JACKSON COUNTY—A&nbsp;judge on Tuesday sentenced a&nbsp; Kansas City man to 17 years in prison after he pleaded guilty in the June 2021 fatal shooting of Andrea Dean inside a Kansas City home, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Christopher L. Spears, 34, was sentenced to 14 years and 3 years after he was convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter and Armed Criminal Action. The judge set the sentences to run consecutively.

According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched in June of 2021, to the 4300 block of E. Linwood Blvd on a reported shooting. 

They found three juveniles in the residence who stated their mom and dad had been arguing when their dad, later identified as the defendant, shot their mom. 

Police found the victim deceased at the scene. The defendant went to a Kansas City fire station and told them he had killed the mother of his children and he turned over a weapon. He stated to police that he and the victim had argued and tussled over a gun, when the gun went off. Then he stated he shot her in the head.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/6/1623752932882.png" alt="Spears-photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Spears-photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY—A&nbsp;judge on Tuesday sentenced a&nbsp; Kansas City man to 17 years in prison after he pleaded guilty in the June 2021 fatal shooting of Andrea Dean inside a Kansas City home, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Christopher L. Spears, 34, was sentenced to 14 years and 3 years after he was convicted of Voluntary Manslaughter and Armed Criminal Action. The judge set the sentences to run consecutively.According to court records, Kansas City police were dispatched in June of 2021, to the 4300 block of E. Linwood Blvd on a reported shooting. They found three juveniles in the residence who stated their mom and dad had been arguing when their dad, later identified as the defendant, shot their mom. Police found the victim deceased at the scene. The defendant went to a Kansas City fire station and told them he had killed the mother of his children and he turned over a weapon. He stated to police that he and the victim had argued and tussled over a gun, when the gun went off. Then he stated he shot her in the head.

KC man sentenced for killing woman in front of her children

HALL COUNTY, NE —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man after a pursuit overnight in Hall County, Nebraska.

Just before 2:230 a.m., a trooper observed an Acura MDX traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 80 near Wood River, according to a media release from the Nebraska State Patrol.

The trooper was able to get the vehicle to pull into the median and come to stop. The trooper then attempted to make contact with the driver, but the vehicle accelerated and fled.

The vehicle continued traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of I-80. A short time later, the trooper successfully performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver later identified as 31-year-old Casey Jasper of Chanute, Kansas, then refused to exit the vehicle. As troopers attempted to remove him from the vehicle, he kicked a trooper multiple times.

Troopers arrested Jasper on requested charges of&nbsp; flight to avoid arrest, driving under the influence of alcohol, willful reckless driving, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, resisting arrest, assault on an officer, and several other charges. Jasper was lodged in Hall County Jail.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645739750184.png" alt="Jasper-photo Hall Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Jasper-photo Hall Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>HALL COUNTY, NE —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas man after a pursuit overnight in Hall County, Nebraska.Just before 2:230 a.m., a trooper observed an Acura MDX traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 80 near Wood River, according to a media release from the Nebraska State Patrol.The trooper was able to get the vehicle to pull into the median and come to stop. The trooper then attempted to make contact with the driver, but the vehicle accelerated and fled.The vehicle continued traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes of I-80. A short time later, the trooper successfully performed a tactical vehicle intervention to bring the vehicle to a stop. The driver later identified as 31-year-old Casey Jasper of Chanute, Kansas, then refused to exit the vehicle. As troopers attempted to remove him from the vehicle, he kicked a trooper multiple times.Troopers arrested Jasper on requested charges of&nbsp; flight to avoid arrest, driving under the influence of alcohol, willful reckless driving, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, resisting arrest, assault on an officer, and several other charges. Jasper was lodged in Hall County Jail.

Kansas man jailed after wrong-way pursuit on Nebraska highway

MITCHELL COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after noon Thursday in Mitchell County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Ford Focus driven by Larry Monroe Hicks, 68, Concordia was westbound on Kansas 9 highway just east of 360 Road. The car traveled left of center and struck an eastbound 2019 Kenworth semi driven by Adam Lee Badger, 33, Mankato.

After impact, the semi entered the south ditch and overturned.

Hicks was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Robert's Family Funeral Home. Badger was not injured and not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

MITCHELL COUNTY—A Kansas man died in an accident just after noon Thursday in Mitchell County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2009 Ford Focus driven by Larry Monroe Hicks, 68, Concordia was westbound on Kansas 9 highway just east of 360 Road. The car traveled left of center and struck an eastbound 2019 Kenworth semi driven by Adam Lee Badger, 33, Mankato.After impact, the semi entered the south ditch and overturned.Hicks was pronounced dead at the scene and was transported to Robert's Family Funeral Home. Badger was not injured and not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after crash with a semi

COWLEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect following a January 19, arrest have added numerous charges against him, according to a media release from Arkansas City police.

On January 19,&nbsp; police arrested 29-year-old Dakota Mikel Hughes of Arkansas City, who was running from police and booked him into the Cowley County Jail on suspicion of two felony counts of interference with a law enforcement officer, three outside warrants for failure to appear, and one count each of criminal possession of a firearm and criminal use of a firearm.

Since then, police in Arkansas City investigated numerous burglaries, thefts and criminal damage to property cases that have occurred from November 2021 through January 2022.

Officers were able to link Hughes to many of these incidents. Cases were presented to the Cowley County Attorney’s Office from both the Arkansas City Police Department and the Cowley County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;

Hughes now is charged with seven counts of burglary, six counts of theft, four counts of criminal damage to property, three counts of criminal trespass, one count of fleeing and eluding, one count of failure to stop at the scene of an accident, and various drug-related charges.

Police continue to investigate related cases and more cases will be presented to the county attorney.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645625665661.png" alt="Hughes-photo Cowley County" />
 <figcaption>Hughes-photo Cowley County</figcaption>
 </figure>COWLEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities investigating a suspect following a January 19, arrest have added numerous charges against him, according to a media release from Arkansas City police.On January 19,&nbsp; police arrested 29-year-old Dakota Mikel Hughes of Arkansas City, who was running from police and booked him into the Cowley County Jail on suspicion of two felony counts of interference with a law enforcement officer, three outside warrants for failure to appear, and one count each of criminal possession of a firearm and criminal use of a firearm.Since then, police in Arkansas City investigated numerous burglaries, thefts and criminal damage to property cases that have occurred from November 2021 through January 2022.Officers were able to link Hughes to many of these incidents. Cases were presented to the Cowley County Attorney’s Office from both the Arkansas City Police Department and the Cowley County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;Hughes now is charged with seven counts of burglary, six counts of theft, four counts of criminal damage to property, three counts of criminal trespass, one count of fleeing and eluding, one count of failure to stop at the scene of an accident, and various drug-related charges.Police continue to investigate related cases and more cases will be presented to the county attorney.

Kansas man arrested in January linked to numerous other crimes

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly and indigenous leaders are calling on Kansas’ top public school administrator to resign over an offensive public joke about Native Americans.

Kelly was joined Thursday by three Native American lawmakers and the chair of one of Kansas’ four Native American nations in demanding that Randy Watson step down as state education commissioner. 

