BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

CEDAR CREST — The best gift Statehouse Republicans could give Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly this holiday season is collaboration to resolve Kansas’ water issues, she said Tuesday at the annual Christmas tree donation at Cedar Crest.

“Recognizing that that is not a political win or loss for anybody, but absolutely essential for the future in this state,” Kelly said.&nbsp;

In August Kelly elevated water to her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/732/55" target="_blank">highest priority</a>. She’s concerned with creating a long-term sustainable strategy that recognizes the falling levels in the Ogallala Aquifer.&nbsp;

“I hadn’t really thought about what the Democrats themselves could give me,” Kelly said. “There’s probably not a lot in this upcoming session. What they could do is get some really good candidates for November 2026, break that supermajority so that regardless of who the next governor is there will be an absolute need to work together to get anything done.”&nbsp;

Republicans currently have a supermajority in both the House and Senate, enough to override the governor’s vetoes.

Charlotte Cooper, granddaughter of Dave Bruton — the Kansas Forest Service liaison with the Kansas Christmas Tree Growers Association — isn’t entirely sure what she wants this holiday season either. Lucky for Cooper, Santa’s elves encouraged him to make business cards, so her mom can e-mail Santa with her list. She even got the chance to talk to Santa at Tuesday’s event.&nbsp;

“This is a good group,” Santa said. “Santa always likes to reward the good people, and tell the others they have time —”

“Do you live in the North Pole?” Cooper interjected.&nbsp;

“Most of the time. When I’m not living down here, checking up on children,” Santa said.&nbsp;

Santa, Cooper and others rode in a replica of a Wells Fargo stagecoach up to the governor’s mansion to deliver the donated Christmas decorations.

Two six-year-old&nbsp;Percheron&nbsp;horses carried the stagecoach. They replaced&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/24/one-kansas-tradition-goes-on-as-usual-this-year-bess-and-betty-do-their-job/">Bess and Betty</a>, who carried the stagecoach for years before. The ceremony was the horses’ first large crowd, and they acted “about what you would guess,” according to Robin Dunn of Dunn’s Landing farm near Wellsville.&nbsp;

When asked if the new horses would be able to replace Bess and Betty, Dunn responded with a swift “no.” Then she paused.&nbsp;

“Well, I don’t know,” Dunn said. “It’ll take about 15 years. In 15 years ask me that question again.”

On top of the stagecoach was an 8½-foot tall Scotch pine grown on the Strawberry Hill Christmas Tree&nbsp;Farm in Lawrence. Each year one farm from the Kansas Christmas Tree Association donates the tree.

According to Mark Walther, part of the family who runs Strawberry Hill, his late brother Mitch volunteered.

“Well, it’s kind of a sad story,” Walther said. “So Mitch stepped up and unfortunately passed away. So then it’s like, well, shoot, because he didn’t tell me which tree it was.”&nbsp;

Mitch died unexpectedly in July. When the time came, the family went to the field and chose the tree with the nicest height and shape.

This is the third year that Chris Seets from Chris’s Tree Lodge in Abilene presented a wreath.&nbsp;

“Hopefully, this is the first time I get to actually meet the governor. I’ve always handed it to lieutenant governors in the past,” Seets said shortly before the presentation.&nbsp;

Perhaps Santa overheard her comment, because Seets was called up to present her wreath to Kelly in front of the mansion.

“I was just so excited. I think I spoke to her. I don’t know, I’m not sure,” Seets said after.&nbsp;

After the carriage rolled in and Seets presented her wreath, the group entered the mansion to watch the tree be placed in a corner. Kelly adorned it with an ornament that recognized Charles Robinson, Kansas’ first governor.&nbsp;

Kelly thanked the farmers, volunteers, and families who made the event happen. Cooper responded with a toothless grin.&nbsp;

“When did you lose that?” Kelly asked.&nbsp;

“When my mom was out of town,” Cooper said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764164861179.png" alt="Gov. Laura Kelly welcomes Santa to the governor’s mansion on Nov. 25, 2025. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Gov. Laura Kelly welcomes Santa to the governor’s mansion on Nov. 25, 2025. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/ghills/">GRACE HILLS</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>CEDAR CREST — The best gift Statehouse Republicans could give Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly this holiday season is collaboration to resolve Kansas’ water issues, she said Tuesday at the annual Christmas tree donation at Cedar Crest.“Recognizing that that is not a political win or loss for anybody, but absolutely essential for the future in this state,” Kelly said.&nbsp;In August Kelly elevated water to her&nbsp;<a href="https://www.governor.ks.gov/Home/Components/News/News/732/55" target="_blank">highest priority</a>. She’s concerned with creating a long-term sustainable strategy that recognizes the falling levels in the Ogallala Aquifer.&nbsp;And the Democrats?&nbsp;“I hadn’t really thought about what the Democrats themselves could give me,” Kelly said. “There’s probably not a lot in this upcoming session. What they could do is get some really good candidates for November 2026, break that supermajority so that regardless of who the next governor is there will be an absolute need to work together to get anything done.”&nbsp;Republicans currently have a supermajority in both the House and Senate, enough to override the governor’s vetoes.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764164809162.png" alt="Charlotte Cooper rides a replica of a Wells Fargo stagecoach to deliver Gov. Laura Kelly’s Christmas decorations on Nov. 25, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Topeka. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Charlotte Cooper rides a replica of a Wells Fargo stagecoach to deliver Gov. Laura Kelly’s Christmas decorations on Nov. 25, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Topeka. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Charlotte Cooper, granddaughter of Dave Bruton — the Kansas Forest Service liaison with the Kansas Christmas Tree Growers Association — isn’t entirely sure what she wants this holiday season either. Lucky for Cooper, Santa’s elves encouraged him to make business cards, so her mom can e-mail Santa with her list. She even got the chance to talk to Santa at Tuesday’s event.&nbsp;“This is a good group,” Santa said. “Santa always likes to reward the good people, and tell the others they have time —”“Do you live in the North Pole?” Cooper interjected.&nbsp;“Most of the time. When I’m not living down here, checking up on children,” Santa said.&nbsp;Santa, Cooper and others rode in a replica of a Wells Fargo stagecoach up to the governor’s mansion to deliver the donated Christmas decorations.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764165005997.png" alt="Charlotte Cooper tells Santa she hasn’t quite completed her Christmas list at the governor’s Christmas tree donation on Nov. 25, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Topeka. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Charlotte Cooper tells Santa she hasn’t quite completed her Christmas list at the governor’s Christmas tree donation on Nov. 25, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Topeka. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>Two six-year-old&nbsp;Percheron&nbsp;horses carried the stagecoach. They replaced&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/24/one-kansas-tradition-goes-on-as-usual-this-year-bess-and-betty-do-their-job/">Bess and Betty</a>, who carried the stagecoach for years before. The ceremony was the horses’ first large crowd, and they acted “about what you would guess,” according to Robin Dunn of Dunn’s Landing farm near Wellsville.&nbsp;When asked if the new horses would be able to replace Bess and Betty, Dunn responded with a swift “no.” Then she paused.&nbsp;“Well, I don’t know,” Dunn said. “It’ll take about 15 years. In 15 years ask me that question again.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764165066477.png" alt="A Wells Fargo stagecoach replica proceeds up the driveway of the governor’s mansion to deliver donated Christmas decorations on Nov. 25, 2025. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>A Wells Fargo stagecoach replica proceeds up the driveway of the governor’s mansion to deliver donated Christmas decorations on Nov. 25, 2025. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>On top of the stagecoach was an 8½-foot tall Scotch pine grown on the Strawberry Hill Christmas Tree&nbsp;Farm in Lawrence. Each year one farm from the Kansas Christmas Tree Association donates the tree.According to Mark Walther, part of the family who runs Strawberry Hill, his late brother Mitch volunteered.“Well, it’s kind of a sad story,” Walther said. “So Mitch stepped up and unfortunately passed away. So then it’s like, well, shoot, because he didn’t tell me which tree it was.”&nbsp;Mitch died unexpectedly in July. When the time came, the family went to the field and chose the tree with the nicest height and shape.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764165115695.png" alt="Chris Seets presents the wreath she made to Gov. Laura Kelly on Nov. 25, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Topeka. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Chris Seets presents the wreath she made to Gov. Laura Kelly on Nov. 25, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Topeka. (Photo by Grace Hills for Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>This is the third year that Chris Seets from Chris’s Tree Lodge in Abilene presented a wreath.&nbsp;“Hopefully, this is the first time I get to actually meet the governor. I’ve always handed it to lieutenant governors in the past,” Seets said shortly before the presentation.&nbsp;Perhaps Santa overheard her comment, because Seets was called up to present her wreath to Kelly in front of the mansion.“I was just so excited. I think I spoke to her. I don’t know, I’m not sure,” Seets said after.&nbsp;After the carriage rolled in and Seets presented her wreath, the group entered the mansion to watch the tree be placed in a corner. Kelly adorned it with an ornament that recognized Charles Robinson, Kansas’ first governor.&nbsp;Kelly thanked the farmers, volunteers, and families who made the event happen. Cooper responded with a toothless grin.&nbsp;“When did you lose that?” Kelly asked.&nbsp;“When my mom was out of town,” Cooper said.

