TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Topeka’s mayor says she still plans to serve the community, but not with another term as mayor.

Michelle De La Isla won’t seek reelection. She made the announcement Friday. She said she is exploring options, but politics isn’t on the list.

De La Isla said she began thinking about not running during the coronavirus pandemic. She serves on Shawnee County’s COVID-19 Incident Command team and said the workload, combined with her work as mayor, is difficult to balance.

In November, Jake LaTurner defeated De La Isla in the race to represent Kansas from the 2nd congressional district.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Topeka’s mayor says she still plans to serve the community, but not with another term as mayor.Michelle De La Isla won’t seek reelection. She made the announcement Friday. She said she is exploring options, but politics isn’t on the list.De La Isla said she began thinking about not running during the coronavirus pandemic. She serves on Shawnee County’s COVID-19 Incident Command team and said the workload, combined with her work as mayor, is difficult to balance.In November, Jake LaTurner defeated De La Isla in the race to represent Kansas from the 2nd congressional district.

Topeka mayor, former congressional candidate won't seek reelection

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A performer at a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaIBf3CT0VQ">Branson, Missouri, theater </a>pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to stealing more than $85,000 from hundreds of his own audience members who donated to his non-existent charity for foster children, according to the United State's Attorney's office.

“For several years, this performer took advantage of his own audiences by pulling at their heartstrings while stealing from their pockets,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore. “He cynically and greedily victimized donors who falsely believed they were helping foster children. There’s no way to know how much cash was actually stolen, but we intend to seek restitution for the victims law enforcement has identified, as well as prison time and a hefty fine.”

James Patrick Garrett, 65, of Branson, waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty to a federal information that charges him with one count of wire fraud.

“Friday’s plea is a reminder that the United States Secret Service is committed to aggressively investigating and pursuing those who commit financial crimes,” said Brandon C. Bridgeforth, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service Kansas City Field Office. “This defendant used his theater and platform as a performer, to prey on the generosity of those attending his performances. The defendant took advantage of these people who thought they were helping children in need, and then defrauded them. This investigation is a testament to the strong partnership between the Secret Service, the Branson, Mo., Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

“The Branson Police Department is always looking out for the best interest of our residents and visitors,” said Branson Police Chief Jeff Matthews. “We initiated this investigation and presented it to our federal partners at the United States Secret Service last year. They adopted the case and were successful in presenting it to the U.S. Attorney for prosecution. These kinds of relationships and partnerships help us protect our community and the values Branson is known for.”

Garrett performed the John Denver Tribute at the Branson IMAX. The show, which Garrett performed approximately six days a week throughout the year, consists of musicians covering songs made popular by the late John Denver and other classic country artists.

On Nov. 3, 2012, Garrett created Diamond Jym Ranch, Inc., with himself as president and a member of its board of directors. According to its articles of incorporation, Diamond Jym Ranch was ostensibly created for “the purpose of establishing homes for displaced or homeless boys or girls, to provide training and education for such children, to provide them with food, lodging, and their well being.”

By pleading guilty today, Garrett admitted that he victimized his audience members through a fraud scheme that lasted from March 2016 to August 2020. At the conclusion of each John Denver Tribute, Garrett solicited members of his audience to donate to Diamond Jym Ranch. Garrett falsely told audiences that he had created homes for foster children in Branson and Texas. Garrett told audience members their donations to Diamond Jym Ranch would go to support the foster homes and to support foster children. None of those claims were true, and Garrett knew they were false at the time he made the representations.

Garrett placed a donation box at the exit of the theatre where he performed the John Denver Tribute. Hundreds of audience members left their donations in the donation box. Garrett also directed audience members who wanted to make monthly or regular donations to Diamond Jym Ranch to mail their checks to his home address in Branson.

Garrett admitted that he used the money that he raised for his personal living expenses, which included frequently dining out at Branson restaurants, credit card debt, rent, taxes, mortgage payments, health insurance, and automobile insurance.

In total, over the course of many years, Garrett induced hundreds of John Denver Tribute audience members to make financial donations to Diamond Jym Ranch for the purpose of supporting foster children and homes for foster children. Garrett’s scheme to defraud resulted in a collective loss to his victims of at least $85,525.

The specific charge to which Garrett pleaded guilty today involves a $1,000 contribution made by an audience member identified in court documents as “D.C.,” a resident of Illinois. Garrett used D.C.’s donation for his own personal purposes and not to the benefit of foster children.

Under federal statutes, Garrett is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616161613418.png" alt="James Garrett from his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaIBf3CT0VQ">YouTube page</a>" />
 <figcaption>James Garrett from his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaIBf3CT0VQ">YouTube page</a></figcaption>
 </figure>SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A performer at a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaIBf3CT0VQ">Branson, Missouri, theater </a>pleaded guilty in federal court Friday to stealing more than $85,000 from hundreds of his own audience members who donated to his non-existent charity for foster children, according to the United State's Attorney's office.“For several years, this performer took advantage of his own audiences by pulling at their heartstrings while stealing from their pockets,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore. “He cynically and greedily victimized donors who falsely believed they were helping foster children. There’s no way to know how much cash was actually stolen, but we intend to seek restitution for the victims law enforcement has identified, as well as prison time and a hefty fine.”James Patrick Garrett, 65, of Branson, waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty to a federal information that charges him with one count of wire fraud.“Friday’s plea is a reminder that the United States Secret Service is committed to aggressively investigating and pursuing those who commit financial crimes,” said Brandon C. Bridgeforth, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Secret Service Kansas City Field Office. “This defendant used his theater and platform as a performer, to prey on the generosity of those attending his performances. The defendant took advantage of these people who thought they were helping children in need, and then defrauded them. This investigation is a testament to the strong partnership between the Secret Service, the Branson, Mo., Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”“The Branson Police Department is always looking out for the best interest of our residents and visitors,” said Branson Police Chief Jeff Matthews. “We initiated this investigation and presented it to our federal partners at the United States Secret Service last year. They adopted the case and were successful in presenting it to the U.S. Attorney for prosecution. These kinds of relationships and partnerships help us protect our community and the values Branson is known for.”Garrett performed the John Denver Tribute at the Branson IMAX. The show, which Garrett performed approximately six days a week throughout the year, consists of musicians covering songs made popular by the late John Denver and other classic country artists.On Nov. 3, 2012, Garrett created Diamond Jym Ranch, Inc., with himself as president and a member of its board of directors. According to its articles of incorporation, Diamond Jym Ranch was ostensibly created for “the purpose of establishing homes for displaced or homeless boys or girls, to provide training and education for such children, to provide them with food, lodging, and their well being.”By pleading guilty today, Garrett admitted that he victimized his audience members through a fraud scheme that lasted from March 2016 to August 2020. At the conclusion of each John Denver Tribute, Garrett solicited members of his audience to donate to Diamond Jym Ranch. Garrett falsely told audiences that he had created homes for foster children in Branson and Texas. Garrett told audience members their donations to Diamond Jym Ranch would go to support the foster homes and to support foster children. None of those claims were true, and Garrett knew they were false at the time he made the representations.Garrett placed a donation box at the exit of the theatre where he performed the John Denver Tribute. Hundreds of audience members left their donations in the donation box. Garrett also directed audience members who wanted to make monthly or regular donations to Diamond Jym Ranch to mail their checks to his home address in Branson.Garrett admitted that he used the money that he raised for his personal living expenses, which included frequently dining out at Branson restaurants, credit card debt, rent, taxes, mortgage payments, health insurance, and automobile insurance.In total, over the course of many years, Garrett induced hundreds of John Denver Tribute audience members to make financial donations to Diamond Jym Ranch for the purpose of supporting foster children and homes for foster children. Garrett’s scheme to defraud resulted in a collective loss to his victims of at least $85,525.The specific charge to which Garrett pleaded guilty today involves a $1,000 contribution made by an audience member identified in court documents as “D.C.,” a resident of Illinois. Garrett used D.C.’s donation for his own personal purposes and not to the benefit of foster children.Under federal statutes, Garrett is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

Branson performer created fake charity, collected $85K

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Within the past few months, there have been multiple allegations of drugs and other forms of contraband being introduced into the Sedgwick County Detention Facility through forged inmate legal mail and it continues.

