By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mayasmith/">Maya Smith</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>

LAWRENCE — Honking horns, blowing whistles and chanting “ICE out,” hundreds of high school students walked out of class Tuesday afternoon protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, alongside Lawrence residents and middle school and university students.

The protest was organized by Lawrence High School sophomore Lillian Goombi, with groups including the Sanctuary Alliance and the Kansas Students for Justice in Palestine participating. Both organizations<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DT6by0mDcRG/?img_index=1" target="_blank">called upon Lawrence</a>&nbsp;citizens and University of Kansas students and faculty to join high schoolers in the walkout.

Students participated in protests at both Lawrence High and Free State High School.&nbsp;

For first-generation student Angelo Reyna, the walkout was for those who can’t speak out due to immigration status or fear, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I’m here because my mom is an immigrant,” Reyna said. “What’s happening on the streets of Minnesota is terrible. I’m here to show my solidarity that I disagree with everything that is happening. I use my voice because there are undocumented immigrants who cannot use their voice. I’m very proud I can use mine.”

Freshman Elaina Pollard said she was proud of both high school and middle school students who walked out of class.&nbsp;

“Not enough people are standing up for this,” Pollard said. “What’s happening in Minnesota is heartbreaking and horrible. It needs to stop. I’m proud of everyone who’s out here in the cold and I’m glad to see so many protesters and KU students with us.”

Middle school students from both Liberty Memorial Central Middle School and Billy Mills Middle School walked to Lawrence High, which is roughly a mile from either building. They held up signs with phrases such as “abolish ICE” and “don’t be an ICE-hole.”

Lawrence Public Schools Superintendent Jeanice Swift released a statement Monday afternoon before the walkout. Swift said the district supports students’ right to protest but that the district remains “viewpoint neutral” on student speech.&nbsp;

Lawrence High Schools principal Quentin Rials did not respond for comment at the time of publishing.&nbsp;

Many non-student attendees are regulars at the weekly Sunday protests on Massachusetts Street against the Trump administration as well as ICE. Protesters say they were impressed with the number of students who participated.&nbsp;

Erika Earles, who graduated from Lawrence High in 1995, said she was proud of current students carrying on the long history of students standing up for their rights, referencing how the Lawrence High School Black Student Union helped integrate the town in the sixties.&nbsp;

“It’s horrifying what our federal government is doing right now, and I wanted to come out and support the kids at LHS standing up for what’s right,” Earles said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769607917211.png" alt="Lawrence High School students and residents protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement on 19th and Louisiana Street across from the high school. (Photo by Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Lawrence High School students and residents protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement on 19th and Louisiana Street across from the high school. (Photo by Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mayasmith/">Maya Smith</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2025/02/24/gov-laura-kelly-skeptical-kansas-houses-anti-tenure-legislation-will-reach-her-desk/">Kansas Reflector</a>LAWRENCE — Honking horns, blowing whistles and chanting “ICE out,” hundreds of high school students walked out of class Tuesday afternoon protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, alongside Lawrence residents and middle school and university students.The protest was organized by Lawrence High School sophomore Lillian Goombi, with groups including the Sanctuary Alliance and the Kansas Students for Justice in Palestine participating. Both organizations<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DT6by0mDcRG/?img_index=1" target="_blank">called upon Lawrence</a>&nbsp;citizens and University of Kansas students and faculty to join high schoolers in the walkout.Students participated in protests at both Lawrence High and Free State High School.&nbsp;For first-generation student Angelo Reyna, the walkout was for those who can’t speak out due to immigration status or fear, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’m here because my mom is an immigrant,” Reyna said. “What’s happening on the streets of Minnesota is terrible. I’m here to show my solidarity that I disagree with everything that is happening. I use my voice because there are undocumented immigrants who cannot use their voice. I’m very proud I can use mine.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769607883179.png" alt="Lawrence High School students raised their voices on Tuesday for a protest against ICE. Other Lawrence schools participated in the direct action as well. (Photo by Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Lawrence High School students raised their voices on Tuesday for a protest against ICE. Other Lawrence schools participated in the direct action as well. (Photo by Maya Smith for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Freshman Elaina Pollard said she was proud of both high school and middle school students who walked out of class.&nbsp;“Not enough people are standing up for this,” Pollard said. “What’s happening in Minnesota is heartbreaking and horrible. It needs to stop. I’m proud of everyone who’s out here in the cold and I’m glad to see so many protesters and KU students with us.”Middle school students from both Liberty Memorial Central Middle School and Billy Mills Middle School walked to Lawrence High, which is roughly a mile from either building. They held up signs with phrases such as “abolish ICE” and “don’t be an ICE-hole.”Lawrence Public Schools Superintendent Jeanice Swift released a statement Monday afternoon before the walkout. Swift said the district supports students’ right to protest but that the district remains “viewpoint neutral” on student speech.&nbsp;Lawrence High Schools principal Quentin Rials did not respond for comment at the time of publishing.&nbsp;Many non-student attendees are regulars at the weekly Sunday protests on Massachusetts Street against the Trump administration as well as ICE. Protesters say they were impressed with the number of students who participated.&nbsp;Erika Earles, who graduated from Lawrence High in 1995, said she was proud of current students carrying on the long history of students standing up for their rights, referencing how the Lawrence High School Black Student Union helped integrate the town in the sixties.&nbsp;“It’s horrifying what our federal government is doing right now, and I wanted to come out and support the kids at LHS standing up for what’s right,” Earles said.

Lawrence high school students and residents march against immigration enforcement abuses

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

Gov. Mike Kehoe withdrew two nominees to the Missouri Ethics Commission Tuesday after Democrats pointed out the appointments were based on a congressional map that Republicans contend is no longer valid.&nbsp;

Senate Democrats have&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/15/democrats-stall-missouri-governors-appointments-vow-to-slow-senate-pace/">refused to allow any gubernatorial appointments&nbsp;</a>to come up for a vote for the past two weeks, arguing that their stall tactics are an effort to restore the chamber’s role as the more deliberative body. Republicans say the move is simply political payback for the Senate GOP invoking a rarely-used rule four times last year to shut down debate.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Democratic state Sen. Stephen Webber of Columbia raised a formal objection to four nominees to the state’s ethics commission. The appointments are based on congressional districts, Webber noted, and Kehoe relied on the map approved by lawmakers in 2022.&nbsp;

But Republicans are in court arguing that the newly gerrymandered map — which passed four months ago —&nbsp; is in effect. And under that map, two nominees live in the 4th District and two live in the 1st District.&nbsp;

“This was only discovered because we decided to take our time,” Webber said, “and we’ve slowed things down…. I know there are a lot of people frustrated that Democrats are not letting these nominees through. But by doing this vetting, we found problems.”

After Webber’s point of order, Kehoe withdrew two of the nominees. The other two, along with more than 20 other appointments, are still being blocked by a Democratic filibuster. Unless they are approved by the Senate or withdrawn by the governor by Feb. 6, they will be barred from holding those appointments for life.

President Donald Trump began pressuring Missouri Republicans last summer to change the state’s congressional map to give the GOP an edge in seven of the state’s eight districts, up from six they currently hold. Lawmakers approved the gerrymandered map in September.

In December, opponents of the gerrymandered map submitted more than 300,000 signatures to put it on the statewide ballot. For more than a century, dating back to a 1914 Missouri Supreme Court ruling, submitting referendum signatures automatically suspends the challenged law until voters decide its fate or the signatures are invalidated.

But Attorney General Catherine Hanaway and Secretary of State Denny Hoskins have disregarded that precedent, publicly declaring the new map the law of the land. The ACLU of Missouri filed a lawsuit last month arguing that&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/lawsuit-alleges-missouri-officials-are-ignoring-constitution-to-enact-gerrymandered-map/">decision violates the constitution</a>.

Webber agrees with the ACLU that the gerrymandered map is effectively frozen and the 2022 map remains in effect. By relying on the 2022 map for his appointments, Webber contends, Kehoe also agrees.

“The attorney general has asserted the 2022 maps are no longer in effect and the 2025 gerrymandered map is in effect,” Webber said. “We know from the governor’s actions that he doesn’t agree with the attorney general. And he doesn’t agree with President Trump, either… Kehoe is with us on this.”

