KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 17-year-old Charles Sanders.

Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police were called to report of a shooting in the 7800 block of NE 75th Court, according to Offier Jake Becchina. 

First responders found Sanders unresponsive in the front yard of a residence there. Officers summoned EMS to the scene who transported the boy to the hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries. A short time he was declared deceased by medical personnel.

Homicide detectives responded to the scene and took over this investigation. Preliminary information indicates that Sanders had an interaction at that location with one or more suspects that led to shots being fired and Sanders being struck.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or suspect information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745490778650.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement investigating another homicide in Kansas City, Missouri have identified the victim as 17-year-old Charles Sanders.Just before 3p.m. Wednesday, police were called to report of a shooting in the 7800 block of NE 75th Court, according to Offier Jake Becchina. First responders found Sanders unresponsive in the front yard of a residence there. Officers summoned EMS to the scene who transported the boy to the hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries. A short time he was declared deceased by medical personnel.Homicide detectives responded to the scene and took over this investigation. Preliminary information indicates that Sanders had an interaction at that location with one or more suspects that led to shots being fired and Sanders being struck.&nbsp; Police have not reported an arrest or suspect information.

Police: 17-year-old dies after shooting outside Kansas City home

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed a bill Friday she feared would funnel more public money to private educational institutions.

<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb24/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 24</a>&nbsp;broadened the scope of the Kansas Promise Scholarship, which offers financial aid to Kansans in community college or a technical training program, to include two private institutions — Wichita Technical Institute and the Heartland Welding Academy.

Typically, the scholarship is reserved for not-for-profit schools.

“I have serious concerns about the precedent that would be set by providing state funding to for-profit educational institutions that are not accountable to the state or taxpayers,” said Kelly, a Democrat, in an announcement.

The bill also would have raised the maximum allocation that could be given to institutions across the state from $10 million to $15 million. The scholarship program covers the cost of tuition, books, fees and supplies for students in families below a certain income threshold who want to attend community college or technical school.

”This program is meant to support Kansans as they pursue an education,” Kelly said, “not funnel public money to private, for-profit institutions.”

The Senate passed the bill with unanimous support, and the House passed it 76-48 with nine Republican representatives joining Democrats in opposition.

SB 24 originally dealt with the duties of the state insurance commissioner. Legislators gutted it during negotiations at the end of the session and inserted the contents of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb44/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 44</a>, in which the scholarship expansion was initially proposed.

Mike O’Neal, who brought the scholarship bill to legislators in January, is a lobbyist for Wichita Technical Institute, among other high-profile clients, and a former House speaker.

“Given the demand for high-quality technical training in Kansas, it makes sense to expand the current eligibility for participation in the Promise Scholarship Act,” O’Neal said in committee testimony in February.

James Genandt, the president of Kansas Technical Colleges, opposed the bill, arguing it would hinder the success of existing programs. Last year, scholarship applications were paused months before the original deadline because of dwindling funds, he said.

“More institutions in the mix will only accelerate the problem,” Genandt said.

House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, said he was disappointed in the governor’s veto, describing the scholarship program as a successful tool for job development and talent retention.&nbsp;

“Whether the student attends a public or private school is irrelevant,” Hawkins said, “especially as we face workforce shortages across many industries.”

The Legislature concluded its veto session April 11, leaving no opportunity for Republicans to attempt to override the veto.

House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, a Lenexa Democrat, applauded the veto and thanked Kelly for “protecting public dollars.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745616511736.jpeg" alt="Students traverse the Garden City Community College campus during a fall semester orientation event Aug. 18, 2024. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Students traverse the Garden City Community College campus during a fall semester orientation event Aug. 18, 2024. (AJ Dome for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/01/03/kansas-state-garden-city-cc-striving-to-shrink-bachelors-degree-educational-desert/?emci=8e6f56cf-3bca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;emdi=a9416bb1-82ca-ef11-88d0-0022482a9b45&amp;ceid=115039">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed a bill Friday she feared would funnel more public money to private educational institutions.<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb24/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 24</a>&nbsp;broadened the scope of the Kansas Promise Scholarship, which offers financial aid to Kansans in community college or a technical training program, to include two private institutions — Wichita Technical Institute and the Heartland Welding Academy.Typically, the scholarship is reserved for not-for-profit schools.“I have serious concerns about the precedent that would be set by providing state funding to for-profit educational institutions that are not accountable to the state or taxpayers,” said Kelly, a Democrat, in an announcement.The bill also would have raised the maximum allocation that could be given to institutions across the state from $10 million to $15 million. The scholarship program covers the cost of tuition, books, fees and supplies for students in families below a certain income threshold who want to attend community college or technical school.”This program is meant to support Kansans as they pursue an education,” Kelly said, “not funnel public money to private, for-profit institutions.”The Senate passed the bill with unanimous support, and the House passed it 76-48 with nine Republican representatives joining Democrats in opposition.SB 24 originally dealt with the duties of the state insurance commissioner. Legislators gutted it during negotiations at the end of the session and inserted the contents of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb44/" target="_blank">Senate Bill 44</a>, in which the scholarship expansion was initially proposed.Mike O’Neal, who brought the scholarship bill to legislators in January, is a lobbyist for Wichita Technical Institute, among other high-profile clients, and a former House speaker.“Given the demand for high-quality technical training in Kansas, it makes sense to expand the current eligibility for participation in the Promise Scholarship Act,” O’Neal said in committee testimony in February.James Genandt, the president of Kansas Technical Colleges, opposed the bill, arguing it would hinder the success of existing programs. Last year, scholarship applications were paused months before the original deadline because of dwindling funds, he said.“More institutions in the mix will only accelerate the problem,” Genandt said.House Speaker Dan Hawkins, a Wichita Republican, said he was disappointed in the governor’s veto, describing the scholarship program as a successful tool for job development and talent retention.&nbsp;“Whether the student attends a public or private school is irrelevant,” Hawkins said, “especially as we face workforce shortages across many industries.”The Legislature concluded its veto session April 11, leaving no opportunity for Republicans to attempt to override the veto.House Minority Leader Brandon Woodard, a Lenexa Democrat, applauded the veto and thanked Kelly for “protecting public dollars.”

Kansas governor vetoes scholarship bill that would have extended public funds to two private schools

VATICAN CITY (AP) — World dignitaries and Catholic faithful attended Pope Francis’ funeral in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday.

Despite the presence of presidents and princes, prisoners and migrants ushered him into the basilica where he will be buried, reflecting his priorities as pope, as hundreds of thousands have flocked to the funeral Mass.

<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pope-francis-funeral-catholics-relationship-a34cb1f8a6ceb147e2e112cb4e02e32c">U.S. President Donald Trump</a>, French President Emmanuel Macron, the U.N. chief and European Union leaders, as well as Prince William and the Spanish royal family, were in attendance.

Francis is breaking with recent tradition and will be buried in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-burial-place-santa-maria-maggiore-7332b54e4edcfe0a9a0a5826340ad121">St. Mary Major Basilica</a>, where a simple underground tomb awaits him with just his name: Franciscus.

Francis is remembered as a ‘pope among the people’ in his funeral Mass

Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re eulogized Pope Francis on Saturday as a pope of the people, a paster who knew how to communicate to the “least among us” with an informal, spontaneous style.

Re called Francis “a pope among the people, with an open heart towards everyone.”

He recalled the last image many people have of Francis was of him delivering what would become his final blessing on Easter Sunday, and saluting from the popemobile in the same piazza where his funeral was being celebrated.

Vatican says about 200,000 people have flocked to Pope Francis’ funeral Mass

The brief statement did not specify if that was in St. Peter’s Square alone.

Mourners were lined up along Via della Conciliazione, which leads up to the Vatican, and followed the Mass on big screens in public squares in Rome, including outside the Santa Maria Major Basilica.

Francis will be buried in a private ceremony later Saturday

Pope Francis’ coffin has arrived at St. Mary Major Basilica, where he will be buried in a private ceremony later Saturday.

It was met by about 40 migrants, prisoners, homeless and transgender people each holding a white rose. Their inclusion was emblematic of his care for the marginalized. Francis is the first pope to be buried outside of the Vatican in 100 years.

More people turn out in Rome to watch the motorcade

The motorcade for the pope’s coffin is continuing through Rome’s historic center, where the crowds have thickened.

People were on the steps of the Tomb of the Unknown soldier to catch a glimpse of the papal coffin. It continued past the ancient Roman Forum and Colosseum, to applause and shouts of “Il Papa!” (the pope).

The motorcade with the coffin is making its way across Rome

Crowds applauded and yelled “Papa Francesco!” as a slow-moving motorcade escorting the pope’s coffin to his final resting place left the Vatican to make its way across Rome.