The elected, 10-member State Board of Education appoints the commissioner and planned to meet Friday. The State Department of Education released a video of Watson's Zoom presentation to a conference on virtual learning last week in which he joked about telling California cousins visiting Kansas that they needed to worry about “Indians raiding the town.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645742715839.png" alt="Kansas education commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during an online keynote presentation at the Kansas Virtual Learning Conference, which took place from Feb. 14-15&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas education commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during an online keynote presentation at the Kansas Virtual Learning Conference, which took place from Feb. 14-15&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Gov. Laura Kelly and indigenous leaders are calling on Kansas’ top public school administrator to resign over an offensive public joke about Native Americans.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our Indigenous students already go through enough historical trauma and they deserve better. I join Rep. Dr. Ponka-We Victors-Cozad &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/ByersForKansas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ByersForKansas</a> on calling for the immediate resignation of the KS Education Commissioner. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ksleg?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ksleg</a> <a href="https://t.co/swDnUxJl19">pic.twitter.com/swDnUxJl19</a>&mdash; Rep. Christina Haswood (@HaswoodForKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaswoodForKS/status/1496965329527914500?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Kelly was joined Thursday by three Native American lawmakers and the chair of one of Kansas’ four Native American nations in demanding that Randy Watson step down as state education commissioner. The elected, 10-member State Board of Education appoints the commissioner and planned to meet Friday. The State Department of Education released a video of Watson's Zoom presentation to a conference on virtual learning last week in which he joked about telling California cousins visiting Kansas that they needed to worry about “Indians raiding the town.”

Calls grow for Kansas ed leader to go over 'raiding' remark

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Authorities continue their investigation of a fatal head-on crash that occurred just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Sedgwick County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge Ram 2500 driven by Darth Delano Cline, 56, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 235 at North Broadway.

The Dodge traveled off the road, crossed the center median and collided with a northbound 2005 Freightliner FedEx Freight truck driven by Tyler Matthew Bauer, 30, Wichita.

Cline was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Bauer to St. Francis where he died. Cline was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Numerous vehicles have been located and the KHP wants to hear from anyone who can assist with the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645662210097.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the Wednesday crash -image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the Wednesday crash -image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Authorities continue their investigation of a fatal head-on crash that occurred just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Sedgwick County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge Ram 2500 driven by Darth Delano Cline, 56, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 235 at North Broadway.The Dodge traveled off the road, crossed the center median and collided with a northbound 2005 Freightliner FedEx Freight truck driven by Tyler Matthew Bauer, 30, Wichita.Cline was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Bauer to St. Francis where he died. Cline was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.Numerous vehicles have been located and the KHP wants to hear from anyone who can assist with the case.

KHP seeks witnesses to double-fatal, head-on crash

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/24/kansas-senate-approves-bill-allowing-robotic-delivery-after-job-killing-debate/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas could soon see 
autonomous Amazon and FedEx delivery robots roaming the streets of their
 neighborhood if a bill passed by&nbsp;the Senate is signed into law.

One of about two dozen bills debated in the Senate  Wednesday, the 
autonomous vehicles in question under Senate Bill 161 can only go up to 6
 miles per hour and weigh up to 15 pounds. No maximum exists for the 
cargo that is carried by these delivery robots.

Municipalities can opt-out and ban the robots in their communities with an ordinance.

The measure split senators between those who praised the bill as an 
opportunity to bring Kansas into the future and those who dubbed the 
bill a “job-killer.” Sen. Tom Holland, D-Baldwin City, said the measure 
would destroy thousands of semi-skilled jobs in the state without 
providing Kansas communities the tools to proactively manage the 
devices.

“This bill is being painted as somehow a jobs creator where we’re 
going to encourage robotics development. Get real,” Holland said. “This 
is where you go from people employed by the hundreds to one or two 
folks. It’s a technology disruptor and it puts people out of work.”

The Senate approved the measure by a 24 to 15 vote, with both sides 
of the aisle split on the matter. The bill now goes to the House for 
further consideration.

Amazon currently employs 7,000 Kansans either full- or part-time and 
FedEx employs 4,500 more. Both companies have developed a delivery robot
 and requested the committee raise the speed it can travel to 10 mph.

In testimony before the Senate Commerce Committee, which the bill has
 passed out of twice, Amazon officials said they have had success 
integrating their autonomous delivery system into select neighborhoods 
in other states.

Municipalities who testified urged legislators to keep local 
authority, maintain well-regulated speed and weight rules. Opponents of 
the bill echoed Holland’s claims that the measure would inevitably cause
 Kansans to lose their jobs

To ensure protective measures were put in place should the bill pass,
 Holland offered two amendments. The first, approved by the Senate, 
requires the delivery service to pay the same commercial vehicle fees as
 on normal delivery vehicles.

Senators rejected a second amendment requiring Amazon to go before a 
city or county commission with a plan of routes before starting 
operation.

Sen. Kristen O’Shea, R-Topeka, told legislators similar measures are 
under consideration in other states and that Kansas should be careful 
not to be left behind.

O’Shea said the bill would create a framework for a fair market while
 still providing for public safety. A similar measure passed out of 
committee in 2020 but did not advance before the session was cut short 
due to COVID-19.

Sen. Rob Olson, R-Olathe, served on the commerce committee both times
 the bill made it through, and while he acknowledged technology was 
changing, said he did not believe Kansas was ready for robotic delivery.

A motion by Olson to send the measure back to the committee for 
further consideration failed. The Senate will take a final vote on the 
measure later this week.

“The Amazon trucks delivering packages right to the doorsteps are 
working well,” Olson said. “I just cannot see these remote robots 
working in my neighborhood running up and down the streets, delivering 
packages.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645725425336.png" alt="Sen. Tom Holland adamantly rejected claims the autonomous delivery system bill would create jobs or advance Kansans. He feared it would do the opposite. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tom Holland adamantly rejected claims the autonomous delivery system bill would create jobs or advance Kansans. He feared it would do the opposite. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/24/kansas-senate-approves-bill-allowing-robotic-delivery-after-job-killing-debate/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas could soon see 
autonomous Amazon and FedEx delivery robots roaming the streets of their
 neighborhood if a bill passed by&nbsp;the Senate is signed into law.One of about two dozen bills debated in the Senate Wednesday, the 
autonomous vehicles in question under Senate Bill 161 can only go up to 6
 miles per hour and weigh up to 15 pounds. No maximum exists for the 
cargo that is carried by these delivery robots.Municipalities can opt-out and ban the robots in their communities with an ordinance.The measure split senators between those who praised the bill as an 
opportunity to bring Kansas into the future and those who dubbed the 
bill a “job-killer.” Sen. Tom Holland, D-Baldwin City, said the measure 
would destroy thousands of semi-skilled jobs in the state without 
providing Kansas communities the tools to proactively manage the 
devices.“This bill is being painted as somehow a jobs creator where we’re 
going to encourage robotics development. Get real,” Holland said. “This 
is where you go from people employed by the hundreds to one or two 
folks. It’s a technology disruptor and it puts people out of work.”The Senate approved the measure by a 24 to 15 vote, with both sides 
of the aisle split on the matter. The bill now goes to the House for 
further consideration.Amazon currently employs 7,000 Kansans either full- or part-time and 
FedEx employs 4,500 more. Both companies have developed a delivery robot
 and requested the committee raise the speed it can travel to 10 mph.In testimony before the Senate Commerce Committee, which the bill has
 passed out of twice, Amazon officials said they have had success 
integrating their autonomous delivery system into select neighborhoods 
in other states.Municipalities who testified urged legislators to keep local 
authority, maintain well-regulated speed and weight rules. Opponents of 
the bill echoed Holland’s claims that the measure would inevitably cause
 Kansans to lose their jobsTo ensure protective measures were put in place should the bill pass,
 Holland offered two amendments. The first, approved by the Senate, 
requires the delivery service to pay the same commercial vehicle fees as
 on normal delivery vehicles.Senators rejected a second amendment requiring Amazon to go before a 
city or county commission with a plan of routes before starting 
operation.Sen. Kristen O’Shea, R-Topeka, told legislators similar measures are 
under consideration in other states and that Kansas should be careful 
not to be left behind.“The future is here,” O’Shea said.O’Shea said the bill would create a framework for a fair market while
 still providing for public safety. A similar measure passed out of 
committee in 2020 but did not advance before the session was cut short 
due to COVID-19.Sen. Rob Olson, R-Olathe, served on the commerce committee both times
 the bill made it through, and while he acknowledged technology was 
changing, said he did not believe Kansas was ready for robotic delivery.A motion by Olson to send the measure back to the committee for 
further consideration failed. The Senate will take a final vote on the 
measure later this week.“The Amazon trucks delivering packages right to the doorsteps are 
working well,” Olson said. “I just cannot see these remote robots 
working in my neighborhood running up and down the streets, delivering 
packages.”