On March 9, the Sedgwick County Detention Facility received a package addressed to an inmate with a return address label from the Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.

After consulting with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Legal Advisor, and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigation Division, there was enough evidence to believe the package was not official legal mail and a fake return address had been used.

Sheriff Investigators took possession of the package. After analyzing the contents of the package, deputies found approximately 5 grams of synthetic cannabinoids (K2) and a package of approximately 32 rolling papers. The package and its contents have been submitted as evidence. A case has been opened in order to find the people involved in this crime and hold them accountable for their actions.

Once the investigation has been completed, it will be presented to the District Attorney for potential criminal charges.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616176417393.png" alt="Photo Sedgwick Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sedgwick Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Within the past few months, there have been multiple allegations of drugs and other forms of contraband being introduced into the Sedgwick County Detention Facility through forged inmate legal mail and it continues.On March 9, the Sedgwick County Detention Facility received a package addressed to an inmate with a return address label from the Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, according to Sheriff's Lt. Benjamin Blick.After consulting with the Kansas Attorney General’s Office, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Legal Advisor, and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigation Division, there was enough evidence to believe the package was not official legal mail and a fake return address had been used.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616176400033.png" alt="Photo Sedgwick Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sedgwick Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Sheriff Investigators took possession of the package. After analyzing the contents of the package, deputies found approximately 5 grams of synthetic cannabinoids (K2) and a package of approximately 32 rolling papers. The package and its contents have been submitted as evidence. A case has been opened in order to find the people involved in this crime and hold them accountable for their actions.Once the investigation has been completed, it will be presented to the District Attorney for potential criminal charges.

Package with K2 sent to jail with return label from Kan. AG

VALLEY MINES, Mo. (AP) — A fire has destroyed a reptile house at an eastern Missouri petting zoo, killing all 11 animals inside.

The&nbsp;fire was reported around 5 a.m. Friday at the Critter Lane Petting Zoo in Valles Mines.

Big River Fire Department Assistant Chief Allen Stegall said the structure was almost completely gone when crews arrived.

He said the neighboring bird house also suffered some smoke and water damage, but none of the animals inside it were injured as far as he knew.

Stegall said the cause of the fire is still unknown.

The petting zoo said in a Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CritterLanePettingZoo/posts/3827962090630474" target="_blank">post&nbsp;</a>that it was “devastated by the loss of animals.” It said it had a lot of work ahead before opening to the public for the year on Saturday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616274602957.png" alt="Photo Critter Lane Petting Zoo in Valles Mines" />
 <figcaption>Photo Critter Lane Petting Zoo in Valles Mines</figcaption>
 </figure>VALLEY MINES, Mo. (AP) — A fire has destroyed a reptile house at an eastern Missouri petting zoo, killing all 11 animals inside.The&nbsp;fire was reported around 5 a.m. Friday at the Critter Lane Petting Zoo in Valles Mines.Big River Fire Department Assistant Chief Allen Stegall said the structure was almost completely gone when crews arrived.He said the neighboring bird house also suffered some smoke and water damage, but none of the animals inside it were injured as far as he knew.Stegall said the cause of the fire is still unknown.The petting zoo said in a Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/CritterLanePettingZoo/posts/3827962090630474" target="_blank">post&nbsp;</a>that it was “devastated by the loss of animals.” It said it had a lot of work ahead before opening to the public for the year on Saturday.

Fire destroys reptile house at petting zoo

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of 38-year-old Natasha Arvidson of Wichita and after asking the community for help have located her 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis, according to officer Charley Davidson.

Just after 9 p.m. Friday, police responded to a home in the 10600 block of West Taft in Wichita on an assist EMS call, according to Davidson.  Upon arrival, officers located Arvidson with injuries to her body.  She was pronounced deceased on the scene.  Arvidson’s Grand Marquis was also not at the home.

Investigators determined her death is a criminal homicide, according to Davidson.

Investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances of what occurred in this case.

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of 38-year-old Natasha Arvidson of Wichita and need the community’s help in locating a missing vehicle, according to officer Charley Davidson.

The vehicle is a 2000 silver Mercury Grand Marquis with Kansas tag number 834 NPD.&nbsp; A window or windows on the driver’s side are broken out.

Just after 9 p.m. Friday, police responded to a home in the 10600 block of West Taft in Wichita on an assist EMS call, according to Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located Arvidson with injuries to her body.&nbsp; She was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp; Arvidson’s Grand Marquis was also not at the home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616258779356.png" alt="Photo of the victim's&nbsp;&nbsp;Mercury Grand Marquis with Kansas tag number 834 NPD" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the victim's&nbsp;&nbsp;Mercury Grand Marquis with Kansas tag number 834 NPD</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of 38-year-old Natasha Arvidson of Wichita and after asking the community for help have located her 2000 Mercury Grand Marquis, according to officer Charley Davidson.Just after 9 p.m. Friday, police responded to a home in the 10600 block of West Taft in Wichita on an assist EMS call, according to Davidson. Upon arrival, officers located Arvidson with injuries to her body. She was pronounced deceased on the scene. Arvidson’s Grand Marquis was also not at the home.Investigators determined her death is a criminal homicide, according to Davidson.Investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances of what occurred in this case.----------SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the death of 38-year-old Natasha Arvidson of Wichita and need the community’s help in locating a missing vehicle, according to officer Charley Davidson.The vehicle is a 2000 silver Mercury Grand Marquis with Kansas tag number 834 NPD.&nbsp; A window or windows on the driver’s side are broken out.Just after 9 p.m. Friday, police responded to a home in the 10600 block of West Taft in Wichita on an assist EMS call, according to Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located Arvidson with injuries to her body.&nbsp; She was pronounced deceased on the scene.&nbsp; Arvidson’s Grand Marquis was also not at the home.Investigators are currently working to determine the circumstances of what occurred in this case.

Update: Police locate Kansas murder victim's missing car

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — About 40% of Kansas prison staff and about 30% of inmates have declined to be vaccinated for COVID-19 despite massive outbreaks at lockups that have infected thousands.

The Kansas Department of Corrections is in its sixth week of offering vaccinations to inmates and staff, the Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2021/03/18/kdoc-covid-vaccine-staff-inmates-declining-shots-department-corrections-kansas/4749944001/" target="_blank">reported.</a>&nbsp;It plans to continue operating vaccination clinics through mid-April, agency spokeswoman Carol Pitts said in an email.

“Close to 60% of staff who have been offered the vaccine to date have accepted, and close to 70% of residents offered the vaccine have accepted,” Pitts wrote.

The agency doesn’t require employees or inmates to explain their reasons for declining the vaccine.

Vaccinating inmates in the current phase, which also include those 65 and older and essential workers such as teachers, has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-topeka-coronavirus-pandemic-prisons-4f6fb40a3667dbe937306faf86842816">controversial.</a>&nbsp;The Republican-controlled Legislature urged Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly to postpone their inoculations so that others could get them first.

But Kelly said prisons needed to be prioritized because they had been hard hit and because outbreaks there could affect surrounding communities. As of Thursday, the prison system had reported 1,277 cases among staff and 6,117 among inmates since the start of the pandemic. There also had been 21 deaths among prisoners and staff.

Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda previously declined to reveal the percentage of corrections employees who rejected the vaccine, telling the newspaper in an email last month that it was a “personal choice.” But Pitts explained that the circumstances had changed.

“The choice to accept the vaccine is a personal healthcare decision every individual must make, ideally without additional pressure from external sources,” she said. “All staff have now had an opportunity to make their decision, and we are now sharing the data.”

Jail workers also are saying no. In Shawnee County, for instance, only about 34% of the corrections department’s employees have accepted the vaccine offer, said Maj. Tim Phelps, spokesman for that department.

Statewide, about 22.2% of the state’s residents had received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, health officials reported Friday.

COVID-19 cases have been dropping in Kansas. The state added just 606 new confirmed cases from Wednesday to Friday, raising its pandemic total to 299,510. The number of deaths increased by five, to 4,842.

