SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal weekend shooting and have arrested a 16-year-old boy.

Just before 10p.m. on Saturday, police responded to a burglary in progress call at a home in the 2600 block of North Piatt inW Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp;

 Upon arrival, officers located a 16-year-old victim who had been shot.&nbsp; He was taken to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

While investigating the scene, a 16-year-old male suspect and a 20-year-old male suspect arrived at an area hospital with gunshot wounds.&nbsp; 

The 16-year-old was treated, released, and booked into jail. The 20-year-old male remains hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, according to Davidson.

The investigation revealed the two suspects and victim are known to each other.&nbsp; The suspects arrived at the victim’s home, a disturbance ensued, and multiple shots were fired that struck all three individuals.&nbsp; Investigators have recovered two handguns during the investigation.

This was not a random incident, according to Davidson. He did not released names of the victim or the suspects.

Police will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

SEDGWICK COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities are investigating a fatal weekend shooting and have arrested a 16-year-old boy.Just before 10p.m. on Saturday, police responded to a burglary in progress call at a home in the 2600 block of North Piatt inW Wichita, according to Officer Charley Davidson.&nbsp; Upon arrival, officers located a 16-year-old victim who had been shot.&nbsp; He was taken to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.While investigating the scene, a 16-year-old male suspect and a 20-year-old male suspect arrived at an area hospital with gunshot wounds.&nbsp; The 16-year-old was treated, released, and booked into jail. The 20-year-old male remains hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries, according to Davidson.The investigation revealed the two suspects and victim are known to each other.&nbsp; The suspects arrived at the victim’s home, a disturbance ensued, and multiple shots were fired that struck all three individuals.&nbsp; Investigators have recovered two handguns during the investigation.This was not a random incident, according to Davidson. He did not released names of the victim or the suspects.Police will present the case to the Sedgwick County District Attorney’s Office.

1  jailed, 1 hospitalized after gunfight that killed Kan. boy

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration on Monday blamed China for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-politics-national-security-hacking-email-4813d462835dcf54cd1397adb94d468b">a hack of Microsoft Exchange email server software</a>&nbsp;that compromised tens of thousands of computers around the world earlier this year.

The administration and allied nations also disclosed a broad range of other cyberthreats from Beijing, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-joe-biden-europe-business-government-and-politics-cd21d84b5fd070421f871610b40e91d0">ransomware attacks</a>&nbsp;from government-affiliated hackers that have targeted companies with demands for millions of dollars. China’s Ministry of State Security has been using criminal contract hackers, who have engaged in cyber extortion schemes and theft for their own profit, according to a senior administration official. That official briefed reporters about the investigation on the condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, the Justice Department on Monday announced charges against four Chinese nationals who prosecutors said were working with the Ministry of State Security in a hacking campaign that targeted dozens of computer systems, including companies, universities and government entities.

The announcements highlighted the ongoing cyberthreat posed by Chinese government hackers even as the administration has been consumed with trying to curb&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-europe-russia-hacking-business-b4ee1835a2368aa27cb4321a47bbbcf6">ransomware attacks from Russia-based syndicates</a>&nbsp;that have targeted critical infrastructure, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ga-state-wire-business-c6ef4314af911fb58b8445d2b121e82d">a massive fuel pipeline</a>. Even though the finger-pointing was not accompanied by any sanctions of Beijing, a senior administration official who disclosed the actions to reporters said that the U.S. has confronted senior Chinese officials and that the White House regards the multination public shaming as sending an importance message.

That hackers affiliated with the Ministry of State Security carried out a ransomware attack was surprising and concerning to the U.S. government, the senior administration official said. But the attack, in which an unidentified American company received a high-dollar ransom demand, also gave U.S. officials new insight into what the official said was “the kind of aggressive behavior that we’re seeing coming out of China.”

The European Union and Britain also pointed the finger at China. The EU said malicious cyber activities with “significant effects” that targeted government institutions, political organizations and key industries in the bloc’s 27 member states could be linked to Chinese hacking groups.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/news/uk-allies-hold-chinese-state-responsible-for-pervasive-pattern-of-hacking" target="_blank">The U.K.’s National Cyber Security Centre</a>&nbsp;said the groups targeted maritime industries and naval defense contractors in the U.S. and Europe and the Finnish parliament.

<a href="https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2021/07/19/declaration-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-eu-urging-china-to-take-action-against-malicious-cyber-activities-undertaken-from-its-territory/?utm_source=dsms-auto&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Declaration+by+the+High+Representative+on+behalf+of+the+EU%3a+urging+China+to+take+action+against+malicious+cyber+activities+undertaken+from+its+territory" target="_blank">In a statement</a>, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the hacking was “conducted from the territory of China for the purpose of intellectual property theft and espionage.”

The Microsoft Exchange cyberattack “by Chinese state-backed groups was a reckless but familiar pattern of behaviour,” U.K. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said.

The majority of the most damaging and high-profile recent ransomware attacks have involved Russian criminal gangs. Though the U.S. has sometimes seen connections between Russian intelligence agencies and individual hackers, the use of criminal contract hackers by the Chinese government “to conduct unsanctioned cyber operations globally is distinct,” the official said.

The Microsoft Exchange hack was first identified in January and was rapidly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-email-89a61f711e14e51dc9f5b74ffe9c2ebf">attributed to Chinese cyber spies</a>&nbsp;by private sector groups. An administration official said the government’s attribution to hackers affiliated with China’s Ministry of State Security took until now in part because of the discovery of the ransomware and for-profit hacking operations and because the administration wanted to pair the announcement with guidance for businesses about tactics that the Chinese have been using.

An advisory Monday from the FBI, the National Security Agency and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency laid out specific techniques and ways that government agencies and businesses can protect themselves.

The White House also wanted to line up an international coalition of allies to call out China, according to the official, who said it was the first time NATO had condemned Beijing’s hacking operations.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, asked about the Microsoft Exchange hack, has previously said that China “firmly opposes and combats cyber attacks and cyber theft in all forms” and cautioned that attribution of cyberattacks should be based on evidence and not “groundless accusations.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration on Monday blamed China for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-politics-national-security-hacking-email-4813d462835dcf54cd1397adb94d468b">a hack of Microsoft Exchange email server software</a>&nbsp;that compromised tens of thousands of computers around the world earlier this year.The administration and allied nations also disclosed a broad range of other cyberthreats from Beijing, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/technology-joe-biden-europe-business-government-and-politics-cd21d84b5fd070421f871610b40e91d0">ransomware attacks</a>&nbsp;from government-affiliated hackers that have targeted companies with demands for millions of dollars. China’s Ministry of State Security has been using criminal contract hackers, who have engaged in cyber extortion schemes and theft for their own profit, according to a senior administration official. That official briefed reporters about the investigation on the condition of anonymity.Meanwhile, the Justice Department on Monday announced charges against four Chinese nationals who prosecutors said were working with the Ministry of State Security in a hacking campaign that targeted dozens of computer systems, including companies, universities and government entities.The announcements highlighted the ongoing cyberthreat posed by Chinese government hackers even as the administration has been consumed with trying to curb&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-europe-russia-hacking-business-b4ee1835a2368aa27cb4321a47bbbcf6">ransomware attacks from Russia-based syndicates</a>&nbsp;that have targeted critical infrastructure, including&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ga-state-wire-business-c6ef4314af911fb58b8445d2b121e82d">a massive fuel pipeline</a>. Even though the finger-pointing was not accompanied by any sanctions of Beijing, a senior administration official who disclosed the actions to reporters said that the U.S. has confronted senior Chinese officials and that the White House regards the multination public shaming as sending an importance message.That hackers affiliated with the Ministry of State Security carried out a ransomware attack was surprising and concerning to the U.S. government, the senior administration official said. But the attack, in which an unidentified American company received a high-dollar ransom demand, also gave U.S. officials new insight into what the official said was “the kind of aggressive behavior that we’re seeing coming out of China.”The European Union and Britain also pointed the finger at China. The EU said malicious cyber activities with “significant effects” that targeted government institutions, political organizations and key industries in the bloc’s 27 member states could be linked to Chinese hacking groups.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/news/uk-allies-hold-chinese-state-responsible-for-pervasive-pattern-of-hacking" target="_blank">The U.K.’s National Cyber Security Centre</a>&nbsp;said the groups targeted maritime industries and naval defense contractors in the U.S. and Europe and the Finnish parliament.<a href="https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2021/07/19/declaration-by-the-high-representative-on-behalf-of-the-eu-urging-china-to-take-action-against-malicious-cyber-activities-undertaken-from-its-territory/?utm_source=dsms-auto&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Declaration+by+the+High+Representative+on+behalf+of+the+EU%3a+urging+China+to+take+action+against+malicious+cyber+activities+undertaken+from+its+territory" target="_blank">In a statement</a>, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the hacking was “conducted from the territory of China for the purpose of intellectual property theft and espionage.”The Microsoft Exchange cyberattack “by Chinese state-backed groups was a reckless but familiar pattern of behaviour,” U.K. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said.The majority of the most damaging and high-profile recent ransomware attacks have involved Russian criminal gangs. Though the U.S. has sometimes seen connections between Russian intelligence agencies and individual hackers, the use of criminal contract hackers by the Chinese government “to conduct unsanctioned cyber operations globally is distinct,” the official said.The Microsoft Exchange hack was first identified in January and was rapidly&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/china-email-89a61f711e14e51dc9f5b74ffe9c2ebf">attributed to Chinese cyber spies</a>&nbsp;by private sector groups. An administration official said the government’s attribution to hackers affiliated with China’s Ministry of State Security took until now in part because of the discovery of the ransomware and for-profit hacking operations and because the administration wanted to pair the announcement with guidance for businesses about tactics that the Chinese have been using.An advisory Monday from the FBI, the National Security Agency and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency laid out specific techniques and ways that government agencies and businesses can protect themselves.The White House also wanted to line up an international coalition of allies to call out China, according to the official, who said it was the first time NATO had condemned Beijing’s hacking operations.A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, asked about the Microsoft Exchange hack, has previously said that China “firmly opposes and combats cyber attacks and cyber theft in all forms” and cautioned that attribution of cyberattacks should be based on evidence and not “groundless accusations.”___

US blames China for Microsoft Exchange email hack

TOPEKA —&nbsp; The Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) has appointed 25 members to the committee that will assist and advise the Board in the search for the next president of Kansas State University (KSU). The search committee includes representation from university students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Manhattan community.

