KANSAS CITY(AP) — Police in Kansas City are investigating the city’s latest shooting death after officers found a woman fatally wounded on a sidewalk early Tuesday.

The shooting happened around 12:30 a.m. Tuesday in the northeastern section of the city, police said in a news release. Officers called to the scene found the woman unresponsive on a sidewalk with a gunshot wound. Paramedics declared her dead at the scene.

Her name was not immediately released. Police have not announced any arrests or suspects in the case.

Detectives were canvassing the area for witnesses, and and crime scene officials were processing the scene for evidence.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643129663292.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation early Tuesday -photo courtesy KMBC" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation early Tuesday -photo courtesy KMBC</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY(AP) — Police in Kansas City are investigating the city’s latest shooting death after officers found a woman fatally wounded on a sidewalk early Tuesday.The shooting happened around 12:30 a.m. Tuesday in the northeastern section of the city, police said in a news release. Officers called to the scene found the woman unresponsive on a sidewalk with a gunshot wound. Paramedics declared her dead at the scene.Her name was not immediately released. Police have not announced any arrests or suspects in the case.Detectives were canvassing the area for witnesses, and and crime scene officials were processing the scene for evidence.

Police find woman fatally wounded on sidewalk in Kansas City

By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/22/legislative-auditors-skeptical-prairiefire-development-can-pay-off-64-8m-in-bond-debt/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — The Overland Park 
retail, office, hotel and residential development attached to the 
Prairiefire museum struggles to attract out-of-state tourists and could 
default on $64.8 million in bond debt issued through a state economic 
development program under scrutiny by the Legislature.

Auditors with the Legislature said their analysis of the Prairiefire 
project built with capital raised through issuance in 2012 of Sales Tax 
Revenue Bonds, or STAR bonds, indicated the project wasn’t generating 
enough sales tax revenue to repay debts in the required 20-year period. 
Originally, $64.9 million in bonds were issued for the project. Debt 
remaining to be paid: $64.8 million.

Auditors predicted it could take until 2046 or 2104 to produce 
sufficient sales tax revenue to retire the Prairiefire obligations held 
by the city of Overland Park.

“They are in danger of default,” said Andy Brienzo, of the 
Legislature’s audit division. “We can’t say that definitively. There is 
some additional development that is slated to happen.”

Bob North, general counsel with the Kansas Department of Commerce, 
said he didn’t share skepticism of auditors but also couldn’t guarantee 
success of Prairiefire, which includes a museum for traveling natural 
history exhibits. The commerce department has approved 19 STAR bond 
projects since the 1990s for Atchison, Garden City, Salina, Wichita, 
Topeka, Goddard, Manhattan and other cities.

He said museums, racetracks, sports facilities and other venues build
 with of $1.1 billion in bond proceeds were intended to raise the 
quality of life for benefit of Kansans and to attract tourists to the 
state. He said the objective of STAR bonds wasn’t simply generation of 
tax revenue.

“If they were, we’d take our money and build a bunch of Walmarts,” 
North said. “The goal of STAR bonds is to create attractions that are 
going to bring visitors to the state.”

The House and Senate commerce committees this week invited the Kansas
 Division of Legislative Post Audit to outline findings of a 2021 audit 
of STAR bond initiatives. Auditors discovered only three projects 
outside of the mega-development at Village West in Wyandotte County that
 fulfilled the objective of elevating tourism.

“STAR bonds are a very, very effective and strong economic 
development tool,” North said. “They’ve worked well in most instances. 
I’m not going to tell you every project is perfect.”

Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, said she was 
disappointed with the quality of information submitted to the state by 
STAR bond recipients.

“As we look at the annual reports that were submitted to the 
Department of Commerce,” she said, “some of it doesn’t give real data. 
It might say visitation went up 30%. Well, 30% from what number?”

Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, said the assessment of STAR bonds 
by legislative auditors was “a particularly narrow evaluation.” It was 
based on estimates of out-of-state visitors and documentation of sales 
tax revenue but didn’t take into account other evidence of economic 
development such as the multiplier effect of those new businesses, he 
said.

“I have some issues with some of this,” Pittman said.

The latest STAR bond annual report submitted to the Legislature by 
the Department of Commerce pointed to success of Children’s Mercy Park 
where the Sporting Kansas City professional soccer team plays. It’s 
become one of the state’s top tourist destinations.

To build the MLS soccer complex, $150 million in STAR bonds were 
issued in 2010. That debt was paid off in less than seven years.

Jake Reid, president and chief executive officer of Sporting Kansas 
City, said the franchise derived significant benefit from the STAR bond 
law and the private-public partnership with the Unified Government of 
Wyandotte County and the state of Kansas.

“We’re the second-smallest market in our league, yet we often times 
consistently punch above our weight class in terms of on-field results 
as well as the business results,” Reid said. “On average, we drive over 
600,000 per year through Children’s Mercy Park.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643043754354.png" alt="The Kansas Legislature’s auditors say the Prairiefire development in Overland Park financed with $65 million in STAR bonds issued under a state program is in jeopardy of defaulting on debt because it won’t likely retire the bonds in the required 20 years. (Screen capture/Kansas Department of Commerce report)" />
 <figcaption>The Kansas Legislature’s auditors say the Prairiefire development in Overland Park financed with $65 million in STAR bonds issued under a state program is in jeopardy of defaulting on debt because it won’t likely retire the bonds in the required 20 years. (Screen capture/Kansas Department of Commerce report)</figcaption>
 </figure>By TIM CARPENTER <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/01/22/legislative-auditors-skeptical-prairiefire-development-can-pay-off-64-8m-in-bond-debt/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — The Overland Park 
retail, office, hotel and residential development attached to the 
Prairiefire museum struggles to attract out-of-state tourists and could 
default on $64.8 million in bond debt issued through a state economic 
development program under scrutiny by the Legislature.Auditors with the Legislature said their analysis of the Prairiefire 
project built with capital raised through issuance in 2012 of Sales Tax 
Revenue Bonds, or STAR bonds, indicated the project wasn’t generating 
enough sales tax revenue to repay debts in the required 20-year period. 
Originally, $64.9 million in bonds were issued for the project. Debt 
remaining to be paid: $64.8 million.Auditors predicted it could take until 2046 or 2104 to produce 
sufficient sales tax revenue to retire the Prairiefire obligations held 
by the city of Overland Park.“They are in danger of default,” said Andy Brienzo, of the 
Legislature’s audit division. “We can’t say that definitively. There is 
some additional development that is slated to happen.”Bob North, general counsel with the Kansas Department of Commerce, 
said he didn’t share skepticism of auditors but also couldn’t guarantee 
success of Prairiefire, which includes a museum for traveling natural 
history exhibits. The commerce department has approved 19 STAR bond 
projects since the 1990s for Atchison, Garden City, Salina, Wichita, 
Topeka, Goddard, Manhattan and other cities.He said museums, racetracks, sports facilities and other venues build
 with of $1.1 billion in bond proceeds were intended to raise the 
quality of life for benefit of Kansans and to attract tourists to the 
state. He said the objective of STAR bonds wasn’t simply generation of 
tax revenue.“If they were, we’d take our money and build a bunch of Walmarts,” 
North said. “The goal of STAR bonds is to create attractions that are 
going to bring visitors to the state.”The House and Senate commerce committees this week invited the Kansas
 Division of Legislative Post Audit to outline findings of a 2021 audit 
of STAR bond initiatives. Auditors discovered only three projects 
outside of the mega-development at Village West in Wyandotte County that
 fulfilled the objective of elevating tourism.“STAR bonds are a very, very effective and strong economic 
development tool,” North said. “They’ve worked well in most instances. 
I’m not going to tell you every project is perfect.”Rep. Kristey Williams, an Augusta Republican, said she was 
disappointed with the quality of information submitted to the state by 
STAR bond recipients.“As we look at the annual reports that were submitted to the 
Department of Commerce,” she said, “some of it doesn’t give real data. 
It might say visitation went up 30%. Well, 30% from what number?”Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, said the assessment of STAR bonds 
by legislative auditors was “a particularly narrow evaluation.” It was 
based on estimates of out-of-state visitors and documentation of sales 
tax revenue but didn’t take into account other evidence of economic 
development such as the multiplier effect of those new businesses, he 
said.“I have some issues with some of this,” Pittman said.The latest STAR bond annual report submitted to the Legislature by 
the Department of Commerce pointed to success of Children’s Mercy Park 
where the Sporting Kansas City professional soccer team plays. It’s 
become one of the state’s top tourist destinations.To build the MLS soccer complex, $150 million in STAR bonds were 
issued in 2010. That debt was paid off in less than seven years.Jake Reid, president and chief executive officer of Sporting Kansas 
City, said the franchise derived significant benefit from the STAR bond 
law and the private-public partnership with the Unified Government of 
Wyandotte County and the state of Kansas.“We’re the second-smallest market in our league, yet we often times 
consistently punch above our weight class in terms of on-field results 
as well as the business results,” Reid said. “On average, we drive over 
600,000 per year through Children’s Mercy Park.”