With the numbers improving, the school board in Topeka decided to bring middle and high-schoolers back to class five days a week starting April 1. They have been attending hybrid classes — at home part of the time and and in-person the rest of the time.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — About 40% of Kansas prison staff and about 30% of inmates have declined to be vaccinated for COVID-19 despite massive outbreaks at lockups that have infected thousands.The Kansas Department of Corrections is in its sixth week of offering vaccinations to inmates and staff, the Topeka Capital-Journal&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2021/03/18/kdoc-covid-vaccine-staff-inmates-declining-shots-department-corrections-kansas/4749944001/" target="_blank">reported.</a>&nbsp;It plans to continue operating vaccination clinics through mid-April, agency spokeswoman Carol Pitts said in an email.“Close to 60% of staff who have been offered the vaccine to date have accepted, and close to 70% of residents offered the vaccine have accepted,” Pitts wrote.The agency doesn’t require employees or inmates to explain their reasons for declining the vaccine.Vaccinating inmates in the current phase, which also include those 65 and older and essential workers such as teachers, has been&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/legislature-kansas-topeka-coronavirus-pandemic-prisons-4f6fb40a3667dbe937306faf86842816">controversial.</a>&nbsp;The Republican-controlled Legislature urged Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly to postpone their inoculations so that others could get them first.But Kelly said prisons needed to be prioritized because they had been hard hit and because outbreaks there could affect surrounding communities. As of Thursday, the prison system had reported 1,277 cases among staff and 6,117 among inmates since the start of the pandemic. There also had been 21 deaths among prisoners and staff.Secretary of Corrections Jeff Zmuda previously declined to reveal the percentage of corrections employees who rejected the vaccine, telling the newspaper in an email last month that it was a “personal choice.” But Pitts explained that the circumstances had changed.“The choice to accept the vaccine is a personal healthcare decision every individual must make, ideally without additional pressure from external sources,” she said. “All staff have now had an opportunity to make their decision, and we are now sharing the data.”Jail workers also are saying no. In Shawnee County, for instance, only about 34% of the corrections department’s employees have accepted the vaccine offer, said Maj. Tim Phelps, spokesman for that department.Statewide, about 22.2% of the state’s residents had received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, health officials reported Friday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616173399995.png" alt="Friday March 19, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday March 19, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>COVID-19 cases have been dropping in Kansas. The state added just 606 new confirmed cases from Wednesday to Friday, raising its pandemic total to 299,510. The number of deaths increased by five, to 4,842.With the numbers improving, the school board in Topeka decided to bring middle and high-schoolers back to class five days a week starting April 1. They have been attending hybrid classes — at home part of the time and and in-person the rest of the time.

About 40% of Kan. prison staff, 30% of inmates decline COVID shot

WASHINGTON (AP)—Four men described as leaders of the far-right Proud Boys have been charged in the U.S. Capitol riots, as an indictment ordered unsealed on Friday presents fresh evidence of how federal officials believe group members planned and carried out a coordinated attack to stop Congress from certifying President Joe Biden’s electoral victory.

So far, at least 19 leaders, members or associates of the neo-fascist Proud Boys have been charged in federal court with offenses related to the Jan. 6 riots. The latest indictment suggests the Proud Boys deployed a much larger contingent in Washington, with over 60 users “participating in” an encrypted messaging channel for group members that was created a day before the riots.

The Proud Boys abandoned an earlier channel and created the new “Boots on the Ground” channel after police arrested the group's top leader, Enrique Tarrio, in Washington. Tarrio was arrested on Jan. 4 and charged with vandalizing a Black Lives Matter banner at a historic Black church during a protest in December. He was ordered to stay out of the District of Columbia.

Tarrio hasn't been charged in connection with the riots, but the latest indictment refers to him by his title as Proud Boys' chairman.

Ethan Nordean and Joseph Biggs, two of the four defendants charged in the latest indictment, were arrested several weeks ago on separate but related charges. The new indictment also charges Zachary Rehl and Charles Donohoe.

Nordean, 30, of Auburn, Washington, was a Proud Boys chapter president and member of the group’s national “Elders Council.” Biggs, 37, of Ormond Beach,&nbsp;Florida, is a self-described Proud Boys organizer. Rehl, 35, of Philadelphia, and Donohoe, 33, of&nbsp;North Carolina, serve as presidents of their local Proud Boys chapters, according to the indictment.

Attorneys for the four men didn't immediately respond to messages seeking comment Friday.

Proud Boys members, who describe themselves as a politically incorrect men’s club for “Western chauvinists,” have frequently engaged in street fights with antifascist activists at rallies and protests. Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes, who founded&nbsp; the Proud Boys in 2016, sued the Southern Poverty Law Center for labeling it as a hate group.

The Proud Boys met at the Washington Monument around 10 a.m. on Jan. 6 and marched to the Capitol before then-President Donald Trump finished addressing thousands of supporters near the White House.

Around two hours later, just before Congress convened a joint session to certify the election results, a group of Proud Boys followed a crowd of people who breached barriers at a pedestrian entrance to the Capitol grounds, the indictment says. Several Proud Boys also entered the Capitol building itself after the mob smashed windows and forced open doors.

At 3:38 p.m., Donohoe announced on the “Boots on the Ground” channel that he and others were “regrouping with a second force” as some rioters began to leave the Capitol, according to the indictment.

“This was not simply a march. This was an incredible attack on our institutions of government,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason McCullough said during a recent hearing for Nordean’s case.

Prosecutors have said the Proud Boys arranged for members to communicate using specific frequencies on Baofeng radios. The Chinese-made devices can be programmed for use on hundreds of frequencies, making them difficult for outsiders to eavesdrop.

After Tarrio's arrest, Donohoe expressed concern that their encrypted communications could be “compromised” when police searched the group chairman's phone, according to the new indictment. In a Jan. 4 post on a newly created channel, Donohoe warned members that they could be “looking at Gang charges" and wrote, “Stop everything immediately,” the indictment says.

A day before the riots, Biggs posted on the “Boots on the Ground” channel that the group had a “plan” for the night before and the day of the riots, according to the indictment.

In Nordean’s case, a federal judge accused prosecutors of backtracking on their claims that he instructed Proud Boys members to split up into smaller groups and directed a “strategic plan” to breach the Capitol.

“That’s a far cry from what I heard at the hearing today,” U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell said on March 3.

