastbound lanes of the interstate. A 2022 Volvo semi driven by Corey Turner, 55, Terrell, Texas, struck Carte.&nbsp;The semi came to rest in the center median. EMS transported Carte to Salina Regional Health Center. Turner was not injured.

Man running from I-70 traffic stop struck by semi

CoreCivic Leavenworth was described as a ‘hell hole’ by a federal judge in Kansas.

By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>

A former inmate of a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/10/07/for-profit-kansas-prison-an-understaffed-hell-hole-of-violence-death-and-drugs/">now-defunct private jail in Leavenworth</a>&nbsp;is suing the facility’s operators for running a facility so “dangerous, understaffed and insecure” that he was stabbed in 2021.

The lawsuit, filed last month in Wyandotte County and amended Monday, says CoreCivic, one of the country’s largest private prison operators, and its Leavenworth-based employees acted recklessly, if not intentionally, in their operation of the Leavenworth Detention Center.

The facility was a detention center contracted to house detainees awaiting trial in federal courts. Its contract with the U.S. Marshals Service ended in December 2021 under an executive order barring the U.S. Department of Justice from renewing contracts with private prison operators.

While in operation, it was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/03/aclu-public-defenders-urge-white-house-to-shut-down-violent-private-corrections-facility-in-kansas/">criticized by defense attorneys</a>&nbsp;and a judge for all-too-common violence within its walls. An&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://oig.justice.gov/reports/2017/a1722.pdf">audit by the Department of Justice</a>&nbsp;in 2017 found the facility was so understaffed it couldn’t cover all of the mandatory security posts.

“Despite the DOJ’s warnings, defendants … kept prioritizing profit over safety,” the lawsuit says.

CoreCivic, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee, has yet to file a response.

Ryan Gustin, a spokesman for CoreCivic, said in an email that the company does not comment on pending litigation.

The plaintiff in the case, Joshua Braddy, was stabbed in July 2021 by three other detainees. He was transported to the hospital, and while he survived, he “has suffered severe physical and emotional injuries,” the lawsuit says.

Braddy’s lawsuit names his alleged attackers, former staff of the facility, and CoreCivic and affiliated companies. It alleges assault, battery, false imprisonment, negligence and civil conspiracy and agency.

Braddy is seeking damages for emotional distress and punitive damages against the defendants.

Kansas Reflector previously reported the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/10/07/for-profit-kansas-prison-an-understaffed-hell-hole-of-violence-death-and-drugs/">facility struggled with understaffing, pervasive drugs and severe violence</a>. A federal judge described the facility during a sentencing hearing as “an absolute hell hole.”

A public defender said at the time that clients that “have been in the hardest federal prisons” were “terrified” at CoreCivic’s Leavenworth facility.

Detainees spent weeks on lockdown in the summer and fall of 2021.&nbsp;

Routine medical care —&nbsp;including blood pressure and weight checks, electrocardiograms, ear irrigations, blood draws and X-rays —&nbsp;stopped at CoreCivic, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit lays out a number of violent attacks before Braddy’s, including the beating of a detainee and stabbing of two correctional officers in February 2021 and two deaths by suicide that spring.&nbsp;

“CoreCivic Leavenworth employees required other residents to clean up the feces in the shower following the resident’s death,” the lawsuit says.&nbsp;

In May of that year, the lawsuit says, one resident stabbed another 17 times, and an officer “digitally anally sodomized” a detainee during a search. When others attempted to come forward, the lawsuit says, they were “threatened and intimidated.”

The lawsuit says in June of that year, between six and eight detainees were stabbed in one incident.