Last month the Board named Carl Ice as chair of the search committee. Ice is a K-State alumnus and retired CEO of BNSF Railway, and was recently appointed to the Board of Regents by Gov. Laura Kelly.

Mark Hutton is vice chair of the committee, He founded Hutton Construction in 1992. Other committee members include retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Glenn Campbell, K-State General Counsel Shari Crittendon, KSU Student Michael Dowd, President and CEO for the Board of Regents Blake Flanders, Distinguished Professor of Music Wayne Goins, English Professor Tanya Gonzalez, Marketing Professor Kevin Gwinner, CEO / general counsel for Kansas Farm Bureau Terry Holdren, KSU student Maria Izquierdo, CEO of PAI, Nabeeha Kazi Hutchins, Chairman of the Board of Meredith Corporation Steve Lacy, former K-State and pro football player and a partner at Fulcrum Global Capital Kevin Lockett, Chairman of Steel and Pipe Supply Dennis Mullin, President of the University Support Staff Senate Mary Oborny, Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology and Anatomy &amp; Physiology David C. Poole, Manhattan City Commissioner Usha Reddi, Management Trainee on the College Recruiting Team at BNSF Railway Darrell Reese Jr., University Distinguished Professor Charles Rice, former U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, KSU Vice President for Research David Rosowsky, the chief academic and administrative officer of K-State Polytechnic Dr. Alysia Starkey, KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor, Vice Chair of the KSU Foundation Board of Directors Mary Vanier and an Associate Professor in the Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Agricultural &amp; Biological Engineers Dr. Lisa Wilken.

TOPEKA —&nbsp; The Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) has appointed 25 members to the committee that will assist and advise the Board in the search for the next president of Kansas State University (KSU). The search committee includes representation from university students, faculty, staff, alumni and the Manhattan community.Last month the Board named Carl Ice as chair of the search committee. Ice is a K-State alumnus and retired CEO of BNSF Railway, and was recently appointed to the Board of Regents by Gov. Laura Kelly.Mark Hutton is vice chair of the committee, He founded Hutton Construction in 1992. Other committee members include retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Glenn Campbell, K-State General Counsel Shari Crittendon, KSU Student Michael Dowd, President and CEO for the Board of Regents Blake Flanders, Distinguished Professor of Music Wayne Goins, English Professor Tanya Gonzalez, Marketing Professor Kevin Gwinner, CEO / general counsel for Kansas Farm Bureau Terry Holdren, KSU student Maria Izquierdo, CEO of PAI, Nabeeha Kazi Hutchins, Chairman of the Board of Meredith Corporation Steve Lacy, former K-State and pro football player and a partner at Fulcrum Global Capital Kevin Lockett, Chairman of Steel and Pipe Supply Dennis Mullin, President of the University Support Staff Senate Mary Oborny, Distinguished Professor of Kinesiology and Anatomy &amp; Physiology David C. Poole, Manhattan City Commissioner Usha Reddi, Management Trainee on the College Recruiting Team at BNSF Railway Darrell Reese Jr., University Distinguished Professor Charles Rice, former U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, KSU Vice President for Research David Rosowsky, the chief academic and administrative officer of K-State Polytechnic Dr. Alysia Starkey, KSU Athletic Director Gene Taylor, Vice Chair of the KSU Foundation Board of Directors Mary Vanier and an Associate Professor in the Carl and Melinda Helwig Department of Agricultural &amp; Biological Engineers Dr. Lisa Wilken.

Regents name search committee for next K-State president

TOKYO (AP) — An alternate on the United States women’s gymnastics team has tested positive for COVID-19 in a training camp in Japan, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee said Monday.

The USOPC did not say if Olympic champion Simone Biles or any of the other favorites to win the team gold were isolated because of contact tracing. The positive test was the latest in growing line of daily reports of athletes and others testing positive at the pandemic-delayed Olympics. The unnamed gymnast was the first American.

“The health and safety of our athletes, coaches and staff is our top priority. We can confirm that an alternate on the women’s artistic gymnastics team tested positive for COVID-19,” the USOPC statement said. “In alignment with local rules and protocols, the athlete has been transferred to a hotel to quarantine. Out of respect for the individual’s privacy, we cannot provide more information at this time.”

The four alternates — Leanne Wong, Kayla DiCello, Emma Malabuyo and Kara Eaker — traveled to Japan with the six-woman U.S. delegation of Biles, Jordan Chiles, Grace McCallum, Sunisa Lee, MyKayla Skinner and Jade Carey.

The alternates are rooming and training with the alternates. While they have been traveling to training along with the actual team, they have been split into groups, with the team working on one apparatus while the alternates work on another.

The U.S. women’s team dealt with what USA Gymnastics called a “false positive” over the weekend for an unidentified athlete but the ensuing test results for the athlete were negative, according to the organization.

Biles, the defending world champion, and the rest of the regular team have been vaccinated.

The Games are set to open on Friday with a state of emergency in force in Tokyo, which means almost all venues will be without any fans with new cases rising in the capital. The women’s gymnastic team begins competing on Sunday.

The U.S. officials said the test took place when the team was training just outside Tokyo in Inzai City. Team members arrived last week for the camp to great fanfare at Narita airport.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government on Monday reported 727 new cases in the capital. It is the 30th straight day that cases were higher than the previous week. The cases last Monday were 502.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585573932484.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>TOKYO (AP) — An alternate on the United States women’s gymnastics team has tested positive for COVID-19 in a training camp in Japan, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee said Monday.The USOPC did not say if Olympic champion Simone Biles or any of the other favorites to win the team gold were isolated because of contact tracing. The positive test was the latest in growing line of daily reports of athletes and others testing positive at the pandemic-delayed Olympics. The unnamed gymnast was the first American.“The health and safety of our athletes, coaches and staff is our top priority. We can confirm that an alternate on the women’s artistic gymnastics team tested positive for COVID-19,” the USOPC statement said. “In alignment with local rules and protocols, the athlete has been transferred to a hotel to quarantine. Out of respect for the individual’s privacy, we cannot provide more information at this time.”The four alternates — Leanne Wong, Kayla DiCello, Emma Malabuyo and Kara Eaker — traveled to Japan with the six-woman U.S. delegation of Biles, Jordan Chiles, Grace McCallum, Sunisa Lee, MyKayla Skinner and Jade Carey.The alternates are rooming and training with the alternates. While they have been traveling to training along with the actual team, they have been split into groups, with the team working on one apparatus while the alternates work on another.The U.S. women’s team dealt with what USA Gymnastics called a “false positive” over the weekend for an unidentified athlete but the ensuing test results for the athlete were negative, according to the organization.Biles, the defending world champion, and the rest of the regular team have been vaccinated.The Games are set to open on Friday with a state of emergency in force in Tokyo, which means almost all venues will be without any fans with new cases rising in the capital. The women’s gymnastic team begins competing on Sunday.The U.S. officials said the test took place when the team was training just outside Tokyo in Inzai City. Team members arrived last week for the camp to great fanfare at Narita airport.The Tokyo Metropolitan Government on Monday reported 727 new cases in the capital. It is the 30th straight day that cases were higher than the previous week. The cases last Monday were 502.___

American gymnastics alternate tests positive at Olympics

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court has upheld the convictions of a woman who participated in the deaths of three people who were strangled or smothered with trash bags in her Topeka home. 

In a unanimous opinion released Friday, the high court also affirmed Kora Liles’ sentences on 11 charges,  including three counts of felony murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated kidnapping. 

 Liles was one of five people charged in the March 2017 deaths of 19-year-old Matthew Leavitt, 38-year-old Nicole Fisher and 20-year-old Luke Davis in a Topeka basement. Police said the violence stemmed from an unproven rape allegation against Leavitt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626470180677.png" alt="Liles photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Liles photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Supreme Court has upheld the convictions of a woman who participated in the deaths of three people who were strangled or smothered with trash bags in her Topeka home. In a unanimous opinion released Friday, the high court also affirmed Kora Liles’ sentences on 11 charges, including three counts of felony murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated kidnapping. Liles was one of five people charged in the March 2017 deaths of 19-year-old Matthew Leavitt, 38-year-old Nicole Fisher and 20-year-old Luke Davis in a Topeka basement. Police said the violence stemmed from an unproven rape allegation against Leavitt.