Kehoe’s spokeswoman said in a Friday afternoon email that the governor made the ethics commission appointments before the new map went into effect on Dec. 11.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1757444658128.png" alt="Source: U.S. Census Bureau. Basemap © OpenStreetMap contributors / Map by Anna Sago " />
 <figcaption>Source: U.S. Census Bureau. Basemap © OpenStreetMap contributors / Map by Anna Sago </figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">Jason Hancock</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>Gov. Mike Kehoe withdrew two nominees to the Missouri Ethics Commission Tuesday after Democrats pointed out the appointments were based on a congressional map that Republicans contend is no longer valid.&nbsp;Senate Democrats have&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/15/democrats-stall-missouri-governors-appointments-vow-to-slow-senate-pace/">refused to allow any gubernatorial appointments&nbsp;</a>to come up for a vote for the past two weeks, arguing that their stall tactics are an effort to restore the chamber’s role as the more deliberative body. Republicans say the move is simply political payback for the Senate GOP invoking a rarely-used rule four times last year to shut down debate.&nbsp;On Tuesday, Democratic state Sen. Stephen Webber of Columbia raised a formal objection to four nominees to the state’s ethics commission. The appointments are based on congressional districts, Webber noted, and Kehoe relied on the map approved by lawmakers in 2022.&nbsp;But Republicans are in court arguing that the newly gerrymandered map — which passed four months ago —&nbsp; is in effect. And under that map, two nominees live in the 4th District and two live in the 1st District.&nbsp;“This was only discovered because we decided to take our time,” Webber said, “and we’ve slowed things down…. I know there are a lot of people frustrated that Democrats are not letting these nominees through. But by doing this vetting, we found problems.”After Webber’s point of order, Kehoe withdrew two of the nominees. The other two, along with more than 20 other appointments, are still being blocked by a Democratic filibuster. Unless they are approved by the Senate or withdrawn by the governor by Feb. 6, they will be barred from holding those appointments for life.President Donald Trump began pressuring Missouri Republicans last summer to change the state’s congressional map to give the GOP an edge in seven of the state’s eight districts, up from six they currently hold. Lawmakers approved the gerrymandered map in September.In December, opponents of the gerrymandered map submitted more than 300,000 signatures to put it on the statewide ballot. For more than a century, dating back to a 1914 Missouri Supreme Court ruling, submitting referendum signatures automatically suspends the challenged law until voters decide its fate or the signatures are invalidated.But Attorney General Catherine Hanaway and Secretary of State Denny Hoskins have disregarded that precedent, publicly declaring the new map the law of the land. The ACLU of Missouri filed a lawsuit last month arguing that&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/lawsuit-alleges-missouri-officials-are-ignoring-constitution-to-enact-gerrymandered-map/">decision violates the constitution</a>.Webber agrees with the ACLU that the gerrymandered map is effectively frozen and the 2022 map remains in effect. By relying on the 2022 map for his appointments, Webber contends, Kehoe also agrees.“The attorney general has asserted the 2022 maps are no longer in effect and the 2025 gerrymandered map is in effect,” Webber said. “We know from the governor’s actions that he doesn’t agree with the attorney general. And he doesn’t agree with President Trump, either… Kehoe is with us on this.”Kehoe’s spokeswoman said in a Friday afternoon email that the governor made the ethics commission appointments before the new map went into effect on Dec. 11.

Missouri governor withdraws ethics nominees amid fight over gerrymandered map

WICHITA, KS – The Kansas Supreme Court has scheduled oral arguments for the cases of Reginald and Jonathan Carr for Wednesday, January 28.

Below is a summary provided by the district attorney's office on the current status of these appeals, and a summary of what has happened in the cases so far.

Prosecutors said the brothers broke into a Wichita home in December 2000 and forced the three men and two women there to have sex with one another and later to withdraw money from ATMs.

According to authorities, the women were raped repeatedly before all five were taken to a soccer field and shot. Four victims died: Aaron Sander, 29; Brad Heyka, 27; Jason Befort, 26; and Heather Muller, 25. One of the women survived to testify against the Carr brothers. Other crimes over six days left a fifth person dead.

The defendants each appealed Judge Goering’s denial that was issued in April of 2024.&nbsp; The arguments on those appeals scheduled for next week are to resolve those appeals.&nbsp; The defendants’ arguments are (summarized) that they should be granted new sentencing hearings at which point the question of the death penalty would have to be re-litigated.&nbsp; The State’s argument (summarized) is that the question has been resolved, and no new sentencing should be granted.

When any capital murder or other “off-grid” case is appealed in Kansas, the appellate proceedings are as follows:

Then when the direct appeals are exhausted,

Then when the collateral attacks are exhausted,

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713797595636.png" alt="Reginald Carr -photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Reginald Carr -photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KS – The Kansas Supreme Court has scheduled oral arguments for the cases of Reginald and Jonathan Carr for Wednesday, January 28.Below is a summary provided by the district attorney's office on the current status of these appeals, and a summary of what has happened in the cases so far.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/4/1713797664640.png" alt="Jonathan Carr photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Jonathan Carr photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure><ol>
 <li>December 7 to 14, 2000, the crimes for which both men were subsequently convicted occurred.</li>
 </ol>Prosecutors said the brothers broke into a Wichita home in December 2000 and forced the three men and two women there to have sex with one another and later to withdraw money from ATMs.According to authorities, the women were raped repeatedly before all five were taken to a soccer field and shot. Four victims died: Aaron Sander, 29; Brad Heyka, 27; Jason Befort, 26; and Heather Muller, 25. One of the women survived to testify against the Carr brothers. Other crimes over six days left a fifth person dead.<ol>
 <li>On November 14, 2002, the Defendants were convicted at the conclusion of a jury trial of multiple counts including Capital Murder.&nbsp; The jury recommended a death sentence for each man. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>On November 15, 2002, the court proceeded to sentencing and imposed a death sentence for each man.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>On July 15, 2014, the convictions were “affirmed in part, reversed in part, and the sentence of death vacated and case remanded.” (The Kansas Supreme Court set aside the death sentences).&nbsp;State v. R. Carr, 300 Kan. 1, 331 P.3d 554 (2014); and&nbsp;State v. J. Carr, 300 Kan. 340, 329 P.3d 1195 (2014).&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>On January 20, 2016, the Supreme Court of the United States “reversed the Kansas Supreme Court and remanded for further proceedings.”&nbsp; (The US Supreme Court re-instated the death sentences.)&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas v. R. Carr, 577 U.S. 108, 136 S. Ct. 633, 193 L.Ed.2d 535 (2016); and&nbsp;Kansas v. J. Carr, 577 U.S. 108, 136 S. Ct. 633, 193 L. Ed. 2d 535 (2016).</li><li>On January 21, 2022, on consideration of the remand and appeal it was ordered and adjudged by the Kansas Supreme Court that the Death Sentences for both men were affirmed.&nbsp; (The Kansas Supreme Court followed the directive of the US Supreme Court.) &nbsp;State v. R. Carr, 314 Kan. 615, 628-629, 502 P.3d 546 (2022); and&nbsp;State v. J. Carr, 314 Kan. 744 (2022).</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>On January 9, 2023, it was ordered and adjudged by the Supreme Court of the United States that the petition for writ of certiorari be denied. (The United States Supreme Court refused to consider the defendant’s appeal).&nbsp; &nbsp;R.&nbsp;Carr v. Kansas, 143 S.Ct. 581, 214 L.Ed.2d 344 (2023); and J.&nbsp;Carr v. Kansas, 143 S.Ct. 584, 214 L.Ed.2d 345 (2023).&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>On February 7, 2023, the District Court of Sedgwick County was commanded by the Kansas Supreme Court to “cause execution to be had of the judgement of the Supreme Court, according to law.”&nbsp; (The Kansas Supreme Court sent the matter back to the Sedgwick County District Court by way of what is called a mandate.&nbsp; That begins the next stage of proceedings in Kansas, commonly referred to as the “1507 hearing”)</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>The defendants each filed a Motion for a Sentencing Hearing, arguing that the death sentences as announced by the original trial judge were improper. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>&nbsp;On April 24, 2024, Judge Goering denied the defendants’ motions for new sentencing hearings.&nbsp; &nbsp;</li>
 </ol>The defendants each appealed Judge Goering’s denial that was issued in April of 2024.&nbsp; The arguments on those appeals scheduled for next week are to resolve those appeals.&nbsp; The defendants’ arguments are (summarized) that they should be granted new sentencing hearings at which point the question of the death penalty would have to be re-litigated.&nbsp; The State’s argument (summarized) is that the question has been resolved, and no new sentencing should be granted.When any capital murder or other “off-grid” case is appealed in Kansas, the appellate proceedings are as follows:<ol>
 <li>The direct appeal to the Kansas Supreme Court – to address any alleged trial error.</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>These decisions can then be appealed to the 10th&nbsp;Circuit or United States Supreme Court.</li>
 </ul>Then when the direct appeals are exhausted,<ol>
 <li>&nbsp;The “collateral” attack – typically ineffective assistance of counsel claims, filed under K.S.A. 60-1507 are heard by the district court.</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>These decisions can then be appealed to the Kansas appellate courts.</li><li>In turn, the decisions of the Kansas appellate courts regarding the 1507 proceedings can be appealed to the 10th&nbsp;Circuit or US Supreme Court.</li>
 </ul>Then when the collateral attacks are exhausted,<ol>
 <li>Habeus Corpus – again, appealed to the appellate courts at both the state and federal level.</li>
 </ol>

Kan. High Court to hear death row appeal in Wichita massacre

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/j-patrick-coolican/">J. Patrick Coolican</a> <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>

During a town hall in Minneapolis Tuesday, a man rushed at U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and squirted an unknown substance at her using a syringe before he was apprehended by her security and Minneapolis police.