Howell concluded that Nordean was extensively involved in “pre-planning” for the events of Jan. 6 and that he and other Proud Boys “were clearly prepared for a violent confrontation” that day. However, she said evidence that Nordean directed other Proud Boys members to break into the building is “weak to say the least” and ordered him freed from jail before trial.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616179979394.png" alt="Prosecutors have said the Proud Boys arranged for members to communicate using specific frequencies on Baofeng radios. The Chinese-made devices can be programmed for use on hundreds of frequencies, making them difficult for outsiders to eavesdrop-photo courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Prosecutors have said the Proud Boys arranged for members to communicate using specific frequencies on Baofeng radios. The Chinese-made devices can be programmed for use on hundreds of frequencies, making them difficult for outsiders to eavesdrop-photo courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP)—Four men described as leaders of the far-right Proud Boys have been charged in the U.S. Capitol riots, as an indictment ordered unsealed on Friday presents fresh evidence of how federal officials believe group members planned and carried out a coordinated attack to stop Congress from certifying President Joe Biden’s electoral victory.So far, at least 19 leaders, members or associates of the neo-fascist Proud Boys have been charged in federal court with offenses related to the Jan. 6 riots. The latest indictment suggests the Proud Boys deployed a much larger contingent in Washington, with over 60 users “participating in” an encrypted messaging channel for group members that was created a day before the riots.The Proud Boys abandoned an earlier channel and created the new “Boots on the Ground” channel after police arrested the group's top leader, Enrique Tarrio, in Washington. Tarrio was arrested on Jan. 4 and charged with vandalizing a Black Lives Matter banner at a historic Black church during a protest in December. He was ordered to stay out of the District of Columbia.Tarrio hasn't been charged in connection with the riots, but the latest indictment refers to him by his title as Proud Boys' chairman.Ethan Nordean and Joseph Biggs, two of the four defendants charged in the latest indictment, were arrested several weeks ago on separate but related charges. The new indictment also charges Zachary Rehl and Charles Donohoe.Nordean, 30, of Auburn, Washington, was a Proud Boys chapter president and member of the group’s national “Elders Council.” Biggs, 37, of Ormond Beach,&nbsp;Florida, is a self-described Proud Boys organizer. Rehl, 35, of Philadelphia, and Donohoe, 33, of&nbsp;North Carolina, serve as presidents of their local Proud Boys chapters, according to the indictment.Attorneys for the four men didn't immediately respond to messages seeking comment Friday.Proud Boys members, who describe themselves as a politically incorrect men’s club for “Western chauvinists,” have frequently engaged in street fights with antifascist activists at rallies and protests. Vice Media co-founder Gavin McInnes, who founded&nbsp; the Proud Boys in 2016, sued the Southern Poverty Law Center for labeling it as a hate group.The Proud Boys met at the Washington Monument around 10 a.m. on Jan. 6 and marched to the Capitol before then-President Donald Trump finished addressing thousands of supporters near the White House.Around two hours later, just before Congress convened a joint session to certify the election results, a group of Proud Boys followed a crowd of people who breached barriers at a pedestrian entrance to the Capitol grounds, the indictment says. Several Proud Boys also entered the Capitol building itself after the mob smashed windows and forced open doors.At 3:38 p.m., Donohoe announced on the “Boots on the Ground” channel that he and others were “regrouping with a second force” as some rioters began to leave the Capitol, according to the indictment.“This was not simply a march. This was an incredible attack on our institutions of government,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason McCullough said during a recent hearing for Nordean’s case.Prosecutors have said the Proud Boys arranged for members to communicate using specific frequencies on Baofeng radios. The Chinese-made devices can be programmed for use on hundreds of frequencies, making them difficult for outsiders to eavesdrop.After Tarrio's arrest, Donohoe expressed concern that their encrypted communications could be “compromised” when police searched the group chairman's phone, according to the new indictment. In a Jan. 4 post on a newly created channel, Donohoe warned members that they could be “looking at Gang charges" and wrote, “Stop everything immediately,” the indictment says.“This comes from the top,” he added.A day before the riots, Biggs posted on the “Boots on the Ground” channel that the group had a “plan” for the night before and the day of the riots, according to the indictment.In Nordean’s case, a federal judge accused prosecutors of backtracking on their claims that he instructed Proud Boys members to split up into smaller groups and directed a “strategic plan” to breach the Capitol.“That’s a far cry from what I heard at the hearing today,” U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell said on March 3.Howell concluded that Nordean was extensively involved in “pre-planning” for the events of Jan. 6 and that he and other Proud Boys “were clearly prepared for a violent confrontation” that day. However, she said evidence that Nordean directed other Proud Boys members to break into the building is “weak to say the least” and ordered him freed from jail before trial.

4 linked to Proud Boys charged in plot to attack Capitol

WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats’ nearly $2 trillion coronavirus relief package includes a big financial incentive for the states that have opted against expanding Medicaid to provide health coverage for more low-income Americans. It’s proving to be a tough sell.

The Associated Press surveyed top Republican elected officials in the dozen states that have resisted expanding coverage under a key provision of former President Barack Obama’s heath care law. Some have softened their opposition, but the key gatekeepers— governors or legislative leaders — indicated they have no plans to change course.

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster remains firmly opposed to the Medicaid expansion.

“Gov. McMaster isn’t for sale, regardless of whatever ill-conceived ‘incentives’ congressional Democrats may come up with,” spokesman Brian Symmes said in a statement. “What the federal spending plan does is attempt to offer a short term solution for a long term problem.”

The federal government already pays 90% of the costs of expanding Medicaid coverage to more low-income adults. Thirty-six states have signed on to the expansion. Two more -- Missouri and Oklahoma -- are scheduled to begin their expansions in July.

Under the enticement included in the coronavirus relief bill adopted by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden, the federal government would boost its share of costs in the regular Medicaid program, which offers coverage for the poorest Americans. The bump in federal funding would last two years for the states that join the Medicaid expansion.

An analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation found the additional federal money would cover 150% to 400% of the cost for the holdout states to expand Medicaid, which is jointly funded with federal and state dollars.

In Texas, the incentives would send the state about $5 billion over two years, and the state’s share of expanding coverage would be about $3.1 billion. More than 1.4 million people in the state could become&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/the-coverage-gap-uninsured-poor-adults-in-states-that-do-not-expand-medicaid/" target="_blank">eligible&nbsp;</a>for coverage. For Georgia, the estimate says it would add a net $710 million to state coffers and in Tennessee, $900 million.

“It’s the literal offer you can’t refuse, but let’s see if anyone refuses it, anyway,” said Katherine Hempstead, a senior policy adviser at the nonpartisan Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Through interviews and public statements, AP found little change in the 12 states that have held out against the Medicaid expansion: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

In Mississippi, one of the nation’s poorest states, advocates say up to 300,000 people — about one-tenth of the state’s population — could become eligible for health coverage if the state adopted the expansion.

Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, said he’s not going for it, noting that his stance was a major issue in his 2019 campaign. His GOP primary opponents supported a plan to expand, with the state’s share being paid for by hospitals and a fee of up to $20 a month for people who signed up. He opposed it, even as the Mississippi Hospital Association said it could bring up to 19,000 jobs to the state.

“My position has not changed,” he said last week. “I am opposed to expanding Medicaid in Mississippi. I am opposed to Obamacare expansion.”

In three of the states — Kansas, North Carolina and Wisconsin — the Democratic governor favors expansion but can’t convince a Republican-controlled legislature.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelley this year called for legalizing medical use of marijuana and using the tax revenue to pay for expanding Medicaid. But the Republicans who control the Legislature blocked hearings on the proposal.

Those lawmakers say they worry the federal government would eventually cut its share of expansion funding.

“It’s not a big enough bribe,” said Richard Hilderbrand, the chair of the state Senate health committee.

Many Republicans remain concerned about the long-term costs of the program and are ideologically opposed to expanding government health care to working-age adults.

“I acknowledge that there are some gaps in coverage that need to be addressed, but I think they can be addressed in ways that do not require us to create a whole new level of entitlement in the state of North Carolina,” North Carolina Senate Leader Phil Berger, a Republican, told The Associated Press.

It’s a similar story in Wisconsin, where the GOP-dominated Legislature and Democratic Gov. Tony Evers are at odds over the expansion. The Democrats’ coronavirus aid package doesn’t change that, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said earlier this month.

“It’s a nonstarter, and we will continue to oppose the liberal wish list item of Medicaid expansion,” he said.

Hempstead, of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, said Medicaid expansion is a way to address one of the biggest shortcomings in the national healthcare landscape: How to get coverage for a group of adults whose incomes put them below the poverty line -- $12,880 for a person living alone.

In states that haven’t expanded Medicaid, there are about 2.2 million such people, the Kaiser study found. They usually don’t qualify for traditional Medicaid programs. They also do not make enough to be eligible to buy subsidized private coverage on the health insurance marketplaces established under Obama’s overhaul.

Another 1.8 million people in those states who make slightly more -- up to about $17,774 for an individual — qualify for subsidized coverage but often can’t afford it. They also could be covered through an expansion of Medicaid.

<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2020/may/impact-medicaid-expansion-states-budgets" target="_blank">Studies</a>&nbsp;have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/health/medicaid-expansion-continues-to-benefit-state-budgets-contrary-to-critics-claims" target="_blank">found&nbsp;</a>that adding coverage for these lower-income people reduces charity care in hospitals, allows some people to be healthy enough to work and creates additional health care industry jobs. The financial benefits partially or totally&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/medicaid/report/the-effects-of-medicaid-expansion-under-the-aca-updated-findings-from-a-literature-review/" target="_blank">offset&nbsp;</a>the states’ share of the costs over time.