“Federal public defenders with clients inside CoreCivic Leavenworth report that stabbings like this are so routine recently that they are almost unnoteworthy,” the lawsuit says.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574019674964.png" alt="CoreCivic's Leavenworth Detention Center was a hotbed for drugs and violence. It stopped housing federal pretrial inmates at the end of 2021. File photo" />
 <figcaption>CoreCivic's Leavenworth Detention Center was a hotbed for drugs and violence. It stopped housing federal pretrial inmates at the end of 2021. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>CoreCivic Leavenworth was described as a ‘hell hole’ by a federal judge in Kansas.</h2>By ALLISON KITE <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2023/04/06/epa-estimates-more-than-54000-lead-pipes-remain-in-kansas/">Kansas Reflector</a>A former inmate of a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/10/07/for-profit-kansas-prison-an-understaffed-hell-hole-of-violence-death-and-drugs/">now-defunct private jail in Leavenworth</a>&nbsp;is suing the facility’s operators for running a facility so “dangerous, understaffed and insecure” that he was stabbed in 2021.The lawsuit, filed last month in Wyandotte County and amended Monday, says CoreCivic, one of the country’s largest private prison operators, and its Leavenworth-based employees acted recklessly, if not intentionally, in their operation of the Leavenworth Detention Center.The facility was a detention center contracted to house detainees awaiting trial in federal courts. Its contract with the U.S. Marshals Service ended in December 2021 under an executive order barring the U.S. Department of Justice from renewing contracts with private prison operators.While in operation, it was&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/09/03/aclu-public-defenders-urge-white-house-to-shut-down-violent-private-corrections-facility-in-kansas/">criticized by defense attorneys</a>&nbsp;and a judge for all-too-common violence within its walls. An&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://oig.justice.gov/reports/2017/a1722.pdf">audit by the Department of Justice</a>&nbsp;in 2017 found the facility was so understaffed it couldn’t cover all of the mandatory security posts.“Despite the DOJ’s warnings, defendants … kept prioritizing profit over safety,” the lawsuit says.CoreCivic, which is based in Nashville, Tennessee, has yet to file a response.Ryan Gustin, a spokesman for CoreCivic, said in an email that the company does not comment on pending litigation.The plaintiff in the case, Joshua Braddy, was stabbed in July 2021 by three other detainees. He was transported to the hospital, and while he survived, he “has suffered severe physical and emotional injuries,” the lawsuit says.Braddy’s lawsuit names his alleged attackers, former staff of the facility, and CoreCivic and affiliated companies. It alleges assault, battery, false imprisonment, negligence and civil conspiracy and agency.Braddy is seeking damages for emotional distress and punitive damages against the defendants.Kansas Reflector previously reported the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2021/10/07/for-profit-kansas-prison-an-understaffed-hell-hole-of-violence-death-and-drugs/">facility struggled with understaffing, pervasive drugs and severe violence</a>. A federal judge described the facility during a sentencing hearing as “an absolute hell hole.”A public defender said at the time that clients that “have been in the hardest federal prisons” were “terrified” at CoreCivic’s Leavenworth facility.Detainees spent weeks on lockdown in the summer and fall of 2021.&nbsp;Routine medical care —&nbsp;including blood pressure and weight checks, electrocardiograms, ear irrigations, blood draws and X-rays —&nbsp;stopped at CoreCivic, according to the lawsuit.The lawsuit lays out a number of violent attacks before Braddy’s, including the beating of a detainee and stabbing of two correctional officers in February 2021 and two deaths by suicide that spring.&nbsp;“CoreCivic Leavenworth employees required other residents to clean up the feces in the shower following the resident’s death,” the lawsuit says.&nbsp;In May of that year, the lawsuit says, one resident stabbed another 17 times, and an officer “digitally anally sodomized” a detainee during a search. When others attempted to come forward, the lawsuit says, they were “threatened and intimidated.”The lawsuit says in June of that year, between six and eight detainees were stabbed in one incident.“Federal public defenders with clients inside CoreCivic Leavenworth report that stabbings like this are so routine recently that they are almost unnoteworthy,” the lawsuit says.

Former detainee sues defunct for-profit jail in Kan. over 2021 stabbing

PLEASANT HILL, Mo. (AP) — A 78-year-old Missouri woman charged with robbing a bank in April didn't show up to a court date, and police found a woman dead at her home when they checked on her this week.

Police in Pleasant Hill, a community of about 8,000 southeast of Kansas City, have not said whether they think the body found Wednesday is defendant Bonnie Gooch's, but they did say they don't suspect foul play and that an autopsy is scheduled. The police department didn't immediately reply to messages seeking further information left Friday.

Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Gooch when she missed the Monday hearing. When police went to her home, they found the door unlocked and the body of a woman in a bedroom.

Gooch, who had two previous bank robbery convictions,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bank-robbery-missouri-fcaa66a6c78eefc0e7bdf1df4a88c8c2">was charged in April</a>&nbsp;in a holdup in Pleasant Hill. In court documents, Cass County prosecutors allege that she passed a note to a teller demanding “13,000 small bills,” adding “thank you sorry I didn’t mean to scare you.” Surveillance video also captured her banging on the counter, asking the teller to hurry.

Gooch's earlier robbery convictions were in California in 1977 and in the Kansas City suburb of Lee's Summit in 2020. Her probation in the second heist ended in November 2021.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1680817861086.png" alt="Gooch-photo Pleasant Hill Police" />
 <figcaption>Gooch-photo Pleasant Hill Police</figcaption>
 </figure>PLEASANT HILL, Mo. (AP) — A 78-year-old Missouri woman charged with robbing a bank in April didn't show up to a court date, and police found a woman dead at her home when they checked on her this week.Police in Pleasant Hill, a community of about 8,000 southeast of Kansas City, have not said whether they think the body found Wednesday is defendant Bonnie Gooch's, but they did say they don't suspect foul play and that an autopsy is scheduled. The police department didn't immediately reply to messages seeking further information left Friday.Authorities issued an arrest warrant for Gooch when she missed the Monday hearing. When police went to her home, they found the door unlocked and the body of a woman in a bedroom.Gooch, who had two previous bank robbery convictions,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bank-robbery-missouri-fcaa66a6c78eefc0e7bdf1df4a88c8c2">was charged in April</a>&nbsp;in a holdup in Pleasant Hill. In court documents, Cass County prosecutors allege that she passed a note to a teller demanding “13,000 small bills,” adding “thank you sorry I didn’t mean to scare you.” Surveillance video also captured her banging on the counter, asking the teller to hurry.Gooch's earlier robbery convictions were in California in 1977 and in the Kansas City suburb of Lee's Summit in 2020. Her probation in the second heist ended in November 2021.