Kansas governor’s holiday tradition comes with a push for water solutions 

KANSAS CITY —A family pet is safe after found during a house fire in Kansas City, Missouri.

Just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a house fire in the 8400 block of E 92nd&nbsp;Terrace in Kansas City Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

On arrival, crews reported light smoke showing from the front of a two-story residence. Interior operations were initiated, and companies found a fire in the kitchen area, which was quickly extinguished with a single hose line.&nbsp;

As searches of the structure were conducted, a dog was found in the basement. The rest of the search came back all clear. The fire was brought under control at 3:00 p.m.&nbsp;The dog did get out and is unharmed, according to Nolan.&nbsp; The cause of the fire is under investigation.

KANSAS CITY —A family pet is safe after found during a house fire in Kansas City, Missouri.Just after 2:30p.m. Tuesday, crews responded to a house fire in the 8400 block of E 92nd&nbsp;Terrace in Kansas City Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.On arrival, crews reported light smoke showing from the front of a two-story residence. Interior operations were initiated, and companies found a fire in the kitchen area, which was quickly extinguished with a single hose line.&nbsp;As searches of the structure were conducted, a dog was found in the basement. The rest of the search came back all clear. The fire was brought under control at 3:00 p.m.&nbsp;The dog did get out and is unharmed, according to Nolan.&nbsp; The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Family pet survives house fire in Kansas City

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>

WASHINGTON — Democratic members of Congress who released a video in mid-November telling members of the military that they are not required to follow illegal orders announced Tuesday the Federal Bureau of Investigation has asked to speak with them about the matter.&nbsp;

Four House members, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin wrote the inquiry will not deter them from publicly stating their concerns about the Trump administration.&nbsp;

“Last night, the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division appeared to open an inquiry into me in response to a video President Trump did not like,” Slotkin wrote in a statement published on social media.&nbsp;

“The President directing the FBI to target us is exactly why we made this video in the first place,” Slotkin added. “He believes in weaponizing the federal government against his perceived enemies and does not believe laws apply to him or his Cabinet. He uses legal harassment as an intimidation tactic to scare people out of speaking up.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kelly’s office said it had “received this inquiry via the Sergeant at Arms.”&nbsp; The House members said the FBI has contacted the House Sergeant at Arms office requesting interviews.

“Senator Kelly won’t be silenced by President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s attempt to intimidate him and keep him from doing his job as a U.S. Senator,” the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

Reps. Jason Crow of Colorado, Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania and Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire separately issued a joint statement alleging that “Trump is using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass Members of Congress.”

“No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution,” they wrote. “We swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. We will not be bullied. We will never give up the ship.”

President Donald Trump after learning of the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-accuses-6-democratic-lawmakers-seditious-behavior-punishable-death" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;that he believed the statement from six Democratic lawmakers represented “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH.”

Those six lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenatorSlotkin/status/1990774492356902948" target="_blank">posted a video</a>&nbsp;on social media on Nov. 18 telling members of the military and intelligence community that they “can” and “must refuse illegal orders.”

“No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution. We know this is hard and that it’s a difficult time to be a public servant,” they said. “But whether you’re serving in the CIA, in the Army, or Navy, or the Air Force, your vigilance is critical.”

The Defense Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pentagon-investigates-arizona-sen-mark-kelly-after-he-appears-video-blasted-trump" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;Monday that it was looking into “serious allegations of misconduct” against Kelly, a former Navy captain and NASA astronaut, for his participation in the video.&nbsp;

The statement said defense officials may recall Kelly “to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures.”&nbsp;

Kelly wrote in a statement responding to the investigation that he had “given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution.”

“If this is meant to intimidate me and other members of Congress from doing our jobs and holding this administration accountable, it won’t work,” Kelly wrote.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/DeptofWar/status/1993436056008507865/photo/1" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;Tuesday that he wants the Secretary of the Navy to brief him “on the outcome of your review by no later than December 10, 2025.”

Members of Congress’ official actions are generally protected under&nbsp;<a href="https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/essay/artI-S6-C1-3-1/ALDE_00013300/" target="_blank">the speech and debate clause</a>&nbsp;of the Constitution.&nbsp;

A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R45043?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22speech+and+debate+clause%22%7D&amp;s=4&amp;r=4" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service states the judiciary’s “immunity principle protects Members from ‘intimidation by the executive’ or a ‘hostile judiciary’ by prohibiting both the executive and judicial powers from being used to improperly influence or harass legislators.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764102122289.png" alt=" Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin -image from the controversial video" />
 <figcaption> Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin -image from the controversial video</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jennifer-shutt/">Jennifer Shutt</a>WASHINGTON — Democratic members of Congress who released a video in mid-November telling members of the military that they are not required to follow illegal orders announced Tuesday the Federal Bureau of Investigation has asked to speak with them about the matter.&nbsp;Four House members, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly and Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin wrote the inquiry will not deter them from publicly stating their concerns about the Trump administration.&nbsp;“Last night, the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division appeared to open an inquiry into me in response to a video President Trump did not like,” Slotkin wrote in a statement published on social media.&nbsp;“The President directing the FBI to target us is exactly why we made this video in the first place,” Slotkin added. “He believes in weaponizing the federal government against his perceived enemies and does not believe laws apply to him or his Cabinet. He uses legal harassment as an intimidation tactic to scare people out of speaking up.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Kelly’s office said it had “received this inquiry via the Sergeant at Arms.”&nbsp; The House members said the FBI has contacted the House Sergeant at Arms office requesting interviews.“Senator Kelly won’t be silenced by President Trump and Secretary Hegseth’s attempt to intimidate him and keep him from doing his job as a U.S. Senator,” the spokesperson said.&nbsp;Reps. Jason Crow of Colorado, Chris Deluzio and Chrissy Houlahan of Pennsylvania and Maggie Goodlander of New Hampshire separately issued a joint statement alleging that “Trump is using the FBI as a tool to intimidate and harass Members of Congress.”“No amount of intimidation or harassment will ever stop us from doing our jobs and honoring our Constitution,” they wrote. “We swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. That oath lasts a lifetime, and we intend to keep it. We will not be bullied. We will never give up the ship.”President Donald Trump after learning of the video&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/trump-accuses-6-democratic-lawmakers-seditious-behavior-punishable-death" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;that he believed the statement from six Democratic lawmakers represented “SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR, punishable by DEATH.”The FBI declined to comment.&nbsp;<h2>Illegal orders</h2>Those six lawmakers&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/SenatorSlotkin/status/1990774492356902948" target="_blank">posted a video</a>&nbsp;on social media on Nov. 18 telling members of the military and intelligence community that they “can” and “must refuse illegal orders.”“No one has to carry out orders that violate the law or our Constitution. We know this is hard and that it’s a difficult time to be a public servant,” they said. “But whether you’re serving in the CIA, in the Army, or Navy, or the Air Force, your vigilance is critical.”The Defense Department&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/pentagon-investigates-arizona-sen-mark-kelly-after-he-appears-video-blasted-trump" target="_blank">announced</a>&nbsp;Monday that it was looking into “serious allegations of misconduct” against Kelly, a former Navy captain and NASA astronaut, for his participation in the video.&nbsp;The statement said defense officials may recall Kelly “to active duty for court-martial proceedings or administrative measures.”&nbsp;Kelly wrote in a statement responding to the investigation that he had “given too much to this country to be silenced by bullies who care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution.”“If this is meant to intimidate me and other members of Congress from doing our jobs and holding this administration accountable, it won’t work,” Kelly wrote.<h2>Hegseth asks for briefing</h2>Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth&nbsp;<a href="https://x.com/DeptofWar/status/1993436056008507865/photo/1" target="_blank">posted on social media</a>&nbsp;Tuesday that he wants the Secretary of the Navy to brief him “on the outcome of your review by no later than December 10, 2025.”Members of Congress’ official actions are generally protected under&nbsp;<a href="https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/essay/artI-S6-C1-3-1/ALDE_00013300/" target="_blank">the speech and debate clause</a>&nbsp;of the Constitution.&nbsp;A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/R45043?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22speech+and+debate+clause%22%7D&amp;s=4&amp;r=4" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service states the judiciary’s “immunity principle protects Members from ‘intimidation by the executive’ or a ‘hostile judiciary’ by prohibiting both the executive and judicial powers from being used to improperly influence or harass legislators.”