Even in the holdout states, those arguments catch the attention of some Republicans. In Texas, a Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://www.statesman.com/story/opinion/columns/your-voice/2021/02/03/opinion-refusing-expand-medicaid-bad-business-decision-texas/4354497001/" target="_blank">lawmaker&nbsp;</a>has introduced a longshot bill calling for expansion, though the legislation has no other GOP co-sponsor and there is no indication that Republicans there have lessened their opposition. A similar measure has advanced through a legislative committee in Wyoming, though its prospects appear slim for passing the full Legislature.

In Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey left open the possibility of expanding Medicaid at some point in the future, but there are no plans to do so.

“The problem has always been how to pay for it,” Ivey spokeswoman Gina Maiola said. “She is open to the discussion, but right now, we simply do not have all the facts.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614257985849.png" alt="Kansas Gov. Laura Kelley this year called for legalizing medical use of marijuana and using the tax revenue to pay for expanding Medicaid." />
 <figcaption>Kansas Gov. Laura Kelley this year called for legalizing medical use of marijuana and using the tax revenue to pay for expanding Medicaid.</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Democrats’ nearly $2 trillion coronavirus relief package includes a big financial incentive for the states that have opted against expanding Medicaid to provide health coverage for more low-income Americans. It’s proving to be a tough sell.The Associated Press surveyed top Republican elected officials in the dozen states that have resisted expanding coverage under a key provision of former President Barack Obama’s heath care law. Some have softened their opposition, but the key gatekeepers— governors or legislative leaders — indicated they have no plans to change course.South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster remains firmly opposed to the Medicaid expansion.“Gov. McMaster isn’t for sale, regardless of whatever ill-conceived ‘incentives’ congressional Democrats may come up with,” spokesman Brian Symmes said in a statement. “What the federal spending plan does is attempt to offer a short term solution for a long term problem.”The federal government already pays 90% of the costs of expanding Medicaid coverage to more low-income adults. Thirty-six states have signed on to the expansion. Two more -- Missouri and Oklahoma -- are scheduled to begin their expansions in July.Under the enticement included in the coronavirus relief bill adopted by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden, the federal government would boost its share of costs in the regular Medicaid program, which offers coverage for the poorest Americans. The bump in federal funding would last two years for the states that join the Medicaid expansion.An analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation found the additional federal money would cover 150% to 400% of the cost for the holdout states to expand Medicaid, which is jointly funded with federal and state dollars.In Texas, the incentives would send the state about $5 billion over two years, and the state’s share of expanding coverage would be about $3.1 billion. More than 1.4 million people in the state could become&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/the-coverage-gap-uninsured-poor-adults-in-states-that-do-not-expand-medicaid/" target="_blank">eligible&nbsp;</a>for coverage. For Georgia, the estimate says it would add a net $710 million to state coffers and in Tennessee, $900 million.“It’s the literal offer you can’t refuse, but let’s see if anyone refuses it, anyway,” said Katherine Hempstead, a senior policy adviser at the nonpartisan Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.Through interviews and public statements, AP found little change in the 12 states that have held out against the Medicaid expansion: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming.In Mississippi, one of the nation’s poorest states, advocates say up to 300,000 people — about one-tenth of the state’s population — could become eligible for health coverage if the state adopted the expansion.Gov. Tate Reeves, a Republican, said he’s not going for it, noting that his stance was a major issue in his 2019 campaign. His GOP primary opponents supported a plan to expand, with the state’s share being paid for by hospitals and a fee of up to $20 a month for people who signed up. He opposed it, even as the Mississippi Hospital Association said it could bring up to 19,000 jobs to the state.“My position has not changed,” he said last week. “I am opposed to expanding Medicaid in Mississippi. I am opposed to Obamacare expansion.”In three of the states — Kansas, North Carolina and Wisconsin — the Democratic governor favors expansion but can’t convince a Republican-controlled legislature.Kansas Gov. Laura Kelley this year called for legalizing medical use of marijuana and using the tax revenue to pay for expanding Medicaid. But the Republicans who control the Legislature blocked hearings on the proposal.Those lawmakers say they worry the federal government would eventually cut its share of expansion funding.“It’s not a big enough bribe,” said Richard Hilderbrand, the chair of the state Senate health committee.Many Republicans remain concerned about the long-term costs of the program and are ideologically opposed to expanding government health care to working-age adults.“I acknowledge that there are some gaps in coverage that need to be addressed, but I think they can be addressed in ways that do not require us to create a whole new level of entitlement in the state of North Carolina,” North Carolina Senate Leader Phil Berger, a Republican, told The Associated Press.It’s a similar story in Wisconsin, where the GOP-dominated Legislature and Democratic Gov. Tony Evers are at odds over the expansion. The Democrats’ coronavirus aid package doesn’t change that, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said earlier this month.“It’s a nonstarter, and we will continue to oppose the liberal wish list item of Medicaid expansion,” he said.Hempstead, of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, said Medicaid expansion is a way to address one of the biggest shortcomings in the national healthcare landscape: How to get coverage for a group of adults whose incomes put them below the poverty line -- $12,880 for a person living alone.In states that haven’t expanded Medicaid, there are about 2.2 million such people, the Kaiser study found. They usually don’t qualify for traditional Medicaid programs. They also do not make enough to be eligible to buy subsidized private coverage on the health insurance marketplaces established under Obama’s overhaul.Another 1.8 million people in those states who make slightly more -- up to about $17,774 for an individual — qualify for subsidized coverage but often can’t afford it. They also could be covered through an expansion of Medicaid.<a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2020/may/impact-medicaid-expansion-states-budgets" target="_blank">Studies</a>&nbsp;have&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cbpp.org/research/health/medicaid-expansion-continues-to-benefit-state-budgets-contrary-to-critics-claims" target="_blank">found&nbsp;</a>that adding coverage for these lower-income people reduces charity care in hospitals, allows some people to be healthy enough to work and creates additional health care industry jobs. The financial benefits partially or totally&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kff.org/medicaid/report/the-effects-of-medicaid-expansion-under-the-aca-updated-findings-from-a-literature-review/" target="_blank">offset&nbsp;</a>the states’ share of the costs over time.Even in the holdout states, those arguments catch the attention of some Republicans. In Texas, a Republican&nbsp;<a href="https://www.statesman.com/story/opinion/columns/your-voice/2021/02/03/opinion-refusing-expand-medicaid-bad-business-decision-texas/4354497001/" target="_blank">lawmaker&nbsp;</a>has introduced a longshot bill calling for expansion, though the legislation has no other GOP co-sponsor and there is no indication that Republicans there have lessened their opposition. A similar measure has advanced through a legislative committee in Wyoming, though its prospects appear slim for passing the full Legislature.In Alabama, Gov. Kay Ivey left open the possibility of expanding Medicaid at some point in the future, but there are no plans to do so.“The problem has always been how to pay for it,” Ivey spokeswoman Gina Maiola said. “She is open to the discussion, but right now, we simply do not have all the facts.”___

Medicaid incentive so far not enough to sway holdout states

SALINA—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.

He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.

Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."

On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.

Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.

Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576681996331.jpeg" alt="Hull photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Hull photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINA—Law enforcement authorities are investigating the murder of a woman in Salina continue their search for a suspect identified as as 35-year-old Nelson Gerrod Hull.He is wanted for the February 23 shooting death of 36-year-old Courtney Ann Hoffman.&nbsp; The Saline County District Court issued an arrest warrant for Hull for murder in the first degree.Hull is described as a black male, 6-foot-3, 200 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. A tattoo on the right side of his neck is "Mi Familia."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614348886825.png" alt="Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Police on the scene of the investigation Tuesday in Salina. photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>On Monday, police reported the arrest of Clarence Darnyl Brown, 34, of Salina, in connection with the case.&nbsp;Brown is being held on requested charges of Aiding and abetting first degree murder, Criminal solicitation and Interference with law enforcement.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1614629894498.png" alt="Clarence Brown -photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Clarence Brown -photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Just after 11:30a.m. on February 23, police responded to the 700 block of North Fourth Street in Salina for a report of the sound of gunfire and someone screaming, according to a media release.Upon arrival, Salina Police Officers located a woman identified as Hoffman inside a vehicle at 731 N. 4th Street. She had a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased by Salina Fire Department EMS personnel.Police say Hull should be considered armed and dangerous. They encourage anyone with information on Hull's current location to contact 911 immediately.