Kan. Senate approves bill allowing robotic delivery after job-killing debate

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A black man who was arrested when he was 15 and held for three weeks for a crime he did not commit reached a $900,000 settlement with the Kansas City Police Department.

The settlement announced by attorneys for both sides Tuesday comes in a civil rights lawsuit filed by the family of Tyree Bell over his June 8, 2016, arrest. As part of the agreement, the Police Department said it would apologize to Bell. A federal judge must still approve the settlement, KCUR&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-02-23/kansas-city-police-agree-to-pay-900-000-and-apologize-to-black-teen-wrongfully-jailed-for-weeks">reported</a>.

Officers Peter Neukrich and Jonathan Munyan said they arrested Bell because he looked like another teen who ran from them earlier in the day and threw away a gun as he fled.

Police video showed Bell was taller, had a different hairstyle and was wearing different clothing than the original suspect. He also cooperated with police and was breathing normally, unlike someone who had just run from police.

An appeals court said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-lawsuits-kansas-city-courts-e748a624036ac6caac19dae3026a0265">in an October 2020 ruling</a>&nbsp;that allowed the lawsuit to go forward that Bell’s only resemblance to the suspect was that he was black, juvenile and male.

Kansas City lawyer Arthur Benson, who represented Bell, said the case was not just one of mistaken identity or “walking while black.” He said it was part of a longtime “national disgrace” of white officers wrongly identifying black suspects.

“And they are often wrong because too many police departments do not train their officers that all blacks do not look alike and how to make an eyewitness identification that is not tainted by racial stereotypes,” Benson said.

Kansas City police officers Peter Neukrich and Jonathan Munyan were looking for a suspect who fled from an earlier confrontation when another policeman saw Bell walking and talking on his cellphone and detained him.

The officers said they identified Bell as the suspect and arrested him after watching dashcam video of the original event several times.

Bell was placed on a 24-hour “investigative hold” but was not released until June 29, 2016, after a detective watched the video and determined Bell was not the suspect.

Bell originally sued Neukrich and Munyan as well as the officer who detained him, along with several police officials. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit after finding the officers were entitled to qualified immunity.

An appeals court reinstated the lawsuit in October 2020 after finding the officers did not have probable cause to arrest Bell. The first trial&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-lawsuits-kansas-city-2abd9ce5f638043d2a09a633a5c0ea19">ended in a mistrial&nbsp;</a>after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.

The case had been set to go to trial again on Feb. 28, but that was canceled when the pending settlement was announced.

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A black man who was arrested when he was 15 and held for three weeks for a crime he did not commit reached a $900,000 settlement with the Kansas City Police Department.The settlement announced by attorneys for both sides Tuesday comes in a civil rights lawsuit filed by the family of Tyree Bell over his June 8, 2016, arrest. As part of the agreement, the Police Department said it would apologize to Bell. A federal judge must still approve the settlement, KCUR&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2022-02-23/kansas-city-police-agree-to-pay-900-000-and-apologize-to-black-teen-wrongfully-jailed-for-weeks">reported</a>.Officers Peter Neukrich and Jonathan Munyan said they arrested Bell because he looked like another teen who ran from them earlier in the day and threw away a gun as he fled.Police video showed Bell was taller, had a different hairstyle and was wearing different clothing than the original suspect. He also cooperated with police and was breathing normally, unlike someone who had just run from police.An appeals court said&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-lawsuits-kansas-city-courts-e748a624036ac6caac19dae3026a0265">in an October 2020 ruling</a>&nbsp;that allowed the lawsuit to go forward that Bell’s only resemblance to the suspect was that he was black, juvenile and male.Kansas City lawyer Arthur Benson, who represented Bell, said the case was not just one of mistaken identity or “walking while black.” He said it was part of a longtime “national disgrace” of white officers wrongly identifying black suspects.“And they are often wrong because too many police departments do not train their officers that all blacks do not look alike and how to make an eyewitness identification that is not tainted by racial stereotypes,” Benson said.Kansas City police officers Peter Neukrich and Jonathan Munyan were looking for a suspect who fled from an earlier confrontation when another policeman saw Bell walking and talking on his cellphone and detained him.The officers said they identified Bell as the suspect and arrested him after watching dashcam video of the original event several times.Bell was placed on a 24-hour “investigative hold” but was not released until June 29, 2016, after a detective watched the video and determined Bell was not the suspect.Bell originally sued Neukrich and Munyan as well as the officer who detained him, along with several police officials. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit after finding the officers were entitled to qualified immunity.An appeals court reinstated the lawsuit in October 2020 after finding the officers did not have probable cause to arrest Bell. The first trial&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/arrests-lawsuits-kansas-city-2abd9ce5f638043d2a09a633a5c0ea19">ended in a mistrial&nbsp;</a>after the jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.The case had been set to go to trial again on Feb. 28, but that was canceled when the pending settlement was announced.

Kansas City settles with black man wrongly jailed at 15

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday announced a new round of sanctions targeting Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, charging that Russian leader Vladimir Putin “chose this war” and that his country will bear the consequences of his action.

(CLICK below to listen to the President's comments and answers to questions)

The sanctions target Russian banks, oligarchs, and high-tech sectors, Biden said. The United States and its allies will block assets of four large Russian banks, impose export controls and sanction oligarchs

The penalties fall in line with the White House’s insistence that it would look to hit Russia’s financial system and Putin’s inner circle, while also imposing export controls that would aim to starve Russia’s industries and military of U.S. semiconductors and other high-tech products.

Biden, for now, held off imposing some of the most severe sanctions, including cutting Russia out of the SWIFT payment system, which allows for the transfers of money from bank to bank around the globe, or Russia’s energy sector.