Video of the event shows Omar, a Minneapolis Democrat, cock her fist to launch a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/WedgeLIVE/status/2016333574861902109?s=20" target="_blank">haymaker</a>&nbsp;as the man’s tackled by officers.

After the incident, she went on talking to constituents.

In a statement, her office said, “The congresswoman is OK. She continued with her town hall because she doesn’t let bullies win.”

After the town hall,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/IlhanMN/status/2016333960939262423?s=20" target="_blank">Omar wrote on X</a>, “I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work…. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong.”

Omar has been the subject of relentless Republican vitriol since her 2018 election, including by President Donald Trump in recent weeks. He’s called her “garbage” and said she should be jailed or sent to her native Somalia. While announcing on Monday that he’d be changing personnel to carry out his federal immigration crackdown here — widely viewed as an acknowledgment of error following the killing of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal officers — Trump also threw in a shot at Omar and her family’s newfound wealth.

Omar responded in kind: “Sorry, Trump, your support is collapsing and you’re panicking,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/IlhanMN/status/2015818278728257569" target="_blank">she wrote on X</a>. “Right on cue, you’re deflecting from your failures with lies and conspiracy theories about me. Years of ‘investigations’ have found nothing. Get your goons out of Minnesota.”

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/author/j-patrick-coolican/">J. Patrick Coolican</a> <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/">Minnesota Reformer</a>During a town hall in Minneapolis Tuesday, a man rushed at U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and squirted an unknown substance at her using a syringe before he was apprehended by her security and Minneapolis police.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) assaulted during town hall meeting: &quot;Here&#39;s the reality that people like this ugly man don&#39;t understand; we are Minnesota strong and we will stay resilient in the face of whatever they might throw at us.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/Ud5l3yP4lQ">pic.twitter.com/Ud5l3yP4lQ</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/2016320453132869910?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Video of the event shows Omar, a Minneapolis Democrat, cock her fist to launch a&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/WedgeLIVE/status/2016333574861902109?s=20" target="_blank">haymaker</a>&nbsp;as the man’s tackled by officers.After the incident, she went on talking to constituents.In a statement, her office said, “The congresswoman is OK. She continued with her town hall because she doesn’t let bullies win.”After the town hall,&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/IlhanMN/status/2016333960939262423?s=20" target="_blank">Omar wrote on X</a>, “I’m a survivor so this small agitator isn’t going to intimidate me from doing my work…. Grateful to my incredible constituents who rallied behind me. Minnesota strong.”Omar has been the subject of relentless Republican vitriol since her 2018 election, including by President Donald Trump in recent weeks. He’s called her “garbage” and said she should be jailed or sent to her native Somalia. While announcing on Monday that he’d be changing personnel to carry out his federal immigration crackdown here — widely viewed as an acknowledgment of error following the killing of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal officers — Trump also threw in a shot at Omar and her family’s newfound wealth.Omar responded in kind: “Sorry, Trump, your support is collapsing and you’re panicking,”&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/IlhanMN/status/2015818278728257569" target="_blank">she wrote on X</a>. “Right on cue, you’re deflecting from your failures with lies and conspiracy theories about me. Years of ‘investigations’ have found nothing. Get your goons out of Minnesota.”

🎥U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar assaulted during town hall meeting

MANHATTAN —Fire officials are investigating the cause of a fire at the office of Big Brothers and Big Sisters in Manhattan.

Just before 8:30 a.m., the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire in a home at 519 Pierre Street, according to a media release.

Upon arrival, crews found a two-story house that had been converted to an office for Big Brothers Big Sisters, with fire coming from multiple windows in the rear of the building.

The fire reached a second alarm before it was contained within 90 minutes.&nbsp; The fire was knocked down within 20 minutes, but it took another hour to fully extinguish fire in concealed spaces.

&nbsp;No injuries were reported.&nbsp;Loss is estimated at $10,000 to contents and $175,000 to the structure.

The owner is listed as Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters Inc.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769551519677.png" alt="Photos Manhattan Fire Deparatment" />
 <figcaption>Photos Manhattan Fire Deparatment</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN —Fire officials are investigating the cause of a fire at the office of Big Brothers and Big Sisters in Manhattan.Just before 8:30 a.m., the Manhattan Fire Department was dispatched to a fire in a home at 519 Pierre Street, according to a media release.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769551543477.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Upon arrival, crews found a two-story house that had been converted to an office for Big Brothers Big Sisters, with fire coming from multiple windows in the rear of the building.The fire reached a second alarm before it was contained within 90 minutes.&nbsp; The fire was knocked down within 20 minutes, but it took another hour to fully extinguish fire in concealed spaces.&nbsp;No injuries were reported.&nbsp;Loss is estimated at $10,000 to contents and $175,000 to the structure.The owner is listed as Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters Inc.&nbsp;-----------

Fire at Big Brothers Big Sisters offices in Manhattan

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national was sentenced in federal court earlier this month for possessing methamphetamine to distribute, illegally possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and illegally reentering the United States after having previously been deported, according to the United State's Attornehy.

Jose Alberto Rodriguez-Landeros (also known as Raul Garcia, Raul Garcia Rodriguez, Saul Dias Gonzalez, Miguel Angel Garcia Perez, Miguel Garcia Perez, Jose Alberto Landeros, Angel Saucedo, Jose M. Rodriguez, Ivan M. Pantoja, Guillermo Gonzalez-Dias), 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 25 years in federal prison without parole.

On Nov. 14, 2024, Rodriguez-Landeros pleaded guilty to one count of possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and one count of illegally reentering the United States after previously being deported.&nbsp;

Based on the written plea agreement, Rodriguez-Landeros admitted to selling methamphetamine to a confidential source on three separate occasions on Oct. 11, 2022, Oct. 21, 2022, and Nov. 22, 2022.&nbsp; On Dec. 13, 2022, law enforcement officials executed a federal search warrant of the defendant’s residence located in Kansas City, Mo.&nbsp; Officers discovered the following items: a Keltec, Model P-32, .32 caliber pistol; identification documents with various aliases utilized by Rodriguez-Landeros; approximately 2 kilograms of methamphetamine; approximately 148 grams of powder cocaine; and $9,500 in U.S. currency.&nbsp; Also on Dec. 13, 2022, law enforcement officials arrested the defendant while driving on Indiana Avenue in Kansas City, Mo. During the arrest, officers seized approximately 380 grams of methamphetamine and 75 grams of cocaine found on Rodriguez-Landeros’s person and in his vehicle. Immigration and Customs Enforcement records confirmed that Rodriguez-Landeros was previously deported from the United States on at least three occasions since 2000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769554413372.png" alt="File photo DEA" />
 <figcaption>File photo DEA</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national was sentenced in federal court earlier this month for possessing methamphetamine to distribute, illegally possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and illegally reentering the United States after having previously been deported, according to the United State's Attornehy.Jose Alberto Rodriguez-Landeros (also known as Raul Garcia, Raul Garcia Rodriguez, Saul Dias Gonzalez, Miguel Angel Garcia Perez, Miguel Garcia Perez, Jose Alberto Landeros, Angel Saucedo, Jose M. Rodriguez, Ivan M. Pantoja, Guillermo Gonzalez-Dias), 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 25 years in federal prison without parole.On Nov. 14, 2024, Rodriguez-Landeros pleaded guilty to one count of possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and one count of illegally reentering the United States after previously being deported.&nbsp;Based on the written plea agreement, Rodriguez-Landeros admitted to selling methamphetamine to a confidential source on three separate occasions on Oct. 11, 2022, Oct. 21, 2022, and Nov. 22, 2022.&nbsp; On Dec. 13, 2022, law enforcement officials executed a federal search warrant of the defendant’s residence located in Kansas City, Mo.&nbsp; Officers discovered the following items: a Keltec, Model P-32, .32 caliber pistol; identification documents with various aliases utilized by Rodriguez-Landeros; approximately 2 kilograms of methamphetamine; approximately 148 grams of powder cocaine; and $9,500 in U.S. currency.&nbsp; Also on Dec. 13, 2022, law enforcement officials arrested the defendant while driving on Indiana Avenue in Kansas City, Mo. During the arrest, officers seized approximately 380 grams of methamphetamine and 75 grams of cocaine found on Rodriguez-Landeros’s person and in his vehicle. Immigration and Customs Enforcement records confirmed that Rodriguez-Landeros was previously deported from the United States on at least three occasions since 2000.