Search continues for suspect in Kansas woman's murder

CAUTION- The video of the shooting provided by Wichita Police is very violent.

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting during a domestic violence incident and have identified the wounded suspect as 34-year-old George Phillips.

Just after 9p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a domestic violence call with a weapon in the 900 Block of South Rock Road in Wichita, according to Captain Jason Stephens.

A caller told police dispatch that her 37-year-old female friend was being threatened by an ex-husband identified as George Phillips.&nbsp; The caller said Phillips had gone to his ex-wife's apartment and they got into an argument over property. He also threatened to kill her and her children and the caller believed Phillips was armed with a gun.

As officers were responding, they learned Phillips and his ex-wife had gone to a restaurant in the 1200 Block of South Rock Road.&nbsp; The ex-wife sent her friend a social media report that she was in danger.

When officers arrived, they located the vehicle as described in the 911 call and witnessed a physical altercation between the ex-wife and Phillips. He was restraining her and preventing her from getting out of the vehicle as officers approached, according to Stephens. Officers also observed a firearm in Phillips' hand.

Officers gave multiple commands for Phillips to drop the weapon, but he did not comply.

Believing that Phillips was an immediate threat to his ex-wife, officers fired multiple shots and struck him.&nbsp; Officers then pulled Phillips from the car and administered life-saving measures until he could be transported to a local hospital. He is expected to recover, according to Stephens.

The ex-wife received minor injuries including abrasions on her neck and chest from a Phillips who also was armed with a screw driver. No officers were injured.

The officers involved are now on administrative leave pending further investigation, according to Stephens. The KBI is assisting with the investigation and the case will be presented to the United State's Attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616183895947.png" alt="Phillips has five previous convictions for aggravated robbery and other that include aggravated burglary, aggravated escape from custody, criminal possession of a firearm and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He had been on parole since December." />
 <figcaption>Phillips has five previous convictions for aggravated robbery and other that include aggravated burglary, aggravated escape from custody, criminal possession of a firearm and for drugs, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections. He had been on parole since December.</figcaption>
 </figure>CAUTION- The video of the shooting provided by Wichita Police is very violent.SEDGWICK COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating an officer-involved shooting during a domestic violence incident and have identified the wounded suspect as 34-year-old George Phillips.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WCwz-DuK72Y?start=27" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Just after 9p.m. Thursday, police were dispatched to a domestic violence call with a weapon in the 900 Block of South Rock Road in Wichita, according to Captain Jason Stephens.A caller told police dispatch that her 37-year-old female friend was being threatened by an ex-husband identified as George Phillips.&nbsp; The caller said Phillips had gone to his ex-wife's apartment and they got into an argument over property. He also threatened to kill her and her children and the caller believed Phillips was armed with a gun.As officers were responding, they learned Phillips and his ex-wife had gone to a restaurant in the 1200 Block of South Rock Road.&nbsp; The ex-wife sent her friend a social media report that she was in danger.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616184803913.png" alt="Police security camera image of the firearm recovered at the scene, according to Stephens." />
 <figcaption>Police security camera image of the firearm recovered at the scene, according to Stephens.</figcaption>
 </figure>When officers arrived, they located the vehicle as described in the 911 call and witnessed a physical altercation between the ex-wife and Phillips. He was restraining her and preventing her from getting out of the vehicle as officers approached, according to Stephens. Officers also observed a firearm in Phillips' hand.Officers gave multiple commands for Phillips to drop the weapon, but he did not comply.Believing that Phillips was an immediate threat to his ex-wife, officers fired multiple shots and struck him.&nbsp; Officers then pulled Phillips from the car and administered life-saving measures until he could be transported to a local hospital. He is expected to recover, according to Stephens.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616185191282.png" alt="Officers found this screw driver Phillips used as a weapon in the front passenger seat of the vehicle." />
 <figcaption>Officers found this screw driver Phillips used as a weapon in the front passenger seat of the vehicle.</figcaption>
 </figure>The ex-wife received minor injuries including abrasions on her neck and chest from a Phillips who also was armed with a screw driver. No officers were injured.The officers involved are now on administrative leave pending further investigation, according to Stephens. The KBI is assisting with the investigation and the case will be presented to the United State's Attorney's office.

🎥  Police shoot Kan. man who threatened ex-wife with gun

JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on numerous charges after a traffic stop.

Just after 2a.m. Thursday, sheriff’s deputies stopped a Honda Civic for a traffic infraction that was northbound near 254th and U.S. Highway 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse.

 Further investigation revealed that the pair were allegedly in possession of illegal narcotics. Deputies arrested the driver, Daniel Lee Willits, 44, of Lawrence and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of weapons. 

Deputies also arrested the passenger, Misty Dawn Jane Napier, 24, of Lawrence, and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges for possession of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp, according to Morse.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616162820887.png" alt="Willits photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Willits photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>JACKSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on numerous charges after a traffic stop.Just after 2a.m. Thursday, sheriff’s deputies stopped a Honda Civic for a traffic infraction that was northbound near 254th and U.S. Highway 75, according to Sheriff Tim Morse. Further investigation revealed that the pair were allegedly in possession of illegal narcotics. Deputies arrested the driver, Daniel Lee Willits, 44, of Lawrence and booked him into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges of possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled substance and criminal use of weapons. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616162794518.png" alt="Napier photo Jackson Co." />
 <figcaption>Napier photo Jackson Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Deputies also arrested the passenger, Misty Dawn Jane Napier, 24, of Lawrence, and booked her into the Jackson County Jail on requested charges for possession of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp, according to Morse.

Kan. couple accused of drug possession during traffic stop 

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp; Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that Kansas 2020 individual income tax, fiduciary income tax, and Homestead or Property tax relief refund claim filings are extended to May 17, 2021, bringing our state in line with the Internal Revenue Service tax-filing and payment deadline extension, according to a media release from her office.

Click<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTkuMzczOTM0NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzcmV2ZW51ZS5vcmcvdGF4bm90aWNlcy9ub3RpY2UyMS0wMS5wZGYifQ.3Y16xopNEmScudf_pcuNzi05kp2l9QbQEWw2Q9qtb9E/s/1303160919/br/100408051234-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;here to see Notice 21-01&nbsp;</a>

If a balance due is paid on or before May 17, 2021, penalty and fees will not be imposed. These extensions are outlined and executed through Kansas Department of Revenue Notice 21-01.

“Though COVID-19 cases continue to decline, signaling our return to normalcy, Kansas families are still assessing the full scope of the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Extending the deadline gives needed relief for Kansans to fully account for the pandemic’s impact and complete their state returns accurately.”

No additional forms are required to benefit from the extension. The due dates for Kansas individual estimated tax payments has not changed.

For specific questions about a state tax filing, taxpayers can contact the Kansas Taxpayer Assistance Center at 785-368-8222, Monday through Friday, 8 am-4:45 pm, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOR_TAC@ks.gov" target="_blank">KDOR_TAC@ks.gov</a>.

TOPEKA&nbsp;–&nbsp; Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday that Kansas 2020 individual income tax, fiduciary income tax, and Homestead or Property tax relief refund claim filings are extended to May 17, 2021, bringing our state in line with the Internal Revenue Service tax-filing and payment deadline extension, according to a media release from her office.Click<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTkuMzczOTM0NTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL2tzcmV2ZW51ZS5vcmcvdGF4bm90aWNlcy9ub3RpY2UyMS0wMS5wZGYifQ.3Y16xopNEmScudf_pcuNzi05kp2l9QbQEWw2Q9qtb9E/s/1303160919/br/100408051234-l" target="_blank">&nbsp;here to see Notice 21-01&nbsp;</a>If a balance due is paid on or before May 17, 2021, penalty and fees will not be imposed. These extensions are outlined and executed through Kansas Department of Revenue Notice 21-01.“Though COVID-19 cases continue to decline, signaling our return to normalcy, Kansas families are still assessing the full scope of the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“Extending the deadline gives needed relief for Kansans to fully account for the pandemic’s impact and complete their state returns accurately.”No additional forms are required to benefit from the extension. The due dates for Kansas individual estimated tax payments has not changed.For specific questions about a state tax filing, taxpayers can contact the Kansas Taxpayer Assistance Center at 785-368-8222, Monday through Friday, 8 am-4:45 pm, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:KDOR_TAC@ks.gov" target="_blank">KDOR_TAC@ks.gov</a>.