Court upholds convictions in Kan. trash bag triple murder

WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. surgeon general said Sunday that he's concerned about what lies ahead with cases of COVID-19 increasing in every state, millions still unvaccinated and a highly contagious virus variant spreading rapidly.

Noting that nearly all coronavirus deaths now are among the tens of millions of people who haven't received shots, despite widespread vaccine availability, Dr. Vivek Murthy painted an unsettling picture of what the future could hold.

“I am worried about what is to come because we are seeing increasing cases among the unvaccinated in particular. And while, if you are vaccinated, you are very well protected against hospitalization and death, unfortunately that is not true if you are not vaccinated," Murthy said on CNN’s “State of the Union.”

U.S. cases of COVID-19 last week increased by 17,000 nationwide over a 14-day period for the first time since late fall, and an increase in death historically follows a spike in illness. Much of the worsening problem is being driven by the delta variant first identified in India, that has since hit the United Kingdom and other countries, said Murthy.

While U.S. case numbers and hospitalizations are still far below levels from the worst of the pandemic early this year, Murthy said the worsening situation shows the need to convince more people to get inoculations.

“It is our fastest, most effective way out of this pandemic,” he said.

About 186 million Americans have received at least one shot, but another 90 million eligible Americans haven't. Officials are trying to overcome a refusal among some — particularly conservative, rural white people — to get vaccinated, but it's unclear how to do that. So, for the meantime at least, some places have reverted to health precautions that had been cast aside.

In Las Vegas, some resorts and casinos are again requiring employees to wear masks in response to a recommendation issued by health officials amid rising COVID-19 case rates in Nevada; it ranks fifth among U.S. states for the most new cases per capita over the last two weeks.

Los Angeles County late Saturday reinstated rules&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-los-angeles-coronavirus-pandemic-2a84d86250b0dcd3befa6b4bd266f5b6">requiring everyone to wear masks inside public buildings</a>. Around San Francisco's Bay Area, which has some of the highest vaccination rates in California, health officials have recommended that everyone again wear masks inside public buildings, regardless of their vaccination status.

But in conservative Alabama, where COVID-19 hospitalizations have more than doubled in a month and only about a third of the population is fully vaccinated, officials have refused to reinstitute statewide health rules or use gimmicks such as lotteries to boost immunizations.

“I think the best thing for us to do is just encourage everyone to use their common sense and practice personal responsibility and make themselves and their families safe,” Gov. Kay Ivey told reporters last week.

Cases also are on the rise in Springfield, Missouri, where Mayor Ken McClure told CBS-TV's “Face the Nation” that false information about the pandemic was hampering the fight to get people vaccinated.

“I think we are seeing a lot spread through social media as people are talking about fears which they have, health related fears, what it might do to them later on in their lives, what might be contained in the vaccinations,” he said.

Murthy, the surgeon general, said “not nearly enough” progress was being made in the fight against misinformation spread through social media about COVID-19 and vaccines. Individuals, not just platforms such as Facebook, need to combat the problem, he said.

"Each of us has a decision that we make every time we post something on social media, and I’m asking people to pause and to see, is a source accurate? Is it coming from a scientifically credible authority? And if it’s not, or if you’re not sure, don’t share,” he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626690532293.png" alt="Murthy said the worsening situation shows the need to convince more people to get inoculations.-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Murthy said the worsening situation shows the need to convince more people to get inoculations.-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —The U.S. surgeon general said Sunday that he's concerned about what lies ahead with cases of COVID-19 increasing in every state, millions still unvaccinated and a highly contagious virus variant spreading rapidly.Noting that nearly all coronavirus deaths now are among the tens of millions of people who haven't received shots, despite widespread vaccine availability, Dr. Vivek Murthy painted an unsettling picture of what the future could hold.“I am worried about what is to come because we are seeing increasing cases among the unvaccinated in particular. And while, if you are vaccinated, you are very well protected against hospitalization and death, unfortunately that is not true if you are not vaccinated," Murthy said on CNN’s “State of the Union.”U.S. cases of COVID-19 last week increased by 17,000 nationwide over a 14-day period for the first time since late fall, and an increase in death historically follows a spike in illness. Much of the worsening problem is being driven by the delta variant first identified in India, that has since hit the United Kingdom and other countries, said Murthy.While U.S. case numbers and hospitalizations are still far below levels from the worst of the pandemic early this year, Murthy said the worsening situation shows the need to convince more people to get inoculations.“It is our fastest, most effective way out of this pandemic,” he said.About 186 million Americans have received at least one shot, but another 90 million eligible Americans haven't. Officials are trying to overcome a refusal among some — particularly conservative, rural white people — to get vaccinated, but it's unclear how to do that. So, for the meantime at least, some places have reverted to health precautions that had been cast aside.In Las Vegas, some resorts and casinos are again requiring employees to wear masks in response to a recommendation issued by health officials amid rising COVID-19 case rates in Nevada; it ranks fifth among U.S. states for the most new cases per capita over the last two weeks.Los Angeles County late Saturday reinstated rules&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-government-and-politics-los-angeles-coronavirus-pandemic-2a84d86250b0dcd3befa6b4bd266f5b6">requiring everyone to wear masks inside public buildings</a>. Around San Francisco's Bay Area, which has some of the highest vaccination rates in California, health officials have recommended that everyone again wear masks inside public buildings, regardless of their vaccination status.But in conservative Alabama, where COVID-19 hospitalizations have more than doubled in a month and only about a third of the population is fully vaccinated, officials have refused to reinstitute statewide health rules or use gimmicks such as lotteries to boost immunizations.“I think the best thing for us to do is just encourage everyone to use their common sense and practice personal responsibility and make themselves and their families safe,” Gov. Kay Ivey told reporters last week.Cases also are on the rise in Springfield, Missouri, where Mayor Ken McClure told CBS-TV's “Face the Nation” that false information about the pandemic was hampering the fight to get people vaccinated.“I think we are seeing a lot spread through social media as people are talking about fears which they have, health related fears, what it might do to them later on in their lives, what might be contained in the vaccinations,” he said.Murthy, the surgeon general, said “not nearly enough” progress was being made in the fight against misinformation spread through social media about COVID-19 and vaccines. Individuals, not just platforms such as Facebook, need to combat the problem, he said."Each of us has a decision that we make every time we post something on social media, and I’m asking people to pause and to see, is a source accurate? Is it coming from a scientifically credible authority? And if it’s not, or if you’re not sure, don’t share,” he said.

Surgeon General worried as COVID cases increase across U.S

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect after police executed a search warrant at a Kansas home.

On Friday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1600 Block of SW Central Park Avenue related to an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.

While conducting the search warrant, the officers located methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

As a result, officers arrested Shannon Hardesty, 45 years of age, and Kelcey Lowry, 28 years of age, both of Topeka. They were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Hardesty was jailed on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine with the intent of distribution, Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent of distribution and Aggravated endangering a child

Kelcey Lowry was booked on a requested charge of Aggravated endangering a child.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626691585020.png" alt="Hardesty -photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Hardesty -photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspect after police executed a search warrant at a Kansas home.On Friday, members of the Topeka Police Department Narcotics Unit and the Shawnee County Drug Task Force served a search warrant in the 1600 Block of SW Central Park Avenue related to an ongoing investigation, according to Lt. Jerry Monasmith.While conducting the search warrant, the officers located methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626691605156.png" alt="Lowry-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Lowry-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a result, officers arrested Shannon Hardesty, 45 years of age, and Kelcey Lowry, 28 years of age, both of Topeka. They were transported to the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Hardesty was jailed on requested charges of Possession of methamphetamine with the intent of distribution, Possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent of distribution and Aggravated endangering a childKelcey Lowry was booked on a requested charge of Aggravated endangering a child.

2 Kansas women jailed after drugs found near children

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A woman whose family went on an Iowa amusement ride shortly before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/adventureland-raging-river-accident-273dbf870b1cbab93f92ea1df8bff413">an accident</a>&nbsp;that killed an 11-year-old boy and critically injured his brother said Friday her boat also had problems floating properly and felt unsafe.

Amber Estrada, 31, said the boat carrying her and her husband, their three children and nephew at times struck and dragged along the bottom of the manmade river on the Raging River ride at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-iowa-accidents-d69eb5812a5c1938d5e3666ff3a86e36">Adventureland Park</a>&nbsp;in Altoona on July 3.

She said the boat made a grinding sound that she could feel under her feet. Estrada, of Eagle Grove, Iowa, said her husband told her that he felt scared and wanted to get off the ride.

The couple made the decision to lean forward in their seats with their children because they were worried it would tip over, she said. They were able to reach the end of the ride safely, but “unfortunately that did happen to another family,” she said.

A boat carrying six members of the Jaramillo family of Marion, Iowa capsized minutes later, trapping 11-year-old Michael Jaramillo and his now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-travel-lifestyle-accidents-aeffcb63bef90c63920b207c1bffa227">16-year-old brother David</a>&nbsp;in their seatbelts underneath the water for several minutes. Michael died of his injuries the next day.

A funeral service for the boy, who was going into sixth grade, was scheduled for Saturday in Des Moines. His family remembered him in an obituary as a “fun, loving child,” who loved playing with his older brothers, cousins and friends and liked to play the violin and read the bible.