Illegal alien sold meth to confidential source in KC three times

SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police investigating another deadly shooting in Wichita reported an arrest.

Just after 8a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the&nbsp;the 900 block of East Indianapolis in Wichita&nbsp;for a reported welfare check after receiving information about a man down, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.

Upon arrival, officers located a man suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Wichita police officers and detectives conducted a thorough and comprehensive investigation, working through challenging weather conditions and utilizing multiple departmental resources.

Officers from multiple WPD sections, Crime Scene Investigators,&nbsp;K-9 Mantra, and&nbsp;Flock technology&nbsp;were utilized to canvass the area, locate evidence, and develop investigative leads.&nbsp;K-9 Mantra located multiple shell casings in the snow during the search.

As a result of this coordinated effort, detectives were able to quickly identify a suspect identified as 27-year-old Donny J. Harris of Springfield, Missouri, and establish probable cause. An arrest warrant was issued for first-degree murder.

Working in close coordination with the Springfield Police Department, Harris was located and arrested Monday evening in Springfield, Missouri. He is being held in the Greene County, Missouri jail, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769461383611.png" alt="Photo courtesy KWCH" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KWCH</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —Police investigating another deadly shooting in Wichita reported an arrest.Just after 8a.m. Monday, police were dispatched to the&nbsp;the 900 block of East Indianapolis in Wichita&nbsp;for a reported welfare check after receiving information about a man down, according to Officer Kris Gupilan.Upon arrival, officers located a man suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769544369926.png" alt="Harris photo Greene County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Harris photo Greene County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita police officers and detectives conducted a thorough and comprehensive investigation, working through challenging weather conditions and utilizing multiple departmental resources.Officers from multiple WPD sections, Crime Scene Investigators,&nbsp;K-9 Mantra, and&nbsp;Flock technology&nbsp;were utilized to canvass the area, locate evidence, and develop investigative leads.&nbsp;K-9 Mantra located multiple shell casings in the snow during the search.As a result of this coordinated effort, detectives were able to quickly identify a suspect identified as 27-year-old Donny J. Harris of Springfield, Missouri, and establish probable cause. An arrest warrant was issued for first-degree murder.Working in close coordination with the Springfield Police Department, Harris was located and arrested Monday evening in Springfield, Missouri. He is being held in the Greene County, Missouri jail, according to online jail records.

Suspect in Kansas homicide captured in Missouri

DICKINSON COUNTY—Authorities are investigating a fatal fire in rural Dickinson County.

Just before 6p.m. Monday,&nbsp;Deputies with the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a house fire in the 1500 block of 1400 Avenue in rural Dickinson County, according to Undersheriff Jeff Vaughan. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.

Deputies located an man and a child outside the residence. Deputies were advised a two-year-old boy was unaccounted for and may be inside the residence. After the fire was brought under control by firefighters, the two-year-old victim was located deceased inside of the residence.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation.

DICKINSON COUNTY—Authorities are investigating a fatal fire in rural Dickinson County.Just before 6p.m. Monday,&nbsp;Deputies with the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a house fire in the 1500 block of 1400 Avenue in rural Dickinson County, according to Undersheriff Jeff Vaughan. The residence was fully engulfed when firefighters and deputies arrived.Deputies located an man and a child outside the residence. Deputies were advised a two-year-old boy was unaccounted for and may be inside the residence. After the fire was brought under control by firefighters, the two-year-old victim was located deceased inside of the residence.The Office of the State Fire Marshal and the Sheriff’s Office are conducting a joint investigation.

Undersheriff: 2-year-old dies in rural Kansas house fire

As the judge weighs the constitutionality of Missouri’s regulations, procedural abortions remain available in Missouri, while medication abortions are inaccessible

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">Anna Spoerre</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>

KANSAS CITY —&nbsp;After 10 days of often emotion-filled testimony, a trial dissecting Missouri’s abortion regulations under the new constitutional right to reproductive health care concluded Monday.&nbsp;

In closing arguments, attorneys from both the Missouri Attorney General’s Office and Planned Parenthood brought the focus back to the crux of the case: are Missouri’s abortion regulations necessary safeguards for women or discriminatory road blocks for patients?

In a final attempt to cast doubt on the validity of the case, Peter Donohue, deputy solicitor general for Missouri, argued that Planned Parenthood had not met Missouri’s high legal burden needed to nullify state laws in total.&nbsp;

Jackson County Circuit Judge Jerri Zhang gave both parties until April 10 to file post-trial briefs.&nbsp;She urged them to opine on the burden-of-proof argument, which was recently&nbsp;<a href="https://statecourtreport.org/sites/default/files/2026-01/supreme_court_of_missouri-opinion.pdf" target="_blank">addressed</a>&nbsp;by the Missouri Supreme Court in a separate constitutional case on the state’s gender-affirming care ban for minors.&nbsp;

The outcome of this month’s trial will determine the accessibility of abortion across the state before Missourians are asked to vote on whether they want to again ban the procedure in November.

Donohue defended the regulations as protecting women from unsafe abortion providers, which he accused of having a history “fraught with harms to women.”&nbsp;

Even if current Planned Parenthood clinics provided safe care, as they testified, he said the state must think about any provider who might provide abortion care in the future.&nbsp;

“If they’re safe,” he argued, “these requirements don’t burden them.”&nbsp;

But attorneys for Planned Parenthood spent days of testimony laying out how each regulation left clinics hamstrung to provide abortions. These regulations, introduced over the past few decades, increasingly drove Missourians out of state to get abortions.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood providers and staff recounted the toll the regulations took on patients left unable to access abortion quickly and close to home.&nbsp;

These few dozen targeted regulation of abortion, or TRAP, laws are currently in state statute. Planned Parenthood and the ACLU of Missouri filed a lawsuit asking a judge to deem the laws unconstitutional after voters approved the abortion rights amendment in November 2024. Some were&nbsp;temporarily&nbsp;enjoined last year, allowing procedural abortions to resume.&nbsp;

“All these laws target abortion in a unique way,” Vanessa Pai-Thompson, an attorney with Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said in her closing argument. “And a unique way that is now also an unconstitutional way.”

These regulations include required distribution of Missouri’s informed consent booklet prior to an abortion; a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and an abortion; abortion facility licensing requirements; a ban on prescribing medication abortion via telehealth, and mandatory pelvic exams prior to a medication abortion.

Pai-Thompson said although abortion is essential health care, it remains regulated by state laws that are now discriminatory under the new amendment. Pai-Thompson then&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/12/missouri-abortion-rights-trial-focuses-on-two-decades-of-state-restrictions/">pointed back</a>&nbsp;to a timeline showing decades of Missouri’s restrictions that have limited access.

Two decades ago, several thousands abortions were performed in Missouri annually, according to state health department data. By 2021, the year before abortion was outlawed in Missouri, there were only 151, as a result of the TRAP laws. But many women still have abortions. In 2024, nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/monthly-abortion-provision-study#interstate-travel" target="_blank">12,000 women went to Kansas and Illinois&nbsp;</a>to end their pregnancies.

The state was the only side to call women to testify about their abortions, most of whom said they went on to regret them. This included a woman on Monday who said she obtained two medication abortions from the Planned Parenthood clinic in Columbia in 2012 and 2015, the second of which was followed by an emergency surgery to remove fetal tissue. The exact details of her medical issue were not detailed during her brief testimony.&nbsp;

Pai-Thompson in closings characterized the state’s expert witnesses — which included a parade of doctors who oppose abortion —&nbsp;as unreliable advocates. She underscored the medical consensus among leading medical organizations that abortion is safe, telling the judge that abortions pose less risk than pregnancy or childbirth.&nbsp;

Testimony from Planned Parenthood earlier in the trial detailed that roughly&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/19/abortion-safety-missouri-amendment-trial-jackson-county/">1% of the more than 53,000 Missourians who received abortions</a>&nbsp;over the last 10 years in Illinois and Kansas experienced complications, ranging from infection to incomplete abortions to hemorrhaging.&nbsp;

Planned Parenthood began the trial with Dr. Margaret Baum, chief medical officer with Planned Parenthood Great Rivers. She returned to the stand Monday to dispute the state’s characterization of women seeking abortions as being uncertain about their decision and easily coerced into abortion.&nbsp;

“I find that infantilizing of my patients and of women in general,” Baum said. “Most of my patients who present for abortions already have been pregnant or already have children. They know exactly what it means to be pregnant.”