Body found at home of 78-year-old KC-area bank robbery suspect

HAMILTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged fraudulent payroll check cashing in southwest Kansas.&nbsp;

The Hamilton County Sheriff and&nbsp;Garden City Police Department&nbsp; asked the public for assistance in identifying several individuals involved in fraudulent check cashing in the region this week.

In Garden City, officers learned that 12 unknown men cashed fake checks at Quick Cash, 215 West Kansas Avenue, resulting in a loss of $14,000. 

The suspects fled the area in four SUVs with temporary tags and dark-tinted license plate covers.&nbsp;These individuals will be from the Houston Texas Area

If you have any information about the individuals shown or witnessed this incident, please contact us&nbsp;Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office at 620 384-5616&nbsp; or Garden City Police (620) 276-1300. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at (620) 275-7807, or text your tip to Garden City PD, text GCTIP and your tip to Tip411 (847411).

HAMILTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged fraudulent payroll check cashing in southwest Kansas.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fhmcosheriff%2Fposts%2Fpfbid036CiguE78YH1NzqL9tNvdyn2m673SgXyaSyjw3FDFCSPCPm8ngB2znLGAn4zoCDVBl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="703" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>The Hamilton County Sheriff and&nbsp;Garden City Police Department&nbsp; asked the public for assistance in identifying several individuals involved in fraudulent check cashing in the region this week.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGardenCityPD%2Fposts%2Fpfbid025bLSuYqDLnzYWNGKdCbSsuTiDkBT8eyUktJDZUkdvzHn1rbQExQbw49RbCmEmKDSl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="787" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>In Garden City, officers learned that 12 unknown men cashed fake checks at Quick Cash, 215 West Kansas Avenue, resulting in a loss of $14,000. The suspects fled the area in four SUVs with temporary tags and dark-tinted license plate covers.&nbsp;These individuals will be from the Houston Texas AreaIf you have any information about the individuals shown or witnessed this incident, please contact us&nbsp;Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office at 620 384-5616&nbsp; or Garden City Police (620) 276-1300. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at (620) 275-7807, or text your tip to Garden City PD, text GCTIP and your tip to Tip411 (847411).

Police investigate fraud payroll check cashing in SW Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has passed a massive annual defense bill that would deliver a 5.2% pay raise for service members and keep the nation’s military operating, avoiding partisan policy battles with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote.

Senate passage, 86-11, sets up a clash with the House, which passed its own version of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/defense-house-ukraine-mccarthy-abortion-diversity-50a7b843afa02fa7aa85819b074244c5">annual defense bill along party lines</a>&nbsp;earlier this month after pointed debates over social issues like abortion access and diversity initiatives. The sharply partisan arguments over the House legislation veered from a bipartisan tradition of finding consensus on national defense policy.

Kansas and Missouri Senators supported the bill. Kansas Senior Senator Jerry Moran said of the bill, “Passing NDAA is one of Congress’ most important tasks to make certain our military is equipped and ready to defend the nation. This year’s legislation includes a pay raise to our all-volunteer force and resources to help improve the quality of life for our service members and their families. I also worked to include a number of my priorities in NDAA to protect benefits for spouses of fallen service members, invest in Kansas military bases and expand TRICARE services.”

On his vote, Senator Roger Marshall said, "I supported this year's NDAA to increase our troop's pay by over 5 percent and increase funding for cutting-edge military technology to improve our lethality. This bill also targets the financial assets of Mexican traffickers and Chinese suppliers who are importing illicit fentanyl across the country, and Kansas, in mass quantities, Marshall said.

“Make no mistake, this bill is not perfect and I am not thrilled with the nearly $900 Billion price tag given the repeated failure in spending oversight at the Defense Department, but I hope we can resolve the deficiencies in the Senate bill with the Republican-controlled House version."

The strong bipartisan vote for the legislation in the Senate Thursday evening, just before the Senate left for its August recess, could give it momentum as the two chambers next look to settle their differences in the fall.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said there is a “glaring contrast” between the two chambers' defense bills. The Senate had no “animus or acrimony,” in contrast to the House's partisan battles, he said.