Biden announced the sanctions as Ukraine’s government reported mounting casualties as Russian forces attack from the east, north and south.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645723173825.png" alt="&nbsp;President Biden convened a meeting of the National Security Council in the White House Situation Room early Thursday to discuss the unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine.-photo White House" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;President Biden convened a meeting of the National Security Council in the White House Situation Room early Thursday to discuss the unprovoked and unjustified attack on Ukraine.-photo White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday announced a new round of sanctions targeting Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, charging that Russian leader Vladimir Putin “chose this war” and that his country will bear the consequences of his action.(CLICK below to listen to the President's comments and answers to questions)<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FWhiteHouse%2Fvideos%2F1042092909707717%2F&show_text=false&width=560&t=520" 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>The sanctions target Russian banks, oligarchs, and high-tech sectors, Biden said. The United States and its allies will block assets of four large Russian banks, impose export controls and sanction oligarchsThe penalties fall in line with the White House’s insistence that it would look to hit Russia’s financial system and Putin’s inner circle, while also imposing export controls that would aim to starve Russia’s industries and military of U.S. semiconductors and other high-tech products..<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645674167449.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Biden, for now, held off imposing some of the most severe sanctions, including cutting Russia out of the SWIFT payment system, which allows for the transfers of money from bank to bank around the globe, or Russia’s energy sector.Biden announced the sanctions as Ukraine’s government reported mounting casualties as Russian forces attack from the east, north and south.

🎥 Biden hits Russia with new sanctions, says Putin 'chose' war

By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post


HUTCHINSON — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt introduced legislation in the Kansas House this week to create a state law blocking local municipal governments from adopting rules against cooperation with federal law enforcement investigating illegal immigrants. 

This is in response to action by the Unified Government of Wyandotte County earlier this month that would have chilled any police response. Schmidt spoke to Hutch Post earlier this month about the issue after the local action and before the bill introduction.

"It doesn't entirely bar [cooperation]," Schmidt said. "They put a lot of wiggle words in there. It really does impede, restrict, it's clearly designed to tell the local police, you're not supposed to working with federal immigration authorities."

Another potential pitfall of the Wyandotte County action is creating photo identification for undocumented residents. The reason this could be a problem is because of the way some state statutes are worded.

"There are lots of things that you have to have government identification for under state law," Schmidt said. "We presuppose that if you have that government identification, it proves you're a citizen."

House Bill 2717 would attempt to address that issue by making clear that any local ID is not valid for State ID purposes. The bill has been referred to the House Federal and State Affairs committee.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629113022641.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON — 
Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt introduced legislation in the Kansas House this week to create a state law blocking local municipal governments from adopting rules against cooperation with federal law enforcement investigating illegal immigrants. This is in response to action by the Unified Government of Wyandotte County earlier this month that would have chilled any police response. Schmidt spoke to Hutch Post earlier this month about the issue after the local action and before the bill introduction."It doesn't entirely bar [cooperation]," Schmidt said. "They put a lot of wiggle words in there. It really does impede, restrict, it's clearly designed to tell the local police, you're not supposed to working with federal immigration authorities."Another potential pitfall of the Wyandotte County action is creating photo identification for undocumented residents. The reason this could be a problem is because of the way some state statutes are worded."There are lots of things that you have to have government identification for under state law," Schmidt said. "We presuppose that if you have that government identification, it proves you're a citizen."House Bill 2717 would attempt to address that issue by making clear that any local ID is not valid for State ID purposes. The bill has been referred to the House Federal and State Affairs committee.

Schmidt introduces bill to clarify immigration, local ID response

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an altercation with a police officer.

Just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday, Salina Police received information that 36-year-old Devon Wayne Dirksen, who had warrants for his arrest, was located at the Pump Mart, 1118 North 9th Street, in Salina, Kansas, according to a statement from police.

Officer Michael Chandler was dispatched to that location and contacted Dirksen inside the business.

Dirksen resisted Officer Chandler’s efforts to arrest him, and a physical altercation ensued. Dirksen was able to break free from Officer Chandler and fled outside. 

Officer Chandler caught Dirksen across the street from the Pump Mart and tackled him to the ground. During the struggle on the ground, Dirksen pulled on Officer Chandler’s sidearm, and then Officer Chandler heard the sound of a gunshot. Dirksen was able to break free, and fled into a nearby residential area. Officer Chandler checked his handgun, and it was still secured in his holster.

With the assistance of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol, Dirksen was located hiding in the area and was taken into custody without further incident. A handgun was found in the area where Officer Chandler and Dirksen were struggling on the ground, and the gunshot was heard.

No one was injured by the gunfire, but Officer Chandler and Dirksen suffered minor injuries from the physical confrontation.

Dirksen was booked into the Saline County Jail requested charges of&nbsp;Attempted Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, Aggravated Assault of a Law Enforcement Officer, Attempted Aggravated Burglary, Felony Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm in the City Limits, Misdemeanor Criminal Damage to Property. In addition, Dirksen was booked on three Salina Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear and one Saline County District Court warrant for failure to appear.

Dirksen has previous convictions for criminal threat, endangering a child, harassment by telephone and fir drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645721912604.png" alt="Devon Wayne Dirksen has previous convictions for criminal threat, endangering a child, harassment by telephone and fir drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections -photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Devon Wayne Dirksen has previous convictions for criminal threat, endangering a child, harassment by telephone and fir drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections -photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a Kansas felon on new charges after an altercation with a police officer.Just before 9:30p.m. Wednesday, Salina Police received information that 36-year-old Devon Wayne Dirksen, who had warrants for his arrest, was located at the Pump Mart, 1118 North 9th Street, in Salina, Kansas, according to a statement from police.Officer Michael Chandler was dispatched to that location and contacted Dirksen inside the business.Dirksen resisted Officer Chandler’s efforts to arrest him, and a physical altercation ensued. Dirksen was able to break free from Officer Chandler and fled outside. Officer Chandler caught Dirksen across the street from the Pump Mart and tackled him to the ground. During the struggle on the ground, Dirksen pulled on Officer Chandler’s sidearm, and then Officer Chandler heard the sound of a gunshot. Dirksen was able to break free, and fled into a nearby residential area. Officer Chandler checked his handgun, and it was still secured in his holster.With the assistance of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and Kansas Highway Patrol, Dirksen was located hiding in the area and was taken into custody without further incident. A handgun was found in the area where Officer Chandler and Dirksen were struggling on the ground, and the gunshot was heard.No one was injured by the gunfire, but Officer Chandler and Dirksen suffered minor injuries from the physical confrontation.Dirksen was booked into the Saline County Jail requested charges of&nbsp;Attempted Aggravated Robbery, Aggravated Battery of a Law Enforcement Officer, Aggravated Assault of a Law Enforcement Officer, Attempted Aggravated Burglary, Felony Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, Unlawful Discharge of a Firearm in the City Limits, Misdemeanor Criminal Damage to Property. In addition, Dirksen was booked on three Salina Municipal Court warrants for failure to appear and one Saline County District Court warrant for failure to appear.Dirksen has previous convictions for criminal threat, endangering a child, harassment by telephone and fir drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.&nbsp;

Police: Gunshot during altercation with Kan. officer during arrest

TOPEKA— Kansas’ state school board scheduled a special meeting for Friday to discuss personnel issues following a report Education Commissioner Randy Watson made what one board member called an inappropriate remark during a conference last week.