Auditors skeptical KC-area development can pay off $64.8M in bond debt

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an officer involved shooting in Wichita.

Just before 1:30a.m. Monday, a Sedgwick County sheriff’s deputy observed the driver of a red Lexus later identified as 26-year-old Kory Anziana of Wichita  commit a traffic violation near the intersection of Pawnee and Meridian in Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

 The deputy attempted to stop the Lexus and Anziana fled in the vehicle. The pursuit lasted approximately six minutes with the top speeds reported near 70 MPH. The pursuit ended when the Lexus became high-centered in the parking lot of the Regency Inn at 6125 W Kellogg Drive in Wichita.

Anziana shot at the pursuing deputy and two deputies returned fire. No one was struck by any of the gunfire. He then fled into an occupied room at the Regency Inn. One of the occupants of the room was able to communicate with motel staff and eventually law enforcement through a messenger app. Eventually, the occupants of the room walked out on their own. At approximately 8:25a.m. the deputies arrested Anziana.

He is being held on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Flee and Elude, Drug charges and three outstanding arrest warrants, according to Lt. Blick.&nbsp;Anziana has previous conviction that include theft and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643045344587.png" alt="Law enforcement on the scene of the standoff early Monday -photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Law enforcement on the scene of the standoff early Monday -photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with an officer involved shooting in Wichita.Just before 1:30a.m. Monday, a Sedgwick County sheriff’s deputy observed the driver of a red Lexus later identified as 26-year-old Kory Anziana of Wichita commit a traffic violation near the intersection of Pawnee and Meridian in Wichita, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick. The deputy attempted to stop the Lexus and Anziana fled in the vehicle. The pursuit lasted approximately six minutes with the top speeds reported near 70 MPH. The pursuit ended when the Lexus became high-centered in the parking lot of the Regency Inn at 6125 W Kellogg Drive in Wichita.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643074033843.png" alt="Anziana- has previous conviction that include theft and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections- photo Sedgwick Co." />
 <figcaption>Anziana- has previous conviction that include theft and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections- photo Sedgwick Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Anziana shot at the pursuing deputy and two deputies returned fire. No one was struck by any of the gunfire. He then fled into an occupied room at the Regency Inn. One of the occupants of the room was able to communicate with motel staff and eventually law enforcement through a messenger app. Eventually, the occupants of the room walked out on their own. At approximately 8:25a.m. the deputies arrested Anziana.He is being held on requested charges of Aggravated Assault, Criminal Possession of a Firearm, Flee and Elude, Drug charges and three outstanding arrest warrants, according to Lt. Blick.&nbsp;Anziana has previous conviction that include theft and for drugs, according to the Kansas Dept. of Corrections.

Sheriff: Kan. felon identified as suspect in deputy shooting, standoff

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon ordered 8,500 troops on higher alert Monday to potentially deploy to Europe as part of a NATO “response force” amid growing concern that Russia could soon make a military move on Ukraine. President Joe Biden consulted with key European leaders, underscoring U.S. solidarity with allies there.

Putting the U.S.-based troops on heightened alert for Europe suggested diminishing hope that Russian President Vladimir Putin will back away from what Biden himself has said looks like a threat to invade neighboring Ukraine.

At stake, beyond the future of Ukraine, is the credibility of a NATO alliance that is central to U.S. defense strategy but that Putin views as a Cold War relic and a threat to Russian security. For Biden, the crisis represents a major test of his ability to forge a united&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-russia-vladimir-putin-soviet-union-europe-32b8a914ad4debba6c3231738a5f5a36">allied stance against Putin.</a>

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said about 8,500 U.S.-based troops are being put on alert for possible deployment — not to Ukraine but to NATO territory in Eastern Europe as part of an alliance force meant to signal a unified commitment to deter any wider Putin aggression.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-britain-intelligence-claims-8342b5b5aafd6a095d2e427d3e4201c5">Russia denies it is planning an invasion.</a>&nbsp;It says Western accusations are merely a cover for NATO’s own planned provocations. Recent days have seen high-stakes diplomacy that has failed to reach any breakthrough, and key players in the drama are making moves that suggest fear of imminent war. Biden has sought to strike a balance between actions meant to deter Putin and those that might provide the Russian leader with an opening to use the huge force he has assembled at Ukraine’s border.

Biden held an 80-minute video call with several European leaders on the Russian military buildup and potential responses to an invasion.

“I had a very, very, very good meeting -- total unanimity with all the European leaders,” Biden told reporters at the White House. “We’ll talk about it later.”

The White House said the leaders emphasized their desire for a diplomatic solution to the crisis but also discussed efforts to deter further Russian aggression, “including preparations to impose massive consequences and severe economic costs on Russia for such actions as well as to reinforce security on NATO’s eastern flank.”

A day earlier, the State Department had ordered the families of all American personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv to leave the country, and it said that nonessential embassy staff could leave at U.S. government expense.

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Oleg Nikolenko, said that U.S. decision was “a premature step” and a sign of “excessive caution.” He said Russia was sowing panic among Ukrainians and foreigners in order to destabilize Ukraine.

Britain said it, too, was withdrawing some diplomats and dependents from its Kyiv Embassy. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said an invasion was not inevitable but “the intelligence is pretty gloomy.”

Ordering even a modest number of American troops to be ready for potential deployment to Europe is meant to demonstrate U.S. resolve to support its NATO allies, particularly those in Eastern Europe who feel threatened by Russia and worry that Putin could put them in his crosshairs.

“What this is about is reassurance to our NATO allies,” Kirby told a Pentagon news conference, adding that no troops are intended for deployment to Ukraine, which is not a member of the alliance but has been assured by Washington of continued U.S. political support and arms supplies.

The Pentagon’s move, which was done at Biden’s direction and on Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recommendation, is being made in tandem with actions by other NATO member governments to bolster a defensive presence in Eastern European nations. Denmark, for example, is sending a frigate and F-16 warplanes to Lithuania; Spain is sending four fighter jets to Bulgaria and three ships to the Black Sea to join NATO naval forces, and France stands ready to send troops to Romania.