Baum also disagreed with assertions from state witnesses that women often regret their abortions. She said her patients most frequently express relief. And when she tells people about her work in social settings, she hears abortion stories from other women, who express gratitude.&nbsp;

“The most common thing people have said to me is ‘thank you,’” Baum said. “‘My abortion saved my life.’”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1760471576282.png" alt="-A recovery room at the Planned Parenthood Great Plains office is pictured&nbsp;on June 21, 2024, in Overland Park, Kansas (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>-A recovery room at the Planned Parenthood Great Plains office is pictured&nbsp;on June 21, 2024, in Overland Park, Kansas (Anna Spoerre/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>As the judge weighs the constitutionality of Missouri’s regulations, procedural abortions remain available in Missouri, while medication abortions are inaccessible</h2>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/kevinhardy/">Kevin Hardy</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/annaspoerre/">Anna Spoerre</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2023/02/20/state-senator-throws-first-punches-of-2024-missouri-governors-campaign/">Missouri Independent</a>KANSAS CITY —&nbsp;After 10 days of often emotion-filled testimony, a trial dissecting Missouri’s abortion regulations under the new constitutional right to reproductive health care concluded Monday.&nbsp;In closing arguments, attorneys from both the Missouri Attorney General’s Office and Planned Parenthood brought the focus back to the crux of the case: are Missouri’s abortion regulations necessary safeguards for women or discriminatory road blocks for patients?In a final attempt to cast doubt on the validity of the case, Peter Donohue, deputy solicitor general for Missouri, argued that Planned Parenthood had not met Missouri’s high legal burden needed to nullify state laws in total.&nbsp;Jackson County Circuit Judge Jerri Zhang gave both parties until April 10 to file post-trial briefs.&nbsp;She urged them to opine on the burden-of-proof argument, which was recently&nbsp;<a href="https://statecourtreport.org/sites/default/files/2026-01/supreme_court_of_missouri-opinion.pdf" target="_blank">addressed</a>&nbsp;by the Missouri Supreme Court in a separate constitutional case on the state’s gender-affirming care ban for minors.&nbsp;The outcome of this month’s trial will determine the accessibility of abortion across the state before Missourians are asked to vote on whether they want to again ban the procedure in November.Donohue defended the regulations as protecting women from unsafe abortion providers, which he accused of having a history “fraught with harms to women.”&nbsp;Even if current Planned Parenthood clinics provided safe care, as they testified, he said the state must think about any provider who might provide abortion care in the future.&nbsp;“If they’re safe,” he argued, “these requirements don’t burden them.”&nbsp;But attorneys for Planned Parenthood spent days of testimony laying out how each regulation left clinics hamstrung to provide abortions. These regulations, introduced over the past few decades, increasingly drove Missourians out of state to get abortions.&nbsp;Planned Parenthood providers and staff recounted the toll the regulations took on patients left unable to access abortion quickly and close to home.&nbsp;These few dozen targeted regulation of abortion, or TRAP, laws are currently in state statute. Planned Parenthood and the ACLU of Missouri filed a lawsuit asking a judge to deem the laws unconstitutional after voters approved the abortion rights amendment in November 2024. Some were&nbsp;temporarily&nbsp;enjoined last year, allowing procedural abortions to resume.&nbsp;“All these laws target abortion in a unique way,” Vanessa Pai-Thompson, an attorney with Planned Parenthood Federation of America, said in her closing argument. “And a unique way that is now also an unconstitutional way.”These regulations include required distribution of Missouri’s informed consent booklet prior to an abortion; a 72-hour waiting period between an initial appointment and an abortion; abortion facility licensing requirements; a ban on prescribing medication abortion via telehealth, and mandatory pelvic exams prior to a medication abortion.Pai-Thompson said although abortion is essential health care, it remains regulated by state laws that are now discriminatory under the new amendment. Pai-Thompson then&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/12/missouri-abortion-rights-trial-focuses-on-two-decades-of-state-restrictions/">pointed back</a>&nbsp;to a timeline showing decades of Missouri’s restrictions that have limited access.Two decades ago, several thousands abortions were performed in Missouri annually, according to state health department data. By 2021, the year before abortion was outlawed in Missouri, there were only 151, as a result of the TRAP laws. But many women still have abortions. In 2024, nearly&nbsp;<a href="https://www.guttmacher.org/monthly-abortion-provision-study#interstate-travel" target="_blank">12,000 women went to Kansas and Illinois&nbsp;</a>to end their pregnancies.The state was the only side to call women to testify about their abortions, most of whom said they went on to regret them. This included a woman on Monday who said she obtained two medication abortions from the Planned Parenthood clinic in Columbia in 2012 and 2015, the second of which was followed by an emergency surgery to remove fetal tissue. The exact details of her medical issue were not detailed during her brief testimony.&nbsp;Pai-Thompson in closings characterized the state’s expert witnesses — which included a parade of doctors who oppose abortion —&nbsp;as unreliable advocates. She underscored the medical consensus among leading medical organizations that abortion is safe, telling the judge that abortions pose less risk than pregnancy or childbirth.&nbsp;Testimony from Planned Parenthood earlier in the trial detailed that roughly&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2026/01/19/abortion-safety-missouri-amendment-trial-jackson-county/">1% of the more than 53,000 Missourians who received abortions</a>&nbsp;over the last 10 years in Illinois and Kansas experienced complications, ranging from infection to incomplete abortions to hemorrhaging.&nbsp;Planned Parenthood began the trial with Dr. Margaret Baum, chief medical officer with Planned Parenthood Great Rivers. She returned to the stand Monday to dispute the state’s characterization of women seeking abortions as being uncertain about their decision and easily coerced into abortion.&nbsp;“I find that infantilizing of my patients and of women in general,” Baum said. “Most of my patients who present for abortions already have been pregnant or already have children. They know exactly what it means to be pregnant.”Baum also disagreed with assertions from state witnesses that women often regret their abortions. She said her patients most frequently express relief. And when she tells people about her work in social settings, she hears abortion stories from other women, who express gratitude.&nbsp;“The most common thing people have said to me is ‘thank you,’” Baum said. “‘My abortion saved my life.’”

Missouri’s abortion rights trial concludes; a decision is months away

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a commercial building in Kansas City.

Just before 11p.m. Monday, Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to a reported building fire in the 1100 block of West 8th Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. 

On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke showing from a&nbsp;6-story commercial building and initiated an offensive fire attack.

The fire was found to be in an open elevator shaft and burning on the roof of the structure.&nbsp;

Crews advanced 3 hose lines to extinguish the fire, which was placed under control at 11:55 p.m.The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD. &nbsp;

Dangerous Buildings and City Planning were requested to the scene. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769513239665.png" alt="Photos Kansas City Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photos Kansas City Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at a commercial building in Kansas City.Just before 11p.m. Monday, Kansas City Fire Department companies were dispatched to a reported building fire in the 1100 block of West 8th Street in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769513216748.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On arrival, crews reported heavy smoke showing from a&nbsp;6-story commercial building and initiated an offensive fire attack.The fire was found to be in an open elevator shaft and burning on the roof of the structure.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769513283449.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Crews advanced 3 hose lines to extinguish the fire, which was placed under control at 11:55 p.m.The cause of the fire is under investigation by KCFD. &nbsp;Dangerous Buildings and City Planning were requested to the scene. No injuries have been reported from this incident.

Crews fight fire in elevator shaft of 6-story building in Kansas City

WASHINGTON —A federal officer on Saturday shot and killed a 37-year-old man in Minneapolis&nbsp;amid the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.&nbsp; &nbsp;Two Kansas lawmakers have finally broken their silence on what happened.

On his social media feed, Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran wrote, "I am deeply troubled by the shootings in Minneapolis involving federal agents. Our Constitution provides citizens protection from the government. We have a right to free speech, to peaceably assemble and to bear arms."

"We also expect government to protect us from lawless behavior. Enforcing immigration laws that remove dangerous criminals from our streets and neighborhoods makes us safer and increases our national security. This can only be accomplished if local, state and federal officials work together to uphold the law."

"Law enforcement must reflect our nation’s values, and citizens should obey the law. This tragic circumstance should be investigated to the fullest extent to ensure transparency and accountability."

Kansas 2nd District Congressman Derek Schmidt also used his social media account to sound off on the tragedy and give his opinion.

"America's immigration laws must be enforced, and many of the current difficulties are rooted in the prior administration's allowing at least 9 million people to enter and remain in our country illegally."

"At the same time, enforcing the law professionally and with clear focus and common sense is vital to public confidence in the rule of law. The events in Minnesota are distressing –both senior state officials' refusal to cooperate with federal authorities to enforce the law and the reported actions of some federal officials."

"In my view, there needs to be a transparent and thorough review and factfinding regarding the officer involved shootings in Minnesota – as there should be in every officer involved shooting anywhere." 

"I support Chairman Garbarino's decision to convene a House Homeland Security Committee oversight hearing to question ICE, CBP, and USCIS leaders."