David remains in critical condition at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines, unable to talk, family attorney Ryan Best said. Their father, also David Jaramillo, underwent a four-hour surgery Tuesday to repair broken bones in his shoulder, he said.

Iowa inspectors are looking into what caused the boat to flip, and the ride has been shut down until the investigation is complete and hazards are corrected.

A state report dated July 4 said that the Jaramillos’ boat “immediately began taking on water as the ride began” and touched the bottom of the trough multiple times. Inspectors said they saw scrape marks on the trough’s concrete bottom and gouges in wooden poles along the ride from boat contact.

The boat eventually overturned during the ride’s final curve, according to the report, first reported by The Des Moines Register.

Estrada said she saw the Jaramillos in line a few places behind her and witnessed emergency responders rushing to the scene after her family got off. She said she did not report her family’s negative experience to Adventureland staff because her autistic son was upset about a stolen toy, and they left.

Estrada said she has been on the ride many times and never experienced such problems. She said she later reached out to the Jaramillo family through their pastor, and shared her experience with their lawyer Thursday.

“My heart breaks for them,” she said. “I think something needs to be done about this ride.”

Best said Estrada’s account was consistent with what happened to the Jaramillos and suggests “the boats were not properly floating on the day of the incident.”

“There was a broader problem,” he said.

Adventureland attorney Guy Cook said Friday that the park was unaware of Estrada’s claims and that the investigation to date has “found no such narrative.”

“The senior operators have no reports of any difficulties with the boats from guests prior to the tragic accident,” he said. “Nevertheless, all information and reports will be considered as the investigation continues.”

The state report notes that the park’s maintenance staff took the Jaramillos’ boat and others out of service earlier that day “due to rafts on boats deflating.” Workers replaced the deflated bladders in the rafts before putting the boats back into service.

Cook said each boat’s raft has eight bladders, and they are monitored and routinely taken out so they can be refilled with air or replaced if they get deflated.

“There’s nothing unusual about that,” he said.

He noted that the Jaramillos’ boat was found after the accident with only one of its bladders deflated and an “exterior indentation in the outer rubber tube.” He said the boats, which weigh 1,700 pounds and have a heavy metal plate on the bottom for ballast, would not flip due to a single deflated bladder and it’s not clear when its deflation occurred.

“If you stay in your seat and the weight is evenly distributed regardless of whether a bladder is fully inflated, it’s very difficult to see how a 1,700-pound boat flips over,” he said. “That’s why it would appear there was some other factor at work on this day.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625693882938.png" alt="First responders at the park on the night of the accident -Photo courtesy KCCI" />
 <figcaption>First responders at the park on the night of the accident -Photo courtesy KCCI</figcaption>
 </figure>IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — A woman whose family went on an Iowa amusement ride shortly before&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/adventureland-raging-river-accident-273dbf870b1cbab93f92ea1df8bff413">an accident</a>&nbsp;that killed an 11-year-old boy and critically injured his brother said Friday her boat also had problems floating properly and felt unsafe.Amber Estrada, 31, said the boat carrying her and her husband, their three children and nephew at times struck and dragged along the bottom of the manmade river on the Raging River ride at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/health-coronavirus-pandemic-iowa-accidents-d69eb5812a5c1938d5e3666ff3a86e36">Adventureland Park</a>&nbsp;in Altoona on July 3.She said the boat made a grinding sound that she could feel under her feet. Estrada, of Eagle Grove, Iowa, said her husband told her that he felt scared and wanted to get off the ride.The couple made the decision to lean forward in their seats with their children because they were worried it would tip over, she said. They were able to reach the end of the ride safely, but “unfortunately that did happen to another family,” she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625696833028.png" alt="David, Michael and a cousin at the park-photo GoFundMe" />
 <figcaption>David, Michael and a cousin at the park-photo GoFundMe</figcaption>
 </figure>A boat carrying six members of the Jaramillo family of Marion, Iowa capsized minutes later, trapping 11-year-old Michael Jaramillo and his now&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/ia-state-wire-iowa-travel-lifestyle-accidents-aeffcb63bef90c63920b207c1bffa227">16-year-old brother David</a>&nbsp;in their seatbelts underneath the water for several minutes. Michael died of his injuries the next day.A funeral service for the boy, who was going into sixth grade, was scheduled for Saturday in Des Moines. His family remembered him in an obituary as a “fun, loving child,” who loved playing with his older brothers, cousins and friends and liked to play the violin and read the bible.David remains in critical condition at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines, unable to talk, family attorney Ryan Best said. Their father, also David Jaramillo, underwent a four-hour surgery Tuesday to repair broken bones in his shoulder, he said.Iowa inspectors are looking into what caused the boat to flip, and the ride has been shut down until the investigation is complete and hazards are corrected.A state report dated July 4 said that the Jaramillos’ boat “immediately began taking on water as the ride began” and touched the bottom of the trough multiple times. Inspectors said they saw scrape marks on the trough’s concrete bottom and gouges in wooden poles along the ride from boat contact.The boat eventually overturned during the ride’s final curve, according to the report, first reported by The Des Moines Register.Estrada said she saw the Jaramillos in line a few places behind her and witnessed emergency responders rushing to the scene after her family got off. She said she did not report her family’s negative experience to Adventureland staff because her autistic son was upset about a stolen toy, and they left.Estrada said she has been on the ride many times and never experienced such problems. She said she later reached out to the Jaramillo family through their pastor, and shared her experience with their lawyer Thursday.“My heart breaks for them,” she said. “I think something needs to be done about this ride.”Best said Estrada’s account was consistent with what happened to the Jaramillos and suggests “the boats were not properly floating on the day of the incident.”“There was a broader problem,” he said.Adventureland attorney Guy Cook said Friday that the park was unaware of Estrada’s claims and that the investigation to date has “found no such narrative.”“The senior operators have no reports of any difficulties with the boats from guests prior to the tragic accident,” he said. “Nevertheless, all information and reports will be considered as the investigation continues.”The state report notes that the park’s maintenance staff took the Jaramillos’ boat and others out of service earlier that day “due to rafts on boats deflating.” Workers replaced the deflated bladders in the rafts before putting the boats back into service.Cook said each boat’s raft has eight bladders, and they are monitored and routinely taken out so they can be refilled with air or replaced if they get deflated.“There’s nothing unusual about that,” he said.He noted that the Jaramillos’ boat was found after the accident with only one of its bladders deflated and an “exterior indentation in the outer rubber tube.” He said the boats, which weigh 1,700 pounds and have a heavy metal plate on the bottom for ballast, would not flip due to a single deflated bladder and it’s not clear when its deflation occurred.“If you stay in your seat and the weight is evenly distributed regardless of whether a bladder is fully inflated, it’s very difficult to see how a 1,700-pound boat flips over,” he said. “That’s why it would appear there was some other factor at work on this day.”

 Woman: Ride had problems before fatal amusement park accident

SIBLEY, Mo. (AP) — Investigators in suburban Kansas City say a 25-year-old woman charged in the shooting death of her boyfriend last week killed him after finding his texts to another woman.

Katie Black, of Independence, is charged with second-degree felony murder, armed criminal action, domestic assault and illegal firearm use in the July 7 shooting death in Sibley.&nbsp; Police have not released the 29-year-old victim's name.

Black was at the scene of the shooting when officers and medics arrived, police said, and told investigators conflicting stories about what had transpired. Black first told police her boyfriend was shot during a struggle with an unknown man outside her boyfriend's vehicle.

She later admitted to shooting her boyfriend, police said, but described the shooting as an accident, saying he walked in front of her gun while she was practicing shooting. She then said she fired the gun in the boyfriend's direction to scare him but wound up shooting him. Black told investigators she and the man had argued before the shooting, police said.

A witness told police Black was angry after finding romantic text messages from her boyfriend to other women. Black is being held in Jackson County jail on $50,000 bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626448340537.png" alt="Black photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Black photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>SIBLEY, Mo. (AP) — Investigators in suburban Kansas City say a 25-year-old woman charged in the shooting death of her boyfriend last week killed him after finding his texts to another woman.Katie Black, of Independence, is charged with second-degree felony murder, armed criminal action, domestic assault and illegal firearm use in the July 7 shooting death in Sibley.&nbsp; Police have not released the 29-year-old victim's name.Black was at the scene of the shooting when officers and medics arrived, police said, and told investigators conflicting stories about what had transpired. Black first told police her boyfriend was shot during a struggle with an unknown man outside her boyfriend's vehicle.She later admitted to shooting her boyfriend, police said, but described the shooting as an accident, saying he walked in front of her gun while she was practicing shooting. She then said she fired the gun in the boyfriend's direction to scare him but wound up shooting him. Black told investigators she and the man had argued before the shooting, police said.A witness told police Black was angry after finding romantic text messages from her boyfriend to other women. Black is being held in Jackson County jail on $50,000 bond.

Police: KC-area woman killed boyfriend over texts to other woman

KANSAS CITY – A Merriam Village, Missouri, man pleaded guilty in federal court July 14 to sexually assaulting two young children to produce child pornography, and to receiving and distributing child pornography, after his wife pleaded guilty to the same charges last month, according to the United State's Attorney.

Mark John Millman, 37, a citizen of Great Britain and a legal alien resident, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to one count of the sexual exploitation of minors and one count of receiving and distributing child pornography.