Mississippi Sen. Roger Wicker, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said that “I don’t think either party got exactly what they wanted” in the Senate bill. But he said the legislation would help the military improve recruitment and prevent conflict.

The two chambers will now have to write a final bill, a test of the deeply divided House, in particular, as the traditionally bipartisan legislation was swept up in the disputes over race, equity and women’s health care that have been political priorities for the Republican party.

Wicker said talks with the House will start “very soon” and he feels confident they will be able to pass the legislation, as Congress has annually since 1961.

Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., a member of the Armed Services panel, predicted the bipartisan Senate approach would mostly prevail.

“The fact that we’re going to have a strong bipartisan approach on it says that we’re probably closer to where we’re going to end up than what the House has done on a partisan basis,” said Rounds.

The massive Senate defense bill would set defense spending levels at $886 billion for the coming year, similar to President Joe Biden’s budget request. Congress has to pass separate spending legislation to allocate the money, but the defense legislation lays out budget and policy for the Pentagon.

The House debate earlier this month was marked by amendments from hardline conservatives that were adopted and pushed the bill to the right — including proposals to roll back diversity and inclusion measures at the Pentagon and to block some medical care for transgender personnel.

In the Senate, where most amendments need 60 votes to pass, additions to the bill were bipartisan and more focused on military policy, with many focused on countering potential American adversaries like Russia and China.

One bipartisan provision would require two-thirds of the Senate to approve if a U.S. president tries to withdraw from NATO. Former President Donald Trump, who is running again for his old office, has been deeply critical of the military alliance and repeatedly questioned its value to the U.S.

Rounds also joined with Democratic Sen. Jon Tester of Montana to successfully push an amendment to the bill that would prevent agents of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land in the U.S. Another bipartisan duo, Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas and Bob Casey, D-Pa., pushed an amendment to increase Treasury Department oversight of U.S. investment into Russian and Chinese technology firms that work with “sensitive technology,” such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

Another provision that won support from both parties would allow the Treasury Department to use sanctions against people and organizations involved in the international fentanyl trade.

Also included is language sponsored by Schumer requiring the government to collect records relating to “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ufos-uaps-congress-whistleblower-spy-aliens-ba8a8cfba353d7b9de29c3d906a69ba7">unidentified aerial phenomena</a>&nbsp;" — the official term the U.S. government uses instead of unidentified flying objects — and review whether they need to stay classified. The amendment would allow the release of some of those records over time.

Still unresolved, though, is Alabama&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tuberville-military-holds-senate-officers-45c4230a8aee5222bf32b43823e29acc">Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s refusal to allow</a>&nbsp;the quick confirmation of hundreds of military nominations and promotions in the Senate. Tuberville is protesting the Defense Department’s abortion policy, which covers the cost of travel for service members seeking abortion and reproductive care.

Tuberville has shown little interest in backing down even as some of his fellow Republican senators have encouraged him to drop it. He is preventing quick action on over 260 nominations of senior military officers, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marine-commandant-berger-smith-senate-tuberville-8c5d1e51ac8a69254d57f1e98139e294">a commandant for the U.S. Marine Corps</a>&nbsp;and others, frustrating leaders at the Pentagon and his own colleagues.

The House bill contains a provision that would end the Defense Department's new abortion policy. But that would not pass the Democratic-led Senate.

Biden called Tuberville's hold “outrageous” in a speech at the National Archives Thursday evening.

“There is a growing cascade of damage and disruption all because of one senator from Alabama," Biden said.

Biden's administration did appear to work out a deal on nominations with a different Republican senator late Thursday. After meetings with State Department officials during the day, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul released his holds on several department nominees. The Senate later confirmed more than a dozen ambassadors, including former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell as ambassador to Italy.