The coffin was visible from atop a modified popemobile. There was more clapping and church bells rang out as the popemobile emerged from a tunnel and crossed the Tiber River.

The popemobile was flanked by police on motorcycles.

Pope Francis’ coffin leaves the Vatican en route to his burial place in St. Mary Major Basilica

The coffin is being carried on the back of a popemobile modified so mourners lining streets can view it. The 6-kilometer (3.5-mile) route crosses the Tiber River and passes Italy’s monumental Tomb of the Unknown soldier, the ancient Roman Forum and the Colosseum before reaching the basilica.

The coffin will be met by about 40 migrants, prisoners, and homeless and transgender people, reflecting the pontiff’s care for people who are marginalized.

Pope Francis’ funeral Mass has ended, and cardinals have filed back into St. Peter’s Basilica.

The crowd applauded as white-gloved pallbearers lifted the pope’s coffin to bring it back inside the basilica. From there, it will be moved to the popemobile to make its way across Rome to Francis’ burial place in St. Mary Major.

A litany of saints was sung out during the funeral Mass for Pope Francis, a meditative chant that is part of the traditional rites.

It was followed by a blessing from Eastern rite Catholic churches chanted in Greek by patriarchs and priests. The pages of the New Testament placed atop the coffin fluttered in the wind as Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re blessed the coffin with incense and holy water.

The prince attended the funeral on behalf of his father, King Charles III.

He stood side by side with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for a moment’s silence in front of Pope Francis’s sealed coffin.

William, dressed in a dark blue suit and black tie, walked through the ornate basilica and down the steps into St. Peter’s Square, before shaking hands with a member of the clergy and being guided to his seat.

He is carrying out his most significant duty so far as heir to the throne. It is the first time the prince has represented the monarch at an international funeral.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745617071098.jpeg" alt="A zinc lid seals the body of late Pope Francis in his casket in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican Friday, April 25, 2025. (Vatican Media via AP)" />
 <figcaption>A zinc lid seals the body of late Pope Francis in his casket in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican Friday, April 25, 2025. (Vatican Media via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>VATICAN CITY (AP) — World dignitaries and Catholic faithful attended Pope Francis’ funeral in St. Peter’s Square on Saturday.Despite the presence of presidents and princes, prisoners and migrants ushered him into the basilica where he will be buried, reflecting his priorities as pope, as hundreds of thousands have flocked to the funeral Mass.<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-pope-francis-funeral-catholics-relationship-a34cb1f8a6ceb147e2e112cb4e02e32c">U.S. President Donald Trump</a>, French President Emmanuel Macron, the U.N. chief and European Union leaders, as well as Prince William and the Spanish royal family, were in attendance.Francis is breaking with recent tradition and will be buried in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-burial-place-santa-maria-maggiore-7332b54e4edcfe0a9a0a5826340ad121">St. Mary Major Basilica</a>, where a simple underground tomb awaits him with just his name: Franciscus.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">LIVE --&gt; Pope Francis&#39; Funeral Mass in Vatican City – LIVE on C-SPAN <a href="https://t.co/mwpDK8FsiQ">https://t.co/mwpDK8FsiQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1916036383530995983?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TAc9GqjrWgI?si=WHkYb9odPqXnRjby" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Here is the latest:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745658396155.jpeg" alt="Image from AP video" />
 <figcaption>Image from AP video</figcaption>
 </figure><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump at Pope Francis Funeral. <a href="https://t.co/QhPK6RUUxQ">pic.twitter.com/QhPK6RUUxQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1916041263771459660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Kielce Gussie, an American journalist with Vatican News, delivers the first reading at the funeral mass for Pope Fancis. <a href="https://t.co/PfkRfnSTlx">pic.twitter.com/PfkRfnSTlx</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1916084533453013404?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Pope Francis&#39; casket drives by the Colosseum in Rome en route to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. <a href="https://t.co/QL8AJdcd9M">pic.twitter.com/QL8AJdcd9M</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1916085179371683994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and First Lady <a href="https://twitter.com/MELANIATRUMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MELANIATRUMP</a> catch up with <a href="https://twitter.com/CardinalDolan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CardinalDolan</a> of New York this morning at St. Peter&#39;s Basilica in Vatican City… <a href="https://t.co/BYfpAkt7Ht">pic.twitter.com/BYfpAkt7Ht</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1916094099469332731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump and First Lady Melania departing St. Peter&#39;s Basilica… <a href="https://t.co/xZ8VdZBXyg">pic.twitter.com/xZ8VdZBXyg</a>&mdash; Dan Scavino (@Scavino47) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scavino47/status/1916080211499552811?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump pay their respects to Pope Francis in St. Peter&#39;s Basilica. <a href="https://t.co/PVSR33OU5p">pic.twitter.com/PVSR33OU5p</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1916102475121103198?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><h2>Francis is remembered as a ‘pope among the people’ in his funeral Mass</h2>Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re eulogized Pope Francis on Saturday as a pope of the people, a paster who knew how to communicate to the “least among us” with an informal, spontaneous style.Re called Francis “a pope among the people, with an open heart towards everyone.”He recalled the last image many people have of Francis was of him delivering what would become his final blessing on Easter Sunday, and saluting from the popemobile in the same piazza where his funeral was being celebrated.<h2>Vatican says about 200,000 people have flocked to Pope Francis’ funeral Mass</h2>The brief statement did not specify if that was in St. Peter’s Square alone.Mourners were lined up along Via della Conciliazione, which leads up to the Vatican, and followed the Mass on big screens in public squares in Rome, including outside the Santa Maria Major Basilica.<h2>Francis will be buried in a private ceremony later Saturday</h2>Pope Francis’ coffin has arrived at St. Mary Major Basilica, where he will be buried in a private ceremony later Saturday.It was met by about 40 migrants, prisoners, homeless and transgender people each holding a white rose. Their inclusion was emblematic of his care for the marginalized. Francis is the first pope to be buried outside of the Vatican in 100 years.<h2>More people turn out in Rome to watch the motorcade</h2>The motorcade for the pope’s coffin is continuing through Rome’s historic center, where the crowds have thickened.People were on the steps of the Tomb of the Unknown soldier to catch a glimpse of the papal coffin. It continued past the ancient Roman Forum and Colosseum, to applause and shouts of “Il Papa!” (the pope).<h2>The motorcade with the coffin is making its way across Rome</h2>Crowds applauded and yelled “Papa Francesco!” as a slow-moving motorcade escorting the pope’s coffin to his final resting place left the Vatican to make its way across Rome.The coffin was visible from atop a modified popemobile. There was more clapping and church bells rang out as the popemobile emerged from a tunnel and crossed the Tiber River.The popemobile was flanked by police on motorcycles.<h2>Pope Francis’ coffin leaves the Vatican en route to his burial place in St. Mary Major Basilica</h2>The coffin is being carried on the back of a popemobile modified so mourners lining streets can view it. The 6-kilometer (3.5-mile) route crosses the Tiber River and passes Italy’s monumental Tomb of the Unknown soldier, the ancient Roman Forum and the Colosseum before reaching the basilica.The coffin will be met by about 40 migrants, prisoners, and homeless and transgender people, reflecting the pontiff’s care for people who are marginalized.<h2>Funeral Mass ends</h2>Pope Francis’ funeral Mass has ended, and cardinals have filed back into St. Peter’s Basilica.The crowd applauded as white-gloved pallbearers lifted the pope’s coffin to bring it back inside the basilica. From there, it will be moved to the popemobile to make its way across Rome to Francis’ burial place in St. Mary Major.<h2>Meditative chant is sung at funeral Mass</h2>A litany of saints was sung out during the funeral Mass for Pope Francis, a meditative chant that is part of the traditional rites.It was followed by a blessing from Eastern rite Catholic churches chanted in Greek by patriarchs and priests. The pages of the New Testament placed atop the coffin fluttered in the wind as Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re blessed the coffin with incense and holy water.<h2>UK’s Prince William pays his respects</h2>The prince attended the funeral on behalf of his father, King Charles III.He stood side by side with British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer for a moment’s silence in front of Pope Francis’s sealed coffin.William, dressed in a dark blue suit and black tie, walked through the ornate basilica and down the steps into St. Peter’s Square, before shaking hands with a member of the clergy and being guided to his seat.He is carrying out his most significant duty so far as heir to the throne. It is the first time the prince has represented the monarch at an international funeral.<h2>Vatican says about 200,000 people have flocked to Pope Francis’ funeral Mass</h2>The brief statement did not specify if that was in St. Peter’s Square alone.Mourners were lined up along Via della Conciliazione, which leads up to the Vatican, and followed the Mass on big screens in public squares in Rome, including outside the Santa Maria Major Basilica.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Pres. Trump and Melania Trump arrive Rome Italy for Pope Francis Funeral ... <a href="https://t.co/jzwSNgnbKe">pic.twitter.com/jzwSNgnbKe</a>&mdash; Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) <a href="https://twitter.com/HowardMortman/status/1915879817133621549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Pope Francis' funeral mass in Vatican City

TOPEKA - A Kansas woman has been charged with first degree murder in connection with the death of a four-month-old baby, according to Kansas Attorney General Kris W. Kobach.