Millman’s wife and co-defendant, Tara Sau Millman, 41, pleaded guilty to the same charges on June 30, 2021. Both Mark and Tara Millman have been in federal custody since their arrest and remain detained without bail.

The Millmans admitted that Mark used Tara’s iPhone to record video of her performing a sexual act on a 2-year-old child, identified in court documents as John Doe. Mark Millman admitted that he sexually assaulted a 4-year-old child victim, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, which was also recorded on video. Investigators found images and videos of child pornography on the Millmans’ iPhones, including files that depicted the Millmans sexually assaulting both child victims.

Mark and Tara Millman each admitted they used a social media application to share child pornography over the internet, and that they viewed child pornography together.

The investigation began when agents with Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego, California, began investigating users of a cloud storage platform (identified in court documents as “Cloud Platform A”). The cloud platform provides encrypted, cloud-based services that enable private, secure online storage, communication, and collaboration for business and individuals. During the investigation, the agents accessed a weblink to an encrypted chat room with approximately 145 registered users. Files containing child pornography were uploaded/posted by participants in the chat room. Many users were actively involved in the distribution of child pornography. The child pornography distributed within the chat included 129 video files, 324 image files, and 43 cloud-storage weblinks which contained files of child pornography.

Mark Millman’s email was identified among the registered users of the chat room, and a search warrant was executed at the Millmans’ residence in Taney County, Mo., on Jan. 28, 2021.

Under federal statutes, Mark and Tara Millman each are subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 50 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 defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled upon the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614439967146.png" alt="Millman photo Greene Co." />
 <figcaption>Millman photo Greene Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY – A Merriam Village, Missouri, man pleaded guilty in federal court July 14 to sexually assaulting two young children to produce child pornography, and to receiving and distributing child pornography, after his wife pleaded guilty to the same charges last month, according to the United State's Attorney.Mark John Millman, 37, a citizen of Great Britain and a legal alien resident, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge David P. Rush to one count of the sexual exploitation of minors and one count of receiving and distributing child pornography.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1614439948313.png" alt="Millman photo Greene Co." />
 <figcaption>Millman photo Greene Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Millman’s wife and co-defendant, Tara Sau Millman, 41, pleaded guilty to the same charges on June 30, 2021. Both Mark and Tara Millman have been in federal custody since their arrest and remain detained without bail.The Millmans admitted that Mark used Tara’s iPhone to record video of her performing a sexual act on a 2-year-old child, identified in court documents as John Doe. Mark Millman admitted that he sexually assaulted a 4-year-old child victim, identified in court documents as Jane Doe, which was also recorded on video. Investigators found images and videos of child pornography on the Millmans’ iPhones, including files that depicted the Millmans sexually assaulting both child victims.Mark and Tara Millman each admitted they used a social media application to share child pornography over the internet, and that they viewed child pornography together.The investigation began when agents with Homeland Security Investigations in San Diego, California, began investigating users of a cloud storage platform (identified in court documents as “Cloud Platform A”). The cloud platform provides encrypted, cloud-based services that enable private, secure online storage, communication, and collaboration for business and individuals. During the investigation, the agents accessed a weblink to an encrypted chat room with approximately 145 registered users. Files containing child pornography were uploaded/posted by participants in the chat room. Many users were actively involved in the distribution of child pornography. The child pornography distributed within the chat included 129 video files, 324 image files, and 43 cloud-storage weblinks which contained files of child pornography.Mark Millman’s email was identified among the registered users of the chat room, and a search warrant was executed at the Millmans’ residence in Taney County, Mo., on Jan. 28, 2021.Under federal statutes, Mark and Tara Millman each are subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of 50 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 defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled upon the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office.

Husband, wife admit sexually assaulting two young children 

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Authorities in south-central Kansas seized 89 marijuana plants and several bags of the drug during the recent search of a property northeast of El Dorado.

The Butler County Sheriff’s office said the 56 pounds of marijuana worth roughly $180,000 was seized during the search on Thursday as part of an investigation of a marijuana growing operation on the property.

No arrests were reported immediately after the search, but the sheriff’s office said charges are expected soon in the case.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626645087286.png" alt="Charges are expected soon in the case -Photo Butler County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Charges are expected soon in the case -Photo Butler County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Authorities in south-central Kansas seized 89 marijuana plants and several bags of the drug during the recent search of a property northeast of El Dorado.The Butler County Sheriff’s office said the 56 pounds of marijuana worth roughly $180,000 was seized during the search on Thursday as part of an investigation of a marijuana growing operation on the property.No arrests were reported immediately after the search, but the sheriff’s office said charges are expected soon in the case.

Kansas authorities find 56 pounds of marijuana in search

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A girl from Missouri was hospitalized after a large bolt and nut crashed through the windshield of the vehicle she was riding in.

The Kansas Highway Patrol said the incident happened in west Lawrence around 5 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of U.S. Highway 40 and Bob Billings Parkway.

Fifteen-year-old Linzie Sanders, of Willard, Missouri, was struck in the face by the bolt. The Highway Patrol did not say in the accident report where the nut and bolt came from.

None of the four other people riding in the 2017 Honda Pilot was injured when the bolt crashed through the windshield. The vehicle was driven by 45-year-old Andrew Sears and the passengers were 43-year-old Amanda Sue Sanders, 19-year-old Lauren Sears and 10-year-old Dylan Sears. Everyone in the vehicle is from Willard, Missouri.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — A girl from Missouri was hospitalized after a large bolt and nut crashed through the windshield of the vehicle she was riding in.The Kansas Highway Patrol said the incident happened in west Lawrence around 5 p.m. Saturday near the intersection of U.S. Highway 40 and Bob Billings Parkway.Fifteen-year-old Linzie Sanders, of Willard, Missouri, was struck in the face by the bolt. The Highway Patrol did not say in the accident report where the nut and bolt came from.None of the four other people riding in the 2017 Honda Pilot was injured when the bolt crashed through the windshield. The vehicle was driven by 45-year-old Andrew Sears and the passengers were 43-year-old Amanda Sue Sanders, 19-year-old Lauren Sears and 10-year-old Dylan Sears. Everyone in the vehicle is from Willard, Missouri.

Girl hurt when bolt crashes through SUV's windshield on Kan. highway

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — The family of a Black man shot in the back by a white Wichita police officer in 2012 has reached a $900,000 settlement with the city. 

The settlement comes just weeks before a lawsuit filed by the parents of 23-year-old Marquez Smart was set for a jury trial in federal court. His parents allege that police officers used excessive force. 

A federal appeals court found last year that a reasonable jury could conclude that by the time the final police shots were fired, Smart was on the ground with his arms stretched out. No criminal charges have been filed against the officers.

WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — The family of a Black man shot in the back by a white Wichita police officer in 2012 has reached a $900,000 settlement with the city. The settlement comes just weeks before a lawsuit filed by the parents of 23-year-old Marquez Smart was set for a jury trial in federal court. His parents allege that police officers used excessive force. A federal appeals court found last year that a reasonable jury could conclude that by the time the final police shots were fired, Smart was on the ground with his arms stretched out. No criminal charges have been filed against the officers.

Wichita settles lawsuit over police shooting of Black man

By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2021-07-16/a-flood-of-people-seek-help-as-drug-overdose-deaths-spike-in-kansas-and-missouri">Kansas News Service</a>

Drug overdose deaths in Kansas spiked by nearly 24% last year while 
overdose deaths in Missouri increased by nearly 20%, according to newly 
released government figures.

Nationwide, a record high of more 
than 93,000 people died of drug overdoses in 2020, up nearly 30 percent 
over the roughly 72,000 overdose deaths in 2019.

The preliminary 
data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows overdose 
deaths increased in every state but two, with Vermont suffering the 
biggest percentage increase, nearly 58%, followed by Kentucky, at nearly
 54%.

In large part driven by synthetic opioids like fentanyl, overdose deaths surged after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. <a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2021/spike-drug-overdose-deaths-during-covid-19-pandemic-and-policy-options-move-forward" target="_blank">Opioids accounted for about 75% of all overdose deaths</a> in the early months of the pandemic.

Health
 experts say the pandemic was a major factor in the surge. Many 
treatment programs closed during the pandemic, even as job losses 
increased, lockdown measures took effect and more people experienced a 
greater sense of social isolation and dislocation.

“What we do 
know is that COVID has created an absolute behavioral health crisis,” 
said Emily Hage, president and CEO of First Call, a Kansas City-based 
nonprofit that addresses substance use disorders. “We knew that there 
was an opioid crisis happening and COVID just has compounded that.”

Opioid
 manufacturers have been the targets of lawsuits by local and state 
governments seeking billions of dollars in damages. Last week, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/15-more-us-states-reach-settlement-oxycontin-maker-purdue-bankruptcy-2021-07-08/" target="_blank">15 states reached a settlement with Purdue Pharma</a>,
 the maker of the prescription painkiller OxyContin, that calls for the 
company to pay at least $4.5 billion to resolve thousands of claims. 
(Missouri and Kansas are not among the 15 states.)