Hours earlier, Paul told reporters he was working with the department to receive more information on projects in China that were funded by the U.S. government.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690539718572.png" alt="Vote counting in the U.S. Senate on the massive defense bill -image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Vote counting in the U.S. Senate on the massive defense bill -image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate has passed a massive annual defense bill that would deliver a 5.2% pay raise for service members and keep the nation’s military operating, avoiding partisan policy battles with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote.Senate passage, 86-11, sets up a clash with the House, which passed its own version of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/defense-house-ukraine-mccarthy-abortion-diversity-50a7b843afa02fa7aa85819b074244c5">annual defense bill along party lines</a>&nbsp;earlier this month after pointed debates over social issues like abortion access and diversity initiatives. The sharply partisan arguments over the House legislation veered from a bipartisan tradition of finding consensus on national defense policy.Kansas and Missouri Senators supported the bill. Kansas Senior Senator Jerry Moran said of the bill, “Passing NDAA is one of Congress’ most important tasks to make certain our military is equipped and ready to defend the nation. This year’s legislation includes a pay raise to our all-volunteer force and resources to help improve the quality of life for our service members and their families. I also worked to include a number of my priorities in NDAA to protect benefits for spouses of fallen service members, invest in Kansas military bases and expand TRICARE services.”On his vote, Senator Roger Marshall said, "I supported this year's NDAA to increase our troop's pay by over 5 percent and increase funding for cutting-edge military technology to improve our lethality. This bill also targets the financial assets of Mexican traffickers and Chinese suppliers who are importing illicit fentanyl across the country, and Kansas, in mass quantities, Marshall said.“Make no mistake, this bill is not perfect and I am not thrilled with the nearly $900 Billion price tag given the repeated failure in spending oversight at the Defense Department, but I hope we can resolve the deficiencies in the Senate bill with the Republican-controlled House version."The strong bipartisan vote for the legislation in the Senate Thursday evening, just before the Senate left for its August recess, could give it momentum as the two chambers next look to settle their differences in the fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690539693355.png" alt="Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer after the completion of the vote-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer after the completion of the vote-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said there is a “glaring contrast” between the two chambers' defense bills. The Senate had no “animus or acrimony,” in contrast to the House's partisan battles, he said.Mississippi Sen. Roger Wicker, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said that “I don’t think either party got exactly what they wanted” in the Senate bill. But he said the legislation would help the military improve recruitment and prevent conflict.The two chambers will now have to write a final bill, a test of the deeply divided House, in particular, as the traditionally bipartisan legislation was swept up in the disputes over race, equity and women’s health care that have been political priorities for the Republican party.Wicker said talks with the House will start “very soon” and he feels confident they will be able to pass the legislation, as Congress has annually since 1961.“We always have,” Wicker said.Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., a member of the Armed Services panel, predicted the bipartisan Senate approach would mostly prevail.“The fact that we’re going to have a strong bipartisan approach on it says that we’re probably closer to where we’re going to end up than what the House has done on a partisan basis,” said Rounds.The massive Senate defense bill would set defense spending levels at $886 billion for the coming year, similar to President Joe Biden’s budget request. Congress has to pass separate spending legislation to allocate the money, but the defense legislation lays out budget and policy for the Pentagon.The House debate earlier this month was marked by amendments from hardline conservatives that were adopted and pushed the bill to the right — including proposals to roll back diversity and inclusion measures at the Pentagon and to block some medical care for transgender personnel.In the Senate, where most amendments need 60 votes to pass, additions to the bill were bipartisan and more focused on military policy, with many focused on countering potential American adversaries like Russia and China.One bipartisan provision would require two-thirds of the Senate to approve if a U.S. president tries to withdraw from NATO. Former President Donald Trump, who is running again for his old office, has been deeply critical of the military alliance and repeatedly questioned its value to the U.S.Rounds also joined with Democratic Sen. Jon Tester of Montana to successfully push an amendment to the bill that would prevent agents of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land in the U.S. Another bipartisan duo, Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas and Bob Casey, D-Pa., pushed an amendment to increase Treasury Department oversight of U.S. investment into Russian and Chinese technology firms that work with “sensitive technology,” such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence.Another provision that won support from both parties would allow the Treasury Department to use sanctions against people and organizations involved in the international fentanyl trade.Also included is language sponsored by Schumer requiring the government to collect records relating to “&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ufos-uaps-congress-whistleblower-spy-aliens-ba8a8cfba353d7b9de29c3d906a69ba7">unidentified aerial phenomena</a>&nbsp;" — the official term the U.S. government uses instead of unidentified flying objects — and review whether they need to stay classified. The amendment would allow the release of some of those records over time.Still unresolved, though, is Alabama&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tuberville-military-holds-senate-officers-45c4230a8aee5222bf32b43823e29acc">Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s refusal to allow</a>&nbsp;the quick confirmation of hundreds of military nominations and promotions in the Senate. Tuberville is protesting the Defense Department’s abortion policy, which covers the cost of travel for service members seeking abortion and reproductive care.Tuberville has shown little interest in backing down even as some of his fellow Republican senators have encouraged him to drop it. He is preventing quick action on over 260 nominations of senior military officers, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/marine-commandant-berger-smith-senate-tuberville-8c5d1e51ac8a69254d57f1e98139e294">a commandant for the U.S. Marine Corps</a>&nbsp;and others, frustrating leaders at the Pentagon and his own colleagues.The House bill contains a provision that would end the Defense Department's new abortion policy. But that would not pass the Democratic-led Senate.Biden called Tuberville's hold “outrageous” in a speech at the National Archives Thursday evening.“There is a growing cascade of damage and disruption all because of one senator from Alabama," Biden said.Biden's administration did appear to work out a deal on nominations with a different Republican senator late Thursday. After meetings with State Department officials during the day, Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul released his holds on several department nominees. The Senate later confirmed more than a dozen ambassadors, including former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell as ambassador to Italy.Hours earlier, Paul told reporters he was working with the department to receive more information on projects in China that were funded by the U.S. government.___

Moran, Marshall vote yes as Senate passes $900B defense bill

DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) — Ford is recalling more than 870,000 newer F-150 pickup trucks in the U.S. because the electric parking brakes can turn on unexpectedly.