Christy M. Nemnich, 32, was charged with one count of first-degree murder, two counts of child abuse, and one count of operating an unlicensed day care in Barton County District Court in connection with the March 28, 2023, death of a four-month-old baby.&nbsp;

The charges were filed by First Assistant Attorney General Megan Ahsens of Kobach’s office. Criminal charges are merely accusations.&nbsp;Individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The case is being investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Barton County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745614892733.png" alt="Nemnich photo Barton Co." />
 <figcaption>Nemnich photo Barton Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA - A Kansas woman has been charged with first degree murder in connection with the death of a four-month-old baby, according to Kansas Attorney General Kris W. Kobach.Christy M. Nemnich, 32, was charged with one count of first-degree murder, two counts of child abuse, and one count of operating an unlicensed day care in Barton County District Court in connection with the March 28, 2023, death of a four-month-old baby.&nbsp;The charges were filed by First Assistant Attorney General Megan Ahsens of Kobach’s office. Criminal charges are merely accusations.&nbsp;Individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The case is being investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Barton County Sheriff’s Office.&nbsp;

Kansas daycare operator charged in death of 4-month-old baby 

MILWAUKEE (AP) — The FBI on Friday arrested a Milwaukee judge accused of helping a man evade immigration authorities, escalating a clash between the Trump administration and local authorities over the Republican president’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-deportation-poll-el-salvador-81f8040599b9c585554678371e12ed5a">sweeping immigration crackdown</a>.

Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan is accused of escorting the man and his lawyer out of her courtroom through the jury door last week after learning that immigration authorities were seeking his arrest. The man was taken into custody outside the courthouse after agents chased him on foot.

President Donald Trump's administration has accused state and local officials of interfering with his immigration enforcement priorities. The arrest also comes amid a growing battle between the administration and the federal judiciary over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-enforcement-deportation-public-polling-df7d0d35dfa031e1444bfa9e9e0b13bd">the president’s executive actions over deportations and other matters</a>.

Dugan was taken into custody by the FBI on Friday morning on the courthouse grounds, according to U.S. Marshals Service spokesperson Brady McCarron. She appeared briefly in federal court in Milwaukee later Friday before being released from custody. She faces charges of “concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest” and obstructing or impeding a proceeding.

“Judge Dugan wholeheartedly regrets and protests her arrest. It was not made in the interest of public safety," her attorney, Craig Mastantuono, said during the hearing. He declined to comment to an Associated Press reporter following her court appearance.

Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, in a statement on the arrest, accused the Trump administration of repeatedly using “dangerous rhetoric to attack and attempt to undermine our judiciary at every level.”

“I will continue to put my faith in our justice system as this situation plays out in the court of law," he said.

Court papers suggest Dugan was alerted to the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the courthouse by her clerk, who was informed by an attorney that they appeared to be in the hallway.

The FBI affidavit describes Dugan as “visibly angry” over the arrival of immigration agents in the courthouse and says that she pronounced the situation “absurd” before leaving the bench and retreating to her chambers. It says she and another judge later approached members of the arrest team inside the courthouse, displaying what witnesses described as a “confrontational, angry demeanor.”

After a back-and-forth with officers over the warrant for the man, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, she demanded that the arrest team speak with the chief judge and led them away from the courtroom, the affidavit says.

After directing the arrest team to the chief judge's office, investigators say, Dugan returned to the courtroom and was heard saying words to the effect of “wait, come with me” before ushering Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer through a jury door into a non-public area of the courthouse. The action was unusual, the affidavit says, because “only deputies, juries, court staff, and in-custody defendants being escorted by deputies used the back jury door. Defense attorneys and defendants who were not in custody never used the jury door.”

A sign that remained posted on Dugan’s courtroom door Friday advised that if any attorney or other court official “knows or believes that a person feels unsafe coming to the courthouse to courtroom 615,” they should notify the clerk and request an appearance via Zoom.

Flores-Ruiz, 30, was in Dugan’s court for a hearing after being charged with three counts of misdemeanor domestic battery. Confronted by a roommate for playing loud music on March 12, Flores-Ruiz allegedly fought with him in the kitchen and struck a woman who tried to break them up, according to the police affidavit in the case.

Another woman who tried to break up the fight and called police allegedly got elbowed in the arm by Flores-Ruiz.

Flores-Ruiz faces up to nine months in prison and a $10,000 fine on each count if convicted. His public defender, Alexander Kostal, did not immediately return a phone message Friday seeking comment.

A federal judge, the same one Dugan would appear before a day later, had ordered Thursday that Flores-Ruiz remain jailed pending trial. Flores-Ruiz had been in the U.S. since reentering the country after he was deported in 2013, according to court documents.

Attorney General Pam Bondi said victims were sitting in the courtroom with state prosecutors when the judge helped him escape immigration arrest.

The judge “put the lives of our law enforcement officers at risk. She put the lives of citizens at risk. A street chase -- it’s absurd that that had to happen,” Bondi said on Fox News Channel.

Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat who represents Wisconsin, called the arrest of a sitting judge a “gravely serious and drastic move” that “threatens to breach” the separation of power between the executive and judicial branches.

Emilio De Torre, executive director of Milwaukee Turners, said during a protest Friday afternoon outside the federal courthouse that Dugan was a former board member for the local civic group who “was certainly trying to make sure that due process is not disrupted and that the sanctity of the courts is upheld.”

“Sending armed FBI and ICE agents into buildings like this will intimidate individuals showing up to court to pay fines, to deal with whatever court proceedings they may have,” De Torre added.

The case is similar to one brought during the first Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0f3592d82aa14d4d8a0f6a3da59258d3">against a Massachusetts judge</a>, who was accused of helping a man sneak out a back door of a courthouse to evade a waiting immigration enforcement agent.

That prosecution sparked outrage from many in the legal community, who slammed the case as politically motivated. Prosecutors dropped the case against Newton District Judge Shelley Joseph in 2022 under the Democratic Biden administration after she agreed to refer herself to a state agency that investigates allegations of misconduct by members of the bench.

The Justice Department had previously signaled that it was going to crack down on local officials who thwart federal immigration efforts.

The department in January ordered prosecutors to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justice-department-immigration-enforcement-f0e3fc616da9746796378d1cd6385b1b">investigate for potential criminal charges</a>&nbsp;any state and local officials who obstruct or impede federal functions. As potential avenues for prosecution, a memo cited a conspiracy offense as well as a law prohibiting the harboring of people in the country illegally.

Dugan was elected in 2016 to the county court Branch 31. She also has served in the court’s probate and civil divisions, according to her judicial candidate biography.