Kansas extends most 2020 tax filings to May 17

LABETTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Friday in Labette County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Hyundai passenger vehicle driven by Axzivian D. Cummings, 25, Parsons, was southbound in the 9000 Block of Ness Road. 

The driver lost control of the Hyundai while passing another vehicle at a high rate of speed.&nbsp;

The Hyundai entered the east ditch, struck 2 utility poles, rotated counter clockwise and rolled multiple into a field.

Cummings was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

LABETTE COUNTY—One person died in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Friday in Labette County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2007 Hyundai passenger vehicle driven by Axzivian D. Cummings, 25, Parsons, was southbound in the 9000 Block of Ness Road. The driver lost control of the Hyundai while passing another vehicle at a high rate of speed.&nbsp;The Hyundai entered the east ditch, struck 2 utility poles, rotated counter clockwise and rolled multiple into a field.Cummings was pronounced dead at the scene and transported to Frontier Forensics. He was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Kansas man dies after violent rollover crash

BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple drug charges.

Just after 10 a.m. March 18, sheriff's detectives conducted a methamphetamine sting operation involving several persons in Great Bend, according to sheriff Brian Bellendir.

Deputies arrested two suspects near the intersection of 10th and Monroe and a substantial amount of meth and cash were seized. Both were taken into custody without incident and transported to the Barton County Jail.

&nbsp;Jacob Vargas, 25 of Great Bend was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp and an outstanding Barton County District Court warrant. nd Tanner Guyton, age 22 also of Great Bend was booked on on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp. Both are being held in lieu of a $300,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616169804740.jpeg" alt="Vargas photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Vargas photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>BARTON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect on multiple drug charges.Just after 10 a.m. March 18, sheriff's detectives conducted a methamphetamine sting operation involving several persons in Great Bend, according to sheriff Brian Bellendir.Deputies arrested two suspects near the intersection of 10th and Monroe and a substantial amount of meth and cash were seized. Both were taken into custody without incident and transported to the Barton County Jail.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616169817284.jpeg" alt="Guyton" />
 <figcaption>Guyton</figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;Jacob Vargas, 25 of Great Bend was booked on requested charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, no drug tax stamp and an outstanding Barton County District Court warrant. nd Tanner Guyton, age 22 also of Great Bend was booked on on requested charges of distribution of methamphetamine and no drug tax stamp. Both are being held in lieu of a $300,000 bond, according to Bellendir.

Kan. deputies arrest 2 during meth sting operation

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has voted to unlatch a gateway to citizenship for young “Dreamers,” migrant farm workers and immigrants who have fled war or natural disasters, giving Democrats wins in the year’s first votes on an issue that faces an uphill climb in the Senate.

On a near party-line 228-197 vote Thursday, lawmakers approved one bill offering legal status to around 2 million “Dreamers,” brought to the U.S. illegally as children, and hundreds of thousands of migrants admitted for humanitarian reasons from a dozen troubled countries.

They then voted 247-174 for a second measure creating similar protections for 1 million farm workers who have worked in the U.S. illegally. The government estimates they comprise half the nation’s agricultural laborers.

In a statement after the votes, President Joe Biden called the action a “critical first step” toward a more sweeping overhaul he’s proposed. He said he wants to work with Congress toward “building a 21st century immigration system that is grounded in dignity, safety, and fairness, and finally enacts the long term solutions we need to create an orderly and humane immigration system.”

Both bills largely hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-ap-top-news-immigration-coronavirus-pandemic-4dcf287375d1a1563deb737988b84dd4">a wall of opposition from Republicans</a>&nbsp;insistent that any immigration legislation bolster security at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/is-us-mexico-border-in-crisis-explained-aea57dde734f5cccb920e0d5d6111e65">the Mexican border</a>, which waves of migrants have tried breaching in recent weeks. The GOP has accused congressional Democrats of ignoring that problem and Biden of fueling it by erasing former President Donald Trump’s restrictive policies, even though that surge began while Trump was still in office.

While “Dreamers” win wide public support and migrant farm workers are a backbone of the agriculture industry, both House bills face gloomy prospects in the evenly split Senate. That chamber’s 50 Democrats will need at least 10 GOP supporters to break Republican filibusters.

The outlook was even grimmer for Biden’s more ambitious goal of legislation making citizenship possible for all 11 million immigrants in the U.S. illegally, easing visa restrictions, improving border security technology and spending billions in Central America to ease problems that prompt people to leave.

Nine House Republicans joined all Democrats in voting for the “Dreamers” measure, but 30 GOP lawmakers backed the farm workers bill, giving it a more bipartisan hue.

Congress has long deadlocked over immigration, which again seems headed toward becoming political ammunition. Republicans could use it to rally conservative voters in upcoming elections, while Democrats could add it to a stack of House-passed measures languishing in the Senate to build support for abolishing that chamber’s bill-killing filibusters.

Democrats said their measures were aimed not at border security but at immigrants who deserve help.

“They’re so much of our country,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said of “Dreamers,” who like many immigrants have held front-line jobs during the pandemic. “These immigrant communities strengthen, enrich and ennoble our nation, and they must be allowed to stay.”

Neither House measure would directly affect those trying to enter from Mexico. Republicans criticized them anyway for lacking border security provisions and used the debate to lambaste Biden, who’s ridden a wave of popularity since taking office and winning a massive COVID-19 relief package.

“It is a Biden border crisis, and it is spinning out of control,” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.

While the number of migrants caught trying to cross the border from Mexico has been rising since last April, the 100,441 encountered last month was the highest figure since March 2019.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9da3a0c7cb6e20dd5fc441a2bd90658e">Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas&nbsp;</a>has said the number is tracking toward a 20-year high.

In another measure of the problem, around 14,000 children and teens are in Customs and Border Protection custody or Health and Human Services Department shelters while officials find relatives or sponsors to take them, Biden administration officials told reporters.

Democrats were making that problem worse, Republicans said, with bills they said entice more immigrants to sneak into the U.S. and provide amnesty to immigrants who break laws to get here.

“We don’t know who these people are. We don’t know what their intentions are,” Rep. Jody Hice, R-Ga., said of immigrant farm workers who might seek legal status. He added, “It’s frightening, it’s irresponsible, it’s endangering American lives.”

During earlier debate on the “Dreamers” bill, Democrats said Republicans were going too far.

“Sometimes I stand in this chamber, and I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone, listening to a number of my Republican colleagues espouse white supremacist ideology to denigrate our ‘Dreamers,’” said Rep. Mondaire Jones, D-N.Y.

Maine Rep. Jared Golden’s vote against the farm workers measure made him the only Democrat to oppose either bill.

The House approved “Dreamer” and farm worker bills in 2019 by similar partisan margins, and both died in what was a Republican-run Senate. Trump, who as president constricted legal and illegal immigration, would have signed neither.

Biden has suspended work on Trump’s wall along the Mexican border, ended his separation of young children from migrant families and allowed apprehended minors to stay in the U.S. as officials decide if they can legally remain. He has also turned away most single adults and families.

The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year. They’d have to meet education and other requirements. “Dreamers” get their name from never-passed proposals in Congress called the DREAM Act.

To attain legal permanent residence, or a green card, they’d have to obtain a higher education degree, serve in the military or be employed for at least three years. Like others with green cards, they could then apply for citizenship after five years.

The measure would also grant green cards to an estimated 400,000 immigrants with temporary protected status or deferred enforced departure status, which temporarily allow people fleeing extraordinary problems into the U.S.

The other bill would let immigrant farm workers who’ve worked in the country illegally over the past two years get certified agriculture worker status. That would let them, their spouses and children remain in the U.S. for renewable 5 1/2-year periods.

To earn green cards, they’d have to pay a $1,000 fine and work up to an additional eight years, depending on how long they’ve already held farm jobs.