Dems threatened by Trump over video say they’re now being probed by the FBI

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting have identified the victim as 20-year-old Makih Franklin, according to a media release from Kansas City, Kansas police.

Just after 8:30p.m. November 20, police were dispatched&nbsp; to a shooting in the 400 block of Greeley Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas.

First responders located Franklin outside a residence with an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital where he died from his injuries. 

Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

WYANDOTTE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a deadly shooting have identified the victim as 20-year-old Makih Franklin, according to a media release from Kansas City, Kansas police.Just after 8:30p.m. November 20, police were dispatched&nbsp; to a shooting in the 400 block of Greeley Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas.First responders located Franklin outside a residence with an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to an area hospital where he died from his injuries. Police have not reported an arrest or suspect details.

Police ID 20-year-old Kansas shooting victim

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Police have identified a woman who died in an accident just after 7p.m. Monday in Douglas County.

Lawrence police reported a vehicle driven by&nbsp;75-year-old Bonnie Susan Hernandez of Lawrence was eastbound in the 1500 block of east 23rd Street, just west of 23rd and Harper. The vehicle crossed into the westbound lanes and struck an SUV nearly head-on.

Investigators believe Hernandez suffered a medical emergency just before the crash. Those in the SUV suffered minor injuries, but did not go to the hospital.&nbsp;

DOUGLAS COUNTY—Police have identified a woman who died in an accident just after 7p.m. Monday in Douglas County.Lawrence police reported a vehicle driven by&nbsp;75-year-old Bonnie Susan Hernandez of Lawrence was eastbound in the 1500 block of east 23rd Street, just west of 23rd and Harper. The vehicle crossed into the westbound lanes and struck an SUV nearly head-on.Investigators believe Hernandez suffered a medical emergency just before the crash. Those in the SUV suffered minor injuries, but did not go to the hospital.&nbsp;

Kansas woman killed in near head-on crash

KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City teen faces multiple allegations for a fatal shooting that occurred in April.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2753/Jacoway-RED-COMPLAINT-MJ">Martez Jacoway Jr.</a>, 19, faces 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.

<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2754/Jacoway-RED-PC-MJRedacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police responded to a shooting on April 17 and found the victim in the front passenger seat of a white Ford Focus suffering from a single gunshot wound to his back. He was pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital.&nbsp;

Witnesses told detectives they saw a man wearing a black hoodie at the driver’s side window holding a rifle. The man fired several rounds toward the white Ford Focus. Surveillance footage captured muzzle flashes from the front driver’s side of a black vehicle directed at the victim’s vehicle.&nbsp;

Detectives used the Automated License Plate Recognition (APLR) system to track the suspect vehicle’s movements, which led to the identification of Jacoway. His cellphone records showed incoming and outgoing calls from areas that matched the black Nissan’s path on the day of the homicide, corroborating surveillance footage, city camera footage, and license plate reader data.

Jacoway had previously been identified by SAVE KC, but did not attend a call-in. He is being held on a $50,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1762983061770.png" alt="Jacoway photo Jackson County" />
 <figcaption>Jacoway photo Jackson County</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —A Kansas City teen faces multiple allegations for a fatal shooting that occurred in April.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2753/Jacoway-RED-COMPLAINT-MJ">Martez Jacoway Jr.</a>, 19, faces 2nd Degree Murder, two counts of Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon, according to&nbsp;Jackson County Prosecutor Melesa Johnson.<a href="https://www.jacksoncountyprosecutor.com/DocumentCenter/View/2754/Jacoway-RED-PC-MJRedacted">According to court records</a>, Kansas City police responded to a shooting on April 17 and found the victim in the front passenger seat of a white Ford Focus suffering from a single gunshot wound to his back. He was pronounced deceased at a nearby hospital.&nbsp;Witnesses told detectives they saw a man wearing a black hoodie at the driver’s side window holding a rifle. The man fired several rounds toward the white Ford Focus. Surveillance footage captured muzzle flashes from the front driver’s side of a black vehicle directed at the victim’s vehicle.&nbsp;Detectives used the Automated License Plate Recognition (APLR) system to track the suspect vehicle’s movements, which led to the identification of Jacoway. His cellphone records showed incoming and outgoing calls from areas that matched the black Nissan’s path on the day of the homicide, corroborating surveillance footage, city camera footage, and license plate reader data.Jacoway had previously been identified by SAVE KC, but did not attend a call-in. He is being held on a $50,000 cash-only bond.&nbsp;

Court records: KC teen used rifle in deadly drive-by shooting

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Gobble &amp; Waddle living their best life. 🇺🇸 Don’t miss the Presidential Turkey Pardon — 12 PM EST! <a href="https://t.co/YwCtCdn3Mz">pic.twitter.com/YwCtCdn3Mz</a>&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1993353700434199001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;The turkeys being pardoned today go by the names Gobble and Waddle. When I first saw their pictures... I was going to call them Chuck and Nancy — but then I realized I wouldn&#39;t be pardoning them. I would never pardon those two people.&quot; 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/XuhIbTGUbI">pic.twitter.com/XuhIbTGUbI</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1993368386395685351?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We thank God for his many blessings and the great success that this country has seen in a short period of time. We draw strength from the love of family and friends, and we express our undying gratitude for the men in the women of the United States armed forces.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/uULjzeAqER">pic.twitter.com/uULjzeAqER</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1993371788097593447?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;Gobble, I just want to tell you this — very important — you are hereby unconditionally pardoned!&quot; 🤣🦃 <a href="https://t.co/WmjvScCf6K">pic.twitter.com/WmjvScCf6K</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1993371733865160937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;These are two of the largest Turkey’s ever presented to an American president—over 50 pounds each... despite their size, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecKennedy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecKennedy</a> has formally certified that these are the first ever MAHA turkeys.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/H5kW4yM1Rn">pic.twitter.com/H5kW4yM1Rn</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1993368718655570036?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: President Trump says an investigation has shown Biden used an autopen for last year&#39;s turkey pardon. &quot;I determined that last year&#39;s turkey pardons are totally invalid, as are the pardons of about every other person that was pardoned other than Where&#39;s Hunter.&quot; 🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/tZBfHwJKq6">pic.twitter.com/tZBfHwJKq6</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1993368344100323390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥Not much holiday cheer as President pardons Thanksgiving Turkeys

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged ATM Jackpotting incident in Salina.&nbsp; Jackpotting involves the exploitation of physical and software vulnerabilities in automated banking machines that result in the machines dispensing cash.

Just before 10:30a.m. Monday, police&nbsp;responded to Bennington State Bank, 2130 South Ohio in Salina in reference to a “Jackpotting” theft, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Captain James Feldman.

Investigators determined that at approximately 8p.m. Sunday, the suspect entered the ATM at the bank and were able to obtain an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspects then proceeded to the Bennington State Bank branch located at 200 S. 9th Street in Salina at about 1a.m. Monday, where they were able to enter the ATM and obtain an undisclosed amount of casy from that ATM also.