Before being elected to public office, Dugan practiced at Legal Action of Wisconsin and the Legal Aid Society. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1981 with a bachelor of arts degree and earned her Juris Doctorate in 1987 from the school.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745621926702.png" alt="This 2016 photo shows Judge Hannah Dugan in Milwaukee. (Lee Matz/Milwaukee Independent via AP)" />
 <figcaption>This 2016 photo shows Judge Hannah Dugan in Milwaukee. (Lee Matz/Milwaukee Independent via AP)</figcaption>
 </figure>MILWAUKEE (AP) — The FBI on Friday arrested a Milwaukee judge accused of helping a man evade immigration authorities, escalating a clash between the Trump administration and local authorities over the Republican president’s&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-deportation-poll-el-salvador-81f8040599b9c585554678371e12ed5a">sweeping immigration crackdown</a>.Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Hannah Dugan is accused of escorting the man and his lawyer out of her courtroom through the jury door last week after learning that immigration authorities were seeking his arrest. The man was taken into custody outside the courthouse after agents chased him on foot.President Donald Trump's administration has accused state and local officials of interfering with his immigration enforcement priorities. The arrest also comes amid a growing battle between the administration and the federal judiciary over&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-immigration-enforcement-deportation-public-polling-df7d0d35dfa031e1444bfa9e9e0b13bd">the president’s executive actions over deportations and other matters</a>.Dugan was taken into custody by the FBI on Friday morning on the courthouse grounds, according to U.S. Marshals Service spokesperson Brady McCarron. She appeared briefly in federal court in Milwaukee later Friday before being released from custody. She faces charges of “concealing an individual to prevent his discovery and arrest” and obstructing or impeding a proceeding.“Judge Dugan wholeheartedly regrets and protests her arrest. It was not made in the interest of public safety," her attorney, Craig Mastantuono, said during the hearing. He declined to comment to an Associated Press reporter following her court appearance.Democratic Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, in a statement on the arrest, accused the Trump administration of repeatedly using “dangerous rhetoric to attack and attempt to undermine our judiciary at every level.”“I will continue to put my faith in our justice system as this situation plays out in the court of law," he said.Court papers suggest Dugan was alerted to the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the courthouse by her clerk, who was informed by an attorney that they appeared to be in the hallway.The FBI affidavit describes Dugan as “visibly angry” over the arrival of immigration agents in the courthouse and says that she pronounced the situation “absurd” before leaving the bench and retreating to her chambers. It says she and another judge later approached members of the arrest team inside the courthouse, displaying what witnesses described as a “confrontational, angry demeanor.”After a back-and-forth with officers over the warrant for the man, Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, she demanded that the arrest team speak with the chief judge and led them away from the courtroom, the affidavit says.After directing the arrest team to the chief judge's office, investigators say, Dugan returned to the courtroom and was heard saying words to the effect of “wait, come with me” before ushering Flores-Ruiz and his lawyer through a jury door into a non-public area of the courthouse. The action was unusual, the affidavit says, because “only deputies, juries, court staff, and in-custody defendants being escorted by deputies used the back jury door. Defense attorneys and defendants who were not in custody never used the jury door.”A sign that remained posted on Dugan’s courtroom door Friday advised that if any attorney or other court official “knows or believes that a person feels unsafe coming to the courthouse to courtroom 615,” they should notify the clerk and request an appearance via Zoom.Flores-Ruiz, 30, was in Dugan’s court for a hearing after being charged with three counts of misdemeanor domestic battery. Confronted by a roommate for playing loud music on March 12, Flores-Ruiz allegedly fought with him in the kitchen and struck a woman who tried to break them up, according to the police affidavit in the case.Another woman who tried to break up the fight and called police allegedly got elbowed in the arm by Flores-Ruiz.Flores-Ruiz faces up to nine months in prison and a $10,000 fine on each count if convicted. His public defender, Alexander Kostal, did not immediately return a phone message Friday seeking comment.A federal judge, the same one Dugan would appear before a day later, had ordered Thursday that Flores-Ruiz remain jailed pending trial. Flores-Ruiz had been in the U.S. since reentering the country after he was deported in 2013, according to court documents.Attorney General Pam Bondi said victims were sitting in the courtroom with state prosecutors when the judge helped him escape immigration arrest.The judge “put the lives of our law enforcement officers at risk. She put the lives of citizens at risk. A street chase -- it’s absurd that that had to happen,” Bondi said on Fox News Channel.Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a Democrat who represents Wisconsin, called the arrest of a sitting judge a “gravely serious and drastic move” that “threatens to breach” the separation of power between the executive and judicial branches.Emilio De Torre, executive director of Milwaukee Turners, said during a protest Friday afternoon outside the federal courthouse that Dugan was a former board member for the local civic group who “was certainly trying to make sure that due process is not disrupted and that the sanctity of the courts is upheld.”“Sending armed FBI and ICE agents into buildings like this will intimidate individuals showing up to court to pay fines, to deal with whatever court proceedings they may have,” De Torre added.The case is similar to one brought during the first Trump administration&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/0f3592d82aa14d4d8a0f6a3da59258d3">against a Massachusetts judge</a>, who was accused of helping a man sneak out a back door of a courthouse to evade a waiting immigration enforcement agent.That prosecution sparked outrage from many in the legal community, who slammed the case as politically motivated. Prosecutors dropped the case against Newton District Judge Shelley Joseph in 2022 under the Democratic Biden administration after she agreed to refer herself to a state agency that investigates allegations of misconduct by members of the bench.The Justice Department had previously signaled that it was going to crack down on local officials who thwart federal immigration efforts.The department in January ordered prosecutors to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/justice-department-immigration-enforcement-f0e3fc616da9746796378d1cd6385b1b">investigate for potential criminal charges</a>&nbsp;any state and local officials who obstruct or impede federal functions. As potential avenues for prosecution, a memo cited a conspiracy offense as well as a law prohibiting the harboring of people in the country illegally.Dugan was elected in 2016 to the county court Branch 31. She also has served in the court’s probate and civil divisions, according to her judicial candidate biography.Before being elected to public office, Dugan practiced at Legal Action of Wisconsin and the Legal Aid Society. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1981 with a bachelor of arts degree and earned her Juris Doctorate in 1987 from the school.___

FBI arrests  judge accused of helping a man evade immigration authorities

RUSSELL COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating after a homicide took place in Russell, Kansas, according to a media release.

The Russell Police Department requested the assistance of the KBI. On Thursday, April 24 around 10 p.m., KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded.

On Thursday, around 9:30 p.m. officers with the Russell Police Department responded after a citizen called 911 reporting a shooting.

When officers arrived to the 800 block of East 2nd&nbsp;St. in Russell, they located Deborah Torres, 49, of Russell, who was suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. She told officers her husband, identified as Robert Torres, 49, of Russell, was still inside their residence. When officers entered the home, they discovered Torres deceased in the back living room of the home from apparent gunshot wounds. Officers began clearing the home and discovered no additional subjects.

Shortly after, officers gained information that led them to believe Robert “Bobby” James Torres, 33, of Russell, may have been responsible for the shootings. Deputies from the Russell County Sheriff’s Office located him at 2200 block of Highway 40 in Russell. He was taken into custody without incident.

Bobby Torres was booked into the Russell County Jail for suspected first-degree murder and attempted murder.&nbsp;An autopsy will be conducted. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745615247080.png" alt="Torres photo Russell Co." />
 <figcaption>Torres photo Russell Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>RUSSELL COUNTY&nbsp;– The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating after a homicide took place in Russell, Kansas, according to a media release.The Russell Police Department requested the assistance of the KBI. On Thursday, April 24 around 10 p.m., KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded.On Thursday, around 9:30 p.m. officers with the Russell Police Department responded after a citizen called 911 reporting a shooting.When officers arrived to the 800 block of East 2nd&nbsp;St. in Russell, they located Deborah Torres, 49, of Russell, who was suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. She told officers her husband, identified as Robert Torres, 49, of Russell, was still inside their residence. When officers entered the home, they discovered Torres deceased in the back living room of the home from apparent gunshot wounds. Officers began clearing the home and discovered no additional subjects.Shortly after, officers gained information that led them to believe Robert “Bobby” James Torres, 33, of Russell, may have been responsible for the shootings. Deputies from the Russell County Sheriff’s Office located him at 2200 block of Highway 40 in Russell. He was taken into custody without incident.Bobby Torres was booked into the Russell County Jail for suspected first-degree murder and attempted murder.&nbsp;An autopsy will be conducted.

KBI: Suspect arrested in deadly western Kansas shooting

NEW YORK (AP) — Big Tech stocks carried Wall Street Friday to the close of a winning,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-inflation-trump-68a6a7f7765d78d46329abbecfbe0797">roller-coaster</a>&nbsp;week, one that saw markets swing from fear to relief and back to caution because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-timeline-trade-war-trump-canada-mexico-china-a9d714eea677488ef9397547d838dbd0">President Donald Trump’s trade war</a>.

The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.7% to add some more to a big&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-markets-tariffs-trump-fed-dollar-f6b5873edeb86d883bc90b7a8cc9794d">three-day rally</a>, and it’s back within 10.1% of its record set earlier this year. Spurts for Nvidia and other influential tech stocks sent the Nasdaq composite up a market-leading 1.3%.

But they masked a mixed day of trading on Wall Street, where more stocks fell within the S&amp;P 500 than rose, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average added only a modest 20 points, or 0.1%.

Alphabet climbed 1.7% in its first trading after Google’s parent company reported late Thursday that its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/google-alphabet-quarterly-earnings-search-ab7a33e5e75f18bd74a379ef0bf55179">profit soared 50% in the beginning of 2025 from a year earlier</a>, more than analysts expected.

Alphabet is one of the biggest companies on Wall Street in terms of size, and that gives its stock’s movements extra influence on the S&amp;P 500 and other indexes. Another market heavyweight, Nvidia, was also a major force pushing the S&amp;P 500 index upward after the chip company rose 4.3%.

They helped offset a 6.7% drop for Intel, which fell even though its results for the beginning of the year also topped expectations. The chip company said it’s seeing “elevated uncertainty across the industry” and gave a forecast for upcoming revenue and profit that fell short of analysts’ expectations.

It wasn’t just Intel. Roughly three out of every five stocks in the S&amp;P 500 sank, including Eastman Chemical, which dropped 6.2% after it gave a forecast for profit this spring that fell short of analysts’ expectations.