Opioids such as
 the prescription medications hydrocodone, oxycodone and fentanyl are 
widely used to alleviate pain. But their frequent misuse has led to an 
epidemic of overdoses and deaths. Excluding last year, more than 841,000
 people have died in the U.S. since 1999 from drug overdoses, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/index.html#:~:text=Nearly%20841%2C000%20people%20have%20died%20since%201999%20from%20a%20drug%20overdose.&amp;text=In%202019%2C%2070%2C630%20drug%20overdose%20deaths%20occurred%20in%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">according to the CDC.</a>

Long
 seen as a crisis afflicting rural communities, the opioid epidemic in 
recent years has surged in Black communities and other communities of 
color. Although the CDC did not provide a demographic breakdown, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-floyd-michael-brown-pandemics-coronavirus-pandemic-race-and-ethnicity-ea94f4021018bfc7bc88e7b494c8665e" target="_blank">the Associated Press reported last month</a>
 that in St. Louis, overdose deaths among Black residents increased at 
three times the rate of white residents, soaring more than 33%.

The
 situation in Kansas City appears to be similarly dire. Imani House, an 
adult substance abuse treatment center run by Swope Health Services, has
 been forced to add a waiting list because of surging demand.

“We 
had to cap the number of people who can come in and be treated because 
there was such a flood of people coming that we had to create a wait 
list, which is not something we wanted to do,” said Darla Belflower, 
program manager of substance use disorder services at Imani House. 

Belflower
 said the growing number of overdoses and overdose deaths among African 
Americans was in part due to the pandemic, which closed people off from 
their communities, their connections and their support networks.

“I’ve
 been very open that I am a person in long-term recovery and just within
 my recovery community in the last year, we have lost at least four 
individuals to overdoses,” Belflower said.

Also contributing to 
the growing numbers, she said, has been the increasing popularity of 
fentanyl, which is easily mixed with heroin and stimulants like 
methamphetamine.

“As recently as three years ago, the opioid 
epidemic was primarily considered to be a white epidemic,” Belflower 
said. “And what’s happening now is that it’s moving from east to west 
and moving into the bigger cities.”

President Biden this week 
appointed Rahul Gupta as drug czar to oversee the Office of National 
Drug Control Policy and lead the response to the opioid epidemic. Gupta,
 a primary care doctor, previously served as West Virginia’s health 
commissioner. His appointment must be confirmed by the Senate.

Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626446521060.png" alt="More than 90,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2020, according to preliminary figures from the CDC. Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3" />
 <figcaption>More than 90,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2020, according to preliminary figures from the CDC. Carlos Moreno / KCUR 89.3</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2021-07-16/a-flood-of-people-seek-help-as-drug-overdose-deaths-spike-in-kansas-and-missouri">Kansas News Service</a>Drug overdose deaths in Kansas spiked by nearly 24% last year while 
overdose deaths in Missouri increased by nearly 20%, according to newly 
released government figures.Nationwide, a record high of more 
than 93,000 people died of drug overdoses in 2020, up nearly 30 percent 
over the roughly 72,000 overdose deaths in 2019.The preliminary 
data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows overdose 
deaths increased in every state but two, with Vermont suffering the 
biggest percentage increase, nearly 58%, followed by Kentucky, at nearly
 54%.In large part driven by synthetic opioids like fentanyl, overdose deaths surged after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. <a href="https://www.commonwealthfund.org/blog/2021/spike-drug-overdose-deaths-during-covid-19-pandemic-and-policy-options-move-forward" target="_blank">Opioids accounted for about 75% of all overdose deaths</a> in the early months of the pandemic.<h2>The role of the pandemic</h2>Health
 experts say the pandemic was a major factor in the surge. Many 
treatment programs closed during the pandemic, even as job losses 
increased, lockdown measures took effect and more people experienced a 
greater sense of social isolation and dislocation.“What we do 
know is that COVID has created an absolute behavioral health crisis,” 
said Emily Hage, president and CEO of First Call, a Kansas City-based 
nonprofit that addresses substance use disorders. “We knew that there 
was an opioid crisis happening and COVID just has compounded that.”Opioid
 manufacturers have been the targets of lawsuits by local and state 
governments seeking billions of dollars in damages. Last week, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/transactional/15-more-us-states-reach-settlement-oxycontin-maker-purdue-bankruptcy-2021-07-08/" target="_blank">15 states reached a settlement with Purdue Pharma</a>,
 the maker of the prescription painkiller OxyContin, that calls for the 
company to pay at least $4.5 billion to resolve thousands of claims. 
(Missouri and Kansas are not among the 15 states.)Opioids such as
 the prescription medications hydrocodone, oxycodone and fentanyl are 
widely used to alleviate pain. But their frequent misuse has led to an 
epidemic of overdoses and deaths. Excluding last year, more than 841,000
 people have died in the U.S. since 1999 from drug overdoses, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/index.html#:~:text=Nearly%20841%2C000%20people%20have%20died%20since%201999%20from%20a%20drug%20overdose.&amp;text=In%202019%2C%2070%2C630%20drug%20overdose%20deaths%20occurred%20in%20the%20United%20States." target="_blank">according to the CDC.</a><h2>Growing urban impact</h2>Long
 seen as a crisis afflicting rural communities, the opioid epidemic in 
recent years has surged in Black communities and other communities of 
color. Although the CDC did not provide a demographic breakdown, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-floyd-michael-brown-pandemics-coronavirus-pandemic-race-and-ethnicity-ea94f4021018bfc7bc88e7b494c8665e" target="_blank">the Associated Press reported last month</a>
 that in St. Louis, overdose deaths among Black residents increased at 
three times the rate of white residents, soaring more than 33%.The
 situation in Kansas City appears to be similarly dire. Imani House, an 
adult substance abuse treatment center run by Swope Health Services, has
 been forced to add a waiting list because of surging demand.“We 
had to cap the number of people who can come in and be treated because 
there was such a flood of people coming that we had to create a wait 
list, which is not something we wanted to do,” said Darla Belflower, 
program manager of substance use disorder services at Imani House. Belflower
 said the growing number of overdoses and overdose deaths among African 
Americans was in part due to the pandemic, which closed people off from 
their communities, their connections and their support networks.“I’ve
 been very open that I am a person in long-term recovery and just within
 my recovery community in the last year, we have lost at least four 
individuals to overdoses,” Belflower said.Also contributing to 
the growing numbers, she said, has been the increasing popularity of 
fentanyl, which is easily mixed with heroin and stimulants like 
methamphetamine.“As recently as three years ago, the opioid 
epidemic was primarily considered to be a white epidemic,” Belflower 
said. “And what’s happening now is that it’s moving from east to west 
and moving into the bigger cities.”President Biden this week 
appointed Rahul Gupta as drug czar to oversee the Office of National 
Drug Control Policy and lead the response to the opioid epidemic. Gupta,
 a primary care doctor, previously served as West Virginia’s health 
commissioner. His appointment must be confirmed by the Senate.Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

'Flood of people' seek help as drug overdose deaths spike in Kan, Mo.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City,&nbsp;Missouri, on Saturday marked the 40th anniversary of one of its greatest tragedies with a release of white doves.

About 100 people gathered at the Skywalk Memorial Plaza to remember the 114 people killed when disaster struck the Hyatt Regency Hotel on July 17, 1981.

Hundreds of people had gathered in the hotel lobby for that night's “tea dance” when skywalks collapsed. In addition to those killed, more than 200 people were injured.

Brent Wright told the crowd that he is among the “members of a club we did not want to join.” He lost his mother and stepfather in the collapse. Wright is now president of the Skywalk Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring the victims.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626572748021.png" alt="Photo courtesy KC Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KC Police</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) —&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;City,&nbsp;Missouri, on Saturday marked the 40th anniversary of one of its greatest tragedies with a release of white doves.About 100 people gathered at the Skywalk Memorial Plaza to remember the 114 people killed when disaster struck the Hyatt Regency Hotel on July 17, 1981.Hundreds of people had gathered in the hotel lobby for that night's “tea dance” when skywalks collapsed. In addition to those killed, more than 200 people were injured.Brent Wright told the crowd that he is among the “members of a club we did not want to join.” He lost his mother and stepfather in the collapse. Wright is now president of the Skywalk Memorial Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring the victims.

Ceremony in Kansas City honors victims of skywalk tragedy

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/07/17/statement-by-president-joe-biden-on-daca-and-legislation-for-dreamers/" target="_blank">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;said Saturday that the Justice Department intends to appeal a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-immigration-f01fc0f485a8983b5f072e7af324c43f">federal judge’s ruling</a>&nbsp;deeming illegal an Obama-era program that has protected hundreds of thousands of young immigrants from deportation and he renewed his calls for Congress to create a permanent solution.

He said in a statement that&nbsp;<a href="https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/attachments/press-docs/gov.uscourts.txsd_.1501682.575.0.pdf" target="_blank">Friday’s decision</a>&nbsp;was “deeply disappointing,” and although the judge’s order did not affect those already covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, it ”relegates hundreds of thousands of young immigrants to an uncertain future.”

The program has allowed thousands of young people who were brought illegally into the United States as children, or overstayed visas, to live, work and remain in the country. Many of the recipients, commonly known as “Dreamers,” have now been in the U.S. for a decade or longer.

But Texas and eight other states sued to halt DACA, arguing that President Barack Obama lacked the power to create the program because it circumvented Congress. U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen in Houston agreed, and while his ruling left the program intact for existing recipients, it barred the government from approving any new applications.