The recall covers certain pickups from the 2021 through 2023 model years with single exhaust systems. Ford's F-Series pickups are the top-selling vehicles in the U.S.

The company says in&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2023/RCLRPT-23V509-7019.PDF">documents posted by government safety regulators</a>&nbsp;Friday that a rear wiring bundle can come in contact with the rear axle housing. That can chafe the wiring and cause a short circuit, which can turn on the parking brake without action from the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.

Drivers may see a parking brake warning light and a warning message on the dashboard.

Ford says in documents that it has 918 warranty claims and three field reports of wire chafing in North America. Of these, 299 indicated unexpected parking brake activation, and 19 of these happened while the trucks were being driven.

The company says it doesn't know of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.

Dealers will inspect the rear wiring harness. If protective tape is worn through, the harness will be replaced. If the tape isn't worn, dealers will install a protective tie strap and tape wrap.

Owners will be notified by letter starting Sept. 11.

Owners with questions can call Ford customer service at (866) 436-7332.

DEARBORN, Mich. (AP) — Ford is recalling more than 870,000 newer F-150 pickup trucks in the U.S. because the electric parking brakes can turn on unexpectedly.The recall covers certain pickups from the 2021 through 2023 model years with single exhaust systems. Ford's F-Series pickups are the top-selling vehicles in the U.S.The company says in&nbsp;<a href="https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2023/RCLRPT-23V509-7019.PDF">documents posted by government safety regulators</a>&nbsp;Friday that a rear wiring bundle can come in contact with the rear axle housing. That can chafe the wiring and cause a short circuit, which can turn on the parking brake without action from the driver, increasing the risk of a crash.Drivers may see a parking brake warning light and a warning message on the dashboard.Ford says in documents that it has 918 warranty claims and three field reports of wire chafing in North America. Of these, 299 indicated unexpected parking brake activation, and 19 of these happened while the trucks were being driven.The company says it doesn't know of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem.Dealers will inspect the rear wiring harness. If protective tape is worn through, the harness will be replaced. If the tape isn't worn, dealers will install a protective tie strap and tape wrap.Owners will be notified by letter starting Sept. 11.Owners with questions can call Ford customer service at (866) 436-7332.

Recall: F-150 pickup parking brakes can turn on unexpectedly

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old boy have arrested three juvenile male suspects.

Just after 10p.m. Monday, police responded to a call&nbsp;in the 600 block of S. Laura in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

First responders located 14-year-old <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/malachi-sicka">Malachi Sicka </a>of Wichita nearby with a gunshot wound in the 1100 block of E. Orme. Despite the efforts of EMS and Fire personnel to administer life-saving measures, the boy&nbsp; was pronounced deceased.

On Thursday evening, police reported the arrest of the 17-year-old and a 15-year all from Wichita. They are being held on requested charges of First-Degree Murder, Aggravated Robbery, and Criminal Use of a Weapon

Friends have established an <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/malachi-sicka">online fundraiser</a> to assist the family.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating the fatal shooting of a 14-year-old boy have arrested three juvenile male suspects.Just after 10p.m. Monday, police responded to a call&nbsp;in the 600 block of S. Laura in Wichita, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.First responders located 14-year-old <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/malachi-sicka">Malachi Sicka </a>of Wichita nearby with a gunshot wound in the 1100 block of E. Orme. Despite the efforts of EMS and Fire personnel to administer life-saving measures, the boy&nbsp; was pronounced deceased.On Thursday evening, police reported the arrest of the 17-year-old and a 15-year all from Wichita. They are being held on requested charges of First-Degree Murder, Aggravated Robbery, and Criminal Use of a WeaponFriends have established an <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/malachi-sicka">online fundraiser</a> to assist the family.

Police: 3 juveniles accused in murder of 14-year-old Kan. boy

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;faced new charges Thursday in a case accusing him of illegally possessing classified documents, with prosecutors alleging that he asked a staffer to delete camera footage at his Florida estate in an effort to obstruct a&nbsp;federal investigation into the records.

<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.flsd.648652/gov.uscourts.flsd.648652.85.0_2.pdf">Click here to read the</a> indictment released late Thursday

The indictment includes new counts of obstruction and willful retention of national defense information, adding fresh detail to an indictment issued last month against Trump and a close aide. The additional charges came as a surprise at a time of escalating anticipation of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-investigation-indictment-730455c2b7a684593e41362e4b661cb3">possible additional indictment in Washington</a>&nbsp;over his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The updated allegations make clear the vast — and unknown — scope of legal exposure faced by Trump as he seeks to reclaim the White House in 2024 while fending off criminal cases in multiple cities.