CEO Mark Costa said that the “macroeconomic uncertainty that defined the last several years has only increased” and that future demand for its products “is unclear given the magnitude and scope of tariffs.”

Skechers U.S.A., the shoe and apparel company, pulled its financial forecasts for the year due to “macroeconomic uncertainty stemming from global trade policies” even though it just reported a record quarter of revenue at $2.41 billion. Its stock fell 5.3%.

Companies&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-impact-pepsi-procter-gamble-prices-1d0f1da000f7823eeb852ff431997ea7">across industries have increasingly been saying the uncertainty</a>&nbsp;created by Trump's tariffs is making it difficult to give financial forecasts for the upcoming year.

Stocks bounced back from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-inflation-trump-68a6a7f7765d78d46329abbecfbe0797">steep slide on Monday</a>&nbsp;on hopes that Trump may be softening his approach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trade-taxes-trump-china-bessent-treasury-66668fa26957ece530a250fa8ea19faa">on trade</a>&nbsp;and his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-jerome-powel-4710172f1fd4d6493769ac0b81703c01">criticism of the Federal Reserve</a>, which had earlier shaken markets. The hope is that if Trump rolls back some of his stiff tariffs, he could avert a recession that many investors see as otherwise likely because of his trade war.

But Trump’s on-again-off-again tariffs may nevertheless be pushing households and businesses to alter their spending and freeze plans for long-term investment because of how quickly conditions can change, sometimes seemingly by the hour.

“Business owners scrambling to figure out their supply chains and exposure to tariffs is more than just a distraction,” according to Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management. “It could be an existential threat, especially for smaller businesses that don’t have the scale or resources to have the same supply chain flexibility as larger firms.”

All told, the S&amp;P 500 rose 40.44 points to 5,525.21. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 20.10 to 40,113.50, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 216.90 to 17,382.94.

In stock markets abroad, indexes rose modestly across much of Europe following more mixed movements in Asia. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 jumped 1.9%, but stocks in Shanghai slipped 0.1%.

In the bond market, Treasury yields eased some more, and the yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.25% from 4.32% late Thursday.

It’s been generally falling since approaching 4.50% earlier this month in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasurys-bond-market-yield-tariff-46b4818710f01b8cc93fd002081167b0">surprising rise</a>&nbsp;that suggested investors worldwide may have been losing faith in the U.S. bond market’s reputation as a safe place to park cash.

Yields have dropped as several reports on the U.S. economy have come in weaker than expected, bolstering expectations that the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates later this year to support growth.

A report on Friday morning said sentiment among U.S. consumers sank in April, though not by as much as economists expected. The survey from the University of Michigan said its measure of expectations for coming conditions has dropped 32% since January for the steepest three-month percentage decline seen since the 1990 recession.

NEW YORK (AP) — Big Tech stocks carried Wall Street Friday to the close of a winning,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-inflation-trump-68a6a7f7765d78d46329abbecfbe0797">roller-coaster</a>&nbsp;week, one that saw markets swing from fear to relief and back to caution because of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-timeline-trade-war-trump-canada-mexico-china-a9d714eea677488ef9397547d838dbd0">President Donald Trump’s trade war</a>.The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.7% to add some more to a big&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stock-markets-tariffs-trump-fed-dollar-f6b5873edeb86d883bc90b7a8cc9794d">three-day rally</a>, and it’s back within 10.1% of its record set earlier this year. Spurts for Nvidia and other influential tech stocks sent the Nasdaq composite up a market-leading 1.3%.But they masked a mixed day of trading on Wall Street, where more stocks fell within the S&amp;P 500 than rose, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average added only a modest 20 points, or 0.1%.Alphabet climbed 1.7% in its first trading after Google’s parent company reported late Thursday that its&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/google-alphabet-quarterly-earnings-search-ab7a33e5e75f18bd74a379ef0bf55179">profit soared 50% in the beginning of 2025 from a year earlier</a>, more than analysts expected.Alphabet is one of the biggest companies on Wall Street in terms of size, and that gives its stock’s movements extra influence on the S&amp;P 500 and other indexes. Another market heavyweight, Nvidia, was also a major force pushing the S&amp;P 500 index upward after the chip company rose 4.3%.They helped offset a 6.7% drop for Intel, which fell even though its results for the beginning of the year also topped expectations. The chip company said it’s seeing “elevated uncertainty across the industry” and gave a forecast for upcoming revenue and profit that fell short of analysts’ expectations.It wasn’t just Intel. Roughly three out of every five stocks in the S&amp;P 500 sank, including Eastman Chemical, which dropped 6.2% after it gave a forecast for profit this spring that fell short of analysts’ expectations.CEO Mark Costa said that the “macroeconomic uncertainty that defined the last several years has only increased” and that future demand for its products “is unclear given the magnitude and scope of tariffs.”Skechers U.S.A., the shoe and apparel company, pulled its financial forecasts for the year due to “macroeconomic uncertainty stemming from global trade policies” even though it just reported a record quarter of revenue at $2.41 billion. Its stock fell 5.3%.Companies&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-impact-pepsi-procter-gamble-prices-1d0f1da000f7823eeb852ff431997ea7">across industries have increasingly been saying the uncertainty</a>&nbsp;created by Trump's tariffs is making it difficult to give financial forecasts for the upcoming year.Stocks bounced back from a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/stocks-markets-rates-inflation-trump-68a6a7f7765d78d46329abbecfbe0797">steep slide on Monday</a>&nbsp;on hopes that Trump may be softening his approach&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tariffs-trade-taxes-trump-china-bessent-treasury-66668fa26957ece530a250fa8ea19faa">on trade</a>&nbsp;and his&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/federal-reserve-trump-jerome-powel-4710172f1fd4d6493769ac0b81703c01">criticism of the Federal Reserve</a>, which had earlier shaken markets. The hope is that if Trump rolls back some of his stiff tariffs, he could avert a recession that many investors see as otherwise likely because of his trade war.But Trump’s on-again-off-again tariffs may nevertheless be pushing households and businesses to alter their spending and freeze plans for long-term investment because of how quickly conditions can change, sometimes seemingly by the hour.“Business owners scrambling to figure out their supply chains and exposure to tariffs is more than just a distraction,” according to Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management. “It could be an existential threat, especially for smaller businesses that don’t have the scale or resources to have the same supply chain flexibility as larger firms.”All told, the S&amp;P 500 rose 40.44 points to 5,525.21. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 20.10 to 40,113.50, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 216.90 to 17,382.94.In stock markets abroad, indexes rose modestly across much of Europe following more mixed movements in Asia. Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 jumped 1.9%, but stocks in Shanghai slipped 0.1%.In the bond market, Treasury yields eased some more, and the yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.25% from 4.32% late Thursday.It’s been generally falling since approaching 4.50% earlier this month in a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/treasurys-bond-market-yield-tariff-46b4818710f01b8cc93fd002081167b0">surprising rise</a>&nbsp;that suggested investors worldwide may have been losing faith in the U.S. bond market’s reputation as a safe place to park cash.Yields have dropped as several reports on the U.S. economy have come in weaker than expected, bolstering expectations that the Federal Reserve may cut interest rates later this year to support growth.A report on Friday morning said sentiment among U.S. consumers sank in April, though not by as much as economists expected. The survey from the University of Michigan said its measure of expectations for coming conditions has dropped 32% since January for the steepest three-month percentage decline seen since the 1990 recession.

Big Tech carries Wall Street to the close of a winning, roller-coaster week

VATICAN CITY (AP) — More than 250,000 people paid their last respects to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-pope-francis-dead-01ca7d73c3c48d25fd1504ba076e2e2a">Pope Francis</a>&nbsp;over three days of public viewing by ordinary mourners and statesmen alike that ended Friday, the eve of his state funeral in St. Peter's Square and burial in a basilica outside the Vatican's walls.

<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/international-telecasts/pope-francis-funeral-mass-in-vatican-city/432696">Click here to watch the funeral mass beginning at 2a.m. CDT</a>

World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, along with royalty, converged on Rome for the funeral, but the group of marginalized people who will meet his casket in a small crosstown basilica are more in keeping with Francis’ humble persona and disdain for pomp.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vatican-city">Vatican</a>&nbsp;said that 164 delegations are confirmed, including 54 heads of state and 12 reigning sovereigns. French President Emmanuel Macron, who will also attend the funeral, was among those who made it in time to pay last respects to the pope.

Tens of thousands of mourners waited hours in line over three days to bid farewell to Francis, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-what-to-know-7c2aa927cf142926f05654984aaa0d90">died Monday</a>&nbsp;after suffering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/pope-francis-dies-catholic-church-updates">a stroke</a>&nbsp;at the age of 88. A higher-than-expected turnout prompted the Vatican to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-lying-state-last-respects-st-peters-ce6e39bd0976a91512af4988546dd80b">extend the basilica's opening hours</a>&nbsp;overnight.