In a statement from her office on Thursday, Governor Laura Kelly said Watson should step down.

“While Education Commissioner Randy Watson has had a long career in advocating for our children in Kansas, the State and the Kansas Board of Education must take issues of derogatory and discriminatory language seriously.

“There is no question that Randy Watson must resign his position immediately, given his comments last week.&nbsp;However, the Board of Education must also focus on ways to address these issues going forward.&nbsp;Let’s build on this moment to celebrate diversity and ensure that all Kansas school children are treated with dignity and respect.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ state school board has scheduled a special meeting for Friday to discuss personnel issues. The meeting was set after Education Commissioner Randy Watson made what one board member called an inappropriate remark during a conference last week. 

State Board of Education member Ann Mah told The Capital-Journal on Wednesday that the board was taking Watson’s comments “very seriously.” She said Watson had reached out to her after  the comments but she couldn’t share exactly what Watson said in his remarks. 

Watson did not immediately return a telephone message or email Wednesday evening seeking comment. The 10-member elected board appoints the commissioner to run the State Department of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584484524519.png" alt="Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during a 2020 news conference in Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during a 2020 news conference in Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA— Kansas’ state school board scheduled a special meeting for Friday to discuss personnel issues following a report Education Commissioner Randy Watson made what one board member called an inappropriate remark during a conference last week.In a statement from her office on Thursday, Governor Laura Kelly said Watson should step down.“While Education Commissioner Randy Watson has had a long career in advocating for our children in Kansas, the State and the Kansas Board of Education must take issues of derogatory and discriminatory language seriously.“There is no question that Randy Watson must resign his position immediately, given his comments last week.&nbsp;However, the Board of Education must also focus on ways to address these issues going forward.&nbsp;Let’s build on this moment to celebrate diversity and ensure that all Kansas school children are treated with dignity and respect.”-----------TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ state school board has scheduled a special meeting for Friday to discuss personnel issues. The meeting was set after Education Commissioner Randy Watson made what one board member called an inappropriate remark during a conference last week. State Board of Education member Ann Mah told The Capital-Journal on Wednesday that the board was taking Watson’s comments “very seriously.” She said Watson had reached out to her after the comments but she couldn’t share exactly what Watson said in his remarks. Watson did not immediately return a telephone message or email Wednesday evening seeking comment. The 10-member elected board appoints the commissioner to run the State Department of Education.

Kan. governor calls on education commissioner to resign

GEARY COUNTY —U.S. Senator Jerry Moran focused on the Russia - Ukraine situation as he opened his comments at a Military Affairs Council breakfast in Junction City Thursday morning. "I want to make certain that we condemn Vladimir Putin and Russia for their intrusion into Ukraine."

Referring to the action by Russia, Moran stated that there is nothing noble and there is no justification, "and it's the greatest provocation for one country invading another, certainly in Europe, since World War II. "

Moran called for America to be united in support of the nation, the administration and the U.S. military. "While there may be those that try to divide us at this time, America does its best when we work together. Do not let us make a mistake to be divided." The senator spoke at the Geary County Convention Center.

In a statement from his office earlier this week, Moran wrote, “I am grateful for our military service members stationed in Europe—and those who have recently deployed there—for demonstrating to our NATO allies in Europe and around the world that the United States can be relied upon.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645716929077.jpeg" alt="U.S. Senator Jerry Moran speaking at the Geary County Convention Center ( Photo courtesy of Phyllis Fitzgerald )" />
 <figcaption>U.S. Senator Jerry Moran speaking at the Geary County Convention Center ( Photo courtesy of Phyllis Fitzgerald )</figcaption>
 </figure>GEARY COUNTY —U.S. Senator Jerry Moran focused on the Russia - Ukraine situation as he opened his comments at a Military Affairs Council breakfast in Junction City Thursday morning. "I want to make certain that we condemn Vladimir Putin and Russia for their intrusion into Ukraine."Referring to the action by Russia, Moran stated that there is nothing noble and there is no justification, "and it's the greatest provocation for one country invading another, certainly in Europe, since World War II. "Moran called for America to be united in support of the nation, the administration and the U.S. military. "While there may be those that try to divide us at this time, America does its best when we work together. Do not let us make a mistake to be divided." The senator spoke at the Geary County Convention Center.In a statement from his office earlier this week, Moran wrote, “I am grateful for our military service members stationed in Europe—and those who have recently deployed there—for demonstrating to our NATO allies in Europe and around the world that the United States can be relied upon.”

Moran: No justification for Russia's action in Ukraine

NEW YORK (AP) — Some people getting Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines should consider waiting up to eight weeks between the first and second doses, instead of the three or four weeks previously recommended, U.S. health officials said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday quietly changed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html" target="_blank">its advice</a>&nbsp;on spacing the shots.

CDC officials said they were reacting to research showing that the longer interval can provide more enduring protection against the coronavirus. Research suggests that 12- to 64-year-olds — especially males ages 12 to 39 — can benefit from the longer spacing, the CDC said.

They also say the longer wait may help diminish an already rare vaccination side effect: a form of heart inflammation seen in some young men.

The change won’t affect many people, coming 14 months after the beginning of the U.S. vaccination campaign. The CDC says 73% of people age 12 and older already have gotten two doses of vaccine.

Also, the suggestion to wait up to two months doesn’t apply to all. The original, shorter interval is still recommended for people with weakened immune systems; people 65 and older; and anyone who needs fast protection due to risk of severe disease.

Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University vaccines expert, said the action makes sense.

Early in the pandemic, there was intense pressure to adopt as tight a vaccination schedule as possible. “The virus was spreading. People were dying. We wanted to get the vaccine into their arms as quickly as possible,” Schaffner said.

Based on studies done by vaccine makers, the government authorized the Pfizer shots as a two-dose series spaced three weeks apart, and the Moderna shots to be spaced four weeks apart.

Some people — mostly adolescent and young adult males — developed a side effect involving inflammation in or around the heart after the second shot. The CDC says that among males ages 18 to 39, the condition has been reported in about 68 per 1 million getting the second Moderna dose and about 47 per 1 million getting the second Pfizer dose.

Some research has suggested that delaying the second dose until eight weeks reduces that risk, CDC officials said.

If already-vaccinated people are worried that they got less than the maximum amount of protection by getting shots according to the original schedule, they can allay those fears by getting a booster shot, Schaffner said.

“We really have very good data indicating that two doses plus the booster provide very strong protection against severe disease,” he said.