In a statement prior to Kirby’s announcement, NATO said the Netherlands plans to send two F-35 fighter aircraft to Bulgaria in April and is putting a ship and land-based units on standby for NATO’s Response Force.

NATO has not made a decision to activate the Response Force, which consists of about 40,000 troops from multiple nations. That force was enhanced in 2014 — the year Russia seized Ukraine’s Crimea Peninsula and intervened in support of pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine — by creating a “spearhead force” of about 20,000 troops on extra-high alert within the larger Response Force.

If NATO does decide to activate the Response Force, the United States will contribute a range of military units, Kirby said.

“It is a NATO call to make,” Kirby said. “For our part, we wanted to make sure that we were ready in case that call should come. And that means making sure that units that would contribute to it are as ready as they can be on as short a notice as possible.”

He said some units will be ordered to be ready to deploy on as little as five days’ notice. Among the 8,500 troops, an unspecified number could be sent to Europe for purposes other than supporting the NATO Response Force, he said. Without providing details, he said they might be deployed “if other situations develop.”

Prior to the U.S. announcement, NATO issued a statement summing up moves already described by member countries. Restating them under the NATO banner appeared aimed at showing resolve. The West is ramping up its rhetoric in the information war that has accompanied the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-russia-vladimir-putin-soviet-union-europe-32b8a914ad4debba6c3231738a5f5a36">Ukraine standoff</a>.

Russia has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-vladimir-putin-moscow-united-states-5fbc86c84dfeb604ebe12e47a753bdcb">massed an estimated 100,000 troops near Ukraine’s border,</a>&nbsp;demanding that NATO promise it will never allow Ukraine to join and that other actions, such as stationing alliance troops in former Soviet bloc countries, be curtailed.

NATO said Monday it is bolstering its deterrence in the Baltic Sea region.

The alliance will “take all necessary measures to protect and defend all allies,” Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said. “We will always respond to any deterioration of our security environment, including through strengthening our collective defense.”

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said it was NATO and the U.S. who were behind the escalating tensions, not Russia.

“All this is happening not because of what we, Russia, are doing. This is happening because of what NATO, the U.S. are doing,” Peskov told reporters.

The NATO announcement came as European Union foreign ministers sought to put on their own fresh display of unity in support of Ukraine, and paper over concerns about divisions on the best way to confront any Russian aggression.

In a statement, the ministers said the EU has stepped up sanction preparations, and they warned that “any further military aggression by Russia against Ukraine will have massive consequences and severe costs.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — At President Joe Biden’s direction, the Pentagon is putting about 8,500 U.S.-based troops on heightened alert for potential deployment to Europe to reassure allies amid rising fears of a possible Russian military move on Ukraine.

Pentagon press secretary John Kirby said Monday no final decisions had been made on deployments, which he said would happen only if the NATO alliance decides to activate a rapid-response force “or if other situations develop” in connection with tensions over Russia’s military buildup along Ukraine’s borders.

“What this is about is reassurance to our NATO allies,” Kirby said, adding that no troops are intended for deployment to Ukraine itself.

Kirby said Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recommended to Biden that about 8,500 troops be ordered to prepare for potential deployment to Europe in light of signs that Russian President Vladimir Putin is not de-escalating his military pressure on Ukraine. Kirby said he was not prepared to identify the U.S.-based units because they were still being notified.

“We’ve always said we would reinforce our allies on the eastern flank, and those conversations and discussions have certainly been part of what our national security officials have been discussing with their counterparts now for several weeks,” said White House press secretary Jen Psaki.

Later Monday, Biden was to hold a video call with several European leaders on the Russian military buildup and potential responses to an invasion, the White House said.

Kirby said Austin was anticipating the potential for NATO to activate what it calls the NATO Response Force, a multinational force totaling about 40,000 troops. Most of the 8,500 U.S. troops being put on higher alert would be sent as part of that response force, if it’s activated, Kirby said. He added that he could not rule out that U.S. troops already based in Europe could be shifted east as further reinforcements.

As an example of the effect of Austin’s order to make U.S.-based units more prepared for deployment, Kirby said that those currently required to be ready to move on 10-days notice will be required to be ready on 5-days notice.

The Pentagon’s move comes as tensions have soared between Russia and the West over concerns that Moscow is planning to invade Ukraine, with NATO outlining potential troop and ship deployments, Britain saying it would withdraw some diplomats from Kyiv, and Ireland denouncing upcoming Russian war games off its coast.

Prior to the U.S. announcement, the Western alliance’s statement summed up moves already described by member countries, but restating them under the NATO banner appeared aimed at showing resolve. The West is ramping up its rhetoric in the information war that has accompanied the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-russia-vladimir-putin-soviet-union-europe-32b8a914ad4debba6c3231738a5f5a36">Ukraine standoff</a>.

Russia has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-vladimir-putin-moscow-united-states-5fbc86c84dfeb604ebe12e47a753bdcb">massed an estimated 100,000 troops near Ukraine’s border,</a>&nbsp;demanding that NATO promise it will never allow Ukraine to join and that other actions, such as stationing alliance troops in former Soviet bloc countries, be curtailed. Some of these, like any pledge to permanently bar Ukraine, are nonstarters for NATO — creating a deadlock that many fear can only end in war.

Russia denies it is planning an invasion, and says the Western accusations are merely a cover for NATO’s own planned provocations. Recent days have seen&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-sergey-lavrov-moscow-russia-europe-f7a3da26cb574ce4beaf5616573f16c0">high-stakes diplomacy&nbsp;</a>that failed to reach any breakthrough and maneuvering on both sides.

NATO said Monday it is bolstering its “deterrence” in the Baltic Sea region. Denmark is sending a frigate and deploying F-16 warplanes to Lithuania; Spain is sending four fighter jets to Bulgaria and three ships to the Black Sea to join NATO naval forces; and France stands ready to send troops to Romania. The Netherlands also plans to send two F-35 fighter aircraft to Bulgaria from April.

NATO will “take all necessary measures to protect and defend all allies,” Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said. “We will always respond to any deterioration of our security environment, including through strengthening our collective defense.”

The NATO announcement came as European Union foreign ministers sought to put on a fresh display of unity in support of Ukraine, and paper over concerns about divisions on the best way to confront any Russian aggression.

In a statement, the ministers said the EU has stepped up sanction preparations and they warned that “any further military aggression by Russia against Ukraine will have massive consequences and severe costs.”

Separately, the EU also committed to increase financial support for embattled Ukraine, vowing to push through a special package of 1.2 billion euros ($1.4 billion) in loans and grants as soon as possible.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday and said the U.S. would give Russia written responses to Moscow’s proposals this week, offering some hope that any invasion could be delayed for at least a few more days.

The West is nervously watching Russian troop movements and war games in Belarus for any signs of an invasion. Russia has already invaded Ukraine once, annexing the Crimean Peninsula in 2014. It also supported pro-Russian Ukrainian separatists fighting the Kyiv government in the country’s eastern region known as the Donbass. About 14,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

Asked whether the EU would follow&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-antony-blinken-europe-evacuations-45d1a477929caefe1f0626a5ca42afd0">a U.S. move</a>&nbsp;and order the families of European embassy personnel in Ukraine to leave, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said: “We are not going to do the same thing.”

Britain said it is withdrawing some diplomats and dependents from its Kyiv Embassy.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said an invasion was not inevitable, but “the intelligence is pretty gloomy.” He added that “I think that sense can still prevail.”

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Oleg Nikolenko, said the U.S. decision was “a premature step” and a sign of “excessive caution.” He said Russia is sowing panic among Ukrainians and foreigners in order to destabilize Ukraine.