The legislation would cap wage increases, streamline the H-2A visa process for legal immigrant farm workers and phase in a mandatory system for electronically verifying the legal status of agriculture laborers.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616180562006.png" alt="The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year-photo courtesy House Speaker Nancy Pelosi" />
 <figcaption>The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year-photo courtesy House Speaker Nancy Pelosi</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has voted to unlatch a gateway to citizenship for young “Dreamers,” migrant farm workers and immigrants who have fled war or natural disasters, giving Democrats wins in the year’s first votes on an issue that faces an uphill climb in the Senate.On a near party-line 228-197 vote Thursday, lawmakers approved one bill offering legal status to around 2 million “Dreamers,” brought to the U.S. illegally as children, and hundreds of thousands of migrants admitted for humanitarian reasons from a dozen troubled countries.They then voted 247-174 for a second measure creating similar protections for 1 million farm workers who have worked in the U.S. illegally. The government estimates they comprise half the nation’s agricultural laborers.In a statement after the votes, President Joe Biden called the action a “critical first step” toward a more sweeping overhaul he’s proposed. He said he wants to work with Congress toward “building a 21st century immigration system that is grounded in dignity, safety, and fairness, and finally enacts the long term solutions we need to create an orderly and humane immigration system.”Both bills largely hit&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-ap-top-news-immigration-coronavirus-pandemic-4dcf287375d1a1563deb737988b84dd4">a wall of opposition from Republicans</a>&nbsp;insistent that any immigration legislation bolster security at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/is-us-mexico-border-in-crisis-explained-aea57dde734f5cccb920e0d5d6111e65">the Mexican border</a>, which waves of migrants have tried breaching in recent weeks. The GOP has accused congressional Democrats of ignoring that problem and Biden of fueling it by erasing former President Donald Trump’s restrictive policies, even though that surge began while Trump was still in office.While “Dreamers” win wide public support and migrant farm workers are a backbone of the agriculture industry, both House bills face gloomy prospects in the evenly split Senate. That chamber’s 50 Democrats will need at least 10 GOP supporters to break Republican filibusters.The outlook was even grimmer for Biden’s more ambitious goal of legislation making citizenship possible for all 11 million immigrants in the U.S. illegally, easing visa restrictions, improving border security technology and spending billions in Central America to ease problems that prompt people to leave.Nine House Republicans joined all Democrats in voting for the “Dreamers” measure, but 30 GOP lawmakers backed the farm workers bill, giving it a more bipartisan hue.Congress has long deadlocked over immigration, which again seems headed toward becoming political ammunition. Republicans could use it to rally conservative voters in upcoming elections, while Democrats could add it to a stack of House-passed measures languishing in the Senate to build support for abolishing that chamber’s bill-killing filibusters.Democrats said their measures were aimed not at border security but at immigrants who deserve help.“They’re so much of our country,” House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said of “Dreamers,” who like many immigrants have held front-line jobs during the pandemic. “These immigrant communities strengthen, enrich and ennoble our nation, and they must be allowed to stay.”Neither House measure would directly affect those trying to enter from Mexico. Republicans criticized them anyway for lacking border security provisions and used the debate to lambaste Biden, who’s ridden a wave of popularity since taking office and winning a massive COVID-19 relief package.“It is a Biden border crisis, and it is spinning out of control,” said House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif.While the number of migrants caught trying to cross the border from Mexico has been rising since last April, the 100,441 encountered last month was the highest figure since March 2019.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/9da3a0c7cb6e20dd5fc441a2bd90658e">Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas&nbsp;</a>has said the number is tracking toward a 20-year high.In another measure of the problem, around 14,000 children and teens are in Customs and Border Protection custody or Health and Human Services Department shelters while officials find relatives or sponsors to take them, Biden administration officials told reporters.Democrats were making that problem worse, Republicans said, with bills they said entice more immigrants to sneak into the U.S. and provide amnesty to immigrants who break laws to get here.“We don’t know who these people are. We don’t know what their intentions are,” Rep. Jody Hice, R-Ga., said of immigrant farm workers who might seek legal status. He added, “It’s frightening, it’s irresponsible, it’s endangering American lives.”During earlier debate on the “Dreamers” bill, Democrats said Republicans were going too far.“Sometimes I stand in this chamber, and I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone, listening to a number of my Republican colleagues espouse white supremacist ideology to denigrate our ‘Dreamers,’” said Rep. Mondaire Jones, D-N.Y.Maine Rep. Jared Golden’s vote against the farm workers measure made him the only Democrat to oppose either bill.The House approved “Dreamer” and farm worker bills in 2019 by similar partisan margins, and both died in what was a Republican-run Senate. Trump, who as president constricted legal and illegal immigration, would have signed neither.Biden has suspended work on Trump’s wall along the Mexican border, ended his separation of young children from migrant families and allowed apprehended minors to stay in the U.S. as officials decide if they can legally remain. He has also turned away most single adults and families.The “Dreamers” bill would grant conditional legal status for 10 years to many immigrants up to age 18 who were brought into the U.S. illegally before this year. They’d have to meet education and other requirements. “Dreamers” get their name from never-passed proposals in Congress called the DREAM Act.To attain legal permanent residence, or a green card, they’d have to obtain a higher education degree, serve in the military or be employed for at least three years. Like others with green cards, they could then apply for citizenship after five years.The measure would also grant green cards to an estimated 400,000 immigrants with temporary protected status or deferred enforced departure status, which temporarily allow people fleeing extraordinary problems into the U.S.The other bill would let immigrant farm workers who’ve worked in the country illegally over the past two years get certified agriculture worker status. That would let them, their spouses and children remain in the U.S. for renewable 5 1/2-year periods.To earn green cards, they’d have to pay a $1,000 fine and work up to an additional eight years, depending on how long they’ve already held farm jobs.The legislation would cap wage increases, streamline the H-2A visa process for legal immigrant farm workers and phase in a mandatory system for electronically verifying the legal status of agriculture laborers.___

House OKs legal status for farm workers, 'Dreamers'

KANSAS CITY (AP) — The regional body that represents the Presbyterian Church is joining other civil rights organizations in calling for the dismissal of Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith.

The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250031104.html" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Heartland Presbytery said in a letter Thursday that the church wants the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners to hire a new chief who would protect residents equally and discipline officers who “act lawlessly, unethically and without proper respect, especially for Black and Brown people.”

Capt. David Jackson, a spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department, said the chief has no plans to resign.

The letter from the council cited Smith’s “total lack of a working relationship” with Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who has said the department has refused to issue probable cause statements in use-of-force cases.

Representing 81 congregations and 173 ministers in Missouri and Kansas, the council commended some of Smith’s efforts, such as the deployment of body cameras. But it said his “lack of a working relationship” with the Black community was problematic.

Civil rights leaders have wanted Smith to resign or be fired for years, and the calls gained momentum after social justice demonstrations in Kansas City last summer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1606271500828.png" alt="KC Police Chief Rick Smith" />
 <figcaption>KC Police Chief Rick Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — The regional body that represents the Presbyterian Church is joining other civil rights organizations in calling for the dismissal of Kansas City Police Chief Rick Smith.The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/crime/article250031104.html" target="_blank">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Heartland Presbytery said in a letter Thursday that the church wants the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners to hire a new chief who would protect residents equally and discipline officers who “act lawlessly, unethically and without proper respect, especially for Black and Brown people.”Capt. David Jackson, a spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department, said the chief has no plans to resign.The letter from the council cited Smith’s “total lack of a working relationship” with Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, who has said the department has refused to issue probable cause statements in use-of-force cases.Representing 81 congregations and 173 ministers in Missouri and Kansas, the council commended some of Smith’s efforts, such as the deployment of body cameras. But it said his “lack of a working relationship” with the Black community was problematic.Civil rights leaders have wanted Smith to resign or be fired for years, and the calls gained momentum after social justice demonstrations in Kansas City last summer.

Church council calls for resignation of Kansas City police chief

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 606 to a total of 299,510, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;

Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4842, an increase of 5.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 606 to a total of 299,510, the state health department reported Friday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 4842, an increase of 5.<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616173399995.png" alt="Friday March 19, 2021 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Friday March 19, 2021 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>