The suspect vehicle was a white Lincoln passenger car. A Kansas tag was observed on the vehicle. It was determined the tag had been stolen between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM on 11/23/2025 from a vehicle in the 100 block of S. Phillips in Salina.

It is suspected a Jackpotting incident which occurred Wamego, Kansas, after the events in Salina are connected.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764081892479.png" alt="Security images from Salina Police" />
 <figcaption>Security images from Salina Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement are investigating an alleged ATM Jackpotting incident in Salina.&nbsp; Jackpotting involves the exploitation of physical and software vulnerabilities in automated banking machines that result in the machines dispensing cash.Just before 10:30a.m. Monday, police&nbsp;responded to Bennington State Bank, 2130 South Ohio in Salina in reference to a “Jackpotting” theft, according to&nbsp;Salina Police Captain James Feldman.Investigators determined that at approximately 8p.m. Sunday, the suspect entered the ATM at the bank and were able to obtain an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspects then proceeded to the Bennington State Bank branch located at 200 S. 9th Street in Salina at about 1a.m. Monday, where they were able to enter the ATM and obtain an undisclosed amount of casy from that ATM also.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764081873630.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The suspect vehicle was a white Lincoln passenger car. A Kansas tag was observed on the vehicle. It was determined the tag had been stolen between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM on 11/23/2025 from a vehicle in the 100 block of S. Phillips in Salina.It is suspected a Jackpotting incident which occurred Wamego, Kansas, after the events in Salina are connected.&nbsp;

Jackpotting ATM theft reported at banks in Kansas

LYON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Monday on the Kansas Turnpike Lyon Coutny.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Peterbilt semi driven by Pedro Ocampo, 64, Berwyn, Illinois, was southbound on Interstate 35 approaching the entry ramp for Interstate 335.&nbsp; The driver failed to use caution, according to the patrol.&nbsp; The vehicle entered the curve too fast. The semi left the road, struck three posts and overturned into a ditch.

Ocampo was pronounced deceased and was transported to&nbsp;Roberts Blue Funeral Home. The KHP released no additional details.

LYON COUNTY —One person died in an accident just before 12:30a.m. Monday on the Kansas Turnpike Lyon Coutny.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2012 Peterbilt semi driven by Pedro Ocampo, 64, Berwyn, Illinois, was southbound on Interstate 35 approaching the entry ramp for Interstate 335.&nbsp; The driver failed to use caution, according to the patrol.&nbsp; The vehicle entered the curve too fast. The semi left the road, struck three posts and overturned into a ditch.Ocampo was pronounced deceased and was transported to&nbsp;Roberts Blue Funeral Home. The KHP released no additional details.

KHP IDs driver who died in Turnpike semi crash 

CASS COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high speed chase in the Kansas City area.

Just before 2:30a.m. Nov. 20,&nbsp; a sheriff's deputy attempted to make a vehicle stop on a northbound vehicle on Interstate 49 in rural Peculiar, Missouri, according to the Cass County Sheriff.

The vehicle had a defective taillight — and the driver began to accelerate as the deputy activated his emergency lights. As the pursuit passed North Cass Parkway, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BeltonPD?__cft__[0]=AZVmdSArvpMuNsigW1izv8HHKA2IiSeIAAMOB0WfwmWUBFVwpUWabkEzt4ktSmdhp9tSqdQWkfUyTgXQSBYjxXAHSCMESauMTOGg2IKuN54ioL9aCwUKl7qF_jO_exN3LTWeilt1X9Rqokw8Y11QusE79BM7yi5IqDVc0v8i7fBZMNs6gZeqFnhIVBxN_txozmo&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Belton Missouri Police Department</a> successfully deployed tire deflation devices.

The pursuit continued near Red Bridge Road in Kansas City, when the vehicle became inoperable. The driver complied with deputies and was arrested.&nbsp; Rodney Camp, 59, of Belton has been charged with Driving While Revoked/Suspended (E Felony) and Aggravated Fleeing a Stop (D Felony). He’s currently being held at the Cass County Jail with a $35,000 cash only bond.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763601093489.png" alt="Camp photo Cass County" />
 <figcaption>Camp photo Cass County</figcaption>
 </figure>CASS COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a high speed chase in the Kansas City area.Just before 2:30a.m. Nov. 20,&nbsp; a sheriff's deputy attempted to make a vehicle stop on a northbound vehicle on Interstate 49 in rural Peculiar, Missouri, according to the Cass County Sheriff. The vehicle had a defective taillight — and the driver began to accelerate as the deputy activated his emergency lights. As the pursuit passed North Cass Parkway, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BeltonPD?__cft__[0]=AZVmdSArvpMuNsigW1izv8HHKA2IiSeIAAMOB0WfwmWUBFVwpUWabkEzt4ktSmdhp9tSqdQWkfUyTgXQSBYjxXAHSCMESauMTOGg2IKuN54ioL9aCwUKl7qF_jO_exN3LTWeilt1X9Rqokw8Y11QusE79BM7yi5IqDVc0v8i7fBZMNs6gZeqFnhIVBxN_txozmo&amp;__tn__=-]K-R">Belton Missouri Police Department</a> successfully deployed tire deflation devices. The pursuit continued near Red Bridge Road in Kansas City, when the vehicle became inoperable. The driver complied with deputies and was arrested.&nbsp; Rodney Camp, 59, of Belton has been charged with Driving While Revoked/Suspended (E Felony) and Aggravated Fleeing a Stop (D Felony). He’s currently being held at the Cass County Jail with a $35,000 cash only bond.

Driver charged after KC area high speed chase

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy&nbsp; launched a new civility campaign titled&nbsp;“The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You.”

The campaign, according to a statement from the agency, is intended to jumpstart a nationwide conversation around how we can all restore courtesy and class to air travel. This won’t just make the travel experience better for the flying public – it will ensure the safety of passengers, gate workers, flight attendants, and pilots.&nbsp;

It’s not just your imagination – the data backs up the feeling that travel has become more unruly.&nbsp;

Secretary Duffy posed a few key questions every flyer should ask themselves this holiday season to help Americans reach their destinations as quickly, efficiently and comfortably as possible: &nbsp;

There’s no question we’ve lost sight of what makes travel fun – the excitement, the relaxation, the cordial conversations. Americans already feel divided and stressed. We can all do our part to bring back civility, manners, and common sense. When we can unite around shared values, we can feel more connected as a country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

WASHINGTON, D.C.&nbsp;– U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy&nbsp; launched a new civility campaign titled&nbsp;“The Golden Age of Travel Starts with You.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our civility campaign is all about asking ourselves — how can we all inject a little more kindness into travel this holiday season? Ushering in the return to the Golden Age of travel… and it starts with all of us🇺🇸 <a href="https://t.co/a8IpGBgIC4">pic.twitter.com/a8IpGBgIC4</a>&mdash; Secretary Sean Duffy (@SecDuffy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDuffy/status/1993082015562772963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>The campaign, according to a statement from the agency, is intended to jumpstart a nationwide conversation around how we can all restore courtesy and class to air travel. This won’t just make the travel experience better for the flying public – it will ensure the safety of passengers, gate workers, flight attendants, and pilots.&nbsp;<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5UUOD-sa5As?si=Fe3kUnj9BYXF97Q0&amp;start=6" 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>It’s not just your imagination – the data backs up the feeling that travel has become more unruly.&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Since 2019, the FAA has seen a&nbsp;400% increase of in-flight outbursts—ranging from disruptive behavior to outright violence  &nbsp;</li><li>13,800 unruly passenger incidents since 2021&nbsp;</li><li>Unruly passenger reports rose 6x between 2020 and 2021&nbsp;</li><li>1 in 5 flight attendants experienced physical incidents in 2021&nbsp;</li><li>2024 saw&nbsp;double the number of unruly passenger events compared with 2019&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>Secretary Duffy posed a few key questions every flyer should ask themselves this holiday season to help Americans reach their destinations as quickly, efficiently and comfortably as possible: &nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Are you helping a pregnant woman or the elderly with placing their bags in the overhead bin?</li><li>Are you dressing with respect?</li><li>Are you keeping control of your children and helping them through the airport?</li><li>Are you saying thank you to your flight attendants?</li><li>Are you saying please and thank you in general?</li>
 </ol>There’s no question we’ve lost sight of what makes travel fun – the excitement, the relaxation, the cordial conversations. Americans already feel divided and stressed. We can all do our part to bring back civility, manners, and common sense. When we can unite around shared values, we can feel more connected as a country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

🎥DOT Secretary: Stop wearing pajamas on airplanes

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a violent armed robbery and asking for help to locate four suspects.

Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to near the 600 Block of South Curtis Street in Olathe for a reported robbery that occurred during a private sale of property, according to Police Sergeant John Moncayo.

The victim stated during the process of the sale, he was robbed at gunpoint and battered by four suspects. A thorough area search was conducted, and no contact was made with the suspects.

The suspects were described as A white male who was possibly in his early twenties, had blonde hair, and was wearing a white t-shirt.&nbsp; A white male who was wearing a white ski mask, black hoodie, and blue ripped skinny jeans. A white male subject who was wearing a grey hoodie and a fourth male subject, unknown clothing. &nbsp;

The suspects left the area in an unknown direction of travel in an older model dark passenger vehicle with black rims.

&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.&nbsp;

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a violent armed robbery and asking for help to locate four suspects.Just before 2p.m. Monday, police were dispatched to near the 600 Block of South Curtis Street in Olathe for a reported robbery that occurred during a private sale of property, according to Police Sergeant John Moncayo.The victim stated during the process of the sale, he was robbed at gunpoint and battered by four suspects. A thorough area search was conducted, and no contact was made with the suspects.The suspects were described as A white male who was possibly in his early twenties, had blonde hair, and was wearing a white t-shirt.&nbsp; A white male who was wearing a white ski mask, black hoodie, and blue ripped skinny jeans. A white male subject who was wearing a grey hoodie and a fourth male subject, unknown clothing. &nbsp;The suspects left the area in an unknown direction of travel in an older model dark passenger vehicle with black rims.&nbsp;Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to call the Olathe Police Department at (913) 971-6363 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 474-8477.&nbsp;

Police: Kansas man battered during armed robbery

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of an apartment fire in Kansas City.

Just before 2:30p.m. Monday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported apartment fire in the 4200 block of NE Davidson Road in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.

On arrival, crews reported "nothing showing" from the exterior of a three-story occupied apartment building. After entering the structure, smoke was found on the 3rd floor.&nbsp; Searches of the structure were conducted and came back all clear. The fire was brought under control just after 2:35 p.m.&nbsp;

Red Cross has been ordered for 2 adults and 6 children.&nbsp;

KANSAS CITY—Authorities are investigating the cause of an apartment fire in Kansas City.Just before 2:30p.m. Monday, crews&nbsp;responded to a reported apartment fire in the 4200 block of NE Davidson Road in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Battalion Chief Riley Nolan.On arrival, crews reported "nothing showing" from the exterior of a three-story occupied apartment building. After entering the structure, smoke was found on the 3rd floor.&nbsp; Searches of the structure were conducted and came back all clear. The fire was brought under control just after 2:35 p.m.&nbsp;Red Cross has been ordered for 2 adults and 6 children.&nbsp;

2 adults, 6 children displaced after KC apartment fire

KANSAS CITY —One of two people injured in a crash into a creek near the Kansas City Plaza has died.

Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, a&nbsp;white, four-door sedan was westbound on Ward Parkway from the Plaza in Kansas City at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.

The driver failed to negotiate the curve transitioning to the southbound lanes. The vehicle vaulted over the guardrail and came to rest upside down in Brush Creek.

EMS transported both occupants to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Late Sunday St. Luke's Hospital staff reported the passenger died, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The driver remains in critical condition.&nbsp; This is fatality number 60 in Kansas City, Missouri for 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763914090050.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —One of two people injured in a crash into a creek near the Kansas City Plaza has died.Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, a&nbsp;white, four-door sedan was westbound on Ward Parkway from the Plaza in Kansas City at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.The driver failed to negotiate the curve transitioning to the southbound lanes. The vehicle vaulted over the guardrail and came to rest upside down in Brush Creek.EMS transported both occupants to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Late Sunday St. Luke's Hospital staff reported the passenger died, according to KCPD Officer Alayna Gonzalez. The driver remains in critical condition.&nbsp; This is fatality number 60 in Kansas City, Missouri for 2025.

KCPD: One injured when car flips into creek has died

WASHINGTON&nbsp; — First lady&nbsp;Melania Trump&nbsp;on Monday welcomed this year’s official White House Christmas tree to the White House.

WASHINGTON&nbsp; — First lady&nbsp;Melania Trump&nbsp;on Monday welcomed this year’s official White House Christmas tree to the White House.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">First Lady Melania Trump receives the 2025 White House Christmas Tree 🌲 <a href="https://t.co/exxZAN5Qf6">pic.twitter.com/exxZAN5Qf6</a>&mdash; Office of the First Lady (@FirstLadyOffice) <a href="https://twitter.com/FirstLadyOffice/status/1993045306116866403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“It will be beautiful! We are going to plan, and it’s starting today” <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> ❤️🎄 <a href="https://t.co/bfAMYzQjSQ">pic.twitter.com/bfAMYzQjSQ</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1993006026782826922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">First Lady Melania Trump (<a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a>) receives White House Christmas Tree. <a href="https://t.co/jGFkc8IJH8">pic.twitter.com/jGFkc8IJH8</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1993005187934347329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">“It will be beautiful! We are going to plan, and it’s starting today” <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a> ❤️🎄 <a href="https://t.co/bfAMYzQjSQ">pic.twitter.com/bfAMYzQjSQ</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1993006026782826922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

🎥First lady welcomes Christmas tree to the White House

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Police are investigating a shooting that left two dead in Topeka.&nbsp;

Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, police responded to report of a shooting at McDonalds restaurant in the 1200 block of SW Gage Boulevard in Topeka, according to Topeka Police&nbsp; LT Jayme Green.

 At the scene, first responders located two victims who were&nbsp;deceased. EMS transported a third victim to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police did not release the name of the victims or any additional details on Monday afternoon.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to email telltpd@topeka.org or contact the Topeka Police Criminal Investigation Bureau at 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007. You can also make anonymous tips online

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1764000702973.png" alt="Photo courtesy WIBW TV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy WIBW TV</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Police are investigating a shooting that left two dead in Topeka.&nbsp;Just before 8:30p.m. Sunday, police responded to report of a shooting at McDonalds restaurant in the 1200 block of SW Gage Boulevard in Topeka, according to Topeka Police&nbsp; LT Jayme Green. At the scene, first responders located two victims who were&nbsp;deceased. EMS transported a third victim to a hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police did not release the name of the victims or any additional details on Monday afternoon.Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to email telltpd@topeka.org or contact the Topeka Police Criminal Investigation Bureau at 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007. You can also make anonymous tips online

2 dead, 1 wounded in shooting at Kan. fast food restaurant

By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a>-

A senior federal judge dismissed charges Monday against two public officials with long-running public disputes with President Donald Trump, saying the controversial appointment of the president’s former personal attorney as a prosecutor doomed the cases.

Senior U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie, whom former President Bill Clinton appointed to the bench in South Carolina, wrote in a Monday order that Attorney General Pam Bondi did not have the authority to make Lindsey Halligan the interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia.&nbsp;

The judge said the deadline for an interim appointee to that position had lapsed.

Because that process was invalid, the prosecutions against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, both of whom had investigated or prosecuted Trump, must be dropped, Currie&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.vaed.582136/gov.uscourts.vaed.582136.213.0_1.pdf" target="_blank">wrote</a>.

Currie dismissed the indictments without prejudice, meaning they could be revived. But at least in Comey’s case, in which charges were brought on the eve of the statute of limitations expiring, that appeared unlikely.

U.S. attorneys are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, but the attorney general can appoint someone on an interim basis for 120 days. After that, the judges in the district are responsible for appointing an interim prosecutor.

“Ms. Halligan was not appointed in a manner consistent with this framework,” Currie wrote.

Bondi appointed Erik Siebert as the interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia in January, while his confirmation was pending in the Senate. After 120 days, the judges in the district allowed him to continue.