In his statement, Biden urged Congress to move forward with legislation to permanently protect those covered by the program. “Only Congress can ensure a permanent solution by granting a path to citizenship for Dreamers that will provide the certainty and stability that these young people need and deserve,” the president said.

“I have repeatedly called on Congress to pass the American Dream and Promise Act, and I now renew that call with the greatest urgency,” he said. “It is my fervent hope that through reconciliation or other means, Congress will finally provide security to all Dreamers, who have lived too long in fear.”

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said, "The decision is a victory for the rule of law that reaffirms no president has the unilateral authority to rewrite or suspend our immigration laws. Even President Obama stated this obvious fact on numerous occasions until, capitulating to political pressure, he purported to create DACA by executive action. As I have said many times during the course of this lengthy litigation, DACA recipients are a sympathetic group with significant public support and a compelling argument that their circumstance is unique. But, because of President Obama’s unlawful executive action, for the past decade DACA recipients have lived under the cruel illusion of a program that in fact never could lawfully exist."

The House approved legislation in March creating a pathway toward citizenship for those impacted, but the measure has stalled in the Senate. Immigration advocates hope to include a provision in sweeping budget legislation Democrats want to pass this year, but it’s unclear whether that language will survive.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592492596183.png" alt="Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said, "The decision is a victory for the rule of law that reaffirms no president has the unilateral authority to rewrite or suspend our immigration laws.-photo courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said, "The decision is a victory for the rule of law that reaffirms no president has the unilateral authority to rewrite or suspend our immigration laws.-photo courtesy CSPAN&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/07/17/statement-by-president-joe-biden-on-daca-and-legislation-for-dreamers/" target="_blank">President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;said Saturday that the Justice Department intends to appeal a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-immigration-f01fc0f485a8983b5f072e7af324c43f">federal judge’s ruling</a>&nbsp;deeming illegal an Obama-era program that has protected hundreds of thousands of young immigrants from deportation and he renewed his calls for Congress to create a permanent solution.He said in a statement that&nbsp;<a href="https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/attachments/press-docs/gov.uscourts.txsd_.1501682.575.0.pdf" target="_blank">Friday’s decision</a>&nbsp;was “deeply disappointing,” and although the judge’s order did not affect those already covered by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, it ”relegates hundreds of thousands of young immigrants to an uncertain future.”The program has allowed thousands of young people who were brought illegally into the United States as children, or overstayed visas, to live, work and remain in the country. Many of the recipients, commonly known as “Dreamers,” have now been in the U.S. for a decade or longer.But Texas and eight other states sued to halt DACA, arguing that President Barack Obama lacked the power to create the program because it circumvented Congress. U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen in Houston agreed, and while his ruling left the program intact for existing recipients, it barred the government from approving any new applications.In his statement, Biden urged Congress to move forward with legislation to permanently protect those covered by the program. “Only Congress can ensure a permanent solution by granting a path to citizenship for Dreamers that will provide the certainty and stability that these young people need and deserve,” the president said.“I have repeatedly called on Congress to pass the American Dream and Promise Act, and I now renew that call with the greatest urgency,” he said. “It is my fervent hope that through reconciliation or other means, Congress will finally provide security to all Dreamers, who have lived too long in fear.”Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said, "The decision is a victory for the rule of law that reaffirms no president has the unilateral authority to rewrite or suspend our immigration laws. Even President Obama stated this obvious fact on numerous occasions until, capitulating to political pressure, he purported to create DACA by executive action. As I have said many times during the course of this lengthy litigation, DACA recipients are a sympathetic group with significant public support and a compelling argument that their circumstance is unique. But, because of President Obama’s unlawful executive action, for the past decade DACA recipients have lived under the cruel illusion of a program that in fact never could lawfully exist."The House approved legislation in March creating a pathway toward citizenship for those impacted, but the measure has stalled in the Senate. Immigration advocates hope to include a provision in sweeping budget legislation Democrats want to pass this year, but it’s unclear whether that language will survive.

Biden pledges appeal after judge ends DACA immigration program

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, say two men found near a crashed vehicle were homicide victims.

Police were called just before 5 a.m. Friday and found two men unconscious and not breathing near a vehicle that appeared to have crashed into a parked vehicle in an industrial area.

Officers determined that the men, described as Hispanic and in their 20s, had been shot. Their names have not been released. No arrests have been made.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Police in Kansas City, Kansas, say two men found near a crashed vehicle were homicide victims.Police were called just before 5 a.m. Friday and found two men unconscious and not breathing near a vehicle that appeared to have crashed into a parked vehicle in an industrial area.Officers determined that the men, described as Hispanic and in their 20s, had been shot. Their names have not been released. No arrests have been made.

Police in Kansas investigate deaths of 2 men found in car

SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a second suspect in just over a week for allegedly using a GPS device to track a woman.

On July 13, the Wichita Police Department Domestic Intervention and Violence Reduction Team (DIVRT)  worked to track down a suspect identified as 27-year-old Kanneth Battle of Wichita who had been stalking a victim and placing GPS trackers on her vehicle, according to Officer Charley Davidson. 

On Monday, the DIVRT team served Battle with a Protection from Stalking order. Tuesday morning, he was seen on video placing a GPS tracker on a vehicle that the victim had access to.

The DIVRT team worked with patrol to recover the GPS devices and locate Battle.&nbsp; He was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick county Adult Detention Facility on requested charges of stalking, two counts of tampering with an automobile, violation of a protection order and criminal use of weapons.

On July 6, police arrested 57-year-old Ed Harrington of Wichita after&nbsp;a female victim reported that in May a suspect identified as Harrington – a person known to her –had placed a GPS tracking device on her vehicle, according to Wichita Police Officer Trevor Macy.

 She had taken it to a local automotive shop, where they were able to locate and remove it.

&nbsp;After interviews, Harrington was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of Stalking, Burglary to Auto, Theft, and Violation of a protection order.

&nbsp;If you or someone you know is involved in a domestic violence relationship, don't hesitate to reach out - police can connect you with resources to help.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626281066344.png" alt="Battle photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Battle photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; a second suspect in just over a week for allegedly using a GPS device to track a woman.On July 13, the Wichita Police Department Domestic Intervention and Violence Reduction Team (DIVRT) worked to track down a suspect identified as 27-year-old Kanneth Battle of Wichita who had been stalking a victim and placing GPS trackers on her vehicle, according to Officer Charley Davidson. On Monday, the DIVRT team served Battle with a Protection from Stalking order. Tuesday morning, he was seen on video placing a GPS tracker on a vehicle that the victim had access to.The DIVRT team worked with patrol to recover the GPS devices and locate Battle.&nbsp; He was arrested and booked into the Sedgwick county Adult Detention Facility on requested charges of stalking, two counts of tampering with an automobile, violation of a protection order and criminal use of weapons.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1625666476262.png" alt="Harrington photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Harrington photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>On July 6, police arrested 57-year-old Ed Harrington of Wichita after&nbsp;a female victim reported that in May a suspect identified as Harrington – a person known to her –had placed a GPS tracking device on her vehicle, according to Wichita Police Officer Trevor Macy. She had taken it to a local automotive shop, where they were able to locate and remove it.&nbsp;After interviews, Harrington was booked into the Sedgwick County Jail on requested charges of Stalking, Burglary to Auto, Theft, and Violation of a protection order.&nbsp;If you or someone you know is involved in a domestic violence relationship, don't hesitate to reach out - police can connect you with resources to help.

Another Kan. man  accused of using GPS device to track woman

SALINE COUNTY —Investigations by the I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force helped officers make several recent arrests, seize multiple drug-related items and cash.

Since February, the task force has been conducting drug distribution investigations of individuals in Salina, according to a media release.

During the course of the investigations, the Task Force identified three individuals who were conducting ongoing drug distribution from residences in Salina.

Through information uncovered during the investigations, the task force was able to secure search warrants for three locations in Salina.

On July 8, the task force served a search warrant at a residence in the 1100 block of N. Ninth Street in Salina and seized more than five ounces of cocaine, More than three grams of psilocybin mushroom, More than $21,000 in cash, A .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun and more than 20 grams of marijuana and THC gummies

According to information from the task force, arrests are pending in this investigation.

On Tuesday, the task force served a search warrant at 924 E. Kirwin Avenue and seized more than one pound of THC wax, more than $1,300 in cash, An AR-15 rifle, a 2005 BMW 325i and More than a pound of marijuana

Two people were arrested in connection to this search warrant, the task force noted.

Oscar Lopez-Garcia, 21, of Salina was arrested on requested charges that include Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Felony possession of drug paraphernalia, Drug tax stamp violation, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Criminal possession of a firearm.

Antonio Lopez, 22, of Salina was arrested on requested charges that include Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Felony possession of drug paraphernalia, Drug tax stamp violation, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Possession of drug proceeds.

On Thursday, the Salina Police Department served a search warrant at 627 Washington Street in Salina for the task force.&nbsp; and seized More than three grams of psilocybin mushrooms, More than $15,000 in cash, A Glock 9mm handgun with three magazines (two 33-round extended) and More than two pounds of marijuana

Zachary D. Swarts, 18, was arrested in connection to that search warrant on&nbsp; requested charges of Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Felony possession of drug paraphernalia, Drug tax stamp violation, Possession of drug paraphernalia Possession of drug proceeds and Possession of marijuana.