Germany has issued no similar order, with Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stressing that “we must not contribute to unsettling the situation further.”

At the EU meeting, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said he would inform his counterparts about planned Russian war games 240 kilometers (150 miles) off southwestern Ireland — in international waters but within Ireland’s exclusive economic zone.

“This isn’t a time to increase military activity and tension in the context of what’s happening with and in Ukraine.” he said. “The fact that they are choosing to do it on the western borders, if you like, of the EU, off the Irish coast, is something that in our view is simply not welcome.”

NATO members Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania said they plan to send U.S.-made anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine, a move endorsed by Washington.

In talks with European allies throughout the crisis, administration officials said they have remained cognizant that Europe’s trade, energy and financial linkages with Russia are far more significant than they are for the U.S.

Russia’s brittle economy is overly reliant on energy exports. President Vladimir Putin has made clear his ambition to diversify the economy, particularly in sectors like defense and civil aviation, but the U.S. and European allies have a dominant position in producing and exporting the technologies, software and equipment crucial for Russia in those sectors.

BRUSSELS (AP) — Tensions soared Monday between Russia and the West over concerns that Moscow is planning to invade Ukraine, with NATO outlining potential troop and ship deployments, Britain saying it would withdraw some diplomats from Kyiv, and Ireland denouncing upcoming Russian war games off its coast as unwelcome.

The Western alliance’s statement summed up moves already announced by member countries, but restating them under the NATO banner appeared aimed at showing its resolve. It was just one of a series of announcements that signaled the West is ramping up its rhetoric in the information war that has accompanied the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-russia-vladimir-putin-soviet-union-europe-32b8a914ad4debba6c3231738a5f5a36">Ukraine standoff</a>.

Russia has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-vladimir-putin-moscow-united-states-5fbc86c84dfeb604ebe12e47a753bdcb">massed an estimated 100,000 troops near Ukraine’s border,</a>&nbsp;demanding that NATO promise it will never allow Ukraine to join and that other actions, such as stationing alliance troops in former Soviet bloc countries, be curtailed. Some of these, like any pledge to permanently bar Ukraine, are nonstarters for NATO — creating a seemingly intractable deadlock that many fear can only end in war.

NATO will “take all necessary measures to protect and defend all allies,” Secretary-General jens Stoltenberg said. “We will always respond to any deterioration of our security environment, including through strengthening our collective defense.”

In Washington, Pentagon leaders have proposed a range of options for President Joe Biden to reinforce the U.S. military presence in Eastern Europe and the Baltics as a demonstration of American commitment, according to two officials who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal planning.

One of the officials said no specific deployments have been proposed but some unspecified U.S. military units have been told to start planning for that possibility. The other official said Sunday it is possible that reinforcements could be sent from U.S. bases, in addition to possible shifts of troops within Europe, but for the moment the White House and Pentagon are only “exploring options.”

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov charged that it was NATO and the U.S. who were behind the escalating tensions in Europe, not Russia.

“All this is happening not because of what we, Russia, are doing. This is happening because of what NATO, the U.S. are doing,” Peskov told reporters. He also cited U.S. media reports suggesting that Russia is evacuating its diplomats from Ukraine, something Moscow denied.

The West is nervously watching Russian troop movements and war games in Belarus for any signs that a new invasion of Ukraine is imminent. Russia has already invaded Ukraine once, annexing the Crimean Peninsula in 2014. Moscow has also supported pro-Russian Ukrainian separatists fighting the Kyiv government in the eastern part of the country known as the Donbass region. About 14,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

Britain also said it is withdrawing some diplomats and dependents from its embassy in Kyiv.

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Oleg Nikolenko, said the U.S. decision was “a premature step” and a sign of “excessive caution.” He said that Russia is sowing panic among Ukrainians and foreigners in order to destabilize Ukraine.

Germany has issued no order, but it said the families of embassy staff may leave if they wish. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock stressed that “we must not contribute to unsettling the situation further; we need to continue to support the Ukrainian government very clearly and above all maintain the stability of the country.”

At the EU meeting, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Coveney said he would inform his counterparts that Russia plans to holds war games 240 kilometers (150 miles) off Ireland’s southwest coast — in international waters but within Ireland’s exclusive economic zone.

“This isn’t a time to increase military activity and tension in the context of what’s happening with and in Ukraine.” Coveney said. “The fact that they are choosing to do it on the western borders, if you like, of the EU, off the Irish coast, is something that in our view is simply not welcome.”

Some NATO members nearest Russia — Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — said they plan to send U.S.-made anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine, a move endorsed by the United States.

But questions have arisen about just how unified the EU is. Diverse political, business and energy interests have long divided the 27-country bloc in its approach to Moscow. About 40% of the EU’s natural gas imports come from Russia, much of it via pipelines across Ukraine — and many are skittish about being cut off from that supply in winter, with prices already soaring.

The EU’s two major powers appear most cautious. French President Emmanuel Macron has renewed previously rejected calls for an EU summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Late on Saturday, the head of the German navy, Vice Adm. Kay-Achim Schoenbach, resigned after coming under fire for saying that Ukraine would not regain the Crimean Peninsula, and for suggesting that Putin deserves “respect.”

Still, diplomats and officials said hard-hitting sanctions are being drawn up with the EU’s executive branch, the European Commission. They were reluctant to detail the measures or what action by Russia might trigger them but said they would come within days of any attack.

🎥 U.S. troops on heightened alert amid Russia concerns

WASHINGTON (AP) — COVID-19 antibody drugs from Regeneron and Eli Lilly should no longer be used because they don’t work against the omicron variant that now accounts for nearly all U.S. infections, U.S. health regulators said Monday.

The Food and Drug Administration said it was revoking emergency authorization for both drugs, which were purchased by the federal government and have been administered to millions of Americans with COVID-19. If the drugs prove effective against future variants, the FDA said it could reauthorize their use.

The regulatory move was expected because both drugmakers had said the infusion drugs are less able to target omicron due to its mutations. Still, the federal action could trigger pushback from some Republican governors who have continued promoting the drugs against the advice of health experts.

Omicron’s resistance to the two leading monoclonal antibody medicines&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-business-health-pandemics-b2d1051842df779dfa6122f824bd0377">has upended&nbsp;</a>the treatment playbook for COVID-19 in recent weeks.

Doctors have alternate therapies to battle early COVID-19 cases, including two new antiviral pills from Pfizer and Merck, but both are in short supply. An antibody drug from GlaxoSmithKline that remains effective also is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/omicron-may-sideline-two-covid-antibody-drugs-ffab32bd6e4e6b4822360b34da1785f0">short supply.</a>

The drugs are laboratory-made versions of virus-blocking antibodies. They are intended to head off severe disease and death by supplying concentrated doses of one or two antibodies early in an infection. Then-President Donald Trump received Regeneron’s antibody combination after he tested positive for the coronavirus in 2020.

The FDA noted in its decision that omicron accounts for more than 99% of U.S. infections, making it “highly unlikely” the antibodies would help people now seeking treatment. The agency said restricting their use would also eliminate unnecessary drug side effects, including allergic reactions.

The U.S. government temporarily stopped distributing the two drugs in late December, as omicron was racing across the country to become the dominant variant. But officials resumed distribution after complaints from Republican governors, including Florida’s Ron DeSantis, who claimed that the drugs continued to help some omicron patients.

DeSantis has heavily promoted antibody drugs as a signature part of his administration’s COVID-19 response, setting up infusion sites and lauding them at news conferences, while opposing vaccine mandates and other public health measures. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has also launched state-sponsored infusion sites.