A changing of the guards at the sides of Francis' open coffin signaled the end of the viewing period. The late pontiff was laid out in red robes, a bishop's pointed miter and a rosary entwined in his hands.

Giovanni Guarino drove from Naples with his girlfriend to bid their final farewells to the Francis, moved by his work to help the young and disadvantaged.

“I hope that his successor follows the footsteps of Francis,” Guarino said.

Cardinal Kevin Farrell will preside over the closing and sealing of the coffin in his role of camerlengo, or interim Vatican administrator. A white cloth will be placed over the pope's face, and a bag containing coins minted during his papacy will be put in the coffin along with a one-page written account of his papacy.

Roman neighbors and retired flight attendants Aurelia Ballarini and Francesca Codato came to pay respects to Francis on Friday with very different motivations. Ballarini, 72, was coming to terms with her grief, and Codato, 78, was seeking forgiveness.

For Ballarini, the pope's death leaves a hole in her life. While only 16 years younger than Francis, she considered him a grandfather figure. Every morning, she would log on to Facebook for his daily greeting, and respond “with a couple of words.”

“He gave everything, gave all of himself, up to the end," said Ballarini. “I spent the last two days crying. I was not well after his passing — I can’t even say the word. For me he flew away. One day, we will see each other again."

Codato said that she feels tremendous guilt toward Francis, having forsaken him out of devotion to one of his predecessors, St. John Paul II. When Francis became pope “he was an outsider to me.”

“I feel guilty, because through videos I have seen in these days, I have understood he was a man of enormous humanity, close to the simple people," she said. "So I came to ask forgiveness, because I feel guilty towards him, like a worm.”

The work of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/next-pope-contenders-list-101d68d61be2401a85310e34b45371a9">conclave to choose a new pope</a>&nbsp;won’t start until at least May 5, after nine days of public mourning.

Cardinals have been also been arriving in Rome, with 149 meeting on Friday morning to discuss church business. They won't meet again until next week, meaning a conclave date is unlikely to be set until after the funeral.

Cardinal François-Xavier Bustillo, who hosted Francis during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-corsica-visit-mediterranean-1422ac7938a526d02a82f739a51bcfcd">his last papal trip</a>, to Corsica last year, remembered Francis as “a free man” who "humanized the church without desacralizing it.”

He described the atmosphere inside the meetings as “good,” but said that they weren't yet “at the point of decisions; we are in discussions.”

In keeping with Francis’ embrace of the marginalized, the Vatican said a group of poor and needy people will meet the pope’s coffin to pay homage to him when it arrives at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-burial-place-santa-maria-maggiore-7332b54e4edcfe0a9a0a5826340ad121">St. Mary Major Basilica</a>&nbsp;for burial on Saturday. It has already become a point of pilgrimage.

The tomb is being prepared behind a wooden barrier within the basilica that he chose to be near an icon of the Madonna that he revered and often prayed before. The burial will take place in private, the Vatican said.

Photos released by the Vatican on Friday show the marble tombstone flat against the pavement, with the simple engraving in Latin that he requested in his last testament: “Franciscus.”

Cardinals will visit the St. Mary Major Basilica on Sunday. Entering through the Holy Door, they will visit the Salus Populi Romani icon, which was dear to Francis, and celebrate evening prayers, the Vatican said.

Italy is deploying more than 2,500 police officers and 1,500 soldiers to provide security during the funeral, which is expected to gather about 200,000 mourners in St. Peter’s Square and up to 300,000 people along the 4-kilometer (2½-mile) route from the Vatican to the pope's burial place across Rome.

The major security operation includes stationing an armed naval vessel off the coast, and putting squads of fighter jets on standby, Italian media reported.

Trump, who is traveling with first lady Melania Trump, is scheduled to arrive Friday, after Francis’ coffin has been sealed.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s press office previously confirmed his presence, but he told reporters Friday evening on the site of a recent missile attack that he will attend if time permits, given obligations at home related to the ongoing war.

Among the other foreign dignitaries confirmed for the papal funeral are:

— King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain

— Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán

— Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745603337388.jpeg" alt="Image from AP video" />
 <figcaption>Image from AP video</figcaption>
 </figure>VATICAN CITY (AP) — More than 250,000 people paid their last respects to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/vatican-pope-francis-dead-01ca7d73c3c48d25fd1504ba076e2e2a">Pope Francis</a>&nbsp;over three days of public viewing by ordinary mourners and statesmen alike that ended Friday, the eve of his state funeral in St. Peter's Square and burial in a basilica outside the Vatican's walls.<a href="https://www.c-span.org/event/international-telecasts/pope-francis-funeral-mass-in-vatican-city/432696">Click here to watch the funeral mass beginning at 2a.m. CDT</a>World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Argentine President Javier Milei, along with royalty, converged on Rome for the funeral, but the group of marginalized people who will meet his casket in a small crosstown basilica are more in keeping with Francis’ humble persona and disdain for pomp.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745603106738.png" alt="Image from Associated Press video" />
 <figcaption>Image from Associated Press video</figcaption>
 </figure>The&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/vatican-city">Vatican</a>&nbsp;said that 164 delegations are confirmed, including 54 heads of state and 12 reigning sovereigns. French President Emmanuel Macron, who will also attend the funeral, was among those who made it in time to pay last respects to the pope.<h2>Paying respects</h2>Tens of thousands of mourners waited hours in line over three days to bid farewell to Francis, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-what-to-know-7c2aa927cf142926f05654984aaa0d90">died Monday</a>&nbsp;after suffering&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/live/pope-francis-dies-catholic-church-updates">a stroke</a>&nbsp;at the age of 88. A higher-than-expected turnout prompted the Vatican to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-lying-state-last-respects-st-peters-ce6e39bd0976a91512af4988546dd80b">extend the basilica's opening hours</a>&nbsp;overnight.A changing of the guards at the sides of Francis' open coffin signaled the end of the viewing period. The late pontiff was laid out in red robes, a bishop's pointed miter and a rosary entwined in his hands.Giovanni Guarino drove from Naples with his girlfriend to bid their final farewells to the Francis, moved by his work to help the young and disadvantaged.“I hope that his successor follows the footsteps of Francis,” Guarino said.Cardinal Kevin Farrell will preside over the closing and sealing of the coffin in his role of camerlengo, or interim Vatican administrator. A white cloth will be placed over the pope's face, and a bag containing coins minted during his papacy will be put in the coffin along with a one-page written account of his papacy.<h2>'We will see each other again'</h2>Roman neighbors and retired flight attendants Aurelia Ballarini and Francesca Codato came to pay respects to Francis on Friday with very different motivations. Ballarini, 72, was coming to terms with her grief, and Codato, 78, was seeking forgiveness.For Ballarini, the pope's death leaves a hole in her life. While only 16 years younger than Francis, she considered him a grandfather figure. Every morning, she would log on to Facebook for his daily greeting, and respond “with a couple of words.”“He gave everything, gave all of himself, up to the end," said Ballarini. “I spent the last two days crying. I was not well after his passing — I can’t even say the word. For me he flew away. One day, we will see each other again."Codato said that she feels tremendous guilt toward Francis, having forsaken him out of devotion to one of his predecessors, St. John Paul II. When Francis became pope “he was an outsider to me.”“I feel guilty, because through videos I have seen in these days, I have understood he was a man of enormous humanity, close to the simple people," she said. "So I came to ask forgiveness, because I feel guilty towards him, like a worm.”<h2>Cardinals ‘are in discussions’</h2>The work of the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/next-pope-contenders-list-101d68d61be2401a85310e34b45371a9">conclave to choose a new pope</a>&nbsp;won’t start until at least May 5, after nine days of public mourning.Cardinals have been also been arriving in Rome, with 149 meeting on Friday morning to discuss church business. They won't meet again until next week, meaning a conclave date is unlikely to be set until after the funeral.Cardinal François-Xavier Bustillo, who hosted Francis during&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-corsica-visit-mediterranean-1422ac7938a526d02a82f739a51bcfcd">his last papal trip</a>, to Corsica last year, remembered Francis as “a free man” who "humanized the church without desacralizing it.”He described the atmosphere inside the meetings as “good,” but said that they weren't yet “at the point of decisions; we are in discussions.”<h2>Papal burial</h2>In keeping with Francis’ embrace of the marginalized, the Vatican said a group of poor and needy people will meet the pope’s coffin to pay homage to him when it arrives at&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-burial-place-santa-maria-maggiore-7332b54e4edcfe0a9a0a5826340ad121">St. Mary Major Basilica</a>&nbsp;for burial on Saturday. It has already become a point of pilgrimage.The tomb is being prepared behind a wooden barrier within the basilica that he chose to be near an icon of the Madonna that he revered and often prayed before. The burial will take place in private, the Vatican said.Photos released by the Vatican on Friday show the marble tombstone flat against the pavement, with the simple engraving in Latin that he requested in his last testament: “Franciscus.”Cardinals will visit the St. Mary Major Basilica on Sunday. Entering through the Holy Door, they will visit the Salus Populi Romani icon, which was dear to Francis, and celebrate evening prayers, the Vatican said.<h2>Security measures</h2>Italy is deploying more than 2,500 police officers and 1,500 soldiers to provide security during the funeral, which is expected to gather about 200,000 mourners in St. Peter’s Square and up to 300,000 people along the 4-kilometer (2½-mile) route from the Vatican to the pope's burial place across Rome.The major security operation includes stationing an armed naval vessel off the coast, and putting squads of fighter jets on standby, Italian media reported.<h2>Royals and leaders</h2>Trump, who is traveling with first lady Melania Trump, is scheduled to arrive Friday, after Francis’ coffin has been sealed.Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s press office previously confirmed his presence, but he told reporters Friday evening on the site of a recent missile attack that he will attend if time permits, given obligations at home related to the ongoing war.Among the other foreign dignitaries confirmed for the papal funeral are:— U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer— Prince William— King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain— Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán— Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva

250,000 mourners: Public viewing of Pope Francis' coffin ends

CENTRAL ISLIP, N.Y. (AP) — Disgraced former U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/george-santos">George Santos</a>, who lied about his life story and defrauded donors, was sentenced Friday to over seven years in prison, sobbing as he heard his punishment.

Santos, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-plea-court-new-york-90741d068fd94090419fc0fd79be30cc">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;last summer to federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, appealed for mercy, telling a court through tears that he was “humbled” and “chastised” and realized he had betrayed his constituents' trust.

“I offer my deepest apologies,” he said, adding: “I cannot rewrite the past, but I can control the road ahead.”

U.S. District Court Judge Joanna Seybert evidently wasn't convinced.

“Where is your remorse? Where do I see it?” she asked as she sentenced him to 87 months behind bars. She said the former politician appeared to feel that “it’s always someone else’s fault.”

The New York Republican served in Congress barely a year before his House colleagues ousted him in 2023.

He admitted to deceiving donors and stealing the identities of nearly a dozen people, including his family members, to fund his winning campaign. As part of a plea deal, Santos has agreed to pay roughly $580,000 in penalties in addition to prison time.

The 36-year-old didn't respond to reporters' shouted questions as he walked into a Long Island courthouse, but he told The Associated Press on Thursday that he was resigned to his fate.

“I’m doing as well as any human being would be doing given the circumstances,” Santos wrote in a text message on Thursday, adding that he was “ready to face the music.”

Prosecutors sought seven years in federal prison for Santos,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-guilty-plea-sentencing-622f8b7288094d06b6fad2dce68421a2">arguing in recent court filings</a>&nbsp;that he “remains unrepentant” and has not shown genuine remorse, despite what he claims.

They cited recent comments Santos made on social media in which he cast himself as a victim of prosecutorial overreach.

In a letter to the court this week, Santos stressed that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-sentencing-prison-1a5f54eb7ba742e91cffef748e6b1b1b">remains “profoundly sorry”</a>&nbsp;for his crimes but said prosecutors' proposed sentence is too harsh.

Santos’ lawyers had called for a two-year prison stint, which is the mandatory minimum sentence for aggravated identity theft.

They argued such a penalty was comparable to sentences handed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-f105dbe7f98c472e8fe7d2da6249fd60">former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.</a>&nbsp;and other political figures convicted of similar financial crimes.

Santos was elected in 2022, flipping a wealthy district representing parts of Queens and Long Island for the GOP.

Soon after, it was revealed that the political unknown had fabricated much of his life story, painting himself as a successful business owner who worked at prestigious Wall Street firms and held a valuable real estate portfolio.

In reality, Santos was struggling financially and even faced eviction. The revelations led to congressional and criminal inquiries into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-district-of-columbia-congress-george-santos-campaign-finance-f58dc7242796327d81738559885e9078">how he had funded his campaign</a>.

As his sentencing approached, Santos was reflective in social media posts, thanking his supporters and detractors alike.

“I learned that no matter left, right or, center we are all humans and for the most part Americans (LOL) and we have one super power that I cherish and that is compassion,” he&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MrSantosNY/status/1915406513755107733">wrote Thursday on the social platform X</a>. “To the trolls… well you guys are an impactful part of how people shape themselves, and y’all made me much stronger and made my skin thicker!”

He also made one final plug for his Cameo account, where he records personalized video messages for $100.

“Think ahead and of any celebration or event coming up later this year. Book them today,” Santos wrote, ending the post with a series of heart emojis.

Associated Press writer Jake Offenhartz in New York contributed to this story.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/12/1701446271001.png" alt="George Santos on the day he was expelled from Congress image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>George Santos on the day he was expelled from Congress image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>CENTRAL ISLIP, N.Y. (AP) — Disgraced former U.S. Rep.&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/george-santos">George Santos</a>, who lied about his life story and defrauded donors, was sentenced Friday to over seven years in prison, sobbing as he heard his punishment.Santos, who&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-plea-court-new-york-90741d068fd94090419fc0fd79be30cc">pleaded guilty</a>&nbsp;last summer to federal wire fraud and aggravated identity theft, appealed for mercy, telling a court through tears that he was “humbled” and “chastised” and realized he had betrayed his constituents' trust.“I offer my deepest apologies,” he said, adding: “I cannot rewrite the past, but I can control the road ahead.”U.S. District Court Judge Joanna Seybert evidently wasn't convinced.“Where is your remorse? Where do I see it?” she asked as she sentenced him to 87 months behind bars. She said the former politician appeared to feel that “it’s always someone else’s fault.”The New York Republican served in Congress barely a year before his House colleagues ousted him in 2023.He admitted to deceiving donors and stealing the identities of nearly a dozen people, including his family members, to fund his winning campaign. As part of a plea deal, Santos has agreed to pay roughly $580,000 in penalties in addition to prison time.The 36-year-old didn't respond to reporters' shouted questions as he walked into a Long Island courthouse, but he told The Associated Press on Thursday that he was resigned to his fate.“I’m doing as well as any human being would be doing given the circumstances,” Santos wrote in a text message on Thursday, adding that he was “ready to face the music.”Prosecutors sought seven years in federal prison for Santos,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-guilty-plea-sentencing-622f8b7288094d06b6fad2dce68421a2">arguing in recent court filings</a>&nbsp;that he “remains unrepentant” and has not shown genuine remorse, despite what he claims.They cited recent comments Santos made on social media in which he cast himself as a victim of prosecutorial overreach.In a letter to the court this week, Santos stressed that he&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/george-santos-fraud-sentencing-prison-1a5f54eb7ba742e91cffef748e6b1b1b">remains “profoundly sorry”</a>&nbsp;for his crimes but said prosecutors' proposed sentence is too harsh.Santos’ lawyers had called for a two-year prison stint, which is the mandatory minimum sentence for aggravated identity theft.They argued such a penalty was comparable to sentences handed to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/general-news-f105dbe7f98c472e8fe7d2da6249fd60">former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.</a>&nbsp;and other political figures convicted of similar financial crimes.Santos was elected in 2022, flipping a wealthy district representing parts of Queens and Long Island for the GOP.Soon after, it was revealed that the political unknown had fabricated much of his life story, painting himself as a successful business owner who worked at prestigious Wall Street firms and held a valuable real estate portfolio.In reality, Santos was struggling financially and even faced eviction. The revelations led to congressional and criminal inquiries into&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/politics-district-of-columbia-congress-george-santos-campaign-finance-f58dc7242796327d81738559885e9078">how he had funded his campaign</a>.As his sentencing approached, Santos was reflective in social media posts, thanking his supporters and detractors alike.“I learned that no matter left, right or, center we are all humans and for the most part Americans (LOL) and we have one super power that I cherish and that is compassion,” he&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/MrSantosNY/status/1915406513755107733">wrote Thursday on the social platform X</a>. “To the trolls… well you guys are an impactful part of how people shape themselves, and y’all made me much stronger and made my skin thicker!”He also made one final plug for his Cameo account, where he records personalized video messages for $100.“Think ahead and of any celebration or event coming up later this year. Book them today,” Santos wrote, ending the post with a series of heart emojis.___Associated Press writer Jake Offenhartz in New York contributed to this story.\

Disgraced former Congressman sobbed as he's sentenced to prison

ELLIS COUNTY —Kansas Highway Patrol Captain Travis Phillips, Troop D, was honored with a Commanders Commendation Award for his actions on March 14,&nbsp; when a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 70 in Sherman County.