The new allegations from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jack-smith-special-counsel-prosecutor-donald-trump-garland-e1fdb71cfc258bc2be48a8b890a9269b">special counsel Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;center on surveillance footage at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, evidence that has long been vital to the case. Trump is alleged to have asked for the footage to be deleted after FBI and Justice Department investigators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-mar-a-lago-merrick-garland-government-and-politics-0486be7d750ae7546c6b9175f4952857">visited in June 2022</a>&nbsp;to collect classified documents he took with him after leaving the White House. The new indictment also charges him with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-trump-audio-recording-classified-documents-case-3f3963a35a5d8ccae407ea4ab9f93082">illegally holding onto a document he's alleged to have shown off to visitors in New Jersey</a>.

A Trump spokesperson dismissed the new charges as “nothing more than a continued desperate and flailing attempt” by the Biden administration “to harass President Trump and those around him” and to influence the 2024 presidential race.

Prosecutors accuse Trump of scheming with his valet,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maralago-justice-department-classified-f5a7b87bbb0234d5504d1c1f92bc857e">Walt Nauta</a>, and a Mar-a-Lago property manager, Carlos De Oliveira, to conceal the footage from federal investigators after they issued a subpoena for it. Video from the property would ultimately play a significant role in the investigation because, prosecutors said, it captured Nauta moving boxes of documents in and out of a storage room — including one such incident a day before a Justice Department visit to the property.

According to the indictment, Nauta met with De Oliveira on June 25, 2022, at Mar-a-Lago, where they went to a security guard booth where surveillance video was displayed on monitors and walked with a flashlight through a tunnel where the storage room was located, observing and pointing out surveillance cameras.

Two days later, according to the indictment, De Oliveira walked with an unidentified Trump employee to an audio room, where De Oliveira asked how many days the server retained footage.

De Oliveira, prosecutors said, told the other employee “that ‘the boss’ wanted the server deleted" and asked, “What are we going to do?”

During a voluntary interview with the FBI last January, prosecutors say, De Oliveira lied when he said he “never saw nothing” with regard to boxes at Mar-a-Lago.

De Oliveira was added to the indictment, charged with obstruction and false statements related to an interview he gave the FBI earlier this year. His lawyer declined to comment Thursday evening.

The new charges were filed as Trump is bracing for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-jan-6-justice-department-charges-ab1ad197e9abcb3eb9095237b98bee7d">prospect of an additional indictment</a>&nbsp;related to his efforts to undo the 2020 election in the run-up to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Last week, he revealed he had received a letter from the Justice Department informing him he was a target in that probe, suggesting that charges could be forthcoming, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-investigation-indictment-730455c2b7a684593e41362e4b661cb3">his lawyers met with prosecutors on Smith's office earlier Thursday</a>&nbsp;to discuss that case.

But despite the anticipation, the only charges filed Thursday were in Florida, not Washington.

The superseding indictment also charges Trump with an additional count of willfully retaining national defense information, relating to a document he showed off to visitors at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club during an July 2021 interview for a memoir by his onetime chief of staff Mark Meadows. Prosecutors have described the document as a Pentagon plan of attack and Meadows, in his subsequent book, said the country it concerned was Iran.

According to the indictment, Trump returned that document, which was marked as top secret and not approved to show to foreign nationals, to the federal government on Jan. 17, 2022.

Trump has denied he had secret documents before him when he spoke.

“There wasn’t a document. I had lots of paper. I had copies of newspaper articles, I had copies of magazines, I had copies of everything,” he said in an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier.

The count was notable because prosecutors until now had mostly been focused on the records that Trump had refused to return in response to a Justice Department subpoena last year.