NEW YORK (AP) — Some people getting Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines should consider waiting up to eight weeks between the first and second doses, instead of the three or four weeks previously recommended, U.S. health officials said.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Tuesday quietly changed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/covid-19-vaccines-us.html" target="_blank">its advice</a>&nbsp;on spacing the shots.CDC officials said they were reacting to research showing that the longer interval can provide more enduring protection against the coronavirus. Research suggests that 12- to 64-year-olds — especially males ages 12 to 39 — can benefit from the longer spacing, the CDC said.They also say the longer wait may help diminish an already rare vaccination side effect: a form of heart inflammation seen in some young men.The change won’t affect many people, coming 14 months after the beginning of the U.S. vaccination campaign. The CDC says 73% of people age 12 and older already have gotten two doses of vaccine.Also, the suggestion to wait up to two months doesn’t apply to all. The original, shorter interval is still recommended for people with weakened immune systems; people 65 and older; and anyone who needs fast protection due to risk of severe disease.Dr. William Schaffner, a Vanderbilt University vaccines expert, said the action makes sense.Early in the pandemic, there was intense pressure to adopt as tight a vaccination schedule as possible. “The virus was spreading. People were dying. We wanted to get the vaccine into their arms as quickly as possible,” Schaffner said.Based on studies done by vaccine makers, the government authorized the Pfizer shots as a two-dose series spaced three weeks apart, and the Moderna shots to be spaced four weeks apart.Some people — mostly adolescent and young adult males — developed a side effect involving inflammation in or around the heart after the second shot. The CDC says that among males ages 18 to 39, the condition has been reported in about 68 per 1 million getting the second Moderna dose and about 47 per 1 million getting the second Pfizer dose.Some research has suggested that delaying the second dose until eight weeks reduces that risk, CDC officials said.If already-vaccinated people are worried that they got less than the maximum amount of protection by getting shots according to the original schedule, they can allay those fears by getting a booster shot, Schaffner said.“We really have very good data indicating that two doses plus the booster provide very strong protection against severe disease,” he said.___

CDC: Some people should wait longer for 2nd COVID shot

DETROIT (AP) — Ford is recalling nearly a quarter-million heavy duty pickup trucks in the U.S. because the drive shafts can fracture and cause a loss of power.

The recall covers certain F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickups from the 2017 through 2022 model years. The trucks have gasoline engines and aluminum drive shafts.

Ford says in documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that heat and noise insulators below the body can loosen, and touch the drive shaft. The shaft can fracture, causing a power loss, or loss of control if it hits the ground.

Failures also could let the trucks roll if they are stopped and the parking brake isn’t on.

Dealers will inspect the drive shafts and repair them if necessary, and properly attach the insulators. Owners will be notified by letter starting April 4.

Ford’s F-Series pickup trucks for years have been the top-selling vehicles in the U.S.

DETROIT (AP) — Ford is recalling nearly a quarter-million heavy duty pickup trucks in the U.S. because the drive shafts can fracture and cause a loss of power.The recall covers certain F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickups from the 2017 through 2022 model years. The trucks have gasoline engines and aluminum drive shafts.Ford says in documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that heat and noise insulators below the body can loosen, and touch the drive shaft. The shaft can fracture, causing a power loss, or loss of control if it hits the ground.Failures also could let the trucks roll if they are stopped and the parking brake isn’t on.Dealers will inspect the drive shafts and repair them if necessary, and properly attach the insulators. Owners will be notified by letter starting April 4.Ford’s F-Series pickup trucks for years have been the top-selling vehicles in the U.S.

Ford recalls heavy-duty pickups; drive shafts can fracture

LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—A suspect wounded in an officer-involved shooting is now in a Kansas jail.

Just before 5p.m. Wednesday, Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agents arrested 31-year-old Donald Barden Jr., of Leavenworth, as he was discharged from the University of Kansas Rehabilitation Center.

Just before 5 a.m. on February 13, a woman called 911 to report that a male acquaintance was near 4th&nbsp;Street and Miami Street in Leavenworth, and was armed with a handgun.

Preliminary information indicates that officers from the Leavenworth Police Department, the Lansing Police Department, and the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area.

 Upon arriving they located an armed man standing in the middle of the street at the intersection of 5th&nbsp;Street and Seneca Street. They blocked traffic and began to negotiate with the man, who was later identified as Donald Barden Jr., 31, of Leavenworth. From a distance, they attempted to convince him to drop his gun. During the incident Barden ignored commands, waved his gun around, and made suicidal statements.

At approximately 6:20 a.m., Barden ran toward officers while pointing his gun in their direction. One officer from the Leavenworth Police Department and one officer from the Lansing Police Department fired rounds toward Barden, striking him. At the same time, another officer from the Leavenworth Police Department fired bean bag rounds at Barden.&nbsp;

Officers then rendered aid to Barden. EMS, who had been waiting nearby during the incident, responded and took over life-saving measures. EMS transported Barden to the KU Medical Center in critical, but stable condition.

Barden is being held in the Leavenworth County Jail on requested charges that include three counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645670530417.png" alt="Barden, Jr. has previous convictions for robbery and burglary, according to the KDOC-photo Leavenworth Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Barden, Jr. has previous convictions for robbery and burglary, according to the KDOC-photo Leavenworth Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>LEAVENWORTH COUNTY—A suspect wounded in an officer-involved shooting is now in a Kansas jail.Just before 5p.m. Wednesday, Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) agents arrested 31-year-old Donald Barden Jr., of Leavenworth, as he was discharged from the University of Kansas Rehabilitation Center.Just before 5 a.m. on February 13, a woman called 911 to report that a male acquaintance was near 4th&nbsp;Street and Miami Street in Leavenworth, and was armed with a handgun.Preliminary information indicates that officers from the Leavenworth Police Department, the Lansing Police Department, and the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area. Upon arriving they located an armed man standing in the middle of the street at the intersection of 5th&nbsp;Street and Seneca Street. They blocked traffic and began to negotiate with the man, who was later identified as Donald Barden Jr., 31, of Leavenworth. From a distance, they attempted to convince him to drop his gun. During the incident Barden ignored commands, waved his gun around, and made suicidal statements.At approximately 6:20 a.m., Barden ran toward officers while pointing his gun in their direction. One officer from the Leavenworth Police Department and one officer from the Lansing Police Department fired rounds toward Barden, striking him. At the same time, another officer from the Leavenworth Police Department fired bean bag rounds at Barden.&nbsp;Officers then rendered aid to Barden. EMS, who had been waiting nearby during the incident, responded and took over life-saving measures. EMS transported Barden to the KU Medical Center in critical, but stable condition.Barden is being held in the Leavenworth County Jail on requested charges that include three counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.----------

Man wounded in Kan. officer-shooting moved from hospital to jail

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Two Kansas men died in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Sedgwick County.

The Dodge traveled off the road, crossed the center median and collided with a northbound 2005 Fed Ex Freight truck driven by Tyler Matthew Bauer, 30, Wichita.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645662210097.png" alt="First responders at the scene of the Wednesday crash -image KanDrive" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the scene of the Wednesday crash -image KanDrive</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Two Kansas men died in an accident just before 6p.m. Wednesday in Sedgwick County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2011 Dodge Ram 2500 driven by Darth Delano Cline, 56, Wichita, was southbound on Interstate 235 at North Broadway.The Dodge traveled off the road, crossed the center median and collided with a northbound 2005 Fed Ex Freight truck driven by Tyler Matthew Bauer, 30, Wichita.Cline was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Bauer to St. Francis where he died. Cline was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Two Kansas men dead after pickup, FedEx truck crash

WASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers today 
that the fastest and easiest way to check on tax refunds is by using the
 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp; tool on IRS.gov or through the IRS2Go mobile app.

This year, more than ever before, those who don't normally have to 
file a tax return may wish to do so to get child-related tax credits 
that were expanded by the American Rescue Plan. These include the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5585.pdf">Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit</a>&nbsp;PDF.