SALINE COUNTY —Investigations by the I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force helped officers make several recent arrests, seize multiple drug-related items and cash.Since February, the task force has been conducting drug distribution investigations of individuals in Salina, according to a media release.During the course of the investigations, the Task Force identified three individuals who were conducting ongoing drug distribution from residences in Salina.Through information uncovered during the investigations, the task force was able to secure search warrants for three locations in Salina.On July 8, the task force served a search warrant at a residence in the 1100 block of N. Ninth Street in Salina and seized more than five ounces of cocaine, More than three grams of psilocybin mushroom, More than $21,000 in cash, A .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun and more than 20 grams of marijuana and THC gummies<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626458455519.png" alt="Items seized at the first house. Photos courtesy&nbsp;I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force" />
 <figcaption>Items seized at the first house. Photos courtesy&nbsp;I-135/I-70 Drug Task Force</figcaption>
 </figure>According to information from the task force, arrests are pending in this investigation.On Tuesday, the task force served a search warrant at 924 E. Kirwin Avenue and seized more than one pound of THC wax, more than $1,300 in cash, An AR-15 rifle, a 2005 BMW 325i and More than a pound of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626458542721.png" alt="Items seized at the second house" />
 <figcaption>Items seized at the second house</figcaption>
 </figure>Two people were arrested in connection to this search warrant, the task force noted.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626269118486.jpeg" alt="Oscar Lopez-Garcia Photo Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Oscar Lopez-Garcia Photo Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Oscar Lopez-Garcia, 21, of Salina was arrested on requested charges that include Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Felony possession of drug paraphernalia, Drug tax stamp violation, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Criminal possession of a firearm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626269000252.jpeg" alt="Antonio Lopez photo Saline Co." />
 <figcaption>Antonio Lopez photo Saline Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Antonio Lopez, 22, of Salina was arrested on requested charges that include Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Felony possession of drug paraphernalia, Drug tax stamp violation, Possession of drug paraphernalia and Possession of drug proceeds.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626458750073.png" alt="Items seized at third house. Photo Saline Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Items seized at third house. Photo Saline Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>On Thursday, the Salina Police Department served a search warrant at 627 Washington Street in Salina for the task force.&nbsp; and seized More than three grams of psilocybin mushrooms, More than $15,000 in cash, A Glock 9mm handgun with three magazines (two 33-round extended) and More than two pounds of marijuana<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626436843243.jpeg" alt="Zachary Swarts. Photos Saline County" />
 <figcaption>Zachary Swarts. Photos Saline County</figcaption>
 </figure>Zachary D. Swarts, 18, was arrested in connection to that search warrant on&nbsp; requested charges of Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Felony possession of drug paraphernalia, Drug tax stamp violation, Possession of drug paraphernalia Possession of drug proceeds and Possession of marijuana.

Drug task force finds cash, guns and makes 3 arrests

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a burglary and have made an arrest.

Just after 9a.m. Thursday, deputies responded to an alarm at a business in the 5200 block of SE 29th Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp; 

A deputy located an individual nearby that matched the description of the suspect. While deputies were making contact with the suspect later identified as&nbsp;Angelo D. Aldridge, 34, of Topeka &nbsp;he fled on foot. 

He was later located by on officer with Topeka Public Schools Police hiding in the backyard of a residence in the 3900 block of SE Skylark Court and placed him into custody.

Deputies booked Aldridge into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a felony warrant out of Shawnee County as well as requested charges of burglary, theft, criminal trespass, interference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/7/1626473486813.png" alt="Aldridge photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Aldridge photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities&nbsp; investigating a burglary and have made an arrest.Just after 9a.m. Thursday, deputies responded to an alarm at a business in the 5200 block of SE 29th Street, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.&nbsp; A deputy located an individual nearby that matched the description of the suspect. While deputies were making contact with the suspect later identified as&nbsp;Angelo D. Aldridge, 34, of Topeka &nbsp;he fled on foot. He was later located by on officer with Topeka Public Schools Police hiding in the backyard of a residence in the 3900 block of SE Skylark Court and placed him into custody.Deputies booked Aldridge into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on a felony warrant out of Shawnee County as well as requested charges of burglary, theft, criminal trespass, interference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Kan. school police officer finds burglary suspect hiding in backyard

KANSAS CITY (AP) — Approvals for companies to drill for oil and gas on U.S. public lands are on pace this year to reach their highest level since George W. Bush was president, underscoring President Joe Biden’s reluctance to more forcefully curb petroleum production in the face of industry and Republican resistance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1567081192406.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY (AP) — Approvals for companies to drill for oil and gas on U.S. public lands are on pace this year to reach their highest level since George W. Bush was president, underscoring President Joe Biden’s reluctance to more forcefully curb petroleum production in the face of industry and Republican resistance.The Interior Department approved about 2,500 permits to drill on public and tribal lands in the first six months of the year, according to an Associated Press analysis of government data. That includes more than 2,100 drilling approvals since Biden took office January 20.New Mexico and Wyoming had the largest number of approvals. Montana, Colorado and Utah also had hundreds each.Biden campaigned last year on a pledge to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/election-2020-ap-fact-check-joe-biden-donald-trump-pennsylvania-fa798602a357d0f4a765739e36f4f82b">end new drilling on federal lands&nbsp;</a>to rein in climate-changing emissions. His pick to oversee those lands, Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, was an adamant opponent of drilling on federal lands while in Congress and a co-sponsor of the liberal Green New Deal.But the steps taken by the administration to date on fossil fuels are more modest, including a temporary&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-climate-climate-change-environment-energy-and-the-environment-71001caf45220548deb26343d3889816">suspension on new oil and gas leases</a>&nbsp;on federal lands that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-climate-change-environment-and-nature-business-9751c4909a8b1baba28f3bcff9d5fa6e">a judge blocked last month</a>, blocked petroleum sales in&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/alaska-arctic-wildlife-refuge-oil-gas-drilling-biden-b9f20088957d42e99b791ff94169198f">the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR)</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-alberta-2fbcce48372f5c29c3ae6f6f93907a6d">cancellation of the Keystone XL oil pipeline&nbsp;</a>from Canada.Because vast fossil fuel reserves already are under lease, those actions did nothing to slow drilling on public lands and waters that account for about a quarter of U.S. oil production.Further complicating Biden’s climate agenda is a recent rise in gasoline prices to $3 a gallon ($0.79 a liter) or more in many parts of the country. Any attempt to limit petroleum production could push gasoline prices even higher and risk souring economic recovery from the pandemic.“He’s walking the tightrope,” said energy industry analyst Parker Fawcett with S&amp;P Global Platts, noting that Keystone and ANWR came without huge political costs because they were aimed at future projects.“Those easy wins don’t necessarily have huge impacts on the market today,” Fawcett said. “He is definitely backing off taking drastic action that would rock the market. ... What you’re going to see is U.S. oil production is going to continue to rebound.”Haaland has sought to tamp down Republican concern over potential constraints on the industry. She said during a House Natural Resources Committee hearing last month that there was no “plan right now for a permanent ban.”“Gas and oil production will continue well into the future and we believe that is the reality of our economy and the world we’re living in,” Haaland told Colorado Republican Rep. Doug Lamborn.Interior officials declined further comment on permits issued under Biden.Under former President Donald Trump, a staunch industry supporter, the Interior Department reduced the time it takes to review drilling applications from a year or more in some cases, to just a few months.Companies rushed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-donald-trump-climate-wyoming-coronavirus-pandemic-a917f51126fa2641e0713573424b2b11">lock in drilling rights</a>&nbsp;before the new administration. And in December, Trump’s last full month in office, agency officials approved more than 800 permits — far more than any prior month during his presidency.The pace dropped when Biden first took office, under a temporary order that&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/joe-biden-billings-a3a37acf2fce55449b704b01badc1f67">elevated review of permits to senior administration officials</a>. Approvals have since rebounded to a level that exceeds monthly numbers seen through most of Trump’s presidency.The data obtained by AP from a government database is subject to change because of delays in transmitting data from Interior field offices to headquarters.If the recent trends continue, the Interior Department could issue close to 6,000 permits by the end of the year. The last time so many were issued was fiscal year 2008, amid an oil boom driven by crude prices that reached an all-time high of $140 per barrel that June.Decisions on about 4,700 drilling applications remained pending as of June 1, which means approvals are likely to continue at a heavy pace as officials work through a backlog left over from the Trump administration, said Fawcett, the industry analyst.Environmentalists who share the administration’s goals on climate have expressed growing frustration in recent weeks as the prospects for a ban on drilling fade. They contend the administration has authority to take executive action that would stop further permits from being issued, but has caved to Republican pressure.“Every indication is they have no plans of actually fulfilling their campaign promise,” said Mitch Jones, policy director for the environmental group Food &amp; Water Watch. “The result of that will be continued and increasing development of fossil fuels on public lands, which means more climate change.”The administration’s defenders say that it’s been forced to be pragmatic in the face of a Senate split 50-50 between Democrats and Republicans and questions over whether the government could legally stop drilling on leases already sold to companies.That’s meant forgoing a drilling ban in hopes of getting bipartisan support for a huge infrastructure package that includes clean energy incentives and other measures to address global warming.“It’s the long game. ... You’ve got to appease some of those oil and gas state senators,” said Jim Lyons, who was deputy assistant Interior secretary under Barack Obama and is now an environmental consultant. “It means jobs back home for thousands of workers. You can’t just pull the plug overnight.”___