The drugs are not a substitute for vaccination and are generally reserved for people who are the most vulnerable, including seniors, transplant recipients and those with conditions like heart disease and diabetes.

Since early January, the U.S. government has shipped enough doses of the two antibodies to treat more than 300,000 patients.

Both Regeneron and Lilly previously announced they were developing new antibodies that target omicron.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606135921913.png" alt="Photo courtesy Regeneron" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Regeneron</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — COVID-19 antibody drugs from Regeneron and Eli Lilly should no longer be used because they don’t work against the omicron variant that now accounts for nearly all U.S. infections, U.S. health regulators said Monday.The Food and Drug Administration said it was revoking emergency authorization for both drugs, which were purchased by the federal government and have been administered to millions of Americans with COVID-19. If the drugs prove effective against future variants, the FDA said it could reauthorize their use.The regulatory move was expected because both drugmakers had said the infusion drugs are less able to target omicron due to its mutations. Still, the federal action could trigger pushback from some Republican governors who have continued promoting the drugs against the advice of health experts.Omicron’s resistance to the two leading monoclonal antibody medicines&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/coronavirus-pandemic-science-business-health-pandemics-b2d1051842df779dfa6122f824bd0377">has upended&nbsp;</a>the treatment playbook for COVID-19 in recent weeks.Doctors have alternate therapies to battle early COVID-19 cases, including two new antiviral pills from Pfizer and Merck, but both are in short supply. An antibody drug from GlaxoSmithKline that remains effective also is in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/omicron-may-sideline-two-covid-antibody-drugs-ffab32bd6e4e6b4822360b34da1785f0">short supply.</a>The drugs are laboratory-made versions of virus-blocking antibodies. They are intended to head off severe disease and death by supplying concentrated doses of one or two antibodies early in an infection. Then-President Donald Trump received Regeneron’s antibody combination after he tested positive for the coronavirus in 2020.The FDA noted in its decision that omicron accounts for more than 99% of U.S. infections, making it “highly unlikely” the antibodies would help people now seeking treatment. The agency said restricting their use would also eliminate unnecessary drug side effects, including allergic reactions.The U.S. government temporarily stopped distributing the two drugs in late December, as omicron was racing across the country to become the dominant variant. But officials resumed distribution after complaints from Republican governors, including Florida’s Ron DeSantis, who claimed that the drugs continued to help some omicron patients.DeSantis has heavily promoted antibody drugs as a signature part of his administration’s COVID-19 response, setting up infusion sites and lauding them at news conferences, while opposing vaccine mandates and other public health measures. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has also launched state-sponsored infusion sites.The drugs are not a substitute for vaccination and are generally reserved for people who are the most vulnerable, including seniors, transplant recipients and those with conditions like heart disease and diabetes.Since early January, the U.S. government has shipped enough doses of the two antibodies to treat more than 300,000 patients.Both Regeneron and Lilly previously announced they were developing new antibodies that target omicron.

FDA halts use of antibody drugs that don't work vs. omicron

KANSAS CITY. (AP) — The mother of a woman who died when she was hit by a firetruck in Kansas City last month has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city, the fire department and the fire truck's driver.

Judy Holland, the mother of 41-year-old Tami Knight, alleges in the wrongful death lawsuit filed last week that the firetruck driver was negligent, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article257660948.html">reported</a>.

Knight was killed on Dec. 15 when the fire pumper, which was responding to a call, hit another vehicle in the city's Westport entertainment district.

The vehicles struck Knight, who was walking on a sidewalk, before crashing into a building, police said. No one was inside the building, which partially collapsed.

Jennifer San Nicolas, 41, and Michael Elwood, 25, who were in the vehicle hit by the truck, also died. All three victims were from Kansas City.

Holland’s lawsuit accuses the firetruck’s driver of running a red light, failing to yield to the right of way and traveling too fast for conditions. Elwood's parents filed a similar lawsuit earlier this month.

The Kansas City fire department does not comment on pending litigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1639665850854.png" alt="Knight was killed on Dec. 15 when the fire pumper, which was responding to a call hit another vehicle in the city's Westport entertainment district -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Knight was killed on Dec. 15 when the fire pumper, which was responding to a call hit another vehicle in the city's Westport entertainment district -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY. (AP) — The mother of a woman who died when she was hit by a firetruck in Kansas City last month has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city, the fire department and the fire truck's driver.Judy Holland, the mother of 41-year-old Tami Knight, alleges in the wrongful death lawsuit filed last week that the firetruck driver was negligent, The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article257660948.html">reported</a>.Knight was killed on Dec. 15 when the fire pumper, which was responding to a call, hit another vehicle in the city's Westport entertainment district.The vehicles struck Knight, who was walking on a sidewalk, before crashing into a building, police said. No one was inside the building, which partially collapsed.Jennifer San Nicolas, 41, and Michael Elwood, 25, who were in the vehicle hit by the truck, also died. All three victims were from Kansas City.Holland’s lawsuit accuses the firetruck’s driver of running a red light, failing to yield to the right of way and traveling too fast for conditions. Elwood's parents filed a similar lawsuit earlier this month.The Kansas City fire department does not comment on pending litigation.

Mother of Kansas City woman killed in firetruck crash sues

Social media is used as a fun distraction for some people, and taking
 a Facebook quiz may seem like a harmless way to pass the time. But are 
you giving away more information than you think?

A fun quiz pops up on your Facebook feed or another social media 
platform. A few questions are answered to prove how well you know a 
friend. Or a short personality test is offered to match with a character
 from a favorite TV show.

These quizzes appear to be meaningless, but the intent behind them is
 to collect information. For example, questions like:&nbsp; "What was the 
first car you owned?" “What is your mother's maiden name?” or “What is 
the name of the street you grew up on?” &nbsp;These are common security 
questions for insurance, banking and credit card accounts. Sharing this 
information can lead to accounts being hacked, and personal and 
financial information being stolen.

Not all social media quizzes are data collection scams; however, BBB 
cautions users to be careful about what they share online and to check 
the privacy settings on the account. Social media data and quiz answers 
can be used to steal identity or enable a scammer to impersonate you to 
your friends and family.

See BBB's article on <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/22088-bbb-tip-thinking-of-sharing-your-senior-photo-on-facebook-think-twice" target="_blank">sharing yearbook photos on social media</a>.&nbsp;

For more about social media scams, see <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/2012-bbb-scam-alert-imposters-using-facebook-for-grant-scams" target="_blank">this article about Facebook Messenger cons</a> and this about <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/20678-scam-alert-think-twice-before-buying-from-these-social-media-ads" target="_blank">social media advertising</a>.&nbsp;

For consumer tips, go to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/consumerHQ" target="_blank">BBB.org/ConsumerHQ</a>. For business tips, go to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/bizHQ" target="_blank">BBB.org/BizHQ</a>.

If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams.