"I have raised questions about the reported use of administrative, as opposed to judicial, warrants to enter homes and continue to do so. And I encourage swift enactment of the provisions I voted for last week in the Homeland Security appropriations bill to fund ICE and CBP body cameras and expand deescalation training."

On Sunday, Kansas 3rd District Congresswoman Sharice Davids shared her thoughts on the shooting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769276764745.png" alt="Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS" />
 <figcaption>Photo of the weapon seized in shooting- photo DHS</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —A federal officer on Saturday shot and killed a 37-year-old man in Minneapolis&nbsp;amid the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.&nbsp; &nbsp;Two Kansas lawmakers have finally broken their silence on what happened.On his social media feed, Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran wrote, "I am deeply troubled by the shootings in Minneapolis involving federal agents. Our Constitution provides citizens protection from the government. We have a right to free speech, to peaceably assemble and to bear arms.""We also expect government to protect us from lawless behavior. Enforcing immigration laws that remove dangerous criminals from our streets and neighborhoods makes us safer and increases our national security. This can only be accomplished if local, state and federal officials work together to uphold the law.""Law enforcement must reflect our nation’s values, and citizens should obey the law. This tragic circumstance should be investigated to the fullest extent to ensure transparency and accountability."Kansas 2nd District Congressman Derek Schmidt also used his social media account to sound off on the tragedy and give his opinion."America's immigration laws must be enforced, and many of the current difficulties are rooted in the prior administration's allowing at least 9 million people to enter and remain in our country illegally.""At the same time, enforcing the law professionally and with clear focus and common sense is vital to public confidence in the rule of law. The events in Minnesota are distressing –both senior state officials' refusal to cooperate with federal authorities to enforce the law and the reported actions of some federal officials.""In my view, there needs to be a transparent and thorough review and factfinding regarding the officer involved shootings in Minnesota – as there should be in every officer involved shooting anywhere." "I support Chairman Garbarino's decision to convene a House Homeland Security Committee oversight hearing to question ICE, CBP, and USCIS leaders.""I have raised questions about the reported use of administrative, as opposed to judicial, warrants to enter homes and continue to do so. And I encourage swift enactment of the provisions I voted for last week in the Homeland Security appropriations bill to fund ICE and CBP body cameras and expand deescalation training."On Sunday, Kansas 3rd District Congresswoman Sharice Davids shared her thoughts on the shooting.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I am angry and heartbroken about the killing of Alex Pretti, a VA nurse in Minnesota. People should feel safe in their own communities, but right now families are afraid to leave their homes and communities are living in fear. Our local law enforcement should be allowed to…&mdash; Rep. Sharice Davids (@RepDavids) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepDavids/status/2015530181310746764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Kansas GOP lawmakers sound off on fatal Minneapolis shooting 

Judge Christopher Limbaugh has already dismissed one challenge to the law that also provided incentives professional sports stadiums. He has promised a decision by Feb. 10 on the question of whether the property tax caps violate the Missouri Constitution

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

While the Kansas City Chiefs are&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/22/chiefs-kansas-stadium-deal/">leaving Missouri</a>&nbsp;and won’t use the incentives lawmakers created for them last summer, the question of whether other tax credits and property tax caps included in the legislation will be used by anyone remains undecided.

Cole County Circuit Judge Christopher Limbaugh after a hearing on Wednesday promised he would rule by Feb. 10 on whether to issue a preliminary injunction to block elections on property tax caps that must be held in April in 97 counties.

A second hearing in the case, originally filed by two taxpayers, six school districts and a fire district, will be held next week as attorneys for the plaintiffs seek a summary judgment in their favor.

And in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3782036" target="_blank">Jan. 16 decision</a>&nbsp;certain to be appealed, Limbaugh denied standing — the right to sue — and dismissed a case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-legislators-file-lawsuit-claiming-stadium-funding-for-chiefs-royals-is-unconstitutional/">two lawmakers and a conservative activist</a>&nbsp;arguing the wide-ranging legislation violated procedural rules for passing bills.

The bill approved by lawmakers in a June special session offered up to $1.5 billion in incentives to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. It also expanded a program of tax credits as an incentive for major amateur sports competitions, offered tax credits for disaster relief and set the property tax caps in 97 of the state’s 114 counties.

In 75 counties, voter approval would limit future increases in tax property tax bills to 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is greater. For 22 counties, voter approval would mean individual property tax bills could not increase.

The tax base would be reset when a property changes hands. The caps allow tax bills to increase when a new or increased tax is approved by voters.

Feb. 10 is a key date because that is when April ballots must be certified by local election authorities. Twenty-seven counties&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Amended%20Petition%20for%20Declaratory%20Judgment%20and%20Injunctive%20Relief.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3773977" target="_blank">joined the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;after it was filed, arguing that the cost of the election is an&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++21&amp;bid=51537&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">unfunded mandate</a>&nbsp;that violates the Missouri Constitution.

Attorney Jim Layton, who represents several of the original plaintiffs, said Limbaugh must decide whether the property tax caps are improperly passed&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++40&amp;bid=31796&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">special laws</a>&nbsp;or violate constitutional provisions requiring uniformity in taxation and equal rights.

Lawmakers opted their counties into the legislation during a late-night floor session, deciding what level of relief they wanted for their area. Many of the state’s largest counties were excluded, leaving Boone, Greene, Jackson, St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis out of the law.

“There’s no rational basis for the lines that it drew, or for designating some counties, particular counties, as 0% or 5% or unaffected counties,” Layton said in an interview with The Independent.

The state is defending the law by saying it will provide cover to local assessors who have been reluctant to bring property values up to the current market because of its impact on tax bills, Layton said.

Neither the original plaintiffs nor the intervening counties challenging the tax caps are asking Limbaugh to throw out the entire law. That was the goal of the lawsuit that was dismissed Jan. 16, filed by state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, and state Rep. Bryant Wolfin, a Republican from Ste. Genevieve, and Ron Calzone, a conservative activist who has challenged several laws for violating procedural rules in the Missouri Constitution.&nbsp;

Moon and Wolfin “claim that they have legislative standing to challenge (the law, but) this court is unaware of any Missouri statute or case law conferring such standing upon petitioners Moon and Wolfin,” Limbaugh wrote.

Calzone, who claimed standing as a taxpayer who would be damaged by having public funds spent, failed in that argument, Limbaugh wrote. Tax credits to promote major amateur sporting events are not a “direct expenditure to be made by the state,” and payments for bonds on stadiums are subject to appropriation, which means they are not automatic.

“There is no ‘direct expenditure of funds generated through taxation’ that could confer taxpayer standing,” Limbaugh wrote.

Calzone, in an interview, said Limbaugh made a mistake because the tax credits for amateur sporting events are refundable — meaning the state will write a check if the credits exceed what the taxpayer owes the state.

The ruling also cited an incorrect version of the law on amateur sporting event tax credits, he said. The section cited is the one that existed, with lower credit amounts, before the special session law was enacted.

The options for the plaintiffs are to ask Limbaugh to reconsider based on what they believe are errors in the decision or take the case to higher courts on appeal, Calzone said.