Filing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and using <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> is the safest and fastest way to file an accurate return and receive a tax refund. Taxpayers can use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;to
 start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed 
return is received or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper 
return.

The tool's tracker displays progress through three phases:

Most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, however, some may take longer. There are several reasons this can happen:

The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.

Earned Income Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit

Due to changes to the tax law made by the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/2029/text">Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act (PATH Act)</a>, the IRS can't issue <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/how-to-work-with-a-tax-professional-to-claim-the-earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)</a>
 refunds before mid-February. This includes the entire refund, not just 
the part that's related to the credit claimed on a tax return.

<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> are updated for most early EITC/ACTC filers with an estimated deposit date by February 19, if they file their taxes early.

If a filer claimed the EITC or the ACTC, they can expect to get their refund March 1 if:

Some taxpayers mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by 
ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax 
preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their 
refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund. The information
 available on Where's My Refund? is the same information available to 
IRS telephone assistors.

Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and 
easy-to-use tools at IRS.gov. This news release is part of a series 
called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p17.pdf">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;PDF.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON —&nbsp;The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers today 
that the fastest and easiest way to check on tax refunds is by using the
 <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp; tool on IRS.gov or through the IRS2Go mobile app.This year, more than ever before, those who don't normally have to 
file a tax return may wish to do so to get child-related tax credits 
that were expanded by the American Rescue Plan. These include the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p5585.pdf">Child Tax Credit and the Child and Dependent Care Credit</a>&nbsp;PDF.<h2>Refund updates</h2>Filing <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">electronically</a> and using <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> is the safest and fastest way to file an accurate return and receive a tax refund. Taxpayers can use <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;to
 start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed 
return is received or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper 
return.The tool's tracker displays progress through three phases:<ol>
 <li>Return Received,</li><li>Refund Approved and</li><li>Refund Sent.</li>
 </ol><h2>Refund timing</h2>Most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, however, some may take longer. There are several reasons this can happen:<ul>
 <li>The return includes a claim for the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.</li><li>The time between the IRS issuing the refund and the bank posting it
 to an account may vary since many banks do not process payments on 
weekends or holidays.</li><li>The return may require additional review.</li><li>The return may include errors or be incomplete.</li><li>The return could be affected by identity theft or fraud.</li>
 </ul>The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.<h2>Earned Income Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit</h2>Due to changes to the tax law made by the <a href="https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/2029/text">Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act (PATH Act)</a>, the IRS can't issue <a href="https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit/how-to-work-with-a-tax-professional-to-claim-the-earned-income-tax-credit-eitc">Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)</a> or <a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/does-my-childdependent-qualify-for-the-child-tax-credit-or-the-credit-for-other-dependents">Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC)</a>
 refunds before mid-February. This includes the entire refund, not just 
the part that's related to the credit claimed on a tax return.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds">Where's My Refund?</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goapp">IRS2Go</a> are updated for most early EITC/ACTC filers with an estimated deposit date by February 19, if they file their taxes early.If a filer claimed the EITC or the ACTC, they can expect to get their refund March 1 if:<ul>
 <li>They <a href="https://www.irs.gov/filing/e-file-options">file their return online</a>,</li><li>They choose to get their refund by <a href="https://www.irs.gov/refunds/get-your-refund-faster-tell-irs-to-direct-deposit-your-refund-to-one-two-or-three-accounts">direct deposit</a> and</li><li>No issues were found with their return.</li>
 </ul><h2>Ignore refund myths</h2>Some taxpayers mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by 
ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax 
preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their 
refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund. The information
 available on Where's My Refund? is the same information available to 
IRS telephone assistors.Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and 
easy-to-use tools at IRS.gov. This news release is part of a series 
called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p17.pdf">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax (For Individuals)</a>&nbsp;PDF.

Where's my tax refund? IRS tool lets you check online

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced a military operation in Ukraine, claiming it’s intended to protect civilians.

In a televised address, Putin said the action comes in response to threats coming from Ukraine. He added that Russia doesn’t have a goal to occupy Ukraine. Putin said the responsibility for bloodshed lies with the Ukrainian “regime.”

Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen.”

He accused the U.S. and its allies of ignoring Russia’s demand to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO and offer Moscow security guarantees.

He said the Russian military operation aims to ensure a “demilitarization” of Ukraine. Putin said that all Ukrainian servicemen who lay down arms will be able to safely leave the zone of combat.

Biden says he plans to speak to the American people Thursday after a meeting of the Group of Seven leaders. More sanctions against Russia are expected to be announced Thursday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645673092575.png" alt="Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen.” photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen.” photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday announced a military operation in Ukraine, claiming it’s intended to protect civilians.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645674167449.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In a televised address, Putin said the action comes in response to threats coming from Ukraine. He added that Russia doesn’t have a goal to occupy Ukraine. Putin said the responsibility for bloodshed lies with the Ukrainian “regime.”Putin warned other countries that any attempt to interfere with the Russian action would lead to “consequences they have never seen.”He accused the U.S. and its allies of ignoring Russia’s demand to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO and offer Moscow security guarantees.He said the Russian military operation aims to ensure a “demilitarization” of Ukraine. Putin said that all Ukrainian servicemen who lay down arms will be able to safely leave the zone of combat.Biden says he plans to speak to the American people Thursday after a meeting of the Group of Seven leaders. More sanctions against Russia are expected to be announced Thursday.

President Biden condemns Putin's military operation in Ukraine

LA CROSSE COUNTY, WI —Law enforcement authorities in Wisconsin are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.

On Saturday, police arrested 22-year-old Jimmy Castillo of Topeka on requested charges that included&nbsp; possession of meth with intent to deliver and he is being held on a $250,000 bond, according to online jail records.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Authorities received an anonymous tip someone would be delivering meth to a hotel in the central Wisconsin community of Onalaska on Saturday, according to La Crosse Police.

Shortly after Castillo arrived, police arrested him. Castillo admitted he had meth in his backpack. 

Investigators say the 15 pounds of meth has a street value is about $250,000 and is the largest one-time seizure for La Crosse law enforcement. Castillo is due back in court on March 2.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645616424955.png" alt="Castillo-photo La Crosse Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Castillo-photo La Crosse Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>LA CROSSE COUNTY, WI —Law enforcement authorities in Wisconsin are investigating a Kansas man on drug allegations.On Saturday, police arrested 22-year-old Jimmy Castillo of Topeka on requested charges that included&nbsp; possession of meth with intent to deliver and he is being held on a $250,000 bond, according to online jail records.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities received an anonymous tip someone would be delivering meth to a hotel in the central Wisconsin community of Onalaska on Saturday, according to La Crosse Police.Shortly after Castillo arrived, police arrested him. Castillo admitted he had meth in his backpack. Investigators say the 15 pounds of meth has a street value is about $250,000 and is the largest one-time seizure for La Crosse law enforcement. Castillo is due back in court on March 2.