Stay up on the latest scams by&nbsp;<a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1900156/1902645/" target="_blank">subscribing to BBB Scam Alerts emails</a>.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/better-business-bureau-serving-the-atlantic-provinces" target="_blank">BBB Serving the Atlantic Provinces</a> contributed to this article.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579883951052.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>BBBSocial media is used as a fun distraction for some people, and taking
 a Facebook quiz may seem like a harmless way to pass the time. But are 
you giving away more information than you think?How the Scam Works:A fun quiz pops up on your Facebook feed or another social media 
platform. A few questions are answered to prove how well you know a 
friend. Or a short personality test is offered to match with a character
 from a favorite TV show.These quizzes appear to be meaningless, but the intent behind them is
 to collect information. For example, questions like:&nbsp; "What was the 
first car you owned?" “What is your mother's maiden name?” or “What is 
the name of the street you grew up on?” &nbsp;These are common security 
questions for insurance, banking and credit card accounts. Sharing this 
information can lead to accounts being hacked, and personal and 
financial information being stolen.Not all social media quizzes are data collection scams; however, BBB 
cautions users to be careful about what they share online and to check 
the privacy settings on the account. Social media data and quiz answers 
can be used to steal identity or enable a scammer to impersonate you to 
your friends and family.Tips to avoid social media scams:<ul>
 <li>Be skeptical: Before answering a quiz, figure out 
who created it. Is it a brand you trust? Just because something appears 
to be fun and innocent, doesn’t mean there isn’t an inherent risk.</li><li>Adjust privacy settings: Review the social media 
account’s privacy settings and be strict about any information that is 
shared&nbsp; - and be mindful of who you are sharing it with.</li><li>Remove personal details from your profile: Don’t share information like phone number or home address on social media accounts.</li><li>Don't give answers to common security questions: Be
 cautious if the questions in a quiz ask for things like your mother's 
maiden name, street you grew up on, previously owned vehicles, favorite 
foods, or the name of your high school.</li><li>Monitor friend requests. Don't accept friend 
requests from people you don’t know. Also be wary of a second friend 
request from someone you are already connected with; the second profile 
may be an imposter trying to access your data and your Friends list.</li>
 </ul>For more information:See BBB's article on <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/22088-bbb-tip-thinking-of-sharing-your-senior-photo-on-facebook-think-twice" target="_blank">sharing yearbook photos on social media</a>.&nbsp;For more about social media scams, see <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/scams/2012-bbb-scam-alert-imposters-using-facebook-for-grant-scams" target="_blank">this article about Facebook Messenger cons</a> and this about <a href="https://www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/20678-scam-alert-think-twice-before-buying-from-these-social-media-ads" target="_blank">social media advertising</a>.&nbsp;For consumer tips, go to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/consumerHQ" target="_blank">BBB.org/ConsumerHQ</a>. For business tips, go to <a href="https://www.bbb.org/bizHQ" target="_blank">BBB.org/BizHQ</a>.If you’ve spotted a scam (whether or not you’ve lost money), report it to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/ScamTracker" target="_blank">BBB ScamTracker</a>. Your report can help others avoid falling victim to scams.Stay up on the latest scams by&nbsp;<a href="https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1900156/1902645/" target="_blank">subscribing to BBB Scam Alerts emails</a>.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/better-business-bureau-serving-the-atlantic-provinces" target="_blank">BBB Serving the Atlantic Provinces</a> contributed to this article.&nbsp;

Scam alert: Bored? Think twice before taking that Facebook quiz 

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;Law enforcement has been made aware of Snapchat messages sent to students in Manhattan regarding potential school violence on Tuesday, according to a media release from the Riley County Police department.

Police not believe these messages are a credible source of information or originate from a local source.

Police are currently working with the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office and&nbsp; local schools to ensure the safety of students and schools.

Any individuals that engage in these threats will be taken seriously by both the local school districts and RCPD. Participation in social media threats, on or off school grounds, could result in school discipline and/or criminal charges.

USD 383 plans for all schools to be open on Tuesday.

Police will remain vigilant and investigate any rumors and/or threats that may arise. If anything develops, we will communicate with the schools, parents and community immediately.

Please speak with your student about this and ask them to not share any threatening posts and messages. Instead, please remind them if they see something, say something to a trusted adult.

Police thanked those who have come forward with this information.

MANHATTAN&nbsp;–&nbsp;Law enforcement has been made aware of Snapchat messages sent to students in Manhattan regarding potential school violence on Tuesday, according to a media release from the Riley County Police department.Police not believe these messages are a credible source of information or originate from a local source.Police are currently working with the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office and&nbsp; local schools to ensure the safety of students and schools.Any individuals that engage in these threats will be taken seriously by both the local school districts and RCPD. Participation in social media threats, on or off school grounds, could result in school discipline and/or criminal charges.USD 383 plans for all schools to be open on Tuesday.Police will remain vigilant and investigate any rumors and/or threats that may arise. If anything develops, we will communicate with the schools, parents and community immediately.Please speak with your student about this and ask them to not share any threatening posts and messages. Instead, please remind them if they see something, say something to a trusted adult.Police thanked those who have come forward with this information.

Police investigate snapchat messages of alleged Kan. school violence

KANSAS CITY (AP) — A woman&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/241af57b807f8f2523fa2af184325bb0/5c92b141b5fd968c401618c82c3e6835">convicted of killing her husband&nbsp;</a>at his snake breeding business in central Missouri was sentenced Monday to 16 years in prison.

Boone County Judge Kevin Crane sentenced Lynlee Renick to 13 years for second-degree murder and three years for armed criminal action in the June 2017 death of her husband, Ben Renick, who bred rare and exotic snakes at his business in New Florence.

During the trial in December, prosecutors had sought a life sentence but the jury recommended the two lesser sentences. Crane could not exceed the jury's recommendation but ruled the two sentences would run consecutively, KOMU-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.komu.com/news/midmissourinews/lynlee-renick-sentenced-to-16-years-for-murder-of-her-husband/article_5f989cf8-7af0-11ec-ba0a-8bcd05cbafa1.html">reported</a>.

Lynlee Renick's attorney on Monday asked for a sentence of 10 years, arguing that the murder was not premeditated.

One of Renick's former boyfriend's, Michael Humphrey, was convicted of first-degree murder in Benjamin Renick’s death and was sentenced earlier this month to life in prison.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1638875633200.png" alt="Renick-photo Boone Co." />
 <figcaption>Renick-photo Boone Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — A woman&nbsp;<a href="https://hosted.ap.org/semissourian/article/241af57b807f8f2523fa2af184325bb0/5c92b141b5fd968c401618c82c3e6835">convicted of killing her husband&nbsp;</a>at his snake breeding business in central Missouri was sentenced Monday to 16 years in prison.Boone County Judge Kevin Crane sentenced Lynlee Renick to 13 years for second-degree murder and three years for armed criminal action in the June 2017 death of her husband, Ben Renick, who bred rare and exotic snakes at his business in New Florence.During the trial in December, prosecutors had sought a life sentence but the jury recommended the two lesser sentences. Crane could not exceed the jury's recommendation but ruled the two sentences would run consecutively, KOMU-TV&nbsp;<a href="https://www.komu.com/news/midmissourinews/lynlee-renick-sentenced-to-16-years-for-murder-of-her-husband/article_5f989cf8-7af0-11ec-ba0a-8bcd05cbafa1.html">reported</a>.Lynlee Renick's attorney on Monday asked for a sentence of 10 years, arguing that the murder was not premeditated.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1643075604750.png" alt="Humphrey photo Boone Co." />
 <figcaption>Humphrey photo Boone Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>One of Renick's former boyfriend's, Michael Humphrey, was convicted of first-degree murder in Benjamin Renick’s death and was sentenced earlier this month to life in prison.

Woman sentenced in death of snake breeder husband

JACKSON COUNTY —A Kansas City man has been charged in a carjacking and vehicular crash that injured a child who was a passenger in another vehicle, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Stephen E. Thomas, 21, faces Robbery 1st Degree, Assault 2nd Degree, Armed Criminal Action and Resisting a Lawful Stop.

According to court records, police were dispatched on Jan. 19 to the 1200 block of S. Harris in Independence on a reported armed robbery. The victim said he had been in front of his house, putting license plates on his recently purchased truck when the defendant pulled a black handgun and pointed it at him. 