Siebert resigned in September, reportedly under pressure from Trump and Bondi to bring charges against Comey. Bondi then named Halligan, at the time a White House aide who had also worked for Trump in a private capacity, as the interim U.S. attorney.&nbsp;

But Bondi could not do that because, after 120 days, the responsibility for naming an interim U.S. attorney fell to the district court judges, Currie wrote.

“The 120-day clock began running with Mr. Siebert’s appointment on Jan. 21, 2025,” she wrote. “When that clock expired on May 21, 2025, so too did the Attorney General’s appointment authority. Consequently, I conclude that the Attorney General’s attempt to install Ms. Halligan as Interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia was invalid and that Ms. Halligan has been unlawfully serving in that role.”

Halligan, after gaining office in September, quickly secured a two-count indictment against the former FBI chief from a grand jury in Alexandria. Comey was accused of lying to Congress about whether he had authorized a press leak of information related to an FBI investigation of Russian actors’ involvement in Trump’s first presidential campaign.&nbsp;

However, U.S. District Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/judge-cites-profound-investigative-missteps-court-case-against-james-comey" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;last week that issues with evidence, testimony and statements to the grand jury in the case outweighed the usual heavily guarded secrecy of proceedings. He said “profound investigative missteps” could result in the dismissal of Comey’s indictment.

Comey has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/former-fbi-director-comey-pleads-not-guilty-criminal-charges-demanded-trump" target="_blank">pleaded</a>&nbsp;not guilty.

James won a civil case against Trump related to business fraud, though a state appeals court later overturned the sentence as overly punitive.

Trump has publicly blasted James and Comey as using the mechanisms of legal proceedings to persecute him.&nbsp;

In an extraordinary public message to Bondi just before Halligan replaced Siebert, Trump complained that the prosecutions against both were not developing faster.

The Justice Department did not respond to a message seeking comment Monday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1758848907803.png" alt="Image from former FBI Director James Comey's Instagram" />
 <figcaption>Image from former FBI Director James Comey's Instagram</figcaption>
 </figure>By:<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a>-A senior federal judge dismissed charges Monday against two public officials with long-running public disputes with President Donald Trump, saying the controversial appointment of the president’s former personal attorney as a prosecutor doomed the cases.Senior U.S. District Judge Cameron McGowan Currie, whom former President Bill Clinton appointed to the bench in South Carolina, wrote in a Monday order that Attorney General Pam Bondi did not have the authority to make Lindsey Halligan the interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia.&nbsp;The judge said the deadline for an interim appointee to that position had lapsed.Because that process was invalid, the prosecutions against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, both of whom had investigated or prosecuted Trump, must be dropped, Currie&nbsp;<a href="https://storage.courtlistener.com/recap/gov.uscourts.vaed.582136/gov.uscourts.vaed.582136.213.0_1.pdf" target="_blank">wrote</a>.Currie dismissed the indictments without prejudice, meaning they could be revived. But at least in Comey’s case, in which charges were brought on the eve of the statute of limitations expiring, that appeared unlikely.<h2>120-day clock</h2>U.S. attorneys are appointed by the president and confirmed by the Senate, but the attorney general can appoint someone on an interim basis for 120 days. After that, the judges in the district are responsible for appointing an interim prosecutor.“Ms. Halligan was not appointed in a manner consistent with this framework,” Currie wrote.Bondi appointed Erik Siebert as the interim U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia in January, while his confirmation was pending in the Senate. After 120 days, the judges in the district allowed him to continue.Siebert resigned in September, reportedly under pressure from Trump and Bondi to bring charges against Comey. Bondi then named Halligan, at the time a White House aide who had also worked for Trump in a private capacity, as the interim U.S. attorney.&nbsp;But Bondi could not do that because, after 120 days, the responsibility for naming an interim U.S. attorney fell to the district court judges, Currie wrote.“The 120-day clock began running with Mr. Siebert’s appointment on Jan. 21, 2025,” she wrote. “When that clock expired on May 21, 2025, so too did the Attorney General’s appointment authority. Consequently, I conclude that the Attorney General’s attempt to install Ms. Halligan as Interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia was invalid and that Ms. Halligan has been unlawfully serving in that role.”<h2>Quick indictment</h2>Halligan, after gaining office in September, quickly secured a two-count indictment against the former FBI chief from a grand jury in Alexandria. Comey was accused of lying to Congress about whether he had authorized a press leak of information related to an FBI investigation of Russian actors’ involvement in Trump’s first presidential campaign.&nbsp;However, U.S. District Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/judge-cites-profound-investigative-missteps-court-case-against-james-comey" target="_blank">wrote</a>&nbsp;last week that issues with evidence, testimony and statements to the grand jury in the case outweighed the usual heavily guarded secrecy of proceedings. He said “profound investigative missteps” could result in the dismissal of Comey’s indictment.Comey has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/former-fbi-director-comey-pleads-not-guilty-criminal-charges-demanded-trump" target="_blank">pleaded</a>&nbsp;not guilty.James won a civil case against Trump related to business fraud, though a state appeals court later overturned the sentence as overly punitive.Trump has publicly blasted James and Comey as using the mechanisms of legal proceedings to persecute him.&nbsp;In an extraordinary public message to Bondi just before Halligan replaced Siebert, Trump complained that the prosecutions against both were not developing faster.The Justice Department did not respond to a message seeking comment Monday.

Judge drops James Comey and Letitia James charges, saying prosecutor served ‘unlawfully’

WILSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 1a.m. Monday in Wilson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Ram ProMaster van driven by Bradley&nbsp;Plec, 32,&nbsp; Graniteville, South Carolina was westbound on U.S. 400 nine and one half miles north west of Fredonia. The van veered left of center into the eastbound lane and struck a 2025 Volvo semi driven by Sergiu&nbsp; Ionas, 50, Morton Grove, Illinois,&nbsp;head-on near the eastbound shoulder.

Plec was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Ionas to the hospital in Fredonia. Plec was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

WILSON COUNTY—One person died in an accident just before 1a.m. Monday in Wilson County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2023 Ram ProMaster van driven by Bradley&nbsp;Plec, 32,&nbsp; Graniteville, South Carolina was westbound on U.S. 400 nine and one half miles north west of Fredonia. The van veered left of center into the eastbound lane and struck a 2025 Volvo semi driven by Sergiu&nbsp; Ionas, 50, Morton Grove, Illinois,&nbsp;head-on near the eastbound shoulder.Plec was pronounced dead at the scene. EMS transported Ionas to the hospital in Fredonia. Plec was not wearing a seat belt, according to the KHP.

Driver killed after van, semi head-on crash on Kansas highway

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged scam that cost a Kansas woman nearly $10,000.

On November, 22, a 72-year-old Salina woman reported receiving an email reportedly from PayPal indicating she had spent $399.99 in Bitcoin purchases on October 29, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman.

 There was a number attached to the email indicating if she did not make the purchase to call. The victim called and the person they spoke with asked for access to their computer which was granted. 

The suspect advised she had been hacked and he needed to fix the account. A short time later the victim received an email saying the $399.99 was being returned but they had accidentally sent $40,000 to her account. 

When the victim looked at her checking account she observed $40,000. The email asked her to return the money. The person the victim was communicating with asked for a “good Faith” payment of $20,000. The victim refused, then the suspect asked for $9,900. The suspect told her to download Whatsapp and the Bitcoin app for communication purposes.

 The victim also sent pictures of her driver’s license and provided her social security number. The suspect then had the victim drive to Snak Attack at 1619 W. Magnolia in Salina and deposit $9,900 in the Bitcoin machine. The suspect was on the phone with the victim the entire time, according to Captain Feldman.

It was determined the suspect had been able to access the victim’s bank account and move funds to make it look like $40,000 had been transferred into her account. The suspect was reported to have a foreign accent. Total loss was valued at $9,900.

The Salina Police Department remind citizens to not allow anyone to access your computer or provide personal information. If you receive suspicious emails please do not reply or call the numbers attached to the emails. If you have any concerns please call your local police department or contact your bank directly.