Kansas man caught with 15 pounds of meth at Wisconsin hotel

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584484524519.png" alt="Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during a 2020 news conference in Topeka" />
 <figcaption>Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson during a 2020 news conference in Topeka</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas’ state school board has scheduled a special meeting for Friday to discuss personnel issues. The meeting was set after Education Commissioner Randy Watson made what one board member called an inappropriate remark during a conference last week. State Board of Education member Ann Mah told The Capital-Journal on Wednesday that the board was taking Watson’s comments “very seriously.” She said Watson had reached out to her after the comments but she couldn’t share exactly what Watson said in his remarks. Watson did not immediately return a telephone message or email Wednesday evening seeking comment. The 10-member elected board appoints the commissioner to run the State Department of Education.

Kansas' state school board to meet after 'inappropriate' remark

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans in the GOP-controlled Kansas Legislature have moved to block local bans, restrictions or taxes on plastic bags or other packaging. The state Senate voted 27-13 for a bill that would strip cities and counties of their power to regulate or tax bags, cups, bottles or other packaging. 

The measure has the backing of business groups and would cover not only plastic, but cloth, paper, cardboard, aluminum, glass or foamed plastic such as Styrofoam. 

The bill goes next to the House. Business groups said a patchwork of local regulations would be difficult to follow. Critics said local communities should be allowed to deal with trash as they see fit.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Republicans in the GOP-controlled Kansas Legislature have moved to block local bans, restrictions or taxes on plastic bags or other packaging. The state Senate voted 27-13 for a bill that would strip cities and counties of their power to regulate or tax bags, cups, bottles or other packaging. The measure has the backing of business groups and would cover not only plastic, but cloth, paper, cardboard, aluminum, glass or foamed plastic such as Styrofoam. The bill goes next to the House. Business groups said a patchwork of local regulations would be difficult to follow. Critics said local communities should be allowed to deal with trash as they see fit.

Kansas moves to block plastic-bag bans by cities, counties

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A former officer at the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka is accused of having sex with a teenager at the center. 

Twenty-five-year-old Pedro Cruz-Garcia was released from the Shawnee County jail after posting a $50,000 bond on Sunday. He is charged with having unlawful sexual relations with a victim who was 16 years old or older. 

The Kansas Department of Corrections said in a statement Tuesday that an investigation began after a staff member at the juvenile center heard other inmates talking about Cruz-Garcia and the victim. Cruz-Garcia was fired from the detention center on Feb. 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645643756485.png" alt="Cruz-Garcia" />
 <figcaption>Cruz-Garcia</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A former officer at the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka is accused of having sex with a teenager at the center. Twenty-five-year-old Pedro Cruz-Garcia was released from the Shawnee County jail after posting a $50,000 bond on Sunday. He is charged with having unlawful sexual relations with a victim who was 16 years old or older. The Kansas Department of Corrections said in a statement Tuesday that an investigation began after a staff member at the juvenile center heard other inmates talking about Cruz-Garcia and the victim. Cruz-Garcia was fired from the detention center on Feb. 11.

Kan. juvenile officer accused of having sex with teen at the center

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/23/kansas-treasurer-state-representative-call-for-answers-in-cold-snap-price-gouging-investigation/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Kansas state 
treasurer, a legislator and a former school board member Wednesday 
called on Attorney General Derek Schmidt to advance a slow-moving 
investigation of potential price gouging tied to spikes in natural gas 
prices during Winter Storm Uri one year ago.

Last February, Schmidt launched an investigation into the natural gas
 prices, which left Kansas with more than $1 billion in economic 
fallout. Gas prices rose by nearly 200 times, and experts expect Kansas 
utility payers will be feeling the aftereffects for a decade.

Seven months after the storm, as utilities were negotiating plans to 
pass higher rates onto customers, Schmidt said the high prices “appear 
to violate Kansas law” and noted he was seeking outside counsel to aid 
in the investigation.

State treasurer Lynn Rogers said this lack of movement sends the wrong message to Kansans.

“The message it sends is, pay your bills, pay the cost but just wait 
for answers and trust us,” Rogers said. “I don’t think that’s a good 
message for citizens or for elected officials. We need to be doing our 
job.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645650040585.png" alt="State treasurer Lynn Rogers, accompanied by a state representative and former school board member, asked that the attorney general speed up an investigation into potential price gouging tied to spikes in the cost of natural gas during the cold snap. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>State treasurer Lynn Rogers, accompanied by a state representative and former school board member, asked that the attorney general speed up an investigation into potential price gouging tied to spikes in the cost of natural gas during the cold snap. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/23/kansas-treasurer-state-representative-call-for-answers-in-cold-snap-price-gouging-investigation/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Kansas state 
treasurer, a legislator and a former school board member Wednesday 
called on Attorney General Derek Schmidt to advance a slow-moving 
investigation of potential price gouging tied to spikes in natural gas 
prices during Winter Storm Uri one year ago.Last February, Schmidt launched an investigation into the natural gas
 prices, which left Kansas with more than $1 billion in economic 
fallout. Gas prices rose by nearly 200 times, and experts expect Kansas 
utility payers will be feeling the aftereffects for a decade.Seven months after the storm, as utilities were negotiating plans to 
pass higher rates onto customers, Schmidt said the high prices “appear 
to violate Kansas law” and noted he was seeking outside counsel to aid 
in the investigation.State treasurer Lynn Rogers said this lack of movement sends the wrong message to Kansans.“The message it sends is, pay your bills, pay the cost but just wait 
for answers and trust us,” Rogers said. “I don’t think that’s a good 
message for citizens or for elected officials. We need to be doing our 
job.”Last month, the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/10/house-denounces-price-gouging-market-hijinks-of-2021-natural-gas-price-spike/">Kansas House nearly unanimously approved a resolution</a>
 endorsing these investigations and condemning price gouging or market 
manipulation in the aftermath of the winter storm. In addition, the 
regulation called on the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to examine
 market conditions from Feb. 6 to 18.The attorney general has since obtained counsel with specialized expertise, said John Milburn, a spokesman for Schmidt’s office.The investigation is active and ongoing,” he said. “We have no further comment at this time.”Laura Guy, a former school teacher and Shawnee Mission School Board 
member, said the wait-and-see approach is not enough. She pointed to 
struggles faced by education faculty across the state.“The last thing any school district needs right now is outrageous 
bills that drain precious resources away from our students,” Guy said. 
“(Schmidt) has given Kansans nearly no insight on where his 
investigation stands, leaving school districts like (Shawnee Mission) 
questioning whether … cold weather could undo all of our careful 
budgeting.”On average, Shawnee Mission schools spend about $600,000 in natural 
gas bills for the entire year. During last February’s cold snap, the 
school gas bill ballooned to $1.6 million for a single month.Auburn-Washburn Unified School District received a gas bill of 
$45,000 instead of its typical bill of $5,000. Newton Public Schools 
received a bill for nearly $200,000, six times the normal cost.The city utility low-interest loan program, approved by the 
Legislature last year, allows Kansas cities to borrow from the state to 
cover extraordinary natural gas and electric costs. As of Jan. 1, 54 
cities and one municipal energy agency had submitted applications and 
$78,409,646.79 in loans were approved and funded.Still, Rep. Anne Kuether, a Topeka Democrat, said Kansans deserve answers and financial security.“This is an issue that doesn’t have a party. This is an issue for the
 everyday people who are having a hard time making ends meet,” Kuether 
said. “Kansans deserve answers, relief, and they also deserve assurances
 that they will be protected for future market manipulations.”