He stated, "Give me your car." The victim handed him his keys, fearing for his life. And the man and another man got into the truck and drove away. 

Independence police broadcast information on the stolen vehicle to all Independence police frequencies. An officer briefly stopped the truck but the defendant drove away. 

The defendant fled from police, running traffic signals and traveling at a high rate of speed. Near Interstate 70 and Noland Road, the defendant lost control of the vehicle and struck at least five vehicles, disabling the truck. 

He then attempted to run from police. In a vehicle struck head-on by defendant's truck, a child in that vehicle suffered extensive head trauma. Three persons were transported to the hospital with injuries.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642720536831.png" alt="Fox4Kansas City" />
 <figcaption>Fox4Kansas City</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —A Kansas City man has been charged in a carjacking and vehicular crash that injured a child who was a passenger in another vehicle, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.Stephen E. Thomas, 21, faces Robbery 1st Degree, Assault 2nd Degree, Armed Criminal Action and Resisting a Lawful Stop.According to court records, police were dispatched on Jan. 19 to the 1200 block of S. Harris in Independence on a reported armed robbery. The victim said he had been in front of his house, putting license plates on his recently purchased truck when the defendant pulled a black handgun and pointed it at him. He stated, "Give me your car." The victim handed him his keys, fearing for his life. And the man and another man got into the truck and drove away. Independence police broadcast information on the stolen vehicle to all Independence police frequencies. An officer briefly stopped the truck but the defendant drove away. The defendant fled from police, running traffic signals and traveling at a high rate of speed. Near Interstate 70 and Noland Road, the defendant lost control of the vehicle and struck at least five vehicles, disabling the truck. He then attempted to run from police. In a vehicle struck head-on by defendant's truck, a child in that vehicle suffered extensive head trauma. Three persons were transported to the hospital with injuries.

Kansas City man charged in carjacking crash that injured child

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

A Texas man wanted in connection to the August 2020 shooting death of a Salina man is in custody, according to police.

Authorities in Texas arrested Jacob Martin Leos, 22, of Justin, on Jan. 11, according to Saline Police Captain Paul Forrester.&nbsp; He is one of four suspects being held in connection to the shooting death of Camilo Renaldo Ramirez on August. 23, near the intersection of Front Street and E. Iron Avenue in Salina.

Just after 4a.m. that morning, police, were dispatched to a report of gunshots and found Ramirez in the street. His dog was also found dead at the scene from an apparent gunshot, according to police.

Ramirez died in a Wichita hospital on Aug. 24. Later that week, police reported that three people had been arrested in connection to the case including Kiera Stewart, 22, of Salina, on requested charges of felony murder and attempted aggravated robbery.

Police arrested Jaime Leos, Jr., 24, of Salina, on requested charges of attempted first degree murder (later upgraded to first degree murder), felony animal cruelty, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and other narcotics related charges.

They also arrested Juan Doroteo Morales, 34, of Salina, on attempted first degree murder (later upgraded to first degree murder), felony animal cruelty, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Leos is being held in the Saline County Jail&nbsp; on requested charges of First degree murder, Aggravated assault with deadly weapon, Aggravated robbery, Animal cruelty, Criminal discharge of a firearm, Felony damage to property. The Kansas Attorney General's Office will be prosecuting the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629733360216.jpeg" alt="KBI at the intersection of E. Iron Avenue and Front Street in Salina during the August investigation." />
 <figcaption>KBI at the intersection of E. Iron Avenue and Front Street in Salina during the August investigation.</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostA Texas man wanted in connection to the August 2020 shooting death of a Salina man is in custody, according to police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642860240574.jpeg" alt="Leos photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Leos photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Authorities in Texas arrested Jacob Martin Leos, 22, of Justin, on Jan. 11, according to Saline Police Captain Paul Forrester.&nbsp; He is one of four suspects being held in connection to the shooting death of Camilo Renaldo Ramirez on August. 23, near the intersection of Front Street and E. Iron Avenue in Salina.Just after 4a.m. that morning, police, were dispatched to a report of gunshots and found Ramirez in the street. His dog was also found dead at the scene from an apparent gunshot, according to police.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629993076591.jpeg" alt="Stewart -photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Stewart -photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Ramirez died in a Wichita hospital on Aug. 24. Later that week, police reported that three people had been arrested in connection to the case including Kiera Stewart, 22, of Salina, on requested charges of felony murder and attempted aggravated robbery.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629837479785.jpeg" alt="Jamie Leos Jr. -photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Jamie Leos Jr. -photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Police arrested Jaime Leos, Jr., 24, of Salina, on requested charges of attempted first degree murder (later upgraded to first degree murder), felony animal cruelty, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, and other narcotics related charges.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/8/1629899389024.jpeg" alt="Morales-photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Morales-photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>They also arrested Juan Doroteo Morales, 34, of Salina, on attempted first degree murder (later upgraded to first degree murder), felony animal cruelty, and felon in possession of a firearm.Leos is being held in the Saline County Jail&nbsp; on requested charges of First degree murder, Aggravated assault with deadly weapon, Aggravated robbery, Animal cruelty, Criminal discharge of a firearm, Felony damage to property. The Kansas Attorney General's Office will be prosecuting the case.

4th suspect in killing of Kansas man, dog arrested in Texas

The Polaris National Human Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Sex trafficking victims are not what many people may think they are. They are not people bound and tied in basements. They are children and adults walking among us who need help.

Jennifer White, executive director of the anti-human trafficking organization ICTSOS, and Tina Peck, founder of the Hope Medical Forensics Services in Wichita, spoke to two groups in Hays Wednesday about human trafficking. The event was sponsored by the HaysMed Foundation.

White&nbsp; and Peck explained some of the misconceptions about human trafficking.

"When in reality they're not tied up," Peck said. "They are walking amongst us in Walmart or Target or going to sporting events. Jen stated a couple of examples about the kids who go to school every day. They are bound by fear."

Many people think that human trafficking is moving people from one place to another or from one country to another. This is not the case, White said.

Any time a person is being taken advantage of for value, this is human trafficking. This does not just have to mean money, it could mean drugs, shelter, food, clothes, technology, hair appointments, or manicures and pedicure.

Labor trafficking can include a person being forced, tricked or threatened to work for little or no pay, in unsafe conditions or unfair hours.

The definitions for sex trafficking differ for adults and minors. Any minor who trades any sexual act for something of value is considered a sex trafficking victim. No one younger than 18, not 16 the age of sexual consent in Kansas, can consent to prostitution, pornography or stripping, White said.

For adults sex must be forced or obtained through fraud or coercion to be considered trafficking.

The average age of entry into prostitution in this area is 14 to 17. However, the national average is 12 to 14.

The majority of sex trafficking has moved online. With this, the locations where trafficking takes place has become much broader.

"With so much of this being facilitated online, as sick as it is, you can order a person like you order a pizza," White said.

Who does a victim, trafficker, buyer look like?

Pimps are not what many people might also imagine. White said she has seen multiple cases where the trafficker had family ties and was a mom, uncle or older brother.

ICTSOS has seen trafficking victims from all walks of life and all races, genders and sexual orientations. Victims can come from all economic classes, as well, White said.

Research done at one of the Wichita hospitals found mental issues were common among trafficked victims. Predators may use that vulnerability to take advantage of their victims.

Predators tend to look for vulnerabilities in their victims and attempt to fill those needs. For some that can be needs on the lower part of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, such as food or shelter.&nbsp;

They can also be needs for love, acceptance and achievement.