SALINE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an alleged scam that cost a Kansas woman nearly $10,000.On November, 22, a 72-year-old Salina woman reported receiving an email reportedly from PayPal indicating she had spent $399.99 in Bitcoin purchases on October 29, according to Salina Police Captain James Feldman. There was a number attached to the email indicating if she did not make the purchase to call. The victim called and the person they spoke with asked for access to their computer which was granted. The suspect advised she had been hacked and he needed to fix the account. A short time later the victim received an email saying the $399.99 was being returned but they had accidentally sent $40,000 to her account. When the victim looked at her checking account she observed $40,000. The email asked her to return the money. The person the victim was communicating with asked for a “good Faith” payment of $20,000. The victim refused, then the suspect asked for $9,900. The suspect told her to download Whatsapp and the Bitcoin app for communication purposes. The victim also sent pictures of her driver’s license and provided her social security number. The suspect then had the victim drive to Snak Attack at 1619 W. Magnolia in Salina and deposit $9,900 in the Bitcoin machine. The suspect was on the phone with the victim the entire time, according to Captain Feldman.It was determined the suspect had been able to access the victim’s bank account and move funds to make it look like $40,000 had been transferred into her account. The suspect was reported to have a foreign accent. Total loss was valued at $9,900.The Salina Police Department remind citizens to not allow anyone to access your computer or provide personal information. If you receive suspicious emails please do not reply or call the numbers attached to the emails. If you have any concerns please call your local police department or contact your bank directly.

Police: Kan. woman lost nearly $10,000 in computer scam

SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an incident involving three individuals who entered private property without authorization, climbed a secured tower, and parachuted from the structure, according to a statement from the Shawnee County Sheriff.

"While no injuries were reported, this type of activity is extremely dangerous and illegal."

"Climbing restricted towers poses significant risks, including electrocution, falls from great heights, and structural failures."

"Unauthorized parachute jumps endanger not only the individuals involved but also nearby residents and first responders who must address the situation."

The sheriff's office reminded the public that trespassing on private or secured property is a criminal offense, and high-risk stunts like this can quickly turn deadly.

If you have any information on this incident or if you see suspicious activity, please notify law enforcement immediately.Thank you for helping us keep Shawnee County safe!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763859634187.png" alt="Image from security camera provided by the Shawnee County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Image from security camera provided by the Shawnee County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating an incident involving three individuals who entered private property without authorization, climbed a secured tower, and parachuted from the structure, according to a statement from the Shawnee County Sheriff."While no injuries were reported, this type of activity is extremely dangerous and illegal."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763859280555.png" alt="Image Shwnee County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Image Shwnee County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>"Climbing restricted towers poses significant risks, including electrocution, falls from great heights, and structural failures.""Unauthorized parachute jumps endanger not only the individuals involved but also nearby residents and first responders who must address the situation."The sheriff's office reminded the public that trespassing on private or secured property is a criminal offense, and high-risk stunts like this can quickly turn deadly.If you have any information on this incident or if you see suspicious activity, please notify law enforcement immediately.Thank you for helping us keep Shawnee County safe!

Sheriff: 3 parachute from secured Kan. tower on private property

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at an apartment fire in Kansas&nbsp; City.

Just before 6p.m. Sunday, crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 10604 E. 98th Terrace, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.

&nbsp;Crews reported smoke showing from a three-story apartment building. Interior operations were initiated using multiple handlines. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The fire was contained to a single apartment on the third floor; however multiple apartments received water and smoke damage.&nbsp;

There were no injuries reported&nbsp; Red Cross is assisting a number of those who were displaced.

KANSAS CITY —Authorities are investigating the cause of a fire at an apartment fire in Kansas&nbsp; City.Just before 6p.m. Sunday, crews responded to a reported apartment fire in the 10604 E. 98th Terrace, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins.&nbsp;Crews reported smoke showing from a three-story apartment building. Interior operations were initiated using multiple handlines. Searches of the structure came back all clear. The fire was contained to a single apartment on the third floor; however multiple apartments received water and smoke damage.&nbsp;There were no injuries reported&nbsp; Red Cross is assisting a number of those who were displaced.

Residents displaced after fire in 3-story KC apartment building

KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating an injury crash that critically injured two.

EMS transported both occupants to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police released no additional details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763914090050.png" alt="Photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>KANSAS CITY —Law enforcement are investigating an injury crash that critically injured two.Just before 2:30a.m. Sunday, a&nbsp;white, four-door sedan was westbound on Ward Parkway from the Plaza in Kansas City at a high rate of speed, according to KCPD Captain Jake Becchina.The driver failed to negotiate the curve transitioning to the southbound lanes. The vehicle vaulted over the guardrail and came to rest upside down in Brush Creek.EMS transported both occupants to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Police released no additional details.

2 critically injured after car flips into Kansas City creek 

MIAME COUNTY —A Kansas felon is back in custody after an arrest in rural Miami County Kansas.

Just before 1p.m. November 20,&nbsp;the Miami County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at 28980 Osawatomie Road, with assistance from the Osawatomie Police Department, according to. media release.

The search warrant resulted from an Osawatomie Police Department investigation into stolen property that led officers to the rural Miami County residence. During the search of the home, numerous items of stolen property were recovered related to an Osawatomie Police Department case, estimated to be valued at approximately $3,000. 

Additional stolen property belonging to victims in rural Miami County was also recovered, valued at around $500. Deputies additionally seized 1,076.5 grams (2.37 pounds) of marijuana from the property.

Larry Arthur Poage Jr., 56, was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana – and transported to the Miami County Jail. While inside the jail, additional drug paraphernalia was located on his person, resulting in two additional requested felony charges that include Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility. As the investigations continue, additional charges may be filed. Poage has previous drug and driving convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/11/1763582371025.png" alt="Poag photo KDOC" />
 <figcaption>Poag photo KDOC</figcaption>
 </figure>MIAME COUNTY —A Kansas felon is back in custody after an arrest in rural Miami County Kansas.Just before 1p.m. November 20,&nbsp;the Miami County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at 28980 Osawatomie Road, with assistance from the Osawatomie Police Department, according to. media release.The search warrant resulted from an Osawatomie Police Department investigation into stolen property that led officers to the rural Miami County residence. During the search of the home, numerous items of stolen property were recovered related to an Osawatomie Police Department case, estimated to be valued at approximately $3,000. Additional stolen property belonging to victims in rural Miami County was also recovered, valued at around $500. Deputies additionally seized 1,076.5 grams (2.37 pounds) of marijuana from the property.Larry Arthur Poage Jr., 56, was arrested on requested charges of Possession of Marijuana – and transported to the Miami County Jail. While inside the jail, additional drug paraphernalia was located on his person, resulting in two additional requested felony charges that include Trafficking Contraband into a Correctional Facility. As the investigations continue, additional charges may be filed. Poage has previous drug and driving convictions, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Kansas felon caught with stolen property and 2 pounds of pot

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ call for a close reexamination of the 42 million people who receive federal food aid has befuddled advocates and lawmakers, coming mere days after recipients began to see benefits that had been stalled during the government shutdown.

Details remain scant a week after Rollins during an interview on the right-wing Newsmax network first publicly broached the startling idea that every beneficiary would have to reapply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, often called food stamps.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, asked for an explanation, referenced existing requirements and suggested more changes in SNAP rules could be in store.

“Secretary Rollins wants to ensure the fraud, waste, and incessant abuse of SNAP ends,” a USDA spokesperson wrote Wednesday. “Rates of fraud were only previously assumed, and President Trump is doing something about it. Using standard recertification processes for households is a part of that work. As well as ongoing analysis of state data, further regulatory work, and improved collaboration with states.”

The 2008 law governing SNAP leaves states responsible for administration. Part of that role includes periodically making sure that the low-income people in the program meet the qualifications for inclusion, but the law allows states to determine how often that occurs.

“It’s not clear what she would be proposing that is different from what is already happening,” said Katie Bergh, a senior policy analyst for food assistance at the left-leaning think tank Center for Budget and Policy Priorities.

One interpretation of Rollins’ comments is that she would remove all 42 million individuals from SNAP’s rolls and ask them to resubmit applications. Bergh said that would lead to people losing money they need for groceries. About 40% of those enrolled in SNAP are children.

“If she’s suggesting that they’re going to somehow redo that process for more than 40 million people who already demonstrated their eligibility and who already have to periodically recertify their eligibility, that would be pretty duplicative and would likely create pretty significant paperwork backlogs that would cause people who are eligible to lose the food assistance that they need,” Bergh said.