“That is something we are still trying to determine,” he said. “But absolutely, one way or another, we will end up in the Missouri Supreme Court.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1759143619646.jpeg" alt="&nbsp;The Cole County Courthouse in Jefferson City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp;The Cole County Courthouse in Jefferson City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Judge Christopher Limbaugh has already dismissed one challenge to the law that also provided incentives professional sports stadiums. He has promised a decision by Feb. 10 on the question of whether the property tax caps violate the Missouri Constitution</h2>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>While the Kansas City Chiefs are&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/12/22/chiefs-kansas-stadium-deal/">leaving Missouri</a>&nbsp;and won’t use the incentives lawmakers created for them last summer, the question of whether other tax credits and property tax caps included in the legislation will be used by anyone remains undecided.Cole County Circuit Judge Christopher Limbaugh after a hearing on Wednesday promised he would rule by Feb. 10 on whether to issue a preliminary injunction to block elections on property tax caps that must be held in April in 97 counties.A second hearing in the case, originally filed by two taxpayers, six school districts and a fire district, will be held next week as attorneys for the plaintiffs seek a summary judgment in their favor.And in a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Judgment.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3782036" target="_blank">Jan. 16 decision</a>&nbsp;certain to be appealed, Limbaugh denied standing — the right to sue — and dismissed a case brought by&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-legislators-file-lawsuit-claiming-stadium-funding-for-chiefs-royals-is-unconstitutional/">two lawmakers and a conservative activist</a>&nbsp;arguing the wide-ranging legislation violated procedural rules for passing bills.The bill approved by lawmakers in a June special session offered up to $1.5 billion in incentives to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals in Missouri. It also expanded a program of tax credits as an incentive for major amateur sports competitions, offered tax credits for disaster relief and set the property tax caps in 97 of the state’s 114 counties.In 75 counties, voter approval would limit future increases in tax property tax bills to 5% or the rate of inflation, whichever is greater. For 22 counties, voter approval would mean individual property tax bills could not increase.The tax base would be reset when a property changes hands. The caps allow tax bills to increase when a new or increased tax is approved by voters.Feb. 10 is a key date because that is when April ballots must be certified by local election authorities. Twenty-seven counties&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courts.mo.gov/fv/c/Amended%20Petition%20for%20Declaratory%20Judgment%20and%20Injunctive%20Relief.PDF?courtCode=19&amp;di=3773977" target="_blank">joined the lawsuit</a>&nbsp;after it was filed, arguing that the cost of the election is an&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++21&amp;bid=51537&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">unfunded mandate</a>&nbsp;that violates the Missouri Constitution.Attorney Jim Layton, who represents several of the original plaintiffs, said Limbaugh must decide whether the property tax caps are improperly passed&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++40&amp;bid=31796&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">special laws</a>&nbsp;or violate constitutional provisions requiring uniformity in taxation and equal rights.Lawmakers opted their counties into the legislation during a late-night floor session, deciding what level of relief they wanted for their area. Many of the state’s largest counties were excluded, leaving Boone, Greene, Jackson, St. Louis County and the city of St. Louis out of the law.“There’s no rational basis for the lines that it drew, or for designating some counties, particular counties, as 0% or 5% or unaffected counties,” Layton said in an interview with The Independent.The state is defending the law by saying it will provide cover to local assessors who have been reluctant to bring property values up to the current market because of its impact on tax bills, Layton said.Neither the original plaintiffs nor the intervening counties challenging the tax caps are asking Limbaugh to throw out the entire law. That was the goal of the lawsuit that was dismissed Jan. 16, filed by state Sen. Mike Moon, a Republican from Ash Grove, and state Rep. Bryant Wolfin, a Republican from Ste. Genevieve, and Ron Calzone, a conservative activist who has challenged several laws for violating procedural rules in the Missouri Constitution.&nbsp;Moon and Wolfin “claim that they have legislative standing to challenge (the law, but) this court is unaware of any Missouri statute or case law conferring such standing upon petitioners Moon and Wolfin,” Limbaugh wrote.Calzone, who claimed standing as a taxpayer who would be damaged by having public funds spent, failed in that argument, Limbaugh wrote. Tax credits to promote major amateur sporting events are not a “direct expenditure to be made by the state,” and payments for bonds on stadiums are subject to appropriation, which means they are not automatic.“There is no ‘direct expenditure of funds generated through taxation’ that could confer taxpayer standing,” Limbaugh wrote.Calzone, in an interview, said Limbaugh made a mistake because the tax credits for amateur sporting events are refundable — meaning the state will write a check if the credits exceed what the taxpayer owes the state.The ruling also cited an incorrect version of the law on amateur sporting event tax credits, he said. The section cited is the one that existed, with lower credit amounts, before the special session law was enacted.The options for the plaintiffs are to ask Limbaugh to reconsider based on what they believe are errors in the decision or take the case to higher courts on appeal, Calzone said.“That is something we are still trying to determine,” he said. “But absolutely, one way or another, we will end up in the Missouri Supreme Court.”

Judge weighing whether to allow April votes on new Missouri property tax caps

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 9p.m. January 22 have released the name of the victim as 36-year-old Jared Wilcox of Topeka, according to a media release from police.

The single vehicle accident occurred in the 500 block of SW 21st Street.&nbsp; First responders located Wilcox who was deceased at the scene.

The investigation is ongoing and no additional information has been provided.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769168708266.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 9p.m. January 22 have released the name of the victim as 36-year-old Jared Wilcox of Topeka, according to a media release from police.The single vehicle accident occurred in the 500 block of SW 21st Street.&nbsp; First responders located Wilcox who was deceased at the scene.The investigation is ongoing and no additional information has been provided.

Police release name of victim in fatal Kansas crash

KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced charges against a Kansas City man for allegedly selling vehicles to unsuspecting buyers and then stealing them back.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2802/Afterhours-Complaint-Packet--M-Diallo-compressed-1">Mamadou Diallo</a>, 25,&nbsp;faces six counts of 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle and eight counts of Forgery.&nbsp; Each count carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. &nbsp;

According to court records, Kansas City police received eight stolen vehicle reports between May and June last year, all following a similar pattern. In each case, the victim purchased a vehicle through Facebook Marketplace from the same seller who used an alias online and was later identified as the defendant.&nbsp;

After completing each sale in person, the defendant provided what appeared to victims to be a legitimate title and bill of sale. But shortly after the transactions, each buyer reported their newly purchased vehicle stolen.&nbsp;

In an interview with detectives, Diallo denied buying and selling vehicles on Facebook Marketplace.&nbsp; The victims’ combined losses totaled more than $24,000.&nbsp;

A Jackson County judge set the defendant’s bond at $30,000 cash only.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769270873531.png" alt="Diallo photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Diallo photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson announced charges against a Kansas City man for allegedly selling vehicles to unsuspecting buyers and then stealing them back.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2802/Afterhours-Complaint-Packet--M-Diallo-compressed-1">Mamadou Diallo</a>, 25,&nbsp;faces six counts of 1st Degree Tampering with a Motor Vehicle and eight counts of Forgery.&nbsp; Each count carries a maximum sentence of seven years in prison. &nbsp;According to court records, Kansas City police received eight stolen vehicle reports between May and June last year, all following a similar pattern. In each case, the victim purchased a vehicle through Facebook Marketplace from the same seller who used an alias online and was later identified as the defendant.&nbsp;After completing each sale in person, the defendant provided what appeared to victims to be a legitimate title and bill of sale. But shortly after the transactions, each buyer reported their newly purchased vehicle stolen.&nbsp;In an interview with detectives, Diallo denied buying and selling vehicles on Facebook Marketplace.&nbsp; The victims’ combined losses totaled more than $24,000.&nbsp;A Jackson County judge set the defendant’s bond at $30,000 cash only.&nbsp;

KC man accused of selling cars on Facebook, stealing them back

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp;Law enforcement in Manhattan are investigating an alleged sex crime in Manhattan.

Just after 3p.m. on Friday, police arrested 24-year-old Griffin Day of Manhattan for an alleged rape that was reported to have occurred on Thursday night, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.

A 54-year-old woman was listed as the victim, according to the RCPD activity report. Day and the victim are known to each other according to police. Day is being held on a bond of $200, 000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY–&nbsp;Law enforcement in Manhattan are investigating an alleged sex crime in Manhattan.Just after 3p.m. on Friday, police arrested 24-year-old Griffin Day of Manhattan for an alleged rape that was reported to have occurred on Thursday night, according to a media release from the Riley County Police Department.A 54-year-old woman was listed as the victim, according to the RCPD activity report. Day and the victim are known to each other according to police. Day is being held on a bond of $200, 000 bond.

Police: Kan. man accused of sex crime involving 54-year-old

Wichita State University announced a transformative $1 million gift from an anonymous 1958 graduate of the University of Wichita to support need-based scholarships in the W. Frank Barton School of Business, according to a media release from the University.

This gift will directly benefit students who face financial challenges — particularly first-generation students — who make up nearly half of Wichita State’s enrollment. On average, first-generation students receive less financial support from their families and are more likely to rely on private loans to fund their education. Currently, 46% of Wichita State’s undergraduate student population are first-generation college students, highlighting the importance of private financial support.

“Ensuring access and affordability is a promise to our students,” said WSU President Rick Muma. “This gift, alongside the generosity of countless alumni and donors, is a profound reminder that our students’ success goes further with the support of Shocker Nation behind them.”

Private support is critical to realizing Wichita State’s priority to make education accessible and affordable for all Kansans and helps bridge the gap between available public funding and the financial need of students, which averages about $5,600 per undergraduate student.

“In connecting with this individual, the passion to support students who are seeking pathways for stability and opportunity was clear,” said Telly McGaha, president and CEO of the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. “When higher education becomes financially out of reach, talented individuals are inadvertently shut out, and I am very grateful for the individuals in the Shocker community opening doors and expanding opportunity for students now and into the future.”

Daily, students share stories of how scholarship support has facilitated their educational ambitions. These life-changing gifts ease the financial pressures of higher education, freeing students to focus on their studies and get engaged on campus. For many students, that support is the difference between finishing their degree and dropping out.&nbsp;

Scholarships based on financial need are awarded using a formula that compares a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the cost of attendance at Wichita State. If the EFC is less than the total cost, the student qualifies for need-based aid.