White described a scenario of victim, who was an educated, beautiful women from a good home. She was drawn into sex trafficking by a man who ran a modeling agency. He promised her access to connections in the modeling profession, but he was forcing her to have sex with other people.

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 </figure>The Polaris National Human Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostSex trafficking victims are not what many people may think they are. They are not people bound and tied in basements. They are children and adults walking among us who need help.Jennifer White, executive director of the anti-human trafficking organization ICTSOS, and Tina Peck, founder of the Hope Medical Forensics Services in Wichita, spoke to two groups in Hays Wednesday about human trafficking. The event was sponsored by the HaysMed Foundation.White&nbsp; and Peck explained some of the misconceptions about human trafficking."When in reality they're not tied up," Peck said. "They are walking amongst us in Walmart or Target or going to sporting events. Jen stated a couple of examples about the kids who go to school every day. They are bound by fear." <h2>Defining trafficking</h2>Many people think that human trafficking is moving people from one place to another or from one country to another. This is not the case, White said. Any time a person is being taken advantage of for value, this is human trafficking. This does not just have to mean money, it could mean drugs, shelter, food, clothes, technology, hair appointments, or manicures and pedicure.Labor trafficking can include a person being forced, tricked or threatened to work for little or no pay, in unsafe conditions or unfair hours.The definitions for sex trafficking differ for adults and minors. Any minor who trades any sexual act for something of value is considered a sex trafficking victim. No one younger than 18, not 16 the age of sexual consent in Kansas, can consent to prostitution, pornography or stripping, White said.For adults sex must be forced or obtained through fraud or coercion to be considered trafficking. The average age of entry into prostitution in this area is 14 to 17. However, the national average is 12 to 14.The majority of sex trafficking has moved online. With this, the locations where trafficking takes place has become much broader. "With so much of this being facilitated online, as sick as it is, you can order a person like you order a pizza," White said.<h2>Who does a victim, trafficker, buyer look like?</h2>Pimps are not what many people might also imagine. White said she has seen multiple cases where the trafficker had family ties and was a mom, uncle or older brother.ICTSOS has seen trafficking victims from all walks of life and all races, genders and sexual orientations. Victims can come from all economic classes, as well, White said.Research done at one of the Wichita hospitals found mental issues were common among trafficked victims. Predators may use that vulnerability to take advantage of their victims. Predators tend to look for vulnerabilities in their victims and attempt to fill those needs. For some that can be needs on the lower part of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, such as food or shelter.&nbsp;They can also be needs for love, acceptance and achievement.White described a scenario of victim, who was an educated, beautiful women from a good home. She was drawn into sex trafficking by a man who ran a modeling agency. He promised her access to connections in the modeling profession, but he was forcing her to have sex with other people. "We do see this a lot in our homeless and runaway and kids in the foster care system, but really its people who are lacking a safety net," she said, "that don't have good support around them for whatever reason."Traffickers also come from all backgrounds, genders and races.Sex buyers tend to be exclusively male, mostly middle-age white men"The buyer tends to be the person with the most power and control in the situation," White said. "They tend to have the resources. They think they are going to walk into the situation, pay for it and be done."ICTSOS has had cases in which buyers were bankers, farmers, teachers, married men and men with children.<h2>Online dangers for kids</h2>U.S. children's almost universal access to the internet puts them at risk from predators, White said.• 13 percent of second and third graders report they've used the internet to talk to people they don't know. • 11 percent report having been asked to describe things about their body • 10 percent have been exposed to private things about someone else's body "You wouldn't throw your keys to the car to your 16-year-old and say, 'Good luck,' but we give our kids access to the internet without any safety net or conversation about it a lot of times," White said. When the COVID shutdown happened in March 2020, the national reporting of child pornography almost tripled from 379,107 in a week to 944,706 in a week. That number has stayed very high over the last two years, White said."With more of us working from home and being online, kids doing schooling online ... because there are more people in those spaces, that's where predators have moved to."Reporting of trafficking has increased substantially in the last 10 years. The Kansas Attorney General's office reported two cases of human trafficking in 2009, and 503 in 2020.<h2>Indicators of trafficking</h2><figure>
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 </figure>"This is very hard on someone long term, as you can image," White said. "This is very hard on your body. A lot of times survivors may have long-term issues with nutrition, hygiene or dental health because they haven't had access to services."White said many of the victims are dealing with substance abuse. Victims may have been caught up in trafficking because of their addiction, their traffickers may have used drugs or alcohol as a means to control their victims or victims may be using alcohol or drugs to deal with the past or present trauma.White said professionals know victims stay in trafficking situations for many of the same reasons domestic violence victims stay with their abusers. A trafficker may have positioned himself as a boyfriend or husband. The victim may have children with her trafficker.Victims often have distrust of the systems that are put in place to help them, including law enforcement and medical professionals, White said."A lot of survivors have either had bad experiences with law enforcement or they've been told if you go tell somebody, you're going to get in trouble," White said. "You're the one that's breaking the law. They're going to take you to jail. They aren't going to help you."&nbsp;Many of victims don't realize what's happening to them is&nbsp; a crime, White said. They often blame themselves. Eighty to 90 percent of trafficking victims have a previous history of sexual abuse.White reiterated victims don't have to be moved around to be considered trafficked. She gave the example of a girl who was being trafficked out of her own home by her brother.The girl was going to school every day. She looked like all of the other girls. She turned in her homework on time. But her brother was taking her out at night and offering her for sex to his friends.The case was discovered when one of the girl's friends attended a trafficking education session at school, and the friend brought her suspicions to the attention of authorities.Traffickers will move victims to stay ahead of law enforcement, they also move victims to areas where there is more demand, like a business moving product, White said.Interstate 70 and Interstate 35 are both considered corridors for traffickers. Wichita is often a city of origin for victims, White said."This happens in every community across the country," White said. <h2>Helping victims</h2>Victims can self report, but that doesn't happen very often, White said. Referrals to ICTSOS often come from medical professionals, as well as social services and law enforcement. An audience member asked what he could do if he suspects someone is being trafficked. White suggested trying to make an excuse to get the person away from their suspected trafficker and simply ask them if they are safe and if they are OK. She said it's a means to open the conversation in a non-threatening way.Peck and White both said having empathy toward and believing victims when they disclose trafficking is the most important thing both lay people and professionals can do to help victims. ICTSOS gives Fresh Start bags to victims. These include a fresh set of clothes, hygiene items, a fast-food gift card, journal and pen for adults and teens and storybook and toy for children. There's no strings attached to the bags. Adults don't have to accept assistance to receive the bags, but it often has led victims to return for services, White said. Peck spoke on some of the medical considerations concerns surrounding trafficking. The HaysMed Foundation offered a separate session presented by the two women specifically geared toward medical providers.Peck worked for many years as a forensic nurse in a hospital setting. She said the hospitals have come a long way in terms of offering privacy and confidentiality to sexual violence and trafficking victims. When she started as a nurse, victims were often only separated by a curtain from other patients in the ER.Working in a hospital and with law enforcement, she learned many victims never report or seek medical care because they've had a bad experience in a hospital setting.Peck said she also learned medical documentation ways heavily in the ability of law enforcement's ability to charge cases.This two factors prompted her to open her private clinic. She utilizes victim assistance programs, as well as fundraising so she doesn't have to bill victims for her services.Health care professionals are in a unique position identify and offer resources to human trafficking victims, but most providers have not received training on identifying or assisting victims, Peck said.Peck said a provider is doing more harm if they identify a victim and do not have a plan to refer the victim to the appropriate resources.