Both Trump and Nauta have pleaded not guilty to the original 38-count indictment. De Oliveira is due in court in Florida on Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690507797310.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;faced new charges Thursday in a case accusing him of illegally possessing classified documents, with prosecutors alleging that he asked a staffer to delete camera footage at his Florida estate in an effort to obstruct a&nbsp;federal investigation into the records.<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.flsd.648652/gov.uscourts.flsd.648652.85.0_2.pdf">Click here to read the</a> indictment released late ThursdayThe indictment includes new counts of obstruction and willful retention of national defense information, adding fresh detail to an indictment issued last month against Trump and a close aide. The additional charges came as a surprise at a time of escalating anticipation of a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-investigation-indictment-730455c2b7a684593e41362e4b661cb3">possible additional indictment in Washington</a>&nbsp;over his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. The updated allegations make clear the vast — and unknown — scope of legal exposure faced by Trump as he seeks to reclaim the White House in 2024 while fending off criminal cases in multiple cities.The new allegations from&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/jack-smith-special-counsel-prosecutor-donald-trump-garland-e1fdb71cfc258bc2be48a8b890a9269b">special counsel Jack Smith</a>&nbsp;center on surveillance footage at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, evidence that has long been vital to the case. Trump is alleged to have asked for the footage to be deleted after FBI and Justice Department investigators&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/donald-trump-mar-a-lago-merrick-garland-government-and-politics-0486be7d750ae7546c6b9175f4952857">visited in June 2022</a>&nbsp;to collect classified documents he took with him after leaving the White House. The new indictment also charges him with&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/new-trump-audio-recording-classified-documents-case-3f3963a35a5d8ccae407ea4ab9f93082">illegally holding onto a document he's alleged to have shown off to visitors in New Jersey</a>.A Trump spokesperson dismissed the new charges as “nothing more than a continued desperate and flailing attempt” by the Biden administration “to harass President Trump and those around him” and to influence the 2024 presidential race.Prosecutors accuse Trump of scheming with his valet,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-maralago-justice-department-classified-f5a7b87bbb0234d5504d1c1f92bc857e">Walt Nauta</a>, and a Mar-a-Lago property manager, Carlos De Oliveira, to conceal the footage from federal investigators after they issued a subpoena for it. Video from the property would ultimately play a significant role in the investigation because, prosecutors said, it captured Nauta moving boxes of documents in and out of a storage room — including one such incident a day before a Justice Department visit to the property.According to the indictment, Nauta met with De Oliveira on June 25, 2022, at Mar-a-Lago, where they went to a security guard booth where surveillance video was displayed on monitors and walked with a flashlight through a tunnel where the storage room was located, observing and pointing out surveillance cameras.Two days later, according to the indictment, De Oliveira walked with an unidentified Trump employee to an audio room, where De Oliveira asked how many days the server retained footage.De Oliveira, prosecutors said, told the other employee “that ‘the boss’ wanted the server deleted" and asked, “What are we going to do?”During a voluntary interview with the FBI last January, prosecutors say, De Oliveira lied when he said he “never saw nothing” with regard to boxes at Mar-a-Lago.De Oliveira was added to the indictment, charged with obstruction and false statements related to an interview he gave the FBI earlier this year. His lawyer declined to comment Thursday evening.The new charges were filed as Trump is bracing for the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-jan-6-justice-department-charges-ab1ad197e9abcb3eb9095237b98bee7d">prospect of an additional indictment</a>&nbsp;related to his efforts to undo the 2020 election in the run-up to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Last week, he revealed he had received a letter from the Justice Department informing him he was a target in that probe, suggesting that charges could be forthcoming, and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-justice-department-investigation-indictment-730455c2b7a684593e41362e4b661cb3">his lawyers met with prosecutors on Smith's office earlier Thursday</a>&nbsp;to discuss that case.But despite the anticipation, the only charges filed Thursday were in Florida, not Washington.The superseding indictment also charges Trump with an additional count of willfully retaining national defense information, relating to a document he showed off to visitors at his Bedminster, New Jersey, golf club during an July 2021 interview for a memoir by his onetime chief of staff Mark Meadows. Prosecutors have described the document as a Pentagon plan of attack and Meadows, in his subsequent book, said the country it concerned was Iran.According to the indictment, Trump returned that document, which was marked as top secret and not approved to show to foreign nationals, to the federal government on Jan. 17, 2022.Trump has denied he had secret documents before him when he spoke.“There wasn’t a document. I had lots of paper. I had copies of newspaper articles, I had copies of magazines, I had copies of everything,” he said in an interview with Fox News host Bret Baier.The count was notable because prosecutors until now had mostly been focused on the records that Trump had refused to return in response to a Justice Department subpoena last year.Both Trump and Nauta have pleaded not guilty to the original 38-count indictment. De Oliveira is due in court in Florida on Monday.____

Read the new indictment against Trump in classified documents case

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism at a construction site in Topeka.

Just after 7 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a report of vandalism at the former Slumberland, 1800 SW Wanamaker, in Topeka, according to a media release.&nbsp; The area is being renovated for a new business.

A preliminary estimate from responding officers indicated around $30,000 in damage.&nbsp;

Anyone with information about this incident may call Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or Topeka police at 785-368-9551. Tips also may be left via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:telltpd@topeka.org">telltpd@topeka.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690493355469.png" alt="View of the construction site photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>View of the construction site photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating vandalism at a construction site in Topeka.Just after 7 a.m. Thursday, police responded to a report of vandalism at the former Slumberland, 1800 SW Wanamaker, in Topeka, according to a media release.&nbsp; The area is being renovated for a new business.A preliminary estimate from responding officers indicated around $30,000 in damage.&nbsp;Anyone with information about this incident may call Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or Topeka police at 785-368-9551. Tips also may be left via email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:telltpd@topeka.org">telltpd@topeka.org</a>.