"The horrific incident, which involved 71 vehicles, 29 being commercial motor vehicle, and sadly resulted in 8 fatalities, demanded an extraordinary level of coordination, professionalism, and resolve from first responders."

"Despite facing the unique challenges of extremely high winds, zero visibility, blowing dust/dirt, multiple injured and/or disoriented motorists, deceased motorists, and debris, Captain Phillips’ responded swiftly, assisting with traffic control, the transportation of stranded motorists to area hotels, and checking on the welfare of the KHP personnel directly involved."

"Captain Phillips actions on March 14 and in the days that followed exemplified the highest standards of service and significantly contributed to the success of our mission. His performance during this incident is truly commendable and worthy of recognition."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1744654081515.png" alt="Photo of the crash scene-KHP" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the crash scene-KHP</figcaption>
 </figure>ELLIS COUNTY —Kansas Highway Patrol Captain Travis Phillips, Troop D, was honored with a Commanders Commendation Award for his actions on March 14,&nbsp; when a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 70 in Sherman County.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/4/1745593808006.png" alt="KHP Captain Travis Phillips (Left) -Photo KHP Troop D" />
 <figcaption>KHP Captain Travis Phillips (Left) -Photo KHP Troop D</figcaption>
 </figure>"The horrific incident, which involved 71 vehicles, 29 being commercial motor vehicle, and sadly resulted in 8 fatalities, demanded an extraordinary level of coordination, professionalism, and resolve from first responders.""Despite facing the unique challenges of extremely high winds, zero visibility, blowing dust/dirt, multiple injured and/or disoriented motorists, deceased motorists, and debris, Captain Phillips’ responded swiftly, assisting with traffic control, the transportation of stranded motorists to area hotels, and checking on the welfare of the KHP personnel directly involved.""Captain Phillips actions on March 14 and in the days that followed exemplified the highest standards of service and significantly contributed to the success of our mission. His performance during this incident is truly commendable and worthy of recognition."

Kan. Trooper recognized for heroic action during multi-vehicle crash

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an incident involving a dog bite and continue asking the public for help to locate the animal.

The incident occurred just after 2p.m. Thursday near W95th and Mission Road in Overland Park, according to a media release from police.

The dog was described as a 30-pound lack, brown and white short-hair terrier. Police described the dog's owner as a slender Asian woman with dark hair, approximately 25-39 years old. The dog was on a leash when the bite occurred. EMS transported the victim to an area hospital for treatment.

Police asked anyone with information on the dog or its owner to contact them.

JOHNSON COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an incident involving a dog bite and continue asking the public for help to locate the animal.The incident occurred just after 2p.m. Thursday near W95th and Mission Road in Overland Park, according to a media release from police.The dog was described as a 30-pound lack, brown and white short-hair terrier. Police described the dog's owner as a slender Asian woman with dark hair, approximately 25-39 years old. The dog was on a leash when the bite occurred. EMS transported the victim to an area hospital for treatment.Police asked anyone with information on the dog or its owner to contact them.

Police search for Kan. woman after dog bite incident

Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed in March, a lackluster start to the spring homebuying season as elevated mortgage rates and rising prices discouraged home shoppers.

Existing home sales fell 5.9% last month from February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.02 million units, the National Association of Realtors said Thursday. The March sales decline is the largest monthly drop since November 2022, when sales fell 6.7% from the previous month.

Sales also fell 2.4% compared with March last year. The latest home sales fell short of the 4.12 million pace economists were expecting, according to FactSet.

The average cost of a U.S. mortgage, which climbed to its highest level in two months last week, is a significant barrier for would-be homebuyers, said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist.

“Residential housing mobility, currently at historical lows, signals the troublesome possibility of less economic mobility for society,” Yun said.

Home prices increased on an annual basis for the 21st consecutive month, although at a slower rate. The national median sales price rose 2.7% in March from a year earlier to $403,700, an all-time high for March, but the smallest annual increase since August.

The U.S. housing market has been in a sales slump since 2022, when mortgage rates began to climb from pandemic-era lows. Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell last year to their lowest level in nearly 30 years.

Higher mortgage rates also dampened the start of the spring homebuying season in 2024. This year, after climbing to a just above 7% in mid-January, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage has remained mostly elevated, climbing last week to 6.83%, its highest level in eight weeks, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. The average rate eased this week to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mortgage-rates-housing-interest-financing-home-72e42b3ead363d64d2cf42a1d676647a">6.81%.</a>

Homes purchased last month likely went under contract in February and early March, when the average rate on a 30-year mortgage ranged from 6.89% to 6.63%, according to Freddie Mac.

While sales of existing home fell last month, sales of newly built homes surged in March. They jumped 7.4% from February and 6% from March last year, the Commerce Department reported Wednesday.

By ALEX VEIGA Associated PressSales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed in March, a lackluster start to the spring homebuying season as elevated mortgage rates and rising prices discouraged home shoppers.Existing home sales fell 5.9% last month from February to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.02 million units, the National Association of Realtors said Thursday. The March sales decline is the largest monthly drop since November 2022, when sales fell 6.7% from the previous month.Sales also fell 2.4% compared with March last year. The latest home sales fell short of the 4.12 million pace economists were expecting, according to FactSet.The average cost of a U.S. mortgage, which climbed to its highest level in two months last week, is a significant barrier for would-be homebuyers, said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist.“Residential housing mobility, currently at historical lows, signals the troublesome possibility of less economic mobility for society,” Yun said.Home prices increased on an annual basis for the 21st consecutive month, although at a slower rate. The national median sales price rose 2.7% in March from a year earlier to $403,700, an all-time high for March, but the smallest annual increase since August.The U.S. housing market has been in a sales slump since 2022, when mortgage rates began to climb from pandemic-era lows. Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes fell last year to their lowest level in nearly 30 years.Higher mortgage rates also dampened the start of the spring homebuying season in 2024. This year, after climbing to a just above 7% in mid-January, the average rate on a 30-year mortgage has remained mostly elevated, climbing last week to 6.83%, its highest level in eight weeks, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. The average rate eased this week to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/mortgage-rates-housing-interest-financing-home-72e42b3ead363d64d2cf42a1d676647a">6.81%.</a>Homes purchased last month likely went under contract in February and early March, when the average rate on a 30-year mortgage ranged from 6.89% to 6.63%, according to Freddie Mac.While sales of existing home fell last month, sales of newly built homes surged in March. They jumped 7.4% from February and 6% from March last year, the Commerce Department reported Wednesday.To drum up sales, homebuilders have ramped up sales incentives, such as paying to lower the initial rate on a homebuyer’s mortgage. Many builders have also shifted to their focus to smaller, less expensive homes.In contrast, existing home sales tend to be driven by properties on the upper-end of the market, where more affluent homebuyers can afford to finance a home at current mortgage rates or perhaps pay cash. Consider, sales of homes priced at $1 million or higher jumped 14% last month from a year earlier, while those priced between $100,000 and $250,000 fell 4%, NAR said.Sales fell in March even as more homes hit the market for the spring homebuying season.There were 1.33 million unsold homes at the end of last month, an 8.1% increase from February, and a 19.8% jump from March last year, NAR said.That translates to a 4-month supply at the current sales pace, up from a 3.2-month pace at the end of March last year. Traditionally, a 5- to 6-month supply is considered a balanced market between buyers and sellers.“I felt that more inventory would lead to more sales, but that’s not the case,” Yun said.One reason the inventory of homes for sale has been rising is that properties are taking longer to sell. Homes typically remained on the market for 36 days last month before selling, up from 33 days in March last year, NAR said.More homes for sale and lower asking prices in many metro areas from Miami to San Diego, translate to a more buyer-friendly market for home shoppers who can afford to buy.Sellers gave buyers money toward repairs, closing costs and other concessions in 44.4% of U.S. home sales that occurred in the first quarter, according to data from Redfin. That was up from 39.3% a year earlier.Many sellers are also lowering asking prices. More than 23% of home listings on Zillow had their price lowered in March, the highest share for any March since at least 2018.Despite these buyer-friendly trends, the housing market remains largely out of reach for many Americans, especially first-time buyers who don’t have home equity gains to put toward a new home. While home price growth has been slowing, the decline is negligible against the nearly 50% gain in prices over the last five years.“Uncertainty and anxiety are going to cloud the spring housing market this year,” said Lisa Sturtevant, chief economist at Bright MLS. “Lower mortgage rates and more inventory were expected to bring more home shoppers out this spring, but while some buyers will take advantage of more listings and more room for negotiation, others will hold back, unwilling to make a big decision in these current uneasy times.”

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