Administration critics have suggested that, while the comments are unlikely to lead to policy changes, they introduce even more confusion for a program that was used as a political token during the record government shutdown that ended this month.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/10/1761944916334.png" alt="Post photo" />
 <figcaption>Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;<a href="https://georgiarecorder.com/author/jacob-fischler/">Jacob Fischler</a> <a href="https://stateline.org/">Stateline</a>U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ call for a close reexamination of the 42 million people who receive federal food aid has befuddled advocates and lawmakers, coming mere days after recipients began to see benefits that had been stalled during the government shutdown.Details remain scant a week after Rollins during an interview on the right-wing Newsmax network first publicly broached the startling idea that every beneficiary would have to reapply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, often called food stamps.The U.S. Department of Agriculture, asked for an explanation, referenced existing requirements and suggested more changes in SNAP rules could be in store.“Secretary Rollins wants to ensure the fraud, waste, and incessant abuse of SNAP ends,” a USDA spokesperson wrote Wednesday. “Rates of fraud were only previously assumed, and President Trump is doing something about it. Using standard recertification processes for households is a part of that work. As well as ongoing analysis of state data, further regulatory work, and improved collaboration with states.”The 2008 law governing SNAP leaves states responsible for administration. Part of that role includes periodically making sure that the low-income people in the program meet the qualifications for inclusion, but the law allows states to determine how often that occurs.“It’s not clear what she would be proposing that is different from what is already happening,” said Katie Bergh, a senior policy analyst for food assistance at the left-leaning think tank Center for Budget and Policy Priorities.One interpretation of Rollins’ comments is that she would remove all 42 million individuals from SNAP’s rolls and ask them to resubmit applications. Bergh said that would lead to people losing money they need for groceries. About 40% of those enrolled in SNAP are children.“If she’s suggesting that they’re going to somehow redo that process for more than 40 million people who already demonstrated their eligibility and who already have to periodically recertify their eligibility, that would be pretty duplicative and would likely create pretty significant paperwork backlogs that would cause people who are eligible to lose the food assistance that they need,” Bergh said.Administration critics have suggested that, while the comments are unlikely to lead to policy changes, they introduce even more confusion for a program that was used as a political token during the record government shutdown that ended this month.&nbsp;Making people reapply would underscore the Trump administration’s opposition to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/key-statistics-and-research" target="_blank">nearly $100 billion program</a>, which accounts for 70% of federal nutrition assistance.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/research/snap/characteristics-fy23" target="_blank">USDA says</a>&nbsp;the average SNAP household in fiscal 2023 received a monthly benefit of $332, or $177 a person based on the average SNAP household size of 1.9 people.“Secretary Rollins and the Trump administration have cut food assistance for 42 million Americans multiple times this year,” U.S. House Agriculture ranking member Angie Craig said in a Wednesday statement to States Newsroom. “Now, they’ve once again shown that they do not understand the program.”<h2>What did Rollins say?</h2>In the Nov. 13 interview on Newsmax, Rollins said SNAP was beset by widespread fraud, citing data that 29 mostly Republican-run states submitted to the department. Acquiring data from the 21 other states would give the department a way to wholly remake the program, she said.“Can you imagine when we get our hands on the blue state data, what we’re going to find?” she said. “It’s going to give us a platform and a trajectory to fundamentally rebuild this program, have everyone reapply for their benefit, make sure that everyone that’s taking a taxpayer-funded benefit through SNAP or food stamps that they literally are vulnerable, and they can’t survive without it. And that’s the next step here.”In an interview Monday on Fox News, host Maria Bartiromo asked Rollins about the move to have recipients “reapply.”“Business as usual is over,” Rollins answered in part. “The status quo is no more. We know that the SNAP program is rife with fraud.”She added that guarding against fraud would help those the program is meant to serve.The comments touched off widespread confusion about what specifically Rollins meant.&nbsp;Asked about the initiative during a Thursday press conference, Craig, a Minnesota Democrat, said she was unclear about how it would work and predicted that Rollins would take credit in the future for the existing low rate of fraud.“We’re hearing off the record that, you know, maybe people don’t know what the hell they’re talking about,” she said. “In fact, I think they’re trying to take credit for the already very strict standards and the actual low fraud rate in the SNAP program … So we can find no real plan there. Not even sure there’s concepts of a plan there.”In response to a States Newsroom request this week for details about the initiative, USDA provided the statement that did not answer how the department would proceed or under what authority, but said Rollins was seeking to reduce fraud in the program.Spokespeople did not respond to follow-up questions, or a request to respond to Craig’s remarks Thursday.<h2>Low fraud rate</h2>Program experts say fraud is not a widespread problem for SNAP.An April&nbsp;<a href="https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/IF10860#_Ref509241731" target="_blank">report</a>&nbsp;from the nonpartisan Congressional Research Service found that retailers illegally trafficked about 1.6% of SNAP benefits from fiscal 2015 to 2017.Fraud by households applying for SNAP, which appear to be the main target of Rollins’ proposal, is even lower.&nbsp;According to a USDA&nbsp;<a href="https://fns-prod.azureedge.us/sites/default/files/resource-files/snap-sar-fy23.pdf" target="_blank">report</a>, about 26,000 applications were referred for an administrative review or prosecution on suspicion of fraud. That number accounts for about 0.1% of the 22.7 million households enrolled in the program, according to the Pew Research Center.“Long-standing data sources indicate that intentional fraud by participants is rare,” Bergh said.At Thursday’s press conference, Craig called Rollins’ comments “bullsh*t” and “propaganda.”“Secretary Rollins goes on TV and talks about all the fraud,” she said. “This most effective anti-hunger program in our history has a fraud rate of 1.6%. It’s actually one of the most effective, well-run programs in the country … The bullsh*t this administration is peddling is egregious.”<h2>More targeted reforms</h2>Even experts who advocate for reforms to SNAP say eligibility fraud is not a major issue.Romina Boccia, director of budget and entitlement policy at the libertarian Cato Institute, said high-net-worth individuals can receive SNAP benefits, but aren’t committing fraud by doing so.“Some of the issues with SNAP … aren’t because of fraud or abuse, but they are because of bad program rules,” said Boccia.Boccia also cited an “incentive misalignment” inherent in the state-federal program. States have little incentive to control payments because the federal government funds the program, she said.Forcing all beneficiaries to reapply would likely reduce the cost of the program by reducing the number of its beneficiaries, including by forcing out higher earners who may not consider the benefits they don’t actually need to be worth the onerous reapplication process, Boccia said.&nbsp;But it would also result in a percentage of low earners dropping off the program, as well as many who would be affected by the administrative backlog that would come with processing tens of millions of new applications, she said.&nbsp;<h2>Shutdown, the big beautiful bill, and confusion</h2>Bergh said Rollins’ comments “add insult to injury” because they come after congressional Republicans and President Donald Trump signed a major tax cuts and spending law that is expected to shrink federal SNAP spending by $187 billion over 10 years. The law added work requirements for many SNAP recipients and shifted some costs to states.That was followed by the six-week shutdown that saw&nbsp;<a href="https://www.newsfromthestates.com/article/shutdown-tug-war-over-snap-benefits-timeline" target="_blank">a dizzying back-and-forth</a>&nbsp;over whether November SNAP benefits would be paid.“There has been huge amounts of chaos and confusion and disruption for both states and participants in recent weeks, largely due to the shutdown, but also because simultaneously, the administration has required states to implement many of the reconciliation bill’s SNAP cuts,” Bergh said.Craig, in her statement, also said Rollins’ comments would hurt the people who need the program.“I am astounded by the secretary’s careless disregard for the hungry seniors and children who can afford to eat because of this program,” she said.Sara Naomi Bleich, a public health policy professor at Harvard University, said in a phone interview the confusion from Rollins’ comments compounded hardships produced by the Republican reconciliation law, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.“Big picture with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is that there’s basically this tidal wave coming to families that have low income,” Bleich, who worked at USDA during the Obama and Biden administrations, said. “They’re going to lose Medicaid. They’re going to lose SNAP. There could be collateral impacts on the school meals. This is going to be a really hard time for families to navigate.”