“Our goal is to prepare students for a business world that values vision, collaboration and innovative problem-solving,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School of Business. “By easing financial burdens through scholarships, we empower students to fully engage in transformative experiences that build confidence and critical skills for success beyond their time at Wichita State. We are deeply grateful for this generous gift that will provide many opportunities for Barton School students.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769470864970.png" alt="google image" />
 <figcaption>google image</figcaption>
 </figure>Wichita State University announced a transformative $1 million gift from an anonymous 1958 graduate of the University of Wichita to support need-based scholarships in the W. Frank Barton School of Business, according to a media release from the University.This gift will directly benefit students who face financial challenges — particularly first-generation students — who make up nearly half of Wichita State’s enrollment. On average, first-generation students receive less financial support from their families and are more likely to rely on private loans to fund their education. Currently, 46% of Wichita State’s undergraduate student population are first-generation college students, highlighting the importance of private financial support.“Ensuring access and affordability is a promise to our students,” said WSU President Rick Muma. “This gift, alongside the generosity of countless alumni and donors, is a profound reminder that our students’ success goes further with the support of Shocker Nation behind them.”Private support is critical to realizing Wichita State’s priority to make education accessible and affordable for all Kansans and helps bridge the gap between available public funding and the financial need of students, which averages about $5,600 per undergraduate student.“In connecting with this individual, the passion to support students who are seeking pathways for stability and opportunity was clear,” said Telly McGaha, president and CEO of the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement. “When higher education becomes financially out of reach, talented individuals are inadvertently shut out, and I am very grateful for the individuals in the Shocker community opening doors and expanding opportunity for students now and into the future.”Daily, students share stories of how scholarship support has facilitated their educational ambitions. These life-changing gifts ease the financial pressures of higher education, freeing students to focus on their studies and get engaged on campus. For many students, that support is the difference between finishing their degree and dropping out.&nbsp;Scholarships based on financial need are awarded using a formula that compares a student’s Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to the cost of attendance at Wichita State. If the EFC is less than the total cost, the student qualifies for need-based aid.“Our goal is to prepare students for a business world that values vision, collaboration and innovative problem-solving,” said Dr. Larisa Genin, dean of the Barton School of Business. “By easing financial burdens through scholarships, we empower students to fully engage in transformative experiences that build confidence and critical skills for success beyond their time at Wichita State. We are deeply grateful for this generous gift that will provide many opportunities for Barton School students.”

Wichita State receives anonymous $1 million gift for scholarships

SALINE COUNTY—A home is uninhabitable after a fire at a rural Kansas home.

Just after noon January 23, firefighters from Saline County Rural Fire District #5 were sent to a report of a fire at a home home in the 1400 block of N. Marymount Road, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan.

The 65-year-old owner told investigators she was using space heaters, had a television on and heard a popping sound. Then she smelled smoke. She was able to escape with her pet without injury. The home may be a total loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769459058012.png" alt="Photos Saline Co. Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photos Saline Co. Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—A home is uninhabitable after a fire at a rural Kansas home.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769446925719.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Just after noon January 23, firefighters from Saline County Rural Fire District #5 were sent to a report of a fire at a home home in the 1400 block of N. Marymount Road, according to Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan.The 65-year-old owner told investigators she was using space heaters, had a television on and heard a popping sound. Then she smelled smoke. She was able to escape with her pet without injury. The home may be a total loss.

Rural Kansas home near total loss after fire

BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Real estate investors buying residential buildings in Kansas could be charged a penalty for paying off their mortgages early under proposed changes to the Kansas Contracts and Promises statute.&nbsp;

The statute currently bars lenders from charging prepayment penalties on “any home loan” paid off after six months from the day the loan was taken out, the House Financial Institutions and Pensions Committee heard Monday.&nbsp;It doesn’t specify whether those loans are for individual homeowners or for real estate investors buying properties to rent or lease.&nbsp;

<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2497/" target="_blank">House Bill 2497</a>&nbsp;would add language that allows lenders to charge prepayment penalties for investment properties but leave the ban in place for consumer personal loans.

Michael Stidham testified for Rocket Mortgage in favor of the bill, which he said would give investors more financing options.&nbsp;

Rocket sets lower interest rates for loans that have a penalty for paying off early versus loans with no prepayment penalties, Stidham said.&nbsp;

“A higher interest rate is always going to be required to offset the potential returns if that loan is paid off earlier than anticipated by the investor,” he said.

Allowing lenders to offer lower interest rates and include a prepayment penalty gives real estate investors flexibility to determine the best option for their financial situations, Stidham said.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769453683134.png" alt=" Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, an Edwardsville Republican, questioned a proponent of a bill that would allow lenders to charge a prepayment penalty to real estate investors. (Screen capture from the House Financial Institutes and Pensions Committee)" />
 <figcaption> Rep. Carolyn Caiharr, an Edwardsville Republican, questioned a proponent of a bill that would allow lenders to charge a prepayment penalty to real estate investors. (Screen capture from the House Financial Institutes and Pensions Committee)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/mchilson/">MORGAN CHILSON</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Real estate investors buying residential buildings in Kansas could be charged a penalty for paying off their mortgages early under proposed changes to the Kansas Contracts and Promises statute.&nbsp;The statute currently bars lenders from charging prepayment penalties on “any home loan” paid off after six months from the day the loan was taken out, the House Financial Institutions and Pensions Committee heard Monday.&nbsp;It doesn’t specify whether those loans are for individual homeowners or for real estate investors buying properties to rent or lease.&nbsp;<a href="https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2497/" target="_blank">House Bill 2497</a>&nbsp;would add language that allows lenders to charge prepayment penalties for investment properties but leave the ban in place for consumer personal loans.Michael Stidham testified for Rocket Mortgage in favor of the bill, which he said would give investors more financing options.&nbsp;Rocket sets lower interest rates for loans that have a penalty for paying off early versus loans with no prepayment penalties, Stidham said.&nbsp;“A higher interest rate is always going to be required to offset the potential returns if that loan is paid off earlier than anticipated by the investor,” he said.Allowing lenders to offer lower interest rates and include a prepayment penalty gives real estate investors flexibility to determine the best option for their financial situations, Stidham said.&nbsp;

Bill would allow early payoff penalties for Kansas real estate investment loans

CRAWFORD COUNTY, Mo. —Authorities are investigating a drowning on a farm pond in rural Missouri.

Just before 5p.m. January 20, a 5-year-old Steeleville girl identified as<a href="https://www.mizellfh.com/obituaries/ruby-korte"> Ruby Kay Korte, </a>walked out onto a pond at a private residence off Highway M in rural Crawford County, according to a report from he Missouri State Highway Patrol. She fell through the ice.

&nbsp;Steeleville EMS transported Ruby to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan where she was pronounced deceased just before 7p.m. The patrol reported no additional details.&nbsp; A funeral mass for Ruby is scheduled for Tuesday, according to Mizell Funeral Home.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1769448840377.png" alt="Ruby Kay Korte-photo courtesy MIzell Funeral Home" />
 <figcaption>Ruby Kay Korte-photo courtesy MIzell Funeral Home</figcaption>
 </figure>CRAWFORD COUNTY, Mo. —Authorities are investigating a drowning on a farm pond in rural Missouri.Just before 5p.m. January 20, a 5-year-old Steeleville girl identified as<a href="https://www.mizellfh.com/obituaries/ruby-korte"> Ruby Kay Korte, </a>walked out onto a pond at a private residence off Highway M in rural Crawford County, according to a report from he Missouri State Highway Patrol. She fell through the ice.&nbsp;Steeleville EMS transported Ruby to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan where she was pronounced deceased just before 7p.m. The patrol reported no additional details.&nbsp; A funeral mass for Ruby is scheduled for Tuesday, according to Mizell Funeral Home.

5-year-old Missouri girl drowns after falling through ice on a pond

President Trump announced on Monday he received a phone call with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2026/1/1768610962226.png" alt="File photo Minnesota Gov. Walz-from his social media page" />
 <figcaption>File photo Minnesota Gov. Walz-from his social media page</figcaption>
 </figure>President Trump announced on Monday he received a phone call with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Governor Tim Walz called me with the request to work together with respect to Minnesota. It was a very good call, and we, actually, seemed to be on a similar wavelength... Crime is way down, but both Governor Walz and I want to make it better!&quot; - President Donald J. Trump 🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/ZjrSDU8uAz">pic.twitter.com/ZjrSDU8uAz</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/2015831102095491330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I spoke to the President earlier. We had a productive conversation and I explained to him that his staff doesn’t have their facts straight about Minnesota. My thoughts in the Wall Street Journal:<a href="https://t.co/Prlt2mu8Bx">https://t.co/Prlt2mu8Bx</a> <a href="https://t.co/XFJyv6V1yH">pic.twitter.com/XFJyv6V1yH</a>&mdash; Governor Tim Walz (@GovTimWalz) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovTimWalz/status/2015853141661454605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/1INsSU22rR">pic.twitter.com/1INsSU22rR</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/2015